From San Diego to San Jose: The California Food Guide (Part 2)

After two sun-soaked, flavor-packed weeks in San Diego, I set off on the second leg of my California adventure—traveling up the coast with food as my compass. If you’ve ever dreamed of a road trip that’s equal parts beautiful views and unforgettable bites, this one’s for you. Here’s Part 2 of my California food journey, sharing all the stops, sips, and snacks that made the trip so special.

Day 1 & 2 – Los Angeles / Venice Beach / Malibu / West Hollywood

📍 Malibu Farm Cafe (Malibu)Started the trip north with a cozy matcha on the pier at this dreamy oceanside café. Simple, fresh, and peaceful—exactly what you'd imagine when you think “Malibu morning.”

📍 Erewhon Market (Venice Beach)This place is a wellness dream come true. From superfood-packed snacks to beautifully curated meals, I could’ve spent all day here. East Coast friends, we need one of these!

📍 OLIPOP Pop-Up Event (Los Angeles)You know I’m a gut health girlie—and this mocktail popup featuring one of my favorite nutrient-dense sodas hit the spot!

📍 In-N-Out Burger (Hollywood)Okay, okay—I had to try it. The burger was surprisingly fresh, with a crisp bun and flavorful toppings. But at the end of the day, it’s still a fast food burger. Worth the stop? Sure. Life-changing? Not exactly, but fun for the California experience!

📍 Casa Madera (West Hollywood)This upscale Mexican-Mediterranean restaurant gave main character energy. Delicious plates, beautiful ambiance, and a standout way to end the day.

Day 3 – Sequoia National Park to Monterey

📍 Hotel Breakfast + Trader Joe’s Snack HaulNature days call for fueling up! I kept it simple with hotel breakfast and a solid snack lineup: PB-filled pretzels, trail mix crackers, mini (almost) everything bagel sandwich crackers, Scandinavian Swimmers, dark chocolate-covered pistachios, and dried mangoes. TJ’s never misses.

📍 Rosine’s Restaurant (Monterey)A cozy, comforting dinner at a Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives-featured spot. Think hearty classics with a family-owned feel.

Day 4 – Monterey / Big Sur / Carmel-by-the-Sea / San Jose

📍 Alta Bakery + Cafe (Monterey)Adorable café with fantastic coffee and baked goods. A peaceful start before a scenic drive down Highway 1.

📍 Dametra Cafe (Carmel-by-the-Sea)This place stole the show. We ordered chicken shish kebabs, creamy hummus, and ended with flaky, sweet baklava. Add in the live music and dancing staff? Total gem.

📍 Paper Plane (San Jose)If you love a good craft cocktail, don’t skip this place. Creative drinks, trendy vibe, and a fun way to wind down the day.

Day 5 – Cupertino to San Francisco

📍 Philz Coffee (Cupertino)Their nutty caramel cold brew was next level. I don’t usually go for cold coffee, but this one had me reconsidering everything.

📍 Ghirardelli Square (San Francisco)A sweet stop for a seriously indulgent sundae—salted caramel, hot fudge, and whipped cream all stacked on creamy scoops of ice cream.

📍 Casaro Osteria (San Francisco)We closed out our trip with cozy Italian comfort food—lobster pasta, crispy arancini, and a glass of wine to toast the end of an epic journey.

Day 6 – Travel Day

Nothing fancy here—leftovers before packing up and heading home! Because let’s be honest, nothing hits quite like last night’s pasta when you're too tired to go out again.

Between the beachside cafés, mountain road snacks, and city eats, this trip reminded me how fun food can be when you let yourself explore and enjoy it!

Have you been to any of these spots? Want help recreating your favorite restaurant meals at home—nutrition-style?🍓 Thinking about planning your own foodie trip?

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💬 Let’s Chat!

Your relationship with food can be fun, nourishing, and totally YOU. Until next time—stay curious, stay full, and stay adventurous. ✨

Until next time, keep living, keep eating, and always savor the moment.

—Lauren, EATS Nutrition

Blog created by Registered Dietitian Lauren Tronolone & Chat GTP