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    Atomic Cow

    4.5 (156 reviews)
    Closed 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

    Atomic Cow Photos

    Business Info

    ATOMIC COW ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Outdoor seating
    Dogs allowed

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    Recommended Reviews - Atomic Cow

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    Reviews With Photos

    Brownie sundae
    Jamie W.

    Very friendly workers, and bomb ice cream desserts. The large size is a generous amount, and their soft serve vanilla ice cream was smooth and delicious. The amount of toppings on the sundae was perfect, and it was cool that they checked with us if we wanted whipped cream before putting it on. The peanut butter milkshake, which they advertise to be thick, was in fact a thick malt-like texture. They accidentally remade our order of two brownie sundaes because they forgot to throw out the ticket. But kudos to them because they gave the extras to us instead of throwing them away. My Dad tipped when we bought the milkshake to go because of the kind gesture. They had good indoor seating in a heated area, including a table with a long bench. I would definitely come back to this shop when visiting Idyllwild.

    Menu
    Brenda H.

    Uploaded pic of recent menu. Clean store with friendly staff. Easy to walk to from center of town.

    Elisa N.

    ATOMIC COW @ IDYLLWILD Parking was super easy, there's free street parking all around the town, and we found a spot within minutes. We visited this town just for the day, and in the afternoon we stumbled upon Atomic Cow. The moment I walked in, I was like wow, their milkshakes looked incredible, and they had some of the craziest, most fun flavor combinations. I saw the strawberry Oreo one, and my boyfriend and I immediately knew we had to try it. The price was unbeatable too: only $4.60 for a small milkshake, which is so reasonable! We had already eaten at another restaurant earlier, so we just grabbed a milkshake. It came out in about 10 minutes, and the flavor was amazing. The strawberries tasted so fresh, the Oreo crunches were delicious, and there were actual pieces mixed in. I also loved the ambiance, there was so much space, and the place felt cozy even as it started getting packed the longer we stayed. They also offer sandwiches, soups, pickles, and scooped ice cream if you're in the mood for something else. Overall, it was an incredible experience. The vibe was cozy, the service was great, and the milkshake was definitely worth the stop.

    Vitali Z.

    I walked into this place and my first thought was: "Wait... where did I end up?" You know when a restaurant looks like something from the past, not because it's styled that way -- but because it's actually old? Yeah, that vibe. The furniture wasn't fancy, the chairs weren't the most comfortable, space inside was tight, and there was a line like in a small-town grocery store the day before Christmas. Nothing dramatic, just very... real. But the reviews were strong, so I decided not to judge too fast. And honestly -- I'm glad I stayed. The menu here is huge. Burgers, sandwiches, fries, ice cream, shakes, subs, even soup. And the prices? That's the part that really surprised me. In 2025, seeing a full burger meal for the price of two coffees in LA feels unreal. I ordered the Pastrami Burger, Smokey Bear Burger, fries, tomato soup, and a drink. The food didn't just look big -- it felt heavy in a good, old-school way. The kind of burger that doesn't need marketing words, just foil and gravity. First bite and I just sat there like: "Okay... now I get it." Juicy, messy, smoky pastrami, melted cheese stretching like a pizza commercial, fresh lettuce and tomatoes, and that soft classic bun. Not a gourmet burger -- just a good one. The kind you remember because it made sense: price, portion, flavor. The tomato soup was simple but warm and comforting -- honestly perfect for this mountain town. Would I call it the best burger of my life? No. But would I come back? Absolutely. Because the food tastes honest. And sometimes that's better than perfect. So yeah -- if you're in Idyllwild and want something real, filling, and priced like it's still 2010 -- this place is worth a stop.

    The inside of the Virginian turkey dinner sandwich
    Jim M.

    The Virginian is a delightful dinner sandwich Real turkey breast cranberry's stuffing mayonnaise

    Kathy M.

    Food was good & inexpensive. There were a lot of customers and steady stream of people coming in. Down side was it took 30 minutes for the food. But we were alerted as we.were ordering the food & appreciated the heads up. Not sure if the kitchen is not big enough to accommodate more people to prepare the food or I they were short staffed today. It doesn't seem like it should take that long to cook the sandwiches, burgers & fry tater tots. We walked around with the buzzer and went back before the buzzer went off to wait at a table. I got the grilled cheese with all three types of the cheese they offered & hubby enjoyed his Italian sub. Tater tots were piping hot & crispy. We were too full to try their ice cream but they looked good. We will try other stuff next time we are there.

    Michael K.

    We enjoyed the ice cream here. Small place but enough seating outside. We had a slight customer service issue; however, they recognized it and solved without us saying anything. That says to me they're focused on customer service and fix an issue. We camp at the Idyllwild Regional Park campground a few times a year, so we'll be back.

    Outside
    Anna P.

    Don't judge this place by the outside -- it'll honestly surprise you. The inside is super simple and low-key, but the food is totally worth it. Ambience is just usual. What I really liked is how huge their menu is. They've got pretty much everything: burgers, sandwiches, soup, coffee, ice cream -- literally something for any group. Even though it was packed when we came in, the service was pretty fast. They told us it'd be about 30 minutes, but our food showed up in like 20. We ordered the Smokey Bear Burger ($9.75), the Pastrami Burger ($10.5), a soda & fries combo ($5.5), and the tomato soup ($5). Everything was honestly amazing. For the price, you get these giant double burgers with an awesome sauce and super tender meat. They don't skimp on the fries either, but you've gotta grab the sauces yourself. Make sure to ask for their house sauce -- they make it in the kitchen, and both versions are excellent. One thing though -- you probably won't manage to get a refill unless you're willing to wait in line again. And trust me, you likely won't want to, because the stream of customers basically never stops. Highly recommend this spot. Incredible food!

    pastrami sandwich
    Hannah K.

    i had their pastrami sandwich, it was fantastic. we also had their burgers and it was super tasty. got it to go, so i can't speak on the ambience but it seemed super cute. i want to go back to try their sweet items! service was friendly and fast

    Super cute decor, full on Hawaiian theme.
    Jamie S.

    Seriously - there's a reason they have a line out their door! When you walk in, the vibe pulls you into an era and place you may have never been - think of a combination of a little surf town meets the comfort and innocence of a skating rink. Tiki and vintage decor adorns the walls and music for the 40's to the 60's fills the place. So many kids meeting up for food before heading out to wherever. Prices are outstanding! I ordered the basic atomic burger and hubbs for the Smokey Bear double burger, we shared tots and a Coke. All for $22. Smash burgers! Fresh, hot and delicious. (I love shredded lettuce on a burger!) the person who took the order smiled despite the nonstop line. We didn't feel rushed at all. I'm only bummed we were too full for ice cream. They have plenty to choose from. The Dole Whip would've been amazing, but the burgers are plentiful and on this hot day, the ice cream area did not lack business. Good stuff!

    Brooke L.

    Haven't gotten my food yet but it's so awesome here I'm already going to make this place one of the favorite spots! The service is incredible even though it's insanely busy! The vibes are amazing! Ali is such a sweetheart! She's the one with our hair and piercings. She is just wow so much love and good service and good vibes it just made the whole trip! Going to get the pastrami burger with french fries and I was able to substitute my soda for a coffee. I got the Huckleberry scoop of ice cream and I wanted to try the cinnamon so they gave me a scoop since I had to wait and somebody kept running in front of me all the time. Tourist lol but yeah this was amazing! Two minutes later ... the food is really good oh my gosh! The french fries I think they're McDonald's lol very good! OK hands-down best latte in town.

    Holy Cow Tots (also almost gone)
    Maureen T.

    Lots of food for the price! Sandwiches are huge, dining room is small but clean, and they provide wonderful customer service. Great for snacks, lunch, and dessert!

    Yummy vanilla soft serve
    Grace N.

    My favorite icecream shop in Idyllwild! Because it is the only place that has soft serve! And, their soft serve is the most creamy and delicious you will get! Not the icy water down fake tasting icecream like other places! It reminds me of the high quality Japanese soft serve in Japan! When I went they only had Dole Whip and vanilla and since I'm not a pineapple icecream person, I went with vanilla! They also serve normal scoop icecream but come try the soft serve! They also have sandwiches and other snacks but COME FOR THE SOFT SERVE! You will thank me :)

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    Ask the Community - Atomic Cow

    My son has a peanut allergy and I see there is peanut ice cream on the menu. Do you use safe cross-contamination practices so that he can order a non-peanut ice cream? Some shops will take a scoop from a new batch or sanitize the scoopers for example

    Yes we sterilize the scoops after every use. We recommend people with severe peanut allergies to get our soft serve or dole whip ice cream because it never gets close to any of the ice creams with nuts.

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    Idyllwild Brewpub - Pig Skins

    Idyllwild Brewpub

    4.0(945 reviews)
    0.2 mi
    $$

    Fried Cauliflower: interesting take on it, they do the Buffalo sauce underneath the breading then…read moreit's served in a little metal basket with a side of aioli. 5/5 Mountaineer steak: really delicious, huge portion. The bone marrow butter really did taste like bone marrow! It comes with the side and you can get the chili as your side. 5/5 Green lentil soup: This was just OK. It tasted exactly like it looked, healthy. 3/5 Drinks were also great. I had the strawberry smash. It was excellent. It's served on ice and with real smashed strawberries inside. I also had the Elderflower drink which is served up. Both were great and we definitely order each of them again, and they were quite strong for only $15! Vibe is excellent, they have a lot counter seating, where you look out on the Forest (but also the parking lot below a bit). There's some TVs with spots going and they allowed dogs on the patio. The patio is nicely shaded and has a beautiful breeze, and also all different kinds of groups of people. They were groups of 20 Some things, groups of older folks, families with babies, one guy who's there, just with his dog. Service was so kind considering our group included a slightly fussy baby. We will definitely be back.

    Came to this spot for dinner while visiting Idyllwild. Super cute spot! The outdoor seating has a…read moreton of tables and heaters. The indoor doesn't have too many tables but there's a bar you can sit at. They have a cute fireplace as well on a lower level outside. I got to try their crispy sprouts which was delicious, but not crispy. I liked the flavor and the tomato balanced well. I'm not too big on burgers, but I tried the angry mule burger and wow! I was not disappointed. That might've been the best burger I've had. There's a jalepeno jam on the burger that really brought the flavor together. They were generous with the guacamole as well. Their beers were refreshing and good. I got the IPA. I was here celebrating my birthday weekend and they gave complimentary vanilla ice cream. I wish I got our servers name because she was so sweet and attentive. She had the cutest cat glasses.

    Photos
    Idyllwild Brewpub
    Idyllwild Brewpub - Crispy Sprouts

    Crispy Sprouts

    Idyllwild Brewpub - Fried Cod Sandwich with fries

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    Fried Cod Sandwich with fries

    Cafe Aroma

    Cafe Aroma

    4.1(1k reviews)
    0.5 mi
    $$$

    I read a bunch of the 1-star reviews. I read some of the…read more4-star reviews. I have to go with 5-star tho. OVERVIEW of 5 : Seated without reservation (*make one! We got lucky*) Server was amazing Food expediter was super nice Food was delicious Elegant, fine dining experience Music was my mountain playlist (and not too loud) View of mountains for me. View of architecture for my wife. PARKING: Parking can be difficult in the small lot, but there's parking along the street too. INSIDE: It was perfect weather. 68ºF at 6pm after a warm day. They have "indoor/patio" style seating which may be difficult for some to access by multiple steps. We were seated at the top, a table away from the music, along the window side. They have heat lamps - but temps were perfect (lots of people and hot food warmed everyone up). I wanted to walk around the restaurant. The tiered architecture is interesting. FOOD: High End Vegan! Yes - I'm guilty of wanting to give them 5 stars just looking at their vegan menu. (And omnivore selection) Yes - I appreciate the care that it takes to prepare a plate. BUT This food was just delicious by itself. Even in a cardboard box, this food would've been amazing. VEGAN "cheese" appetizer (great for 2-3 people) Nut cheese was warm and tangy. This is NOT just cashews and nooch in a blender. It is spiced with something that brings a little heat. *you will want to lick the bowl. PRO TIP: The welcome bread with ... oh shit.... WELCOME BREAD / Garlic Olive Oil This crusty bread served with microplaned garlic + olive oil is fantastic. Garlic Fiend? You're gonna love this. Not a fan of garlic? What's wrong with you?! I mean... just serve from the oil side. Save some bread for your vegan cheese.... VEGAN CHEESE (cont.) Order the gluten free bread (a little more like Uti's toasted dinner roll) with your vegan cheese app. Omnivores at your table will be surprised how well this vegan cheese and wine pair with each other. TROUT I think my wife got the trout. She loved it. Light and delicate. VEGAN KIMCHI TOFU I've had kimchi. I've had tofu. We all have. This was prepared on a bed of roasty veg that was a great match to the salty kimchi. I don't know if there was a marinade preparation (sesame paste?) with the tofu, or it was made locally, or both, but this firm tofu was excellent. Sweet. Nutty. Salty. Fresh tasting and filling. The vegan menu here isn't just an "alternate version" of an omnivore dish. It is its own thing. DESSERT MISTAKE = not getting it. We thought there would be dessert in town, but we got out late. Town had closed. MUSIC Tonight's music was a pair of musicians playing CS&N, Neil Young, Bob Seger... acoustic session: Guitar, Violin, Mandolin. Quiet & sentimental performance was a perfect accompaniment to a long hike day. THERE ARE 1-STAR REVIEWS of this place. They have their reasons. I've only been here once. But I experienced NONE of the things they've mentioned. Moreover, we experienced even better than what other 5-star reviews suggested. This is an elegant spot, framed by a perfect day in Idyllwild. If I come back to the town, I will want to try other restaurants, but I'll definitely come back here. Not *just* because of their vegan options, but definitely *for* their vegan options.

    This was my first time eating here I had a fettuccine dish…read morewith chicken It was good the pasta was a little to Al dente for me Music was nice students from the local arts school played very well

    Photos
    Cafe Aroma - Inside

    Inside

    Cafe Aroma - Creamy pesto penne

    Creamy pesto penne

    Cafe Aroma - Patio

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    Patio

    Rustic Theatre - Sausage and pepperoni pizza. Only $9.00 for 15 minute wait. This crust was just a good as last visit. Crispy but pillowy. Must order!

    Rustic Theatre

    4.3(66 reviews)
    0.1 mi

    What a charming theater and eatery in Idyllwild. I'm happy in some ways we almost stumbled upon…read morethis place by accident. I was craving a quick bite and saw that this spot had a lot of signage for appetizers, small bites and movie theater snacks. While I normally wouldn't be as inclined to grab food from a theater when there are so many restaurants around, I saw that this spot wasn't yet busy and knew I needed to grab something on the go so I gave them a chance. The theatre inside is actually adorable and old timey. Small but first the old town vibe. They had a lot of decor, some arcade looking games and general move theater decor. A gentleman was working behind the counter and was super friendly and nice. Told him I was just wanting to grab a hotdog to go and he whipped it up right away. This gave me time to make a pit bathroom stop and they were clean and easy to access from inside. Didn't have to buy a movie ticket to use, just purchase food or such. It was all an easy and nice experience for wanting something on the go and no fuss. Friendly service, cheap bites and a cute atmosphere. Mind you the simple hotdog was actually delicious and a 5/5. Wow! I'd love to come back to watch a movie and grab some small bites. Nice place, friendly staff and a cute vibe.

    Amazing service, kind nice staff with an amazing vibe. Ambiance is amazing and the seats are…read moreconsistent and comfortable throughout the whole theater. Food is affordable and restaurant quality and really makes the movie going experience phenomenal. Long term fan 10/10 would recommend

    Photos
    Rustic Theatre
    Rustic Theatre - Back again for this pizza! You don't have to watch a movie.You can order a pizza and sit on the outdoor patio while people watching.

    Back again for this pizza! You don't have to watch a movie.You can order a pizza and sit on the outdoor patio while people watching.

    Rustic Theatre - I love their butter flavored oil. Delicious! Small popcorn  was $3.00

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    I love their butter flavored oil. Delicious! Small popcorn was $3.00

    Mile High Cafe - Iced coffee and the highly recommended corn beef eggs Benedict

    Mile High Cafe

    4.3(612 reviews)
    0.6 mi
    $$

    An unexpected breakfast treat. We arrived to Idlewild the evening before on a Tuesday. We found…read moreout that most of the downtown area is closed down and I was hungry. We found the MileHigh Cafe. What a culinary treat. My wife had the avocado toast with her fluffy eggs. They gave a ample serving of avocado, which is unusual. The eggs were prepared the way she likes them and the coffee was fresh great flavor and strong I had eggs Benedict wow the sauce for the eggs Benedict is made from scratch the Canadian bacon it was real, I did help my wife eat a good portion of her sourdough bread . the greatest treat was having homemade strawberry jam presented The whole meal was wonderful and the atmosphere open clean and inviting. unexpected experience and I look forward to going back there.

    A must come for breakfast in Idyllwild. The corned beef hash was excellent- in my top 3 if not THE…read morebest corned beef I've ever had. Homemade, juicy, and they do not skimp on the protein portion which is so hard to find! Breakfast Potatoes were perfectly crunchy, eggs are fresh and cooked to perfection. Our daughter got the kids smiley face pancake with bananas and was elated when it arrived. $6 is a great price for kids breakfast. Coffee was fresh! Service was also excellent- stopped by often to see what we needed and how we were going. Super friendly, felt like we've been coming for ages. We loved it so much we are going to try to come again for lunch.

    Photos
    Mile High Cafe - Inside

    Inside

    Mile High Cafe - Spinach omelette

    Spinach omelette

    Mile High Cafe - Mocha iced coffee you can purchase to the left of the establishment but you order it at a different location then your food

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    Mocha iced coffee you can purchase to the left of the establishment but you order it at a different location then your food

    Atomic Cow - icecream - Updated May 2026

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