Willow Ranch

4.1 (1k reviews)

ModerateBarbeque, American

Open • 7:00 am - 9:00 pm

Updated 1 month ago

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Willow Ranch - Ribs - Barbeque Near Me - Buttonwillow, California

Willow Ranch - Nice decor - Barbeque Near Me - Buttonwillow, California

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Willow Ranch Popular Dishes

Plow Boy Sandwich

16 Photos35 Reviews

Beef Ribs

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Baby Back Ribs

12 Photos32 Reviews

Willow Ranch menu photos

Menu photo 1 Willow Ranch Buttonwillow, CA

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WILLOW RANCH ATMOSPHERE

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Outside

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Casual

Moderate noise

Outdoor seating

Good for groups

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Halle P.

Food 8/10 My party ordered the: -Deep Pitt Sandwich -Two Combo Platter (brisket/tri-tip) -Brisket Dinner The Deep Pitt Sandwich came with a small side of baked beans which were solid. Ordered the sauce on the side, but would order sauce on the sandwich next time. Both the Two Combo Platter and Brisket Dinner came with the brisket meat which was extremely tender and delicious. We ordered the sauce on the side which was a good recommendation from our server so we could control the amount of sauce. Meat was good both with and without sauce. The tri-tip was also very tender with a subtle smoky flavor. All the meals came with a soup or salad, but we switched it out for two corn bread muffins which had a nice taste, but were a little dry. They included a little side of butter though. The Brisket Dinner and Deep Pitt Sandwich came with a side option and we chose fries which were nice and crispy. Overall my favorite was the brisket meat! Service 9/10 Service was great. Server came to check in multiple times and was very friendly and helpful with all of our questions and gave excellent recommendations. Ambiance 7/10 Went around 3:30pm on a weekend. Was nice and quiet. A great place for a sit down meal. Aesthetic is Western country diner. Would recommend to a friend!

Evie D.

So I am not exaggerating when I tell you that the trip-tip sandwich is fantastic! The meat is tender and well-seasoned, quite lean but still unctuous. One gets a generous portion and the sandwich was big enough for my husband and I to share with a side of tasty sweet potatoe fries (a bit extra - or you can get plain potato fries for no extra charge). We also got a side of the creamy coleslaw which is ok and even better if you add salt and a dash of malt vinegar (it needs acid imo). I didn't take a photo of the sandwich because so many other yelpers have already done so. But trust me it's worth the stop. Service is super warm and friendly, the place is spotlessly clean, and I am a fan. We liked the sandwich so much we ordered another to go for lunch the next day. I only wish I had room for pie! They offer a wide selection of pies and I've gotta think they are yummy too. Next time.

Lyane P.

The family stopped off at Willow Ranch on our way to San Francisco. We arrived at 4:00 and got seated right away! The server was very friendly and attentive and had good recommendations since it was our first time. We ordered the 2 item Combo with brisket and tri tip (with the bbq sauce on the side), a Brisket Dinner and a Deep Pit Beef Sandwich. The brisket was oh so good! It was so tender and flavorful and melted in my mouth!! The tri tip, which was thinly sliced, was also very tasty. The meal came with fries which were crispy and hot out of the fryer. We also received a cornbread muffin with the meal, which was a bit dry. I did not try the sandwich but others in our group liked. Decor was western and "down home."

Gabby P.

This place was yummy! We visited at around 5PM and it wasn't crowded, and service was quick. We got the brisket dinner, the tri tip and brisket combo plate, and the deep pit beef sandwich. The sides were really good too. Fries were crispy, the chili beans were yummy, and the cornbread was sweet. The serving sizes are pretty small, but I had an enjoyable experience! I would go back again.

Vish E.

Mar 15 2026 - 3.5 stars 4 stars - restaurant cleanliness, decor, nice wooden vibe 4.5 stars - service - friendly, smiling staff, ready to answer any and all questions 3.5 stars - food, chicken sandwich, onion rings and fries were very good The ribs were dry, over cooked ? Not sure but saving grace was the BBQ sauce - if only the ribs were a little moist and juicy ! This is a good spot to stop when driving to or from LA along the I-5 Kid friendly ! We will be back !

I loved this! A 'Saltine' container brought to the table. When did you ever see this done?

Tom B.

In my never ending quest for places to eat along the I-5 corridor between No. Cal and LA I read about this place and thought I'd try it out. It's way back past all the newer fast food joints and gas stations but worth the trek for a true diner experience, and not some chain restaurant. It's not exactly brand new sparkling shiny, yet clean and seemingly well maintained. Staff were very courteous, friendly and efficient. Being 'on the road' I didn't have a lot of time to linger and they did get me in and out in sufficient time. Looking over the menu, which has most of the diner choices on would expect I chose the house special Tri Tip salad, accompanied with water and coffee. It took little time for the salad to arrive and it was well prepared with crispy greens, a variety of veggies and strips of tri-tip. The meat was delicious without any fat, grizzle or toughness. It had 'regular" size salad, quite adequate for lunch. A container of salsa came with it that I found tasteless and watery. It came with a good size container of blue cheese dressing, my selected choice. They also brought a complimentary size container of their specialty BBQ sauce, that was amazing in flavor. The coffee was good. Overall a good experience at good prices, but expect that this is a basic diner with basic food. But, hey, far better than a chain burger place.

Robbie R.

I'll tell you what, this Buttonwillow area by the freeway is super easy to get fuel, coffee and get some food too. Just get off the 5 freeway and you're here, look for the big TA truck stop. This is a good spot to fuel up the gas guzzler suburban too. Willow ranch is supposed to have some good BBQ and other road foods. Every body on my crew said they'd like to stop here for dinner before we push on through Bakersfield and out to Vegas. We get seated easy and look over the menu as our drink orders are taken. I may have to make a Starbucks stop before we hit the road again, good thing I saw on right nearby. We all mostly ordered teh ribs, since that's what this place is famous for, though one person got the pastrami sandwich, I think that's what it was. The food cam out in short order, so the service was good and efficient. The ribs were pretty good, tender and tasty, no complaints. Just that no rib places still serve the real standard cut ribs with the full length still attached, I like the meat lollipop at the end, not St. Louis cut or baby backs. The expense account is paying, so it's all good here! I paid the bill and off we go ... well, I think to the Starbucks for get some coffee for the road first, than it's back on the 5 freeway, cursing at 75 mph!

William S.

Steak was absolutely amazing. We will get back to that. My server was a sweetheart. Very nice and very attentive. She earned every penny of her tip and some. The atmosphere was casual and calm. Very comforting. Now back to the food. The salad, which I forgot to photograph was great. The Jalapeño Poppers were molten lava. If you get them, let them cool a few minutes. I blistered my lip with the cheese AFTER my server warned me. Baked Potato, Beans and Dinner Roll were good. The STEAK, oh my god, the STEAK. One of the best tasting steaks I have ever had the pleasure of eating. Not only was it cooked to perfection, the flavor was sublime. I very highly recommend this place.

Kat E.

Got gas and decided to get bbq from willow ranch. Spacious restaurant with plenty of parking. We walked in and seated immediately. Got suckered into getting a michelada thx to their window advertisement Pic and it was surely delish. We ordered the 3 item bbq combo with tritip brisket and ribs that came with corn bread and a salad. We also got ground round steak smothered in gravy with mushroom and onions. Deeeelicious and our server was super kind. Strongly recommend this spot

1/4 BBQ chicken plate with BBQ sauce requested on the side.

Carolyn F.

An evening stop along I-5 at Buttonwillow to refuel, we saw Willow Ranch BBQ. We were glad we decided to stop for a dinner break at 7.30 PM. As other reviewers wrote, the Plowboy sandwich was tasty and filling. The dinner plate of BBQ chicken was perfectly moist with a crispy skin and more delicious with the house-made BBQ sauce. Service by Jeff was on point. The restaurant has a olde time diner feel: warm, friendly & casual.

Jillian G.

Amazing brisket sandwich and Philly cheese steak! Service was quick! You can tell it's a good spot because all of the local workers were here for lunch! Yum!

Miguel R.

On a road trip, my friend Denise and I were looking for a convenience store in roads that were not paved with cement nor were they in the center of a chic boutique and a hits-the-spot every time boba shop. Yes, we were basically on dirt roads that saw a few scattered homes here and there, and visible old school phone towers (the brown kind) connected with wires (where crows sit on a row) existed, and not much else. We drove around in some circles, looking for this fabled store and found nothing, not even a Bigfoot. We noted how the moment felt like we were on an Iowa highway because we saw expansive fields and experienced a Middle-America atmosphere. I wanted a small stalk of wheat in between my teeth. As we drove, we saw this place and decided that this joint would replace the store we were looking for. At this point I started to listen to Carry on My Wayward Son by Kansas. If you know, you know. As soon as I entered I felt like I had stepped into a diner in the middle of nowhere, the type of spot where brothers talked about saving people, hunting things, you know the family business. My friend Denise did not know what I was talking about and when I tried to introduce the world to her with corny prompts she decided not to play along. Still for a fan the experience was nothing but a win!(chester). I cannot remember the person who helped us but she was a server who reported that she had lived in the surrounding area for most of her life. She was deepening the believe that we were on a route diner neglected by city reality. During this visit, I had fried okra for the first time in my life. It was weird to taste but not in a bad way. More like I had never tasted this texture before in my life. The texture that I had not tried before in my life was a gooey vegetable. Like the texture of the outside was exactly as advertised--- fried goodness. The actual okra was the gooey part. I do not want to sound crass, truly, I do not, but it did feel like enjoying something slimy, and I will leave it at that. Again, not wrong, just weird But I will not get it again. The server- the homegrown one- gave us fried pickles and these were much more to taste. Like, I i have had fried pickles before and I loved them but I had some that were not for me. But these, these, were pickle spears fried to brown goodness, and the mixture hit green- which does not mean go, more like Hulk enjoys, instead of smashes. It was a simple dish yes- green spear pickle fried but sometimes the goodness of a county fair is exactly what a roadtrip snack should be. The fair came to my table and I am not mad at that. On this trip I did have the Willow Dip which I feel is a close cousin to a french dip. What this place did well, at least I think, is putting it on an onion baguette. I am not sure if onion baguette is a middle-of-nowhere bread, but, I allowed it because the taste of the bread was, like tailored made for me, I am a sucker for onion, and not just because it gives me sexy breath. The food was standard, solid fare. Everything was just good nothing wrong with it, all good with it. The sauces were tasty, and added smoky sweet flavor that was welcomed. So this elevated the dish by addding a hickory taste. It did not save the dishes, but did make them better. The decorations were texas heavy. I should have taken more pictures. But sometimes the imagination allows for a space to feel more than at it is.

Sampler platter (substituted chicken strips for all buffalo wings), onion rings, mozzerella sticks

Diane T.

Came here tonight on our way back to the Bay area as promised, and again was greeted warmly by a different hostess. Seated again in the same corner booth we had the first time we came, so already it felt familiar and homey. Tonight, Steven was our server. Super nice, friendly, makes you feel like you've known him for a long time, chatting with him in the first 5 minutes. Love that these servers make you feel so comfortable...is it the Buttonwillow charm? LOL I digress. Tonight we ordered the medium rare Ribeye steak with loaded baked potato, salad, two item combo with tri tip and brisket, mashed potatoes with beef gravy, chicken and dumplings soup, jalapeno poppers, country fried steak, corn bread, fries, salad, and Big Hoss with onion rings. The Ribeye was outstanding! So juicy and tender! Their salads are always so crisp and fresh. The baked potato was great, loaded with all the good stuff! The tri tip was super soft and tender and the brisket was tender but not as much as we thought it would be. A tad dry. The chicken and dumplings soup sadly only had one little piece of chicken but had pretty good flavor. The Big Hoss was not as big and meat filled as the previous sandwiches we had ordered there, but was still really tasty, as we do love some good pastrami. My chicken fried steak lacked the crispiness I was looking for, and it wasn't because it was drenched in gravy (because all CFS are). Although this CFS was drowning, fighting for its life in this gravy. When I cut into it, the batter fell off the steak on the side, in a soggy hot mess. And this was one of the dishes we were REALLY looking forward to... since CFS is one of our favorites, anywhere we go! The fries are always good and crispy, as are the onion rings. The jalapeno poppers were really big and crunchy and pretty good with their ranch. The stars of the night were definitely the Ribeye steak and our server Steven. But it's been decided, we definitely love Willow Ranch. We even left there purchasing a bottle of their house made BBQ sauce, and one of their snap back hats. We shall return for one of their amazing, tender steaks, BBQ, sandwiches, and Buttonwillow charming hospitality!

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Michael P.

8 years ago

We had a great time! Alissa took great care of us. Closest thing to Texas barbecue here in California. We'll be back!

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Angela C.

I'm so glad Alissa provided great service and you enjoyed your…

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Robert P.

9 years ago

Great service and excellent food for a fair price! Service is great and the bbq specialties are really something special! Highly recommended and I'd go out of my way, and have for this wonderful little place! read more

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Angela C.

Robert, it's great to hear you've enjoyed everything from our tasty…

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Areli L.

8 years ago

This is now my favorite steakhouse restaurant in town. Best streak I ever had, was greeted with a smile and great service from our waiter STEVEN. I will definitely be back with friends and family. read more

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Angela C.

Best steak you ever had? That's amazing, Areli -- so glad it was…

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Kristi S.

9 years ago

We made a stop here for a quick bite to eat before getting back on the road. It was pretty good. I had the brisket and the it was delicious. On the was out a sweet old lady stopped me and we started chatting. I believe she said her name was Freida. She told me she has lived in this town all her life and that she comes by to purchase their BBQ sauce because everyone loves it. I can definitely see why as it was pretty tasty. You walk in and it has a nostalgic feel. The wall near the entrance has pictures and history of the town. Pretty cool spot. read more

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Nate B.

16 years ago

If you are ever hungry driving from So. Cal to Nor. Cal or vice versa, this place has the best BBQ. I'm not sure how, but the food here at this small truck stop/ farming town is amazing. I don't give out many 5 stars but this place is GOOD! read more

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Jim M.

7 years ago

Good food. Friendly service and good service. I've had the Tritip sandwich twice now, good stuff. And price is reasonable.

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Angela C.

Jim, we're appreciative of the kind words on our food and service!…

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Cheeky M.

10 years ago

Best chicken burger ever! You can't tell by the photo but there is a HUGE breast of meat under the bacon and cheese. Garlic fries are amazing too - and very crispy. Quick and friendly service. (Glad I took that exit as a rest stop, I'll definitely be back!) read more

Willow Ranch - Best chicken burger ever! Garlic fries are amazing too - and very crispy. - Barbeque Near Me - Buttonwillow, California

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Bryce B.

Elite 21

790

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13 years ago

When traveling to or from LA and you have time for a sit down meal (instead of fast food), definitely plan on stopping in at Willow Ranch. This is a no-frills kind of place and has clearly been there for quite awhile. A friend of mine suggested that I eat here and recommended the deep pit beef sandwich. I'm very glad I did. It was a delicious, filling sandwich with choice of side (opted for potato salad.) My only regret was not getting one to-go. They have a full range of BBQ'd items, featuring quality Harris Ranch beef. Service was efficient and friendly. read more

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Jim A.

7 years ago

Making the voyage back from a work mission in LA. Didnt want to eat fast food and we saw this place. I have to admit I was expecting more of a typical diner type meal than the great baby back ribs I just had. Great portion and the service was great. Thanks for a great unexpected meal! Itll be my go to spot on the 5 coming through this area... read more

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Angela C.

Jim, we're thrilled you stopped by on your way through California! We…

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Daniel B.

9 years ago

Great food LOVE RIBS! Thats my new place to eat. Great & Friendly Stuff THANK YOU !!!! read more

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Angela C.

We're proud to be your favorite, Daniel! Thanks for being so kind and…

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Madhu D.

Elite 17

121

356

156

10 years ago

This has been my go-to stop on my drives down to So Cal and back up to the North. I've been about less fast food and more quality and fresh food, which means sitting my butt in a place that takes more than 15 minutes total time. I think this place is my favorite stop. The sauce is awesome and my nephew adores it. Their pies are homemade. The menu is varied and no matter your dietary concerns you'll find something. Also, they serve booze. The parking is always full when I arrive, so I'm glad to know that I'm not the only one that knows about this place. The service is great and the staff is beyond friendly. Oh, and lastly their soda/water/iced tea comes in HUGE glasses the size of a Big Gulp... no refills needed. read more

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James M.

8 years ago

Excellent food! Service is slow, but the food makes up for it. Wife had salad and I had Turkey and gravy and it was really good. Turkey was tender, gravy was not to salty. The claim chowder was quite good as well. read more

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Angela C.

So glad you and your wife enjoyed our food, James! Hope to see you…

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Bella C.

11 years ago

We discovered this hidden gem on our way back from San Diego to San Jose. I agree with other Yelpers that this is a rare place on I 5 since there are mostly fast food restaurant chains around. The service was pretty slow but we really liked the menu and what it had to offer considering we have a toddler. Tri tip sandwich and chicken strips were pretty fresh. I was happy they offered varieties of foods for everyone and it was a nice establishment with plenty of seating and a working AC - which was great in this hot weather. We will definitely be back :) read more

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Gaylord G.

11 years ago

Working near the Willow, I eat here alot, and it is ALWAYS very good. Steak and shrimp, excellent and cooked just like I like it. Staff and owners are very friendly and give great service. Large TV in the bar area to watch sports. read more

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Angela C.

We're a little late, Gaylord, but we still appreciate your kind…

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Chad R.

308

10 years ago

Yes! Such a great stop on the 5 north bound. I felt like I was walking into a Quentin Tarantino movie when I noticed two beautiful young servers taking people's orders in this hot and dusty town. #dusktilldawn Food was also pretty good, I had the grilled chicken salad and forgot to even add the dressing on it. That's how good it was. ;) Telling you Buttonwillow is on the map now. Tried fried pickles for the first time also and loved them. read more

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MTeresa W.

12 years ago

Four of us stopped here on our way to Sacramento. Two of us had the shredded pork sandwich. Another had the sliders ( beef, pork, chicken) and the beef trip tip sandwich. Pork was tender, Beef a little salty. BBQ sauce was perfect! Also had french fries, onion rings, potato salad, and strawberry shake - all stupendous! Service was great, bathrooms clean, and overall experience very positive. Would recommend. read more

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Marina V.

Elite 15

1366

372

1208

12 years ago

What a great find! I normally do not like diner food (it is rarely VERY good, it's usually just ok and works when there is nothing else), but this place has AMAZING barbecue. It is our 2nd time there (driving from L.A. to SanFran), and we will definitely be back!!! Their bbq sauce is just wonderful, and we had their sliders and also their pulled pork sandwich. Everything is very tasty, and this is coming from a food snob :) Friendly service, typical diner atmosphere. read more

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Julie T.

9 years ago

Great place to stop between Northern and Southern California. Good food, good folks and the best BBQ sauce!

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Andrea L.

8 years ago

The food was delicious and our server Alissa was the BOMB!!!! Best. Waitress. EVER! Alissa rocks! Best country fried steak ever! The open faced roast beef sandwich was heavenly! Great pie too! read more

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Angela C.

Best country fried steak ever? That means so much to us, Andrea --…

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John R.

12 years ago

A great alternative to all the nasty fast food in the area. Yummy Fried Chicken and hot wings. Good stop for the I-5 corridor.

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Jesse W.

12 years ago

Great food and even better service. Down home cooking at its best. Huge portions. Bring an appetite but save room for dessert. Best beef brisket around! read more

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Chris C.

374

10 years ago

5 stars. All ya'll haters can move along! Food off the 5! Damn, I'm going to stop by here everytime I drive to norcal! Great vegetable soup! Safe, friendly, great staff! I think the owner was serving us! My mom said very homey and great! Rawrcats Foodcats Cats cats read more

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Carol D.

101

7 years ago

They never disappoint us! The food is always so good and fresh. Service is quick, and staff friendly. When we head down south we stop and always get the sliders and sweet potatoes fries. Heading home we stopped in for breakfast chorizo burrito, had great flavor and of course picked up 2 bottles of their hot bbq sauce. Give them a try you won't be disappointed. read more

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Angela C.

Carol, thank you for leaving us this wonderful review! We're pleased…

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Brent N.

14 years ago

How there is not a bigger deal made of this place is unknown to me. I absolutely love Willow Ranch! I am the biggest fan of their brisket sandwich with a side of their heavenly BBQ sauce. All the food is diner style, however it has that soul of being locally owned and not corporate. I highly recommend anything from the BBQ menu, from the brisket to the ribs. read more

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Ilshat S.

12 years ago

It was very good! BBQ ribs are the best. Frech fries are the bomb. Freshest and crispiest.

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Lisa S.

9 years ago

This the best bbq I have had in a long time. I had the tri tip sandwich. It was juicy with a slight apple taste. My husband had the plow boy which was super delicious. Onion rings were hot and perfectly cooked. Garlic fries were good but a bit greasy. We will be back read more

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Angela C.

Lisa, I'm thrilled you loved everything about your meal! Thanks for…

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Champ M.

Elite 13

339

581

987

16 years ago

looks like a place for murderous truck drivers, but dont worry, thats why it's so awesome. you walk in and bam---musky smell of old age and times past. bbq chicken corn bread potatoes all that american swag authentico. bbq sauce so bomb. way underrated. probably wont come back but you never know. this is one of those "try once and i'm good for life". smack in the middle between that LA to SF drive, better than wrinkled skin gas station hotdogs for surez. view my photos. read more

Willow Ranch - BBQ Chicken - Barbeque Near Me - Buttonwillow, California

Willow Ranch - Barbeque Near Me - Buttonwillow, California

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William R.

Elite 16

444

294

256

14 years ago

This place is an I5 gem. The BBQ looked amazing and the portions were huge, I had the tuna melt with fries, and slaw and a giant draft beer (I was staying local). Great crowd and super service. This was the best place I have ever eaten on I5. I know that's not saying much since it's not really known as a culinary interstate (heh) and when people start comparing Taco Bell's as that's the good one and that's the bad one, it is good to find a place where you can actually sit down and get great food. I5 WIN! read more

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Jim B.

100

15 years ago

I had the tri tip and a couple of cold beers. Food was really good and came out fast even with a softball team getting their order in at the same time. Right next to a truck stop so plenty of truck parking and definateley better than truck stop food:) read more

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Allxie C.

12 years ago

My family always stops at Willow Ranch on road trips to LA several times a year--both directions every time. The home made BBQ sauce is amazing, and we make sure to pick up a bottle. Their signature dishes are their pulled pork and pit beef sandwiches. I love getting the pulled pork sandwich: some of the best pulled pork I've ever had. Though their BBQ meats are the best in my opinion, they also have a range of big, flavorful salads and burgers that are also pretty amazing. The service is friendly and pleasant. The decor is fun--sort of country western middle of nowhere perfect, and there's a nice, shaded outdoor patio. If you beat the lunch rush at noon, food is quick an you can be in and out in 40 minutes. It slows down a little right at noon, though. The only complaint I have is that one time I ordered the sliders (2 beef, 1 pork, and 1 chicken) and one out of four of the slider buns was dry. On another note, this restaurant is a pretty standard police hang out, in case that's important to you. Over all, this place is great, and I will make a point of going there 4-6 times a year whenever I pass by. read more

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J. T.

11 years ago

Where do I begin? The food: over priced and poor in quality. Our meal for three was nearly $50, and we got tri-tip that was tough, deep pit beef that was mostly just fat, and a burger that looked like the patties were purchased in bulk from Costco. The potatoe salad tasted like it came out of a big, plastic container sold by a wholesaler...not at all tasty. The service: rude and inattentive. It wasn't busy while we were there, but our service was really slow and the server wasn't exactly polite. When a member of our party gave a specific request due to food allergies, our waitress rolled her eyes. There was lots of chit-chatting going on among all of the wait staff, so much so that it was all at the expense of patrons getting their food in a reasonable amount of time. We could see our order sitting on the counter by the kitchen, but our waitress wasn't paying attention and just let it sit until it finally occurred to her to turn around and see the plates there. Once we got our food, that was it -- no one checked in on us and we had to flag our server down to get a refill on our drinks. All in all, you can easily find other restaurants on the road that have better food and are more deserving of your patronage and time. Don't bother with the Willow Ranch. read more

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Leanne M.

9 years ago

Service was very good, waitress came back multiple times to check. Food was just average and average priced. But pretty good for the little town of Buttonwillow. I would come back! read more

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Mariah R.

271

9 years ago

Had the dinner ground round was a classic! The salad was healthy and the ranch was so good! If your not a fan of a lot of dressing ask for it on the side! This service was prompt! The burger was decent with all the fixings! Should of went with a platter or ploy boy after looking around! Gives us a reason to stop again! read more

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Angela C.

Mariah, it's great to know you enjoyed your dinner with us! I'll be…

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Shawn R.

14 years ago

I'm not sure where people are eating when they complain about the service at this place; I thought it was outstanding! The bubbly staff and servers were all friendly in a genuine, down-home kind of way without being plastic or pandering. We walked in just after the dinner rush started, were seated within three minutes, and had beverages on our table another five minutes after that. I'm also mystified as to why anyone would order anything other than BBQ at a BBQ joint. I don't complain when cheeseburgers are bad at a Mexican restaurant, so why would I whine about a bad cold sandwich at a BBQ place? The meat was outstanding. Possibly the best brisket I've ever had, and either the best or second best pulled pork. The tri-tip was a little tough, which was disappointing given the place's proximity to Santa Maria, but a little extra dab of sauce cleared that right up. I didn't get to do more than sample the sides because I got a massive pile of meat on my plate. The fries were good, the corn on the cob was good, but the baked beans were really not good at all. I wish I could split stars, because Willow Ranch certainly deserves almost five, but the side dishes let it down. I'll be back, and will not forget to buy a bottle of sauce to take home. read more

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Amber E.

9 years ago

Let's be real. When you are not able to eat nuts, gluten and dairy, you pretty much just choose wherever you can because in the vastness of I5, that might be your only chance to eat. So we stumbled in here with our two kids. It was on the empty side so our 2yo just did 5 laps around their tables. The food was delicious! My best friend is from Texas so I'm pretty picky with bbq. Let me tell you, almost as good as her mom's back home. Best bbq I've had in a California restaurant. Make this your pit stop. There's a changing table in the bathroom which is a major plus. The waitress was kind. The only thing I didn't like was the long stares from two employees while I was nursing my baby. I dunno of they were fascinated or disgusted, but please stop staring! She's gotta eat too! read more

Business owner information

Angela C.

Amber, I'm sorry if any of our team made you feel uncomfortable while…

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Stephen T.

213

14 years ago

It's become our group's tradition to stop by Willow Ranch for dinner after a day at nearby Buttonwillow Raceway Park. I've always got the Ribeye dinner and it has never disappointed. Generously sized portions, huge refillable drinks, more than reasonable prices, and friendly wait staff. read more

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Bo J.

9 years ago

OK...I give in...five stars this time. Last night's dinner was as great as the dinner we had last week but this time the server folks really shined. Great great folks...friendly and so wholesome- all mostly young and know how to treat us seniors well. Thanks to the staff at the Super 8 motel (great rooms at fifty bucks and almost just across the street from the restaurant) for the turn-on to this place. read more

Business owner information

Angela C.

It's great to hear you loved your ribs, Bo! Thanks for stopping in on…

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Debbie S.

7 years ago

The absolute best French toast in my entire life...little truck stop with fantastic food. Highly recommended! Very

Business owner information

Angela C.

Debbie, nothing beats a morning full of tasty French toast! We can't…

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Edna G.

7 years ago

This was one of our favorite food spot for our LA to Sacramento hauls. It was always something to look forward to during the long road trip. This time was no different. Unfortunately, our experience this time did not live up to our previous experiences. While the food was still good, the service was sub-standard. Now I know when reading negative reviews I always took it with a grain of salt that maybe it was just the diners perception. However when you have several diners go to register looking to pay for their food because the server hasn't been on the floor and still has to wait to get their checks (and to go orders), you know that "it's not just you". We're not sure if we'll come back on our next road trip. The food is worth a try if you get tired of the fast food options. Go for the food, just adjust your service expectations. read more

Business owner information

Angela C.

Edna, you're exactly right to expect great service, so we sincerely…

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Hulda W.

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12 years ago

Oh my goodness. My only regret about this place is that I will probably never go there again. I found it by accident on a road trip home from Scottsdale and the timing will never work out so that I will end up in Buttonwillow, California again, ever. Would it be worth it to make the 865 mile trip just to sample more of their luscious BBQ? Well, maybe - but I'm not sure my husband would agree with me. read more

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Page 20 of 26

27770 Lagoon Dr
Buttonwillow, CA 93206
Directions
(661) 764-6605
Call Now
Visit Website
https://www.willowranchrestaurant.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Willow Ranch open?

Willow Ranch opens at 7:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Willow Ranch close?

Willow Ranch closes at 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.Willow Ranch closes at 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu, Sun 7:00 AM - 9:00 PMFri-Sat 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Willow Ranch take Bitcoin?

No, Willow Ranch does not take Bitcoin.

Does Willow Ranch take credit cards?

Yes, Willow Ranch takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Willow Ranch have catering options?

Yes, Willow Ranch does have catering options.

Does Willow Ranch have a drive thru?

No, Willow Ranch does not have a drive thru.

Does Willow Ranch serve alcohol?

Yes, Willow Ranch serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does Willow Ranch allow dogs?

No, Willow Ranch does not allow dogs.

Does Willow Ranch have TVs?

Yes, Willow Ranch has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Willow Ranch have bike parking?

Yes, Willow Ranch has bike parking.

Does Willow Ranch have outdoor seating?

Yes, Willow Ranch has outdoor seating options.

Does Willow Ranch have parking?

Yes, Willow Ranch has parking options. Private Lot Parking, Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Willow Ranch wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Willow Ranch is wheelchair accessible.

Does Willow Ranch have free WiFi?

No, Willow Ranch does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Experience Buttonwillow's Best Dining - Willow Ranch. Discover Willow Ranch, the top restaurant in Buttonwillow, CA, located in the heart of California's Central Valley. Enjoy a warm ambiance, delicious menu, and outstanding service for a dining experience to remember. Savor farm-fresh flavors, from crisp salads to juicy steaks and seafood dishes. Our inviting atmosphere is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or special occasions. Conveniently near major highways, we're the ideal stop for travelers and locals alike. At Willow Ranch, guest satisfaction is our priority. Visit us in Buttonwillow, CA, and taste the best of the Central Valley. Book your table today!

History

Established in 1998.

Our restaurant was started by a farmer who wanted to share his love for cooking with the community. We're continuing that tradition today by serving meals that are fresh and made with a lot of love. Thanks for dining with us all these years, Buttonwillow!

Meet the Manager: Mandy B.

When you want to enjoy good ol' American cooking, we invite you to stop by our place. We have some delicious burgers, breakfast items, and drinks to serve you.

More Info

Health Score

Ask the Community - Willow Ranch

Do they have tvs to watch soccer?

Yes

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Gluten free options?

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

Do they have outside seating?

Yes, but it was so hot I can't imagine anyone wanting to. Check the weather!

View 6 more answers

Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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Emarciano P.

249

3 years ago

What a delightful dining experience we had at Willow Ranch! From start to finish, everything about this place was exceptional - the food, the service, and the overall atmosphere. Our family ordered an array of dishes, and each one surpassed our expectations. The ribs and tri-tip were perfectly cooked and packed with flavor. The fish n chips were a crispy and fresh delight, and the Plow Boy with brisket, pastrami, bacon, and jalapeño was an explosion of deliciousness! To top it off, we indulged in a trio of mouthwatering desserts - the coconut cream pie, peanut butter cream pie, and peach cobbler. It was the perfect ending to an outstanding meal. The service provided by Abbie was outstanding. She was not only accommodating but also incredibly patient, ensuring that all our needs were met. She was prompt in attending to us and consistently checked in to ensure we were enjoying our experience. The ambiance of Willow Ranch added to the overall enjoyment of our meal, creating a warm and inviting setting for a family gathering. We were so engrossed in savoring the scrumptious food that we completely forgot to take photos! That's how delightful everything was. In conclusion, we highly recommend Willow Ranch to anyone seeking an enjoyable dining experience during their commute across the Highway 5. The combination of delectable dishes and top-notch service from Abbie truly made this restaurant a standout gem. A big thank you to the whole team at Willow Ranch for an enjoyable evening! read more

Sally J.

17 years ago

It's just too bad that there are so many pessimistic and cranky people in this world, such as Mortiche W (or whatever the heck her name is!) Willow Ranch has been our I-5 stop for over 6 years and WE LOVE IT! It's not only the food , but the staff and the wonderful hardworking family that owns it. On any given day, you can find the owners and their daughters, grand kids, nieces, nephews and numerous other relatives working their tails off and they do a fabulous job!! We have never had a bad experience at Willow Ranch!!! The food is to die for and the BBQ sauce is the best I have ever had. In fact, they ship the BBQ sauce all over the US, so it must not be that bad!! MORTICHE- You were clearly there on a bad night......do you ever have bad days?! We have stopped there on weekends and they do get a little crazy due to the Raceway events, but how about a little compassion?! Do you have nothing better to do with your time than bash honest, hardworking people just trying to make a living for themselves and their family?! Oh and you had to throw the whole "racism" spill in there.....it's people like you that racism even exists in our country!!! HOW DARE YOU!!! Like someone would really not wait on your table because of your race??...........You've got some sheep balls (hehehe) for even mentioning that in a food review....PATHETIC!! read more

My N.

7 years ago

Literally writing this post as we are leaving. Honestly I am not one to post on Yelp even though I am its avid user to find places to eat. But I was so pleased with our meal that I believe the world should get another person's vouch for this amazing establishment. Stumbled upon this place when we were going to get gas from our drive from SF to the OC. I had no expectation, just looking for a meal that wasn't fast food. We walked in and we warmly greeted and seated immediately. Our server Steve is probably one of the nicest servers I have ever came across: kind, attentive, quick and patient. That is saying a lot because we dine out a whole lot! My bf ordered the plowboy: sandwich with tri-tip, pastrami, onion rings and jalapenos. I ordered the three meat bbq combo. I chose the baby back, beef ribs and had Steve choose for me: between tri tip or brisket. I got the brisket. All of it, the whole meal was amazing. Everything from beginning to end was beyond what we had hoped for. The food had the perfect char and smoke. Their housemade bbq sauce was so good I had to buy one. I hoped that one day I will stumble upon this quaint amazing restaurant again. (I might have to just drive back for it.) Definitely a must stop! Thanks again Steve and the Willow Ranch family! read more

A L.

17 years ago

I researched this place from my Droid on a trip back from Disneyland with the family. I reviewed responses from Yelp and saw positive and negative. I was able to go there with a clear understanding what to look for and what to avoid. Food was great...awesome ribs (I had a full rack), overflowing portions. All 5 of us were happy with the food. Wait staff was also good and attentive as we had a 4 and a 2 year old with us. My only gripe with the place is the bathrooms were slightly better than a porto-potty and they have some sort of satellite radio blaring in the bathrooms. The speakers in the bathroom must be connected to the kitchen as you don't hear the music in the eating areas. Annoying and even worse in a stinky (pee smell) bathroom - men's and women;s were like this. I would stop again for the food...worth it versus going to a drive thru along I-5! read more

Leland H.

15 years ago

On of the best places to stop for real food on this stretch of I-5. Home style food, home style service by the local girls, but the selection and price makes it a good buy. The food is good quality nothing culinary critics would talk good about but this is the best stop in the area for non fast food non corporate going to stick with you kinda grub. Perfect for road trips. I ate in the middle of dinner rush received a meal for 3 plus 1 kid in under 20 minutes and with no complaints, great experience, cost 52 bucks plus tip, very affordable great value to cost. Will be stopping again, and if anyone wants to know the BBQ is tasty, my ribs could have been a lttle more tender, but the mesquite flavor and char was to my liking with a sweeter sauce that kept me biting for more till it was gone. read more

Rho M.

3 years ago

We were feeling hungry and stumbled upon Willow Ranch BBQ. Upon entering, we were warmly greeted by a fantastic hostess with a delightful personality. Although it was early and there weren't too many people inside, we were promptly seated and offered drinks. When our waitress arrived, we already had our minds set on the tri-tip sandwich, as it had been recommended by the hostess. It lived up to her recommendation, delicious as ever. My husband also indulged in the lemon meringue pie for dessert, and I couldn't resist a taste. Our waitress was incredibly friendly too. I wholeheartedly recommend this restaurant to anyone passing through or residing in the area. As we sat there, more and more patrons began to arrive, making it clear that this is the place to be. read more

Erica N.

1 year ago

After more than 20 years of being a loyal customer, I'm sorry to say I won't be returning. The service was disappointing--while I sat waiting to place my order, the young waitress prioritized other tables, even taking the order of someone who arrived after me. Eventually, the manager stepped in to take my order. Unfortunately, the food didn't redeem the experience: the chicken was undercooked, the baked potato arrived cold, and the brisket was shockingly fatty. Not once was I offered a water refill. The only follow-up? A question about whether I wanted a box for leftovers--which I declined, as there was nothing worth taking home. I'm deeply disappointed and will be sharing this experience with others. read more

Melissa B.

11 years ago

A friend of mine told me about this Yelp app and boy am I glad she did! Driving back and forth from LA to SF can be pretty exhausting! I really wanted something good and not fast food so I searched the area and found Willow Ranch. I was ecstatic to find this place just off the I-5, it's very clean and I received great service. I was seated immediately and I couldn't believe how big the menu was! There were so many things to choose from. I had the tri-tip salad and it was amazing! I ordered a little side of their homemade BBQ sauce and it was phenomenal, I took a couple bottles to-go. I will definitely be back to this fine little establishment. read more

martin r.

15 years ago

Me and my friends went by here on our way home to Buttonwillow. We were kinda hungry during that time and all of us voted for a BBQ. We saw Willow Ranch lying on the road so we decided to stop by. Now we are a massive group since we just came home from camping, and we are comprised of 8-12 people so we really needed some good quality service. They sent as an individual to accommodate us, which we greatly appreciated! I ordered for a super steak and BBQ, which is one of the best I've ever tasted for a long time! The sauce was somewhat salty though, but tasty nonetheless read more

Jessica P.

16 years ago

Well, been to the Willow Ranch quite a few times, bout 5 to be exact. The food is really good if you like steak dinners, my favorite thing about this restaurant is their delicious bbq sauce. Had a few of my relatives that live down south taste it, and now they ask me to take some every time I go visit them! The only down side to this restaurant is that all dinners are pretty expensive, but must say it is worth it. :) read more

Violet G.

5 years ago

Did trackday @ Buttonwillow and went to this place with the gang as tradition for past 10-yrs. This place has seriously gone downhill! Whatever happened to the old-time staff? These new young kids are untrained and horrible at their jobs. None of our orders came out correct. Quality of food has gone downhill as well. I guess everything has an end-date. We won't be coming here again! read more

Damion F.

11 years ago

I'm not much into BBQ but that's not all they have here. I decided to get a chicken mean and I'm actually enjoying this as I make this review. It pretty good, enjoying my meal and the service. Good people I see around and it's clean. Has a bit of an odd smell but I'm guessing it's good food if I'm not mistaken. I bit pricy but if it hits the spot then it's worth the bucks. read more

Jon M.

15 years ago

If only all restaurants were this good! A locals hangout and even the sheriff's department eats here. OK, it's kind of a hole in the wall but the food is outstanding. Tri tip sandwich = excellent Burger = excellent Pulled Pork = excellent Friendly accomodating service. We got 4 sandwiches for the road and dinner. Can't wait to go back. read more

Teresa S.

11 years ago

Traveling down the I-5 can be pretty grueling but we were so surprised to find this place hidden at a truck-stop!! It was delicious! Their brisket was perfection! Portions are huge and prices are very reasonable. They have homemade BBQ Sauce which they sell by the bottle and it is probably one of the best sauces I have ever had! read more

Raul P.

8 years ago

The food here is amazing, I drive all the way from Bakersfield just to have lunch here a couple time a month. Their bbq sauce is the bees knees. The plow boy sandwich is very yummy. I also recommend their steaks. I enjoy coming here because the staff is always nice. the girls sure are attentive. read more

Cas m.

14 years ago

This is the one of two places to eat on the I-5 worth stopping for between Sac and L.A. (H / R the other). The service can be disorganized and slow but if you are not in too much of a hurry this place has real food and very good prices. Very clean too! I get the salads or the ribs! LOVE IT! read more

Eric S.

8 years ago

If you come out to ride the track and are in need of a dam good meal come here !! Best food you will find in Buttonwillow ca hands down ! Brisket is on point ! Definitely the fire !! My server Johanna was a ton of help and knew exactly what to recommend ! See y'all on my next track day ! read more

Matt W.

1 year ago

Willow Ranch BBQ was exactly what we were craving. The brisket was incredible--tender, smoky, and packed with flavor. Sides were tasty too, especially the mac & cheese. Super chill spot and dog friendly, which made it even better. Definitely coming back next time we're in the area! read more

Maksym H.

2 years ago

Had a great experience at this restaurant! I tried the burger, and it was absolutely delicious. The service was excellent--friendly and attentive staff. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal. Highly recommend! read more

Jessica A.

7 years ago

Surprisingly good. It's in the middle of nowhere but great place to stop when on a road trip instead of fast food. Quick service and fairly large portions. I ordered the half salad with tri tip and it was plenty of food. Server was nice and super attentive. read more

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Willow Ranch - bbq - Updated September 2026

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Bakersfield Barbecue Company

4.3

(197 reviews)

•$$

Best bbq in Bakersfield hands down , been a fan since they opened as bubbas !!! Can't go wrong with…read moreanything on the menu !!!

I had a hardcore craving for BBQ meat and this craving needed to be coddled. I came here to Yelp…read moreand asked its wise advice for the best in Bako and look where it lead me. Our visit was at the end of the day, so some of the meats were sold out. I was sad, but adjusted quickly and ordered a double meat plate with brisket and deep pit. Mac and cheese and beans were the sides I chose after some consideration and adjustment knowing okra was sold out for the day. The worker who greeted us and took my order was so knowledgeable about their menu and let me know what's up. The ambiance is lovely, the patio especially. On a nice day or evening it's just perfect. My meat plate was so bomb, you guys. The brisket was exactly what my soul needed. Their BBQ sauces are a dream come true. My deep pit was also so so good. I ate until I was on the brink of meat sweats and I have absolutely no regrets. I will be back here. Like, today. So good. Yelp never steers me wrong.

Scrambled

4.3

(222 reviews)

•$$

Me and my wife came here on a last minute decision. What caught our attention was the reviews and…read morelet me tell y'all. They did not let us down! Food was amazing it was super packed especially because we came 2 hours before closing but even with it being full their service is super quick and attentive. I In a big chilaquiles guy and honestly these might've been the best ones I've had in town. A little spicy but definitely worth it. 10/10 recommend! God bless all of you!

This is my second time dining at this establishment. During my first visit, the customer service…read morewas outstanding, contributing to a pleasant diner atmosphere. I had the salsa verde chilaquiles, which had a nice kick to them, and the eggs were cooked perfectly to my preference of over medium. However, on this visit, the beans were cold and seemed like an afterthought on the plate. The tres leches dessert was just okay, and the country potatoes were soggy. Additionally, the eggs were overcooked this time. Overall, I'm still undecided about this establishment.

So Cal Grilling Company

3.8

(136 reviews)

•$$

Happy Hour Review- Always looking for new Happy Hour places to add to the rotation and found one…read morehere. I guarantee you will not leave hungry from here, not sure you can tell from the pictures but it was a lot of food. Everything was good but my favorite was the pulled pork taco, the meat was tender and the coleslaw was a better pairing with this taco then the tri-tip. We had micheladas and they refreshing and only $5!!! Biggest improvement would be that the service kind of scattered and food was getting delivered to random tables before finding the right one. When I am hungry and it is happy hour will keep them in mind.

Not a fan. I've been here several times hoping a different food choice will peek my interest. But…read moreit never hits. I've tried the kickin chicken grilled cheese, a burger, and the hangover burger with various sides like the garlic mashed potatoes, sausage links, and the chile verde Mac and cheese. I really wanted to like it since I'd waited for this place to open and hyped myself up for it for so long. But I think after my last visit I won't be returning as it doesn't sound appetizing anymore. Also I dislike the AI generated photos on the menu.

Salty's BBQ & Catering

4.0

(792 reviews)

•$$

It's not often that a restaurant already known for being amazing opens a new location and somehow…read moreexceeds the expectations--but Salty's did just that! I tried out the drive-thru, and even with several cars ahead of me, I was out in less than 20 minutes! Salty's had a nice vibe that attracts and welcomes customers. The service was great, and I left feeling happy, excited, and ready to dig in. We got the 1/2 lb tri-tip dinner with green beans and potato salad, along with the ¼ chicken & rib combo with coleslaw and chili beans. And WOW... everything was absolutely delicious! Honestly, and surprisingly, I think it was even better than the original location! If you're craving some seriously good BBQ, Salty's needs to be your next stop!

Such good bbq. The food options are all good. Went with the 2 meat combo plate. Bigger portion…read more Well worth it. Brisket and tri tip. Good stuff. The spicy Mac was a side and that did not disappoint either. Service was quick for the amount of people ordering and in line waiting. Love the smokers outside and overall smoke production from them cooking. Adds to the expierence of bbq.

Tita's Pupuseria Lonchera

3.9

(570 reviews)

•$

This was a find if you like authentic dive Mexican food, which we do…read more It's a food truck with a stand-up tent next to it shading picnic tables. Lots of locals stop because the food is good and not crazy expensive. The only downside was that on a very warm summer day at noon-ish, there were a number of flies trying to find some shade too. IIRC, they prefer cash, and charge a bit more to process cards, so be aware of that. We understand why and had no problem with that policy. Overall, we'd gladly stop back and give them our business. The food is much better than a corporate drive-through fast-food restaurant.

Pupusas were so good. We were the only customers at the time so food came out pretty quickly, very…read morehot and fresh. There's something special about the coleslaw that came it, so good! It was spiced and vinegar-y, cutting through any heaviness from the pupusas. There's plenty of seating by the food truck under a tent, making it feel like a very simple meal. This was a great pit stop off the 5!

Woolworth’s Luncheonette

3.8

(124 reviews)

The last Woolworth diner in America! This place is meticulously restored to the old diner feel,…read morebeautiful chrome, mirrors, and service with a smile like the old days. We had hamburgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes. Everything was done well, and the kids had a great time. Absolutely coming back with the family again!

I was looking forward to coming here but was sorely disappointed!…read more When you enter, there is no signage about if you're meant to find a seat or order first. We waited in line to sit at the vintage countertop, only to realize people were also paying there after eating. Truthfully, service was so nonexistent that I was glad to have paid upfront. The line to order was long, but it moved by fine. We ordered a cup of water and it seemed the only water available to customers was from a small jug behind the hostess. I watched the poor girl have to run to the kitchen to fill it up multiple times during our visit. When it's 90 degrees, there should really be a more reliable water situation. She should not have had to do that. We sat at the counter. Drinks came out quickly. Food did not for almost an hour since the time of entering. When it finally came, the substitution I had ordered was not done which was disappointing after such a long wait. The other meal we were waiting on did not come for about 15 more minutes. I asked a server walking past if she could check on it. She brought it right out and told us she had checked right when it finished up. She offered a complimentary second mimosa for the wait, which was very kind and much appreciated! Other than the wait and substitution mishap, food was good and seemed reasonably priced for the portions. I wanted to buy some merch from their merch stand up front after the meal but no one came by while I was standing there. I'm not going to beg to spend money, so I left. Overall, this place could be great but it leaves much to be desired. They seemed severely understaffed and I felt so bad for the staff who were running about trying their best to keep up with a very busy restaurant. I hope this place can improve because I would hate to lose it.

Milt’s Diner

4.4

(170 reviews)

•$$

Food was incredible! We are French tourists visinting the American West, at this place was the best…read moreof our trip. And the service was amazing! I highly recommend!

Visiting from France. We received a very warm welcome and prompt service. The retro atmosphere was…read morereally nice. The waitress, Kate, was delightful, attentive, and patient while taking our order. The dishes fully lived up to our expectations and the establishment's reputation. I recommend it.

Original Hacienda Grill

4.2

(364 reviews)

•$$

Generous serves of tasty nachos and enchiladas. We'll be happy to return. The Monterey Jack cheese…read moreon the nachos was perfection; the waiter was nice; bathrooms were clean.

This is a pretty good joint this was my first time going here, this service is excellent the staff…read moreis on top of their game, the chips and salsa are amazing!!! The food is delicious and has good flavor, the restaurant is small and compact, they do have a large outdoor seating area, they can do better on their adult drinks they are not to strong mostly juice. I will be returning to this restaurant go and check them out.

Carla's Cafe

4.8

(238 reviews)

•$$

Carla's was rated so high at 4.8 we back tracked 5 miles off of 99. We thought the food was as…read moregood as you can get. It was definitely great home style style cooking and was crowded with locals. We added Carla's to our contacts as the place to stop on our way from Long Beach to Sequoia.

First time here for about 3 years today we ordered the chicken fried steak with a pancake side and…read morethe ham and egg breakfast with the additional pancake as they were out of biscuits when we arrived.The food was good overall, the chicken fried steak and the pancakes stood out has the best offerings to ham steak was a little thin but not super salty it had a good taste but not necessarily a "ham steak" all in all they offer a great selection. I hear the burgers here are very good and seen a lot of people with the burger in their hand mostly construction workers that were there at the time .The portions were smaller than I expected for a country cafe, but just enough to almost leave us satisfied. The coffee had a unique taste. I wasn't a fan at first, but after my second cup, it really grew on me and turned out to be a very good cup of coffee. Be sure to arrive before 9:30 a.m. because they can run out of biscuits by then. We arrived at 10:15 and by time they took our order we were told they were out of biscuits. The dining room is also small, seating only about 20 people at most. Carla's Cafe is a little out of the way for me, and probably for most people, but it's well worth the trip. Overall, I'd give Carla's Cafe 4 out of 5 stars. I'm looking forward to coming back and trying a few more entrees.

Idle Spur Cafe

4.8

(98 reviews)

•$$

Food was great and the service was great! I was very surprised due to the location and building…read more It's a must try!

What a pleasant surprise, we were debating if we should do fast food off the highway or somewhere…read moresitdown and glad we did! Service was friendly, food took a bit of time but after we tried it, we knew why. The ribeye steak was the best steak I have had in awhile, so fresh. Also got the bacon burger which was equally yummy. BLT with avocado and bacon was okay, probably would have been better if my kids didn't take all of the bacon? Haha. Definitely worth the stop for some delicious food and friendly service.

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Willow Ranch - bbq - Updated September 2026

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Scrambled

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