Classic & Popular Restaurants along Historic Route 66



Classic & Popular Restaurants along Route 66

There are hundreds, perhaps thousands, of restaurants and dining options as one travels across all eight states along Route 66. Selecting just the right one to match your taste and lifestyle can be an fun experience! But a lot of Route 66 road trippers ask "where can I dine at one of those classsic Mother Road restaurants".

On this page we highlight some of the popular, classic, historic restaurants still in operation along the Mother Road, and present restaurant listings and traveler reviews from TripAdvisor. Also included are some hotel reviews and travel guides from TripAdvisor.

The Route66RoadTrip website has no connection with any of the restaurants listed ... they are provided as a starting point in your research and selection on where to dine on Route 66 on your next road trip.

Dining in Illinois

Chicago ... the beginning point of Route 66 when heading westbound
Chicago, Illinois ... the beginning point of Route 66 when heading westbound

TripAdvisor

Chicago Travel Guide

Restaurant reviews for Chicago at TripAdvisor

Lou Mitchell's Bakery and Restaurant - Feeding hungry Route 66 travelers since 1923

The Berghoff - An Iconic Chicago Loop restaurant, 100% family-owned and operated for more than 123 years

Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket - Willowbrook - Family run business since 1946 on Route 66


Lou Mitchell's Restaurant & Bakery in Chicago

A popular stop for Route 66 travelers, at 565 West Jackson Boulevard ... Lou Mitchell's website
Lou Mitchell's in Chicago ... a popular stop for those heading westbound on Route 66


Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket

Since 1946, a consistent destination for travelers, at 645 Joliet Road in Willowbrook, Illinois. Read more at the Chicken Basket website.

Exterior view of Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket in Willowbrook, Illinois
Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket ... a Route 66 Attraction The neon sign at Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket in Willowbrook, Illinois

 

Rich and Creamy

Located on 920 N. Broadway in Joliet
Read more about this popular restored ice cream stand
Rich and Creamy in Joliet, Illinois

 

The Old Log Cabin

Classic circa-1926 dining at 18700 Old Route 66 in Pontiac, Illinois. Learn more at the Old Log Cabin website

Old Log Cabin in Pontiac, Illinois Cloverleaf Motel in Lebanon, Missouri

 

Polk-A-Dot Drive-In

The Polk-A-Dot Drive-In, in business since 1956, at 222 N Front Street in Braidwood

The great atmosphere at this family-owned restaurant transforms visitors back to the 1950s. The Polk-A-Dot offers table side juke boxes, photo memorabilia of rock and roll stars, child and adult sized tables and booths. And a great menu! Popular with Route 66 travelers are the numerous photo opportunities, from Superman to the Blues Brothers to Elvis and Marilyn, and more!

Phone 815.458 .3377 or visit the Polk-A-Dot Drive-in on Facebook

Elvis, Marilyn and friends at the Polk-A-Dot Drive-In ... Braidwood, Illinois


 

Cozy Dog Drive In

Home of the original hot dog on a stick, dipped in batter and deep friend. Owned and operated by the Ed Waldmire family on famous Route 66 in Springfield, since 1949.

Located at 2935 So. Sixth Street, Springfield, IL 62703. Read more at the website of the Cozy Dog Drive In

Cozy Dog Drive In ... Springfield, Illinois Cozy Dog Drive In ... Springfield, Illinois Cozy Dog Drive In ... Springfield, Illinois

 

The Ariston Cafe

The Ariston Cafe in Litchfield has been satisfying local patrons and international travelers on Route 66 since 1924. Today, this landmark dining experience continues to attract those who "remember where good food is served".

When you're cruisin' down Route 66 in Litchfield, and hunger strikes, take the time to check out one of the oldest American restaurants on the legendary highway. The Ariston Cafe opened its doors in 1924 and is one of the oldest continually-operated Route 66 restaurants still going today.

Located at 413 Old Route 66 N. Litchfield, IL 62056.
Read more at the website of the The Ariston Cafe

Exterior view of the Ariston Cafe in Litchfield, Illinois, since 1924 Interior dining area at the historic Ariston Cafe in Litchfield, Illinois, since 1924 Route 66 kiosk for the historic Ariston Cafe in Litchfield, Illinois ... Fine Dining on Route 66

 

Section of Route 66 built with hand-laid red brick ... near Auburn, Illinois

More Dining Options Along Route 66 in Illinois

Joliet restaurant reviews at TripAdvisor

Pontiac restaurant reviews at TripAdvisor

Bloomington restaurant reviews at TripAdvisor

Litchfield restaurant reviews at TripAdvisor

 

Stopping to Dine in Missouri

Downtown St. Louis, Missouri

Dining in St. Louis

St. Louis hotel listings, maps and reviews by travelers at TripAdvisor

St. Louis restaurant listings and reviews by travelers


 

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

Located at 6726 Chippewa in St. Louis, Ted Drewes Frozen Custard has been selling frozen custard for over 80 years. They are also famous for their Christmas trees, for over 50 years.

With the motto, “Our Business Is Service”, Ted has inspired four generations of family members and employees to work hard, and succeed. A not-to--be-missed attraction in St. Louis! And just down the street is the Donut Drive-In at 6525 Chippewa Street.

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard Website

The classic neon sign at Ted Drewes Frozen Custard in St. Louis, Missouri The ever-popular Ted Drewes Frozen Custard in St. Louis, Missouri

Beyond St. Louis

Restaurants and dining options in Cuba, Missouri

Rolla, Missouri restaurants with traveler reviews


Big Chief Roadhouse

The historic Big Chief Roadhouse has a celebrated history dating back to its establishment in 1929. It is one of the last remaining full service restaurants still operating on Historic Route 66.

Big Chief was originally built by Willimam Clay Pierce as part of the Big Chief Highway Hotel to serve transcontinental travelers on the now famed Route 66. Today, the Roadhouse boasts a diverse, from scratch, menu with dishes ranging from classic comforts like Country Fried Steak and Chicken Pot Pie, to modern takes on classics like Toasted Lasagna and Smoked Port Chop.

The Roadhouse is located at 17352 Manchester Road Wildwood, Mo 63038 ... Phone 636.458.3200

For more information, visit the Big Chief Roadhouse website

Big Chief Roadhouse on Route 66 in Missouri

Weir on 66 restaurant at 102 W. Washington Street in Cuba, Missouri, with its well known mural
Visit the Weir on 66 Facebook page
The Weir on 66 restaurant on Historic Route 66 in Cuba, Missouri Murals on the wall in downtown Cuba, Missouri, on Historic Route 66

 

Dining Options in Lebanon, Missouri

Route 66 mural with a 1957 Chevrolet, in Lebanon, Missouri ... "Drive our town"


Lebanon offers Route 66 travelers a wide variety of dining options, as well as lodging including Hampton Inn, Munger Moss Motel, Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Super 8 and others ...

Listing and reviews of over 45 restaurants in Lebanon

Attractions and things to do in Lebanon

Travel Guide for Lebanon

 

The Original Steak 'n Shake

The original Steak 'n Shake was built in 1962 in Springfield, Missouri, and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. It is located at 1158 E. St. Louis Street in Springfield.

Sign at the original Steak n Shake in Springfield, Missouri ... On Route 66 since 1962

Sign at the original Steak n Shake in Springfield, Missouri The original Steak n Shake, in Springfield, Missouri


More Dining and Attractions in Springfield, Missouri

The Birthplace of Route 66 sign in Springfield, Missouri

Springfield, Missouri restaurant, diners and cafes

Attractions and things to do in Springfield


The Route66RoadTrip website has no connection with any of the restaurants listed ... they are provided as a starting point in your research and selection on where to dine on Route 66 on your next road trip.


Joplin Dining Options

Joplin, Missouri mural at Pearl Brothers

Joplin, Missouri Travel Guide

Restaurant listings and reviews for Joplin

 

Kansas

Eisler Brothers Store

A popular stop on Route 66 is the Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store, built in 1925. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003, today it offers deli sandwiches, plants, flowers and a gift shop.

It also serves as headquarters of the Kansas Historic Route 66 Association. Located at 7109 SE Highway 66. See more information at the Eisler Brothers Website

Old Riverton Store in Kansas on Historic US Route 66


Let's Stop for Lunch in Oklahoma

Dairy King, Commerce, Oklahoma

A former circa 1925 Marathon Service Station
Dairy King, Commerce, Oklahoma ... a former circa 1925 Marathon Service Station


The Hi-Way Cafe and "Big Bill" in Vinita, Oklahoma

The newest "Muffler Man" on Route 66 was installed at the family-owned Hi-Way Cafe in Vinita, Oklahoma, in June of 2023. He towers about 24 feet in height; at his feet is a large suitcase.

Alan and Beth Hilburn own and operate the cafe. "Big Bill" is named after the late Bill Wood, Beth's father. The cafe offers a full menu of classic diner favorites, from all-day breakfasts to burgers, sandwiches, and chicken fried steak. Plus delicious homemade cakes, cobbler, and pies!

In March of 2023, thanks in part to grants from the National Park Service's Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program and the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Backing Historic Small Restaurants Grant Program, the Hi-Way Cafe was able to relight its restored iconic neon sign.

The Cafe is located at 437918 E Highway 60, about two miles west of Vinita. Learn more at the Hi-Way Cafe website and the Hi-Way Cafe on Facebook. Phone 918.256.5465

"Big Bill" muffler man at the Hi-Way Cafe on Route 66 in Vinita, Oklahoma The neon sign at the Hi-Way Cafe on Route 66 in Vinita, Oklahoma

Clanton's Cafe in Vinita

Clanton’s has been a family tradition in Vinita since 1927. Generations of Clantons have prepared meals for their neighbors and Route 66 travelers. It is the oldest continually owned family restaurant on Route 66 in the state of Oklahoma. The cafe is located at 319 East Illinois Avenue. For more information, visit ...

Clanton's Cafe website and Clanton's Cafe on Facebook or phone 918.256.9053

Clanton's Cafe in Vinita, Oklahoma, on Historic US Highway 66


Rock Cafe in Stroud, Oklahoma

The Rock Cafe in Stroud, Oklahoma was established in 1939, built with rock unearthed during the paving of Route 66. It has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

In 2001, Pixar crews visited Stroud to research Route 66 for the animated film Cars, at a time when the town economy was still attempting to recover from the 1999 tornado. At the time, the Rock Café was undergoing historic restoration. The character of Radiator Springs hotelier Sally Carrera is heavily based on Rock Café proprietor Dawn Welch and her efforts to promote and rebuild the town.

A fire gutted the restaurant on May 20, 2008 but the grill and the original stone walls survived. The Rock Café was rebuilt by historic preservationist David Burke; Dawn Welch reopened the business on May 29, 2009.

The Cafe is located at 114 W. Main Street in Stroud, and remains an area icon. Highly recommended!

Visit the Rock Cafe on Facebook and phone 918.968.3990

The Rock Cafe in Stroud, Oklahoma
Route 66 Roadside Attraction: The Rock Cafe in Stroud, Oklahoma Interior view of the Rock Cafe in Stroud, Oklahoma, on Historic US Route 66

 

More Restaurants Along Route 66 in Oklahoma

Route 66 Road Trips Across Oklahoma

Restaurant reviews for Tulsa

Restaurant reviews for Oklahoma City

Clinton, Oklahoma restaurant reviews at TripAdvisor

Weatherford restaurant listings & reviews

Elk City restaurant reviews at TripAdvisor

El Reno restaurant reviews at

Yukon restaurant listings & reviews at TripAdvisor

 

Dining in Amarillo

Amarillo offers dozens of classic restaurants, diners and drive-ins for Route 66 travelers.

Route 66 mural at the corner of 6th Avenue and South Virginia Street in Amarillo, Texas


All Restaurants in Amarillo, Texas

Click to review hotels and restaurants, read reviews and make reservations at TripAdvisor


 

The Big Texan Steak Ranch

Modern-day travelers through the city probably know about "The Big Texan" steak house! It was originally on Route 66, but is located today not far away, on I-40 ... it's a place many tourists to Amarillo want to check out.

In 1960 Bob Lee opened the famous Big Texan Steak Ranch on Route 66 in Amarillo. The Big Texan moved to the east side of Amarillo on I-40 in the 1970s.

Shown below is "The Big Texan" as it appears today ... home of the free 72 oz steak (with caveats). For more information, visit the website of The Big Texan Steak Ranch

The Big Texan in Amarillo, home of the free 72-oz steak Interior view of the dining area at The Big Texan in Amarillo, home of the free 72-oz steak

 

Midpoint Cafe & Gift Shop in Adrian, Texas

Located at the exact geo-mathematical center of Route 66

A great place to enjoy the delicious hamburgers and famous "ugly crust pies"! And a popular stop for photo ops and selfies!

Closed during the winter months. For more information and opening dates/times, phone 806.536.6379 and visit the ...

Midpoint Cafe & Gift Shop on Facebook

Route 66 Roadside Attraction: Midpoint Cafe and Gift Shop, Adrian, Texas

Route 66 Roadside Attraction: Midpoint Cafe and Gift Shop, Adrian, Texas

Midpoint Cafe and Gift Shop, Adrian, Texas, on Historic Route 66


 

Driving Through New Mexico

Tucumcari Tonite billboard

Dining in Tucumcari, New Mexico

Tucumcari offers a variety of dining options, and also features over twenty motels for the traveling public, including the historic and well-known Blue Swallow Motel and Motel Aztec.

Many "one-of-a-kind" properties are available as well as nationally operated chain facilities. Several are in the city, others offering great views of area lakes.

Long famous for its number and variety of motels and lodging, the city adopted the "Tucumcari Tonite" advertising campaign.

"1,200 rooms, RV parks, 3 museum, restaurants and fuel" ...

 

Tucumcari restaurant reviews at TripAdvisor

Del's Restaurant

Since 1956 ... At 1202 East Historic Route 66 in Tucumcari - Phone 575.461.1740

Sign at Del's Restaurant in Tucumcari, New Mexico ... since 1956 ... 1202 East Historic Route 66
Interior dining area at Del's
Interior dining area at Del's Restaurant in Tucumcari, New Mexico ... since 1956 ... 1202 East Historic Route 66
The menu at Del's on Historic Route 66
The menu at Del's Restaurant in Tucumcari, New Mexico ... since 1956 ... 1202 East Historic Route 66

La Cita Mexican Food

Locted at 820 S. 1st Street in Tucumcari, New Mexico

La Cita Mexican Food in Tucumcari, New Mexico


Dining on Route 66 from Santa Fe to Gallup

Click to review hotels and restaurants, read reviews and make reservations at TripAdvisor

Santa Fe restaurant reviews at TripAdvisor

Albuquerque restaurant listings & reviews

Gallup, New Mexico hotel listings and TripAdvisor reviews

 

Dining Options in Santa Fe

The Palacio Cafe in downtown Santa FeThe Palacio Cafe in downtown Santa Fe on East Palace Avenue

There are nearly 400 restaurants and dining options available serving a large variety of cuisines in Santa Fe.

During our many trips to Santa Fe over the years, we have enjoyed many, consistent dining experiences:

Read all Santa Fe restaurant reviews at TripAdvisor

 

Palacio Cafe on East Palace Avenue near the Cathedral

 

Mucho Gusto - 839 Paseo de Peralta, Suite H, near Inn on the Alameda

 

Cafe Pasqual's - 121 Don Gaspar Avenue

 

Harry's Roadhouse - 96 Old Las Vegas Highway

 

Pantry Restaurant - 1820 Cerrillos Road

 

Tortilla Flats - 3139 Cerrillos Road

La Plazuela Restaurant in Santa Fe

The La Plazuela is a personal favorite and we dine there every time we are traveling through Santa Fe on Route 66. The atmosphere and service is always superb ... and also the margaritas and guacamole made at your table! It is located in the historic LaFonda on the Plaza.

Website of LaFonda on the Plaza and the La Plazuela Restaurant

La Plazuela Restaurant in Santa Fe, in LaFonda on the Plaza


Route 66 Diner in Albuquerque

The Route 66 Diner is a much-photographed, internationally known restaurant, a hit with locals and tourists alike!

The Diner is located at 1405 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106 ... Phone 505.247.1421

For more information visit the website of the Route 66 Diner and TripAdvisor Reviews of the Route 66 Diner

Route 66 Diner in Albuquerque, New Mexico Route 66 Diner in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Hotel El Rancho in Gallup, New Mexico

"Charm of Yesterday ... Convenience of Tomorrow"
Read more about the hotel and its restaurant at the Hotel El Rancho Website

Interior of the El Rancho
Interior view of the Hotel El Rancho in Gallup, New Mexico
Restaurant at El Rancho
Restaurant at the Hotel El Rancho in Gallup, New Mexico
Exterior view of the El Rancho Hotel
Exterior view of the Hotel El Rancho in Gallup, New Mexico

 

Dining in Arizona

Dining in Holbrook, Arizona

Holbrook, Arizona Travel Guide

Holbrook, Arizona restaurant listings and reviews

Views of the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona
"Have You Slept in a Wigwam Lately?"

Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona

Restaurants and Travel Options in Winslow

Standin' on a Corner, in Winslow, Arizona

Winslow restaurant listings and reviews at TripAdvisor

Winslow Travel Guide: things to do and see

La Posada Hotel

In the 1920s, Fred Harvey wanted to build a major hotel in the center of northern Arizona that would become the finest in the American Southwest. He named the hotel La Posada, "The Resting Place". It opened in 1930, and remains a popular lodging and dining destination today, at 303 E. 2nd Street in Winslow.

Official La Posada & Turquoise Room Restaurant website

La Posada Entrance
Entrance area to the La Posada Hotel, a Fred Harvey masterpiece in Winslow, Arizona
Turquoise Room
The Turquoise Room Restaurant at the La Posada Hotel, a Fred Harvey masterpiece in Winslow, Arizona

Lodging and Dining in Flagstaff

Mural in Flagstaff, Arizona ... Historic US Route 66

Flagstaff, Arizona Travel Guide at TripAdvisor

Flagstaff, Arizona restaurant reviews at TripAdvisor

Attractions and things to do in Flagstaff

 

Travel to Williams

Williams Arizona on Route 66 ... Gateway to the Grand Canyon

Gateway to the Grand Canyon

Hotels in Williams with traveler reviews

Restaurants and dining in Williams

Attractions in Williams, Arizona

 

Delgadillo's Snow Cap

This historic dining establishment was originally constructed in 1953 by Juan Delgadillo and his wife Mary out of scrap lumber. To bring attention to the restaurant, Delgadillo cut the roof off of a 1936 Chevrolet hardtop, adorned the automobile with paint, horns and various automotive emblems and even an artificial Christmas tree in the rear of the car.

It remains today a "must see" attraction when traveling Route 66 through Seligman. The walls around the counter area are covered with business cards from all over the world. Visitors from Europe, Germany, Japan and other countries, as well as those from the U.S., seek the nostalgia of Historic Route 66 and the jokes that are famous at the Snow Cap.

The menu is extensive! Burgers, hot dogs, tacos, and sandwiches plus lots of ice cream and malts, and more. It is playfully known as home of the "Cheeseburger with Cheese" and "Dead Chicken".

Today, the Snow Cap is still a family owned and operated drive-in ... Juan and Mary's son John and daughter Cecilia along with other family members, continue the Snow Cap tradition so that their grandchildren and great grandchildren will be able to grow up knowing the legacy that comes with this long-standing family business.

For more information, visit Delgadillo's Snow Cap on Facebook or phone 928.422.3291

The drive-in is located at 22235 Old Highway 66, Seligman, AZ

The 1936 Chevrolet at Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In (photo below)

The famous, unique Delgadillo's 1936 Chevrolet!

Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In ... Seligman, Arizona ... Tacos - Malts - Burritos

Route 66 Roadside Attrfaction: Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In ... Seligman, Arizona

 

The Roadkill Cafe

Seligman, Arizona, at 22830 West Route 66 - Phone 928.422.3554

The Roadkill Cafe ... Seligman, Arizona, on Route 66 Interior view of the Roadkill Cafe ... Seligman, Arizona, on Route 66

 

Lodging & Travel Resources in Kingman

Welcome to Historic Downtown Kingman, Arizona ... Heart of Route 66

Read traveler reviews and see photos on 40 hotels in Kingman

Kingman Travel Guide at TripAdvisor: lodging, restaurants, things to do


Mr. D'z Route 66 Diner in Kingman

66105 E Andy Devine Ave
Mr. D'z Route 66 Diner in Kingman, Arizona
The "Police" at Mr. D'z
The "Police" at Mr. D'z Route 66 Diner in Kingman, Arizona, on Historic Route 66

Cool Springs

Cool Springs ... cabins, tasty foods, gift shop and museum ...  between Kingman and Oatman. For more Cool Springs information, visit www.Route66CoolSpringsAz.com  and Cool Springs on Facebook
Cool Springs .. cabins and tasty foods ...  between Kingman and Oatman


Oatman Hotel

The Oatman Hotel, full-service restaurant and saloon. A classic since 1902. For more information, visit the Oatman Hotel on Facebook

Exterior view of the Oatman Hotel on Route 66 in Arizona Interior view of the restaurant at the Oatman Hotel on Route 66 in Arizona

 


Crossing California on Route 66!

Needles

Needles, California on Historic Route 66

Needles Travel Guide

Needles restaurant listings and TripAdvisor reviews

Barstow

Barstow California Signage: the black convertible on Route 66

Barstow restaurant listings and reviews

Barstow attractions and things to do

 

The Ludlow Cafe

Breakfast, lunch, dinner ... next door is the Ludlow Motel

Ludlow Cafe on Route 66 in California Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark

 

Bagdad Cafe

Route 66 Roadside Attraction: Bagdad Cafe, Newberry Springs, California
Originally built in the 1950s, this world-famous restaurant was the location of the 1988 film "Bagdad Cafe" which became the new name of the restaurant in 1995.

The Bagdad Cafe in California The Bagdad Cafe in California

 

Emma Jean's Holland Burger Cafe

Emma Jean's Holland Burger Cafe is a Route 66 icon that has been serving up meals to locals and hungry travelers on the Mother Road since 1947. The building was built by Bob and Kate Holland from cinder blocks manufactured at the old Fiber Tile Plant. Emma Jean worked at the cafe as a waitress, and her husband bought the cafe and named it after her.

The cafe remains a family-owned institution, and because of its nostalgic Mid-Century ambiance, it has been featured in a number of movies and TV shows.

Emma Jean's is located at 17143 N D Street, Victorville, CA 92394 - Phone 760.243.9938

Read more at the Emma Jean's Website
Emma Jean's Holland Burger Cafe in Victorville, California

 

San Bernardino

California Theatre in San Bernardino

San Bernardino Travel Guide

San Bernardino Hotel Directory & traveler reviews at TripAdvisor

San Bernardino restaurant listings and reviews

San Bernardino attractions and things to do

Entrance area to the WigWam Motel in San Bernardino, California The old panel truck at the WigWam Motel in San Bernardino, California

 

Dining and Attractions in Santa Monica

The End of the Trail ... Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica Travel Guide

Santa Monica Hotel Directory & traveler reviews at TripAdvisor

Santa Monica restaurant listings and reviews

Santa Monica attractions and things to do

 

Mels Drive-In

Several Mels restaurants are located in the Los Angeles area. This mural is located at Mels on 1670 Lincoln Boulevard, near the official ending point of Route 66. Mels Drive-In website

Historic Route 66 mural at Mels Drive-in, Santa Monica, California


Map of Classic and Popular Restaurants along Route 66

Zoom / pan map for more detail, and click on icons for information on classic and popular Route 66 restaurants, cafes and drive-ins.

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The Route66RoadTrip website has no connection with any of the restaurants listed ... they are provided as a starting point in your research and selection on where to dine on Route 66 on your next road trip.