In-N-Out: This place was California's first drive-thru hamburger stand, begun at a time when drive-ins with carhops were the popular thing. They continue to buck trends today—their menu includes only three main items to choose from: Hamburger, Cheeseburger or Double-Double (double cheeseburger).

Date shake: Thick and smooth with chewy bits of date and an intense honey flavor. The best ones to be had are found at little shacks throughout Southern California.

La Super-Rica: Humble family-run Santa Barbara taqueria with unbelievable street-style Mexican food. Long ago proclaimed Julia Childs’ favorite Mexican restaurant.

Pink’s: Probably the most famous hot dog stand in the United States. Located on the same Hollywood corner since 1939, this place is savored by movie stars, dignitaries, struggling musicians, businessmen, school kids and road trippers alike.

It’s It: A confection of vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two oatmeal cookies and covered with chocolate and then frozen. Invented in 1928 as a treat for the San Francisco’s historic Playland at the Beach amusement park.