7 Occidental Restaurants to Bite Into

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Occidental is known for its family-style Italian eateries, originating with Carlo Panizzera in the early 20th century at the Union Hotel. These days, you’ll find a variety of fare to please the palate: we’ve compiled a list of the best seven restaurants for any breakfast, lunch, and dinner you need while staying in scenic Occidental.

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Restaurants / Occidental

El Mariachi

El Mariachi Cafe offers authentic Mexican food at prices that won't break the bank. You can enjoy a super burrito or taco salad on the deck just outside.

For a break from fine dining in Occidental, check out El Mariachi. With outdoor seating and a laid-back atmosphere, this burrito-tamale joint makes for a delicious lunch stop. Enjoy a variety of freshly-made Mexican dishes like fish tacos, carnitas, and stuffed-full burritos.

Insider Tip

If you’re visiting during the colder months, bundle up; indoor seating is limited.

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Restaurants / Occidental

Howard Station Cafe

The mission of Howard Station is to serve healthy, organic ingredients as often as possible, and “provide a place of comfort through delicious food.” Pride is taken in supporting local businesses and offering sumptuous American cuisine to customers.

Sometimes, huge portions and an express coffee window are all you need for a quick, delicious breakfast. Howard Station Cafe has a relaxed atmosphere, crowds aside. If you’re feeling non-traditional, try the smoked salmon omelette florentine, and walk off your breakfast with a jaunt through town.

Insider Tip

They only accept cash, but don’t worry: there’s an ATM inside.

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3

Restaurants / Occidental

Hazel

Local King Salmon with heirloom, summer squash, French green lentils and salsa verde. Gravenstein Apple Crisp with Three Twins vanilla ice cream. these are some of the delicious offerings at Hazel's.

A modern twist on the old-town feel, Hazel has comfort food you didn’t realize you were missing. With wine, pizza, short ribs, salmon, mashed potatoes, and desserts like freshly baked pie and cupcakes, it may be difficult to choose during a visit to this bustling restaurant—you may need to come back again, just to taste everything they have to offer.

Insider Tip

A local favorite is the fried Brussels sprouts served with Estero Gold cheese from California’s Cowgirl Creamery.

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4

Restaurants / Occidental

Negri's Family Style Italian Dinners

You could be back in the Old Country at Nonna’s house at this completely adorable Italian restaurant. Four generations have contributed to the traditional recipes at Negri’s where the motto is (loosely translated), “Gather at our table and eat”!

Italian dining equals family-style everything. Negri’s Original Italian Restaurant, with its casual, open atmosphere and bar serves up quality, old-Italian dishes like Nonna’s Ravioli and Franco’s garlic bread.

Insider Tip

While they’re known for Italian, Negri's Original Italian Restaurant serves up a popular Taco Tuesday special every week.

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5

Restaurants / Occidental

Union Hotel Restaurant

Generations of families have gathered in the dining room of the Union Hotel to feast on delectable Italian cuisine. Wonderful cheeses, pastas, pizzas, and simple family favorites will delight you and your family for even more generations.

The Union Hotel Restaurant is the warm and inviting family-run standard in Occidental. Dishes like pizza, minestrone, and roasted chicken with salad will leave even the largest of parties feeling full and satisfied in an atmosphere that evokes a quintessential, Italian eatery, replete with strung lights, wood-hued walls and checkered tablecloths.

Insider Tip

Stop by the Saloon (also on the hotel property) for a cold beer and jukebox music.

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Restaurants / Occidental

Barley and Hops Tavern

Everything costs under $15 at this American tavern that serves up hand-made classic pub fare plus a few unique favorites. Try the “Shroomer” burger, “Three Little Pigs” pulled pork, elbows and cheese or homemade pickles. Yum.

One of the few pubs in town, Barley and Hops Tavern not only serves up microbrews, but from-scratch fare, too. Choose from a wide selection of craft beer including local favorite Purple Haze, and listen to local stories at the bar.

Insider Tip

Vegans don’t fear. Barley and Hops Tavern makes a homemade vegan patty so you can get your burger fix.

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