Anthony Bourdain's Favorite California Restaurants

Chili John's (Burbank):: Bourdain loved their classic chili, introduced to him by Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age. He enjoyed it over rice and beans, praising its simplicity and deliciousness.

The French Laundry (Yountville):: Bourdain considered his experience at this 3-star Michelin restaurant the "best sit-down, multicourse, white-tablecloth meal" of his life. He admired Chef Thomas Keller's approach to evoking memories through food.

Tadich Grill (San Francisco):: As the oldest continuously operating restaurant in California, Tadich Grill earned Bourdain's praise for its seafood cioppino. He also enjoyed martinis and the "Hangtown Fry" dish.

Chi SPACCA (Los Angeles):: Bourdain raved about this Italian steakhouse's meat-centric dinner, including salumi, grilled octopus, and the Bistecca Fiorentina. He appreciated the restaurant's commitment to sustainability and nose-to-tail philosophy.

In-N-Out (National):: Bourdain confessed his love for this California-based burger chain, calling himself a "cheap, nasty, low-down, trailer park burger slut." He favored the burgers "animal style."

Swan Oyster Depot (San Francisco):: This no-frills oyster bar was a frequent stop for Bourdain in San Francisco. He cherished the fresh seafood and the restaurant's unpretentious atmosphere.

Musso & Frank Grill (Los Angeles):: Bourdain appreciated the old-school Hollywood vibe of this historic restaurant and its classic dishes like the iceberg wedge and bone-in ribeye. He particularly loved the bar.

Chili John's:: This Burbank diner, a favorite of Walt Disney and Josh Homme, serves up classic chili in a no-frills setting. Bourdain praised its simple, delicious chili over rice and beans.

The French Laundry:: Located in Napa Valley, this Michelin-starred restaurant, owned by Chef Thomas Keller, impressed Bourdain with its innovative cuisine and focus on evoking memories through food. He first visited in 2002 and called it the best meal of his life.

Tadich Grill:: San Francisco's oldest continuously operating restaurant, Tadich Grill, is known for its seafood. Bourdain recommended the seafood cioppino and enjoyed martinis and the Hangtown Fry.

Chi SPACCA:: This Los Angeles Italian steakhouse, helmed by Chef Nancy Silverton, emphasizes sustainability and nose-to-tail cooking. Bourdain savored the salumi, grilled octopus, and Bistecca Fiorentina during his visit.

In-N-Out:: The iconic California burger chain held a special place in Bourdain's heart. He loved the fresh ingredients, simple menu, and the "animal style" preparation.

Swan Oyster Depot:: Bourdain frequently visited this San Francisco oyster bar, drawn to its fresh seafood and unpretentious atmosphere. He considered it a touchstone in his travels.

Musso & Frank Grill:: This historic Hollywood restaurant, a favorite of classic stars, captivated Bourdain with its old-school vibe and classic dishes. He particularly enjoyed the bar.