There is something in Temecula’s air that make you feel romantic, inspired, and truly in love.
My wife and I took our family to this beautiful resort and tourist destination recently, and boy, did we have fun!
We dined at some of the best Old Town Temecula restaurants and tasted award-winning wines we had only seen and read about in magazines.
My wife and I also went on a romantic dinner in Temecula; dare I say, we felt like newlyweds again!
Yes! Temecula makes you feel young at heart and adventurous all at once.
In this post, I have covered 12 of the best local restaurant in this beautiful city and their specialty, so you know exactly where to go and eat in Old Town.
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Let’s get started.
1. 1909 Temecula
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1909 in Old Town Temecula is famous for its handcrafted beer and cocktails; everyone talks about them.
However, their location is also pretty special as the building was previously a trading post that burnt down and was rebuilt in, you guessed it right, 1909.
On my visit to 1909, I was eager to taste the bison burger, and it lived up to its reputation – flavorful, juicy, and cooked just right that it melted in my mouth. I also love the empanadas that the server recommended.
My drink of choice for the evening was 1909 Bloody, one among their collection of Bloody Marys.
This extra spicy drink with classic Cajun and habanero packs a punch and is not for the faint of heart, I must say.
The ambiance of 1909 hits a sweet spot of cozy, old-world charm and modern aesthetics, making it a great romantic place for couples.
- Address: 28656 Old Town Front Street Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: 951-252-1909
- Website:1909 Temecula
2. The Goat & Vine
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On our date night, I took my wife to The Goat & Vine to taste their famous organic menu, and we were not disappointed.
I admit this article about Michael Keaton taking his partner for a romantic dinner really impressed me, and I made sure we had a fabulous time.
I booked the table in advance; made sure I dressed the part, although my wife outdid me with her backless emerald dress.
The meatballs and the Thai pizza prepared from the stone hearth are to die for and make them one of the best Italian restaurants in old Temecula.
In case you’re interested, the gourmet pizza and the chicken pizza are among the menu’s best-selling items.
The team at this Temecula restaurant is passionate about the food, which clearly shows in their menu.
The breadsticks at this eatery are also one of the best we have ever tasted in the entire city.
The Goat & Vine also has a good selection of sandwiches, salads, and desserts, so if you follow a particular diet, such as the paleo diet, you will love this place.
The assortment of cured cheese, including this restaurant’s famous goat cheese, is worth checking out.
The charcuterie board keeps changing daily, so ask your server for the day’s special.
- Address: 41923 2ND ST SUITE 103 Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: 951-695-5600
- Website: The Goat and Vine
3. Public House
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Long before we set foot in the city, Public House’s reputation as one of the best Old Town Temecula restaurants was known to us, so we were not going to miss it.
The menu at this restaurant includes a healthy mix of starters, greens, happy hour, vegan, and drinks.
They have a dedicated kid’s menu that is commendable if you visit with kids. On our visit to Public House, our kids love Mac and cheese and Brussels sprouts chicken. The Reuben sandwich, steak, and eggs were also a hit among the kids.
Public House also hosts Saturday events where the in-house DJ hosts the party. Of course, the evening is also open for dining and drinking, so couples should definitely hit this spot for a romantic and fun evening.
- Address: 41971 Main Street Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: 19514911772
- Website: Public House – Temecula, CA
4. Small Barn Old Town
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Locals in this tourist city love this restaurant for its curated menu and open/front street patio dining environment, so it was high on our list of things to do in Temecula. Small Barn Old Town’s menu includes brunch, dinner, and drinks.
This restaurant became our favorite lunch place to eat in old Temecula, and we visited a couple of times. In particular, the Australian wagyu breakfast burger, watermelon tomato chilled soup, and Ahi tuna salad was an absolute hit for us.
The owners of Small Barn also have one of the best wineries in Temecula that produce a boutique collection of wines. If you’re curious about things couples can do in Temecula, a romantic date at this restaurant is a must.
- Address: 28535 Old Town Front St. Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: 951.225.2820
- Website: Small Barn
5. Blackbird Tavern
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Despite its ominous name, Black Bird is another gem among the best shops in Old Town Temecula.
This restaurant is a hotspot for artists, wine connoisseurs, and anyone looking to have an unforgettable time with fantastic music and delicious food.
Black Tavern hits a perfect balance of gastronomical delight and a cozy environment making it one of the most romantic restaurants in Old Town Temecula for couples to visit.
According to this post, couples on date night greatly value a quiet environment where they can chat over a casual meal, and this eatery checks all the right boxes.
The lobster rolls and the sandwich stood out to us during our visit to the Black Tavern.
The Korean fried chickens and the chocolate French toast were among the most interesting and mouth-watering dishes we tasted here.
But of course, even if you are traveling solo, this eclectic and welcoming restaurant is a must-visit if you set foot in the city.
- Address: 41958 5th Street Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: (951) 6999150
- Website: Blackbird
6. Havana Kitchen Café
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I took my family to Havana Kitchen Café on the recommendation of the bartender/cashier at our hotel, and it was a surprise.
Among the few Mexican restaurants in Old Town, this place is famous for its shredded beef with black beans, a Cuban special cooked with wine, bell peppers, and a fusion of tomatoes.
Our kids loved the chicken Caribbean bowl while visiting the Havana Kitchen Café.
My wife and I love the cortaditos and the mojo chicken plate, which were also flavorful and filling. Other delicacies on the menu include chilaquiles, fricasé, and tostones, to name a few.
We also love the signature and house drinks of blended latte, which is what this eatery is quite famous for.
If you have a kid below 12, they can eat free on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the kids’ menu, which is fantastic.
Overall, Havana Kitchen Café is one of the best Old Town Temecula restaurants and is definitely worth a visit.
- Address: 41955 5th Street #101 Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: 951-699-7300
- Website: Havana Kitchen
7. The Press Espresso
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The Press Espresso is a caffeine paradise that you will find hard to leave the café when you’re done with your order.
The coffee connoisseurs have several locations in Temecula and surrounding areas, including downtown Murrieta and we breakfasted in a couple of the restaurants.
The Press Espresso stands out among the Old Town Temecula restaurants for breakfast because of its eclectic menu and welcoming environment.
We loved the Mayan and Belgian Mocha as much as the Tiramisu coffee and butterscotch cold brew that the café is famous for.
Our breakfast menu was not complete without their fresh pastries, which was delicious.
If you are a caffeine lover, you will regret not having a cup or two of their interesting mocha from The Press Espresso.
- Address: 29601 Old Town Front St Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: 951-695-5600
- Website: The Press Espresso
8. EAT Marketplace
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Calling all vegans, paleo and keto dieters, and anyone with dietary restrictions – EAT Marketplace is right up your alley!
This cozy restaurant is perfect for having brunch in Old Town Temecula; but of course, you can also pop in for breakfast.
EAT Marketplace is famous all over the town for its gluten-free baked goods, and we could hardly resist ordering it on our visit.
My family and I do not have dietary restrictions, so we tried our hands at their dried-age short ribs and were not disappointed.
Oh, and yes, the chef at this Temecula restaurant does some magic with the avocado toast.
EAT Marketplace also caters to weddings and corporate events but nothing beats the experience of dining in person at one of the best Old Town Temecula restaurants.
- Address: 28410 Old Town Front St Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: (951) 694-3663
- Website: EAT Marketplace
9. Swing Inn Café
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Swing Inn Café is among the oldest open Old Town Temecula restaurants and is perfect for a family breakfast or lunch.
In particular, couples love to frequent this place for their fried steak and omelets, but the café has so much more in store.
My daughter loved the café’s biscuit and gravy, which was not a surprise as it was indeed a delicious affair.
My wife found new love with the giant cinnamon roll, but her favorite food in Old Town Temecula during our entire visit was the hash browns from this café, which was quite interesting as she is hardly a breakfast person.
Swing Inn Café also has an assortment of burgers, sandwiches, micheladas, and bloody marys, so be sure to check them out.
- Address: 28676 Old Town Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: 951-676-2321
- Website: Swing Inn Cafe
10. Devilicious Eatery & Tap Room
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Our mission to check out the town pubs in Old Town Temecula took us to Devilicious Eatery & Tap Room.
This eatery, with its gourmet sandwiches and grilled sides, is ideal for a heavy breakfast, but you can also get away with having brunch or a light lunch.
On our visit to the Devilicious, my wife and I loved the duck grilled cheese sandwich that paired perfectly with the parmesan truffle fries.
This eatery also serves the bison burger, which my daughter loved more than the one from 1909.
This eatery also serves the best wines from the top vineyards and wineries in Old Town Temecula valley, and you can expect a list of delicious and natural wine to be served.
Devilicious also hosts some community theater events in Old Town Temecula, including St. Patrick’s Day, so grab your outfit and join the fun.
- Address: 28693 Old Town Front St Ste 104 Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: (951)-506-4024
- Website: Devilicious Eatery
11. Baily’s Old Town Temecula
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Baily’s Old Town Temecula is the place to be if you love the old-age charm of live music, warm ambiance, and great food.
The patio at night single-handedly makes it one of the downtown Temecula restaurants absolutely worth visiting.
The bustling nightlife with Latin music and the generous dance floor is a crowd magnet. Several couples – both local and from surrounding spots such as Menifee host their wedding and rehearsal dinner here.
In addition to the fantastic party atmosphere, Baily’s menu is also a gastronomical delight.
The crab and shrimp pasta, in particular, is worth a special shout-out for family outings. Couples and those traveling solo should also check out the craft cocktails that blend perfectly with the live music as the sun sets.
- Address: 28699 Old Town Front Street Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: 951-676-9567
- Website: Baily’s
12. Luke’s on Front
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This is a rooftop restaurant and bar in Old Town Temecula with an electric nightlife that can rival the best hotspots in Los Angeles.
Luke’s on Front is undeniably among the best Old Town Temecula restaurants to book for private events and exclusive gatherings.
Everything from the spacious open space to the live music makes this a top location for nightlife lovers.
Besides the hip and happening nightlife, Luke’s is a great hangout spot for families and couples.
While out for brunch, the salad with bacon-wrapped scallops was the best we had tasted in a while. The Finney Philley Ribeye sandwich is also worth a special mention.
- Address: 28693 Old Town Front Street #402 Temecula, CA 92590
- Phone: (951) 6999900
- Website: Luke’s on Front
Conclusion
All in All, Temecula packs a punch when it comes to gastronomical delight. You can sink your teeth into everything from pizzas to chicken curry to corn dogs and take a sip of award-winning beverages during your trip.
If you happen to witness the Old Town Temecula country festival, the overall experience at this resort city can be even more exciting.
Despite the eclectic mix of international cuisine and eateries, eating out at Temecula does not cost a fortune, so you can stretch your budget.
Of course, the cover charge varies from one spot to the other, but generally, the prices are quite easy on your wallet.
Temecula is also a safe place to take your family on a nice trip – instances of shooting in Old Town Temecula and other crimes are relatively low compared to nearby cities such as San Diego.
This list of the best Old Town Temecula restaurants should give you a head start when it’s time to take a bite.
What do you think about the restaurants in Temecula?
Let us know your thoughts!
