As the city where the fast-food revolution began, San Bernardino holds a special place in the history of the french fry.
This is a city built on car culture, where the drive-in and the burger stand are culinary institutions.
The fry scene here is deeply rooted in this classic American tradition, celebrating the timeless appeal of a perfectly fried potato.
From historic diners to beloved local burger joints, San Bernardino is a treasure trove of fantastic fries.
A great fry here is a connection to history, a taste of the Golden State’s golden age.
Here are five restaurants in San Bernardino with the best french fries you’ll ever taste.
1. Mitla Cafe
This historic cafe is a San Bernardino legend, serving the community since 1937 and famously inspiring the founder of Taco Bell.
While known for their incredible Mexican food, their fries are a crucial part of the experience.
They serve classic, well-done fries that are the perfect addition to any combo plate or the base for their amazing chili fries.
Eating at Mitla is eating a piece of history, and the fries are an essential chapter.
2. DJ’s Burgers
DJ’s is a classic California burger stand, a throwback to a simpler time that has been a local favorite for decades.
Their fries are hand-cut, skin-on, and fried to a glorious golden-brown.
They are served in a generous pile, with a wonderfully rustic texture and a rich, potato-forward flavor.
These are honest, unpretentious fries that perfectly capture the spirit of the classic California burger joint.
3. Alfredo’s Pizza & Pasta
This family-owned spot is a local go-to for pizza and pasta, but many will tell you their fries are the main event.
Alfredo’s is famous in the area for its incredible garlic fries and its decadent chili cheese fries.
Their garlic fries are tossed in a savory, fragrant mixture that is completely addictive.
Their chili cheese fries are a messy, glorious, and delicious masterpiece, a meal in itself.
4. Vince’s Spaghetti
Another long-standing institution, Vince’s has been serving its famous spaghetti in the Inland Empire since 1945.
A visit to Vince’s is a unique experience, and the full dinner comes with all the fixings, including fries.
They serve a classic, golden crinkle-cut fry that is a surprisingly perfect counterpoint to a plate of pasta with meat sauce.
It’s a quirky but beloved local tradition.
5. The Hat
While a chain, The Hat’s presence in the Inland Empire is legendary, and its San Bernardino location is a local landmark.
It is impossible to discuss fries in this region without mentioning The Hat’s famous mountains of potatoes.
A “small” order of fries can easily feed three people.
Getting their iconic pastrami dip with a side of chili cheese fries is a delicious rite of passage for anyone in the area.
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