Must-Taste Dishes During the Almond Blossom Cruise
Embark on a sensory journey through Modesto where the blossoming beauty of almond orchards sets the stage for an unforgettable culinary adventure. As you embark on our Almond Blossom Cruise, we invite you to savor the flavors that make Modesto a gastronomic haven.
From charming cafes to vibrant eateries, we’ve curated a list of Visit Modesto’s top picks for food stops, ensuring that your journey through almond orchards is not only visually stunning but also a delectable feast for your taste buds. Join us on this culinary exploration, where each stop promises a unique and delicious experience, reflecting the rich tapestry of Modesto’s food scene.
Downtown Modesto
Try some of our amazing restaurants that are located in central Downtown Modesto – close to hotels, shops, and theaters, this is the perfect basecamp for your trip!
Mocha Magic Cafe & Bakeshop
Not only does Mocha Magic have amazing pies, pastries, and cakes made with local fresh fruit – they also have a special almond cupcake during the Almond Blossom Cruise!
Camp 4 Wine Cafe
Camp 4 has such an incredible seasonal menu, that it’s difficult to pick just one or two dishes that you can’t miss! If we had to pick some of our favorites, it would be the poke bowl, their house-roasted almonds, and a wine flight – perfect for trying a few of their curated wine selections. You can’t go wrong with this trifecta!
Food Fix Butcher & Baker
The Porkstrami at Food Fix can’t be missed (and they have even more belly-busting food on their menu), plus the fresh-from-the-oven sweets from the Bakeshop next door are the perfect end to your meal!
Galletto Ristorante
The Galletto pizza is my go-to local pie!
Picasso’s Gourmet Deli & Art
Eating a grilled cheese sandwich at Picasso’s Gourmet Deli (the Lady Madonna – made with three types of cheese) with the creamy tomato soup on a cold day is close to perfection! The swirl of pesto that tops the tomato soup adds a depth of flavor that’s magical.
Tresetti’s World Caffe
The Gumbo at Tresetti’s is comfort in a bowl! It is not to be missed, especially on a chilly spring day. Pair with your beverage of choice on the patio or ask to be seated in front of the windows for some bright ambiance.
Chinn’s International
If you’re a lover of smash burgers, then you HAVE to try the one at Chinn’s International! With a daily rotating menu, the ingredients are always fresh, the food is always delicious, and the beer – which is sourced from breweries all over California – is always cold.
The State Theatre
The popcorn at The State is the best around – you’ll find yourself making excuses to see shows or movies just so you can get your hands on some!
Harvest Moon
The Crab Toss Salad at Harvest Moon is the perfect light meal.
Tandoori Flame
Veggie lovers unite! There are plenty of meat-free options at Tandoori Flame for our vegetarian and vegan friends.
Fuzio Universal Bistro
Brussel sprouts don’t sound like an exciting dish – but sauté them with local almonds, bacon and local balsamic vinegar, and you’ll have one of your new favorite appetizers at Fuzio!
While You’re Out & About
There are even more incredible restaurants to experience as you’re out and about on your Cruise! Stop by any of the below spots and complete your sensory journey around Stanislaus County with fresh ingredients and seasonal menus.
Roberts Ferry Gourmet
The Almond Butter Milkshake may be the world famous signature goody at Roberts Ferry Gourmet, but the Chicago Style popcorn is both savory and sweet! All the popcorn and flavored nuts are hand tossed by the RFG team in Waterford…no washing machine style flavor mixing for this local favorite.
Redwood Cafe
The lamb lollipops at Redwood Cafe are the perfect starter to share before your meal (or the perfect meal to keep all to yourself because they are incredible)!
Oakdale Cheese & Specialties
Mark my words, in this economy, this meal at Oakdale Cheese is the deal of the century. You get award winning cheese in a homemade grilled cheese, a hot cup of tomato soup, and a lovely scene for a picnic for under 9 bucks pretax? I’m not pulling your leg, that’s the deal!
The Village Butcher
The Texas Hill Country Brisket is a must-have sandwich at The Village Butcher. We order it by the pound for dinner parties! Their selection of fresh sandwiches and sides are perfect for a lunch, or any large gathering you’re having.
House of Beef
House of Beef – the name of the restaurant really says it all! Take a dive headfirst into the local cowboy culture with fine cuts of beef that are locally sourced (we happen to LOVE the tri-tip)! And be sure to ask your waiter if they have any apple fritters left for dessert, they go fast.
Ferrareses’s Deli
Stop by this local go-to that’s been around since 1975 and is still family owned! From their famous Leo Camarillo Pastrami Sandwich to their homemade lasagna, Ferrareses’s Deli has all the proper Italian delicacies.
Twin Rivers Saloon
The Buffalo Chicken Salad at Twin Rivers Saloon is special! The right spice, fresh salad bed, and a chill outdoor dining area with horseshoes and corn hole really make this salad an experience, not just a meal.
Knights Ferry Creamery & Sweets
Grab some local ice cream at Knights Ferry Creamery after you’ve explored the covered bridge or hiked by the Stanislaus River.
50’s Road House
Get ready to go back in time at the cutest 50s-themed diner off the 120 freeway! 50’s Road House has got the fries, shakes, and burgers that will have you feeling right at home with one bite.
Wildfire Public House
The bacon pickle pizza at Wildfire may sound strange, but we promise it’s delicious and the perfect unique appetizer to share with your table! Grab one of their craft cocktails while you’re there for a fun night out.
Taqueria El Maguey
If you have never had Molcajete, you are MISSING OUT! The one at Taqueria El Maguey is especially tasty – we highly recommend trying it with all 3 meats and sharing. It comes out sizzling in a stone bowl and the flavors are incredible.
The Twisted Pig Bar & Grill
Ribs – check, tater tots – check, macaroni and cheese – check, AND top it off with pulled pork – that’s what you get when you order the Pig Pen! If you’re really hungry, there’s no better place than Twisted Pig to satisfy your wildest cravings.