If you’re hunting for Redding’s finest dining, you’re in the right place. But beyond the city limits, you’ll also discover Shasta County’s best farm-to-table fare, craft brews that rival any in NorCal, and sourdough that’s worth the drive alone. Plus, it’s a refreshing escape from the overpriced trends of bigger cities. Some spots feel like classic Northern California, while others channel the rustic charm of the Pacific Northwest.
And while some might lump all of Shasta Cascade together, we’re focusing squarely on Redding—with a few essential stops in nearby Anderson and Shasta Lake (since you’re already up there).
Taroko Asian Bar & Grill
$$ | (530) 255-8863 | WEBSITE
There are plenty of Asian spots in Redding, but Taroko Asian Bar & Grill stands out as the go-to for a lively, city-like vibe. The best starter here is the soup dumplings—juicy and perfectly steamed. The scallion pancakes are great too, but the peppered tuna is a bit too rich (for a lighter option, try the Korean Kalbi Bowl). But even if you’re not in the mood for entrees, come here for the standout tiramisu. There’s a relaxed atmosphere with inviting plating and interesting sauces.
But be very careful with those sauces—they pack so much flavor you could probably use them to wake up your taste buds. The jazz duo adds perfect entertainment, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
$ | (530) 221-0158 | WEBSITE
On weekends, Olive Garden fills up with families enjoying reasonably priced pasta and sharing big plates of the Tour of Italy. But you’ll usually find a place to sit inside the restaurant’s dining room, which has more Italian-themed decorations hanging from the walls than a souvenir shop. If that’s full, there’s a comfortable waiting area. The extensive menu has gluten-free options, hot soups, and hearty entrees. But we like the Tour of Italy.
Order it—it comes with three classic dishes, all served with fresh breadsticks and a side salad. And if you’re feeling extra hungry—or if you just want to try a bit of everything—ask AJ or Daniel for their recommendations, and they’ll guide you through the very good selections.
Old Shasta Coffee Company
$ | (530) 768-1561 | WEBSITE
The star at Old Shasta Coffee Company should be the gorgeous Black and White iced mocha. We don’t want to call it just a drink. That isn’t fair to the rich, layered creation that tastes like the collective artistry of one hundred coffee masters. The delicious vegan breakfast options and popular breakfast burritos are also wonderful. There aren’t many seats inside this welcoming walk-in spot, which might be why most people take their orders to go.
But even if you don’t stay, take a moment to admire the impressive (and classic) coffee machinery and local art on the walls.
Country Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery
$ | (530) 223-5438 | WEBSITE
In Redding, it’s harder to find a perfect BLT than it is to find a breakfast spot where you won’t be subjected to someone else’s overcooked eggs. But Country Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery is a family restaurant that has delicious BLTs. We like the classic BLT. It normally comes with bacon, but order it with extra crispy bacon—it gets along better with the fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and crispy fries on the side.
Then there’s the Country Omelette—practically the same thing as the BLT in spirit, but filled with expertly cooked eggs, savory sausage, and melted cheddar cheese. This is a great place for family gatherings too. The tables are comfortably spaced and the dining room fills with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that shines through the friendly staff.
Yama Sushi
$$ | (530) 223-6868 | WEBSITE
Just north of downtown Redding is Yama Sushi—where the best sushi we’ve ever eaten is. Yama is a clean, welcoming space that serves high-quality fish, fresh rolls, and friendly service. But you’re coming here for sushi. Everything is flavorful and fresh. The fish is from trusted suppliers, and you can thank skilled chefs for your sushi boats. Plus, portions are generous. They give you so many pieces on the boat, it’s hard to finish it all in one sitting.
But that sushi boat is the star of the menu. The tuna is buttery, the salmon is rich, and the rice is perfectly seasoned. End your meal with some fresh slices of sashimi that melt when you taste them.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
$ | (530) 276-8850 | WEBSITE
Jersey Mike’s Subs feels like a classic deli counter in a spotless modern kitchen that happens to serve massive sandwiches in boxes that could feed a small army. This reliably satisfying restaurant is mostly a lunch destination—but they do catering orders that arrive looking like a professional chef prepared each sub individually.
There are enough beautifully arranged sandwiches in those catering boxes to start a feast for twenty coworkers, and the menu has the kind of straightforward goodness you might crave after a morning of errands. Think an 8-inch Italian sub with that famous oil and vinegar on the side and all the toppings you want kept separate to prevent sogginess. If you’re ordering for a crowd, you finish your impressive spread with their unique “Juice” that somehow makes everything taste even better.
Outback Steakhouse
$$ | (530) 226-9394 | WEBSITE
It is hard to imagine Redding without Outback Steakhouse. Most locals can’t head out for a family dinner or even plan a casual evening without considering this reliable spot that’s been serving the community for years. The restaurant offers consistently good food and friendly service, and also makes some of the best wedge salads in town. There’s also a welcoming atmosphere inside, where you can enjoy your blooming onion while feeling like you have the place to yourself, even when it’s busy.
Tyler and Teri create a fantastic mood, going above and beyond with attentive service that makes every visit special. The meatloaf is a pleasant surprise that shouldn’t be missed, and the whole experience feels lovely whether you’re with family or even bringing your pet along. For around $20–$30 per person, you get a clean, comfortable setting with fast service that leaves you planning your next trip back.
McDonald’s
$ | (530) 222-0251 | WEBSITE
McDonald’s is a reliable spot serving burgers, fries, and ice cream. The service is fast, the prices are affordable, and the Qtr Pounder is worth the trip even if you’re just passing through Redding and it’s late at night. It’s a clean restaurant with a kid-friendly atmosphere and a wheelchair ramp that’s actually functional (so do use it). Staff are friendly, the food is consistent, and it’s a great place to grab a quick meal with family.
Order an extra-large ice cream cone and watch as every happy customer does the same.
Burrito Bandito
$ | (530) 222-6640 | WEBSITE
Burrito Bandito is not a fine-dining establishment. It’s a quick-service spot where the burrito-hungry can grab a satisfying meal made efficiently by friendly staff, including two firefighter-looking guys and a sweet young lady at the register. But here’s where it becomes a flavor adventure. The secret at Burrito Bandito is: any of their extensive hot sauce collection (that’s not too fiery for you) is fair game to try.
And if you come during breakfast hours, it’s essentially an all-you-can-handle feast with their massive breakfast burritos. They even include avocado at no extra charge when you order one. Just bring a big appetite (or that friend who always shares) to help you tackle the generous portions you’ll get.
Rose Garden
$ | (530) 243-8863 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for a straightforward Thai and Lao spot that focuses on flavor over flash, Rose Garden is your place. The inside is comfortable and clean, with a simple, unassuming atmosphere that lets the food speak for itself. The Thai dishes here are some of the best in the area, especially the pad Thai and the combination yellow curry, which are highly praised for their rich, authentic taste. We love the crispy and savory pork dumplings. The Thai Iced tea is large and affordable.
But because this is a hidden gem, be a little adventurous and try the Lao-style Papaya Salad instead: Rose Garden’s fresh, tangy salad that perfectly balances spicy, sweet, and sour notes.
Black Bear Diner
$ | (530) 221-7600 | WEBSITE
This family-friendly diner is filled with cozy booths and cheerful bear-themed decor. We come here for the tri-tip sandwich. It’s piled high with tender beef and savory sauce that soaks into the soft bread and drips down your fingers. For an extra dollar, we like ours with melted cheese and grilled onions. But if you’re in the mood for breakfast all day, get the fluffy scrambled eggs with crispy bacon and golden hash browns.
The food comes out fast, so if you’re on a tight schedule or heading to Shasta Lake, this is a great place to stop before you start counting pine trees on the road to the mountains.
Raliberto’s Taco Shop | Downtown
$ | (530) 605-0724 | WEBSITE
Raliberto’s Taco Shop is a downtown staple. It’s got that pleasant atmosphere with good decor inside and a fair amount of menu variety. There’s a counter for ordering and a few tables for folks waiting to eat tacos. You’ll probably have to wait too if you come during the lunch rush. Not everything is a hit. The street tacos are good, but they won’t make you grin like a raccoon eating peanut butter—for a reaction like that, get the quesabirras.
And the shredded beef street tacos are more flavorful than your abuela’s secret recipe. But Raliberto’s strength is its friendly service, affordable prices, and authentic simplicity. You’re here to eat messy food with your hands off of paper plates next to kind strangers, and watch food from the kitchen arrive fresh even if it takes a little while.
Taqueria Dos Amigos
$ | (530) 215-1162 | WEBSITE
You might need to dodge a few elbows while navigating between the vibrant red and green walls of this Mexican eatery. But Taqueria Dos Amigos is huge when it comes to flavor and friendliness. The fusion of authentic recipes and contemporary vibes creates a space where the staff will happily explain the story behind the Chile Verde taco (with its perfectly balanced sauce that fills the air with cumin and oregano) before sending you off with a recommendation for the salsa bar.
But you are absolutely ordering the Quesabirria taco. It’s made with tender birria beef, dipped in consommé, and folded into a crispy, cheesy package that’s worth every bite.
Chicken Shack – Churn Creek
$ | (530) 922-2445 | WEBSITE
Any visit to Redding should include a trip to Chicken Shack – Churn Creek. The lively eatery is open year-round, and during peak hours the line can easily stretch out the door. What those people are waiting for are Disco Fries—and yes, they are worth the wait, especially when they’re still hot and smothered in country gravy. But there are other things you should try here, like Mimi’s southern bbq and chicken tenders with fries.
Just remember to enjoy the colorful wallpaper while you wait for your order. Or come on a random weekday afternoon before the nearby offices let out and there probably won’t be a line at all.