'Laid-Back' California Eatery Named Best 'Casual' Restaurant In The State

Somewhere between the chaos of a drive-thru and the commitment of a three-course meal with linen napkins exists a sweet spot in the dining world.

It’s the place you go when you want your food fast but still want the option to sit down, breathe, and eat with actual silverware. Casual enough for jeans, fast enough for your lunch hour, and tasty enough to text a friend mid-bite to brag about your meal.

Some meals are meant to be quick. Others are meant to be enjoyed. But every now and then, a place comes along that manages to do both without breaking a sweat. It’s not fancy, but it’s far from forgettable. The food comes out fast, the atmosphere is relaxed, and somehow it all just works.

Whatever the secret recipe is, LoveFood found the one California spot that does it better than the rest.

According to LoveFood's list, the best fast, casual restaurant in California is Phonomenal in National City.

Here's what LoveFood had to say about the best fast, casual restaurant in the state:

"Phonomenal isn’t your average pho shop. This family-run gem serves Cambodian-style beef pho made with a rich, aromatic broth that simmers for hours, and it comes topped with fall-off-the-bone beef ribs and fresh herbs. The joint’s irresistible spring rolls, stuffed with grilled pork or shrimp and served with a bold house-made peanut sauce, are local favorites. The menu is tight and focused, but every item is executed with care and tradition. It's no wonder this cozy, minimalist spot earned the number four spot on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in 2025 list. Be warned: the joint regularly sells out by 2pm, so arriving early is key."

Check out LoveFood for a continued list of the best fast casual restaurants across the country.