Route U.S. 66 was one of the first American highways and a major path for travelers migrating west for decades. While new interstates and freeways have made travel quicker and more efficient, they can’t replace the charm of Historic Route U.S. 66. Whether you’re planning a trip, or just feeling nostalgic, visiting these 6 restaurants will make anyone reminisce for the Mother Road.

Ariston Cafe, Litchfield, Illinois

The Ariston Cafe was founded by a Greek immigrant, Pete Adam, on Route 4, which later became part of U.S. 66. The cafe was moved to its current location in Litchfield in 1935, making it one of the oldest restaurants on Historic Route 66. The cafe serves a variety of dishes, but you can’t leave without trying the dessert! From cheesecake to baklava, every dish is baked fresh and flavorful, making Ariston Cafe famous among travelers.

Eisler Bros Old Rivertown Grocery Store, Riverton, Kansas

The interior of this route 66 store has barely changed since its doors opened in 1925. Much of the original decor remains and even one of the outhouses still stands (although most visitors use the indoor plumbing these days). The store sells groceries, produce, flowers, and gifts, including some handcrafted by local artists. Besides the historical aesthetic, this grocery store is well-known for its sandwiches, served fresh from the deli counter.

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard Stand, Chippewa, Missouri

In 1941, Ted Drewes, Sr. opened this custard stand. Today, it is still in the hands of his son, Ted Drewes, Jr., who has been operating it for over eighty years. As automobile traffic increased along Route 66, Ted Drewes, Jr. expanded his custard stand from 5 windows to 12 –a number thought excessive at the time. Today, the business is still thriving and expanded to many other locations. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard Stand is best known for its hot fudge sundaes and Ted’s “concrete,” a malt or shake so thick that it is served to customers upside down.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch, Amarillo, Texas

Home to the free 72 oz steak, how could you pass up The Big Texan Steak Ranch? Of course, finishing the steak in one hour along with a shrimp cocktail, baked potato, salad, and roll is required for the meal to be free. The restaurant also boasts live music, a zipline, and a dance hall. Don’t forget your cameras either, between the historic cowboy billboard and a dinosaur statue, there are plenty of photo ops too.

Del’s Restaurant, Tucumari, New Mexico

Thanks to the neon cow that sits atop their famous sign, you’ll know when you’ve arrived at the right place. Open since 1956, Del’s Restaurant is still serving Mexican, American, and seafood dishes with over-the-top service. Known locally for their extensive salad bar, but better known to tourists for the Route 66 decor that covers the restaurant, Del’s Restaurant is great place to eat when passing through Tucuamari.

Bagdad Cafe, Newberry Springs, California

Originally called the “Sidewinder Cafe,” this Mojave Desert restaurant changed its name after starring as the location for the film “Bagdad Cafe.” Like the movie, it’s a quirky cafe in a quiet town where visitors from all over the world gather. Full of memorabilia and odd collections, the Bagdad Cafe is a can’t miss stop on Route 66. They serve diner food staples, including their well-known buffalo burger.

For more information including the best attractions and an easy to read map of the historic and current Route U.S. 66, check out our Route 66 map.