Avocados and french fry-filled carne asada burritos are nearly synonymous with California, but there are many more hidden gems across the state that have long eluded tourists and explorers by nature of being more tucked away. California is positively brimming with delicious food, including a number of Michelin Guide-recognized steakhouses, among others. If you’ve ever found yourself traveling on the I-5 freeway (colloquially referred to by Californians as “the 5”), you may be tempted to think there’s a whole lot of nothing to see save for cows grazing in massive fields.
Affectionately dubbed “Cowalinga” for the aforementioned presence of bovines, Coalinga is a city essentially in the middle of nowhere. However, you’d be pleasantly surprised to find it’s also home to Harris Ranch Resort, a sprawling locale featuring a barbecue joint, country store, and a delightful prime steakhouse. Situated at a midpoint between Los Angeles and San Francisco, this California steak restaurant, often referred to as the Harris Ranch Prime Steakhouse, is one of a kind and about as off the beaten path as you can imagine.
The Harris Ranch Resort sits right by the intersection of the 5 freeway and 198 highway in a nearly blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spot should you be driving at maximum speed. Luckily, the large Harris Ranch sign is visible from the freeway, encouraging those interested in taking a closer look to stop in for an unforgettable meal.
What makes Harris Ranch so unique?
The proximity to grazing cows may have already tipped you off, but, just in case, Harris Ranch is definitely known for its beef. With a menu boasting such prime offerings as an 8-ounce filet mignon, a 12-ounce New York strip steak, and a 14-ounce ribeye, it’s clear this spot does steak best. Harris Ranch’s steakhouse also offers a mouthwatering 14-ounce A5 Wagyu ribeye featuring what the menu refers to as “exceptional marbling.”
In addition to its luxe steak offerings, Harris Ranch also has a history in pioneering “farm to fork” cuisine. The restaurant’s focus on locally sourced offerings, including fresh beef and seasonal produce, goes a long way for such a remote location. The steakhouse, barbecue express spot, and country store are all extensions of this philosophy.
If you do decide to venture off the I-5 freeway to give Harris Ranch Resort’s steakhouse a try, it’s worth noting that reservations are highly encouraged. Although still somewhat of a hidden gem, the restaurant is only open Thursday through Sunday, with limited dinner hours. For those fans of slow-roasted prime rib, definitely order the 14-ounce Jack’s Cut Prime Rib of Beef, which is almond-smoked, seasoned with a combination of garlic and rosemary, and served with horseradish and au jus.
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