February 16, 2024
Truckers, It's time to switch gears from the endless asphalt stretches and focus on a crucial aspect of every trucker's journey – refueling, and we're not just talking diesel. Welcome to a roadmap of America's best trucker-friendly eateries, where the parking is ample and the meals are hearty.
We're guiding you to places that satisfy more than just hunger; they're stops where you can unwind and savor flavors from Greek delights in arid lands to homestyle cooking in the heartland. These top 10 restaurants are not just stops on a map; they're destinations for your taste buds, handpicked to make your long hauls both memorable and enjoyable.
So, let's roll into these culinary havens where the food is as welcoming as the parking spots. Because, just like the right part keeps your rig running smoothly, the right meal is fuel for your soul on the open road
1. The Mad Greek, Baker CA: Exit # I-15
Truckers cruising between Las Vegas and LA find a culinary haven at The Mad Greek in Baker, California. Right off of I-15, this spot defies the desert odds. It's a trucker's delight with its easy access, hearty Greek favorites like gyros and baklava, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere. A perfect break on a long haul, The Mad Greek offers more than just food; it's a memorable experience in the middle of the desert. They have ample parking for boats, RVs, and trucks directly attached.
“wow, my first time here, and the food was so good. Large Gyro and Souvlaki was more than enough but then to have fried zucchini fries…! They were so good! Two of us shared one. The chicken souvlaki was done just right, and fast service thanks to the order kiosk! Clean and plenty of room to sit and enjoy our food!”
Location: Exit 246 Off I15, View Map
Closest City: Los Angeles, Las Vegas
Rating: 4.1 (5,931) on Google
Ease of Parking: Very Good
Food Type: Greek, Mediterranean
2. Wagon Wheel Restaurant, Needles CA Exit 141 off i40
The Wagon Wheel Restaurant in Needles, a trucker-friendly spot, offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with a classic American diner menu. Right off the highway, it’s known for hearty dishes like pot roast and all-day breakfasts, it's a perfect road stop. With ample parking and fascinating decor, it's a memorable and comforting experience for anyone traveling through Needles. They have boat, RV, and truck parking
“Had a great experience shopping here real quick while traveling, very unique and cool place! Had a huge menu. I got the blue cheese bacon burger and a beer and was great!
My girlfriend got a chicken fried chicken with a baked potato. Everything was fairly good! The waitress was very pleasant and attentive also.
Overall a great place to stop and check out for a quick but good meal.
Location: Exit 141 Off I40, View Map
Closest City: Phoenix, Las Vegas
Rating: 4.5 (3,768) on Google
Ease of Parking: Good
Food Type: American Classics
3. Sonny Bbq, Corbin Ky Exit 29 Right Off I75
At Sonny's BBQ, the brisket's as tender as a mother's love, and the service is quicker than a pit stop. Park at Love’s, grab a bite, and you're ready to roll again. Sonny's is where BBQ dreams come true.
“I’d give this place 10 ⭐️’s! Clean & friendly staff! We ordered the •BB-Q Baby back ribs dinner & the •Angus Beef brisket dinners (carry out) & Holy-WOW! Big beautiful dinner! Just absolutely amazing! Lots of great sides to pick from too, we had homemade coleslaw, homemade BB-Q beans, tater-tots & garlic toast/cornbread! SO YUMMY! You can dine in, carry out, or dine inside. If you are heading this way? You HAVE TO STOP HERE😋 You will NOT regret it❤️”
Location: Exit 29 Off I75, View Map
Closest City: Knoxville, Nashville
Rating: 4.5 (3,177) on Google
Ease of Parking: Okay
Food Type: American, BBQ
4. House Of Seafood Buffet, Bush La Near The Corner Of Hwy 21 And Hwy 40
Seafood lovers, rejoice! The House of Seafood Buffet is a maritime feast waiting to happen. Known for its extensive buffet, it features favorites like shrimp pasta, fried catfish, and boiled crabs. Ideal for groups, with ample parking for trucks, it's a top choice for a hearty meal. The casual setting and variety ensure a fulfilling dining experience, whether you're a seafood lover or not. Located across the street from Piggly Wiggly, and right down the road from a Shell station. Park your rig and dive into the ocean's bounty.
“I loved the selection of seafood. I got to try many new (to me) things and enjoyed the selection. It had a lovely family atmosphere and as a "Grandma," I loved watching the various children enjoying seafood. I might have enjoyed seafood more as a child if I had experienced a place like this.”
Location: Near The Corner Of Hwy 21 And Hwy 40, View Map
Closest City: New Orleans
Rating: 4.4 (1369) on Google
Ease of Parking: Okay
Food Type: Seafood
5. Cowboy Travel Plaza & Smokey Pokey, Orlando Ok Exit 174 Off I35
Cowboy Travel Plaza & Smokey Pokey in Orlando, Oklahoma, stands out as a top-notch stop for truckers. It's not just about fuel; the Smokey Pokey BBQ offers delicious meals, perfect for a hearty break. The plaza's friendly atmosphere, clean amenities, and interesting store make it more than a rest stop. It's a place where truckers can recharge, grab a great meal, and enjoy a bit of comfort on the road.
“Smokey Pokey is a good bbq place off I-35 if you are looking for a good place to eat, shop, restock snacks, etc. on a long drive, but we’ll go into that in a minute. I ordered the two-plate meat combo with grilled chicken and smoked sausage. Mrs. Flip Out got a mushroom Swiss burger with no bun. We got the little Flip Outs a kids corndog plate. We each enjoyed our orders and everything had good flavor and was fresh. What is really fun about this stop is the pirate ship inside for kids to climb and play on. There’s also a petting zoo outside. Cool stop for all ages!”
Location: Exit 174 Off I35, View Map
Closest City: New Orleans
Rating: 4.1 (3,667) on Google
Ease of Parking: Very Good
Food Type: BBQ
6. The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery, Amarillo TX Exit 74 Off I40
Here's where the steaks are as big as your truck's tires. The Big Texan isn’t just about eating; it's about living the cowboy dream, one 72-oz steak at a time. Ample parking for your rig and a taste of the Wild West. It's more than just a steakhouse; it's an experience with live music, friendly service, and a unique ambiance. A popular spot for both dining and entertainment, it offers a memorable experience that combines great food with a lively, Western flair. There is big rig parking available in the back.
“This is a must-stop location if you’re traveling through town. The atmosphere is exactly the kind of kitsch that it’s built up to be. The 72 oz steak table is on a pedestal and you can walk up and watch. The steak chef is also visible and you can watch him cook. The steaks are good but seem to be quantity over quality. Not saying they’re bad, just that I’ve had better. They have a very smoky flavor, which I like.”
Location: Exit 74 Off I40, View Map
Closest City: Amarillo
Rating: 4.3 (26,637) on Google
Ease of Parking: Very Good
Food Type: Steak House
7. Mollies Cafe, Snowville Ut Exit 7 Off I84
Mollie's is the hometown diner of your dreams. Renowned for its "home-cooked" meals, this diner offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. With specialties like chicken fried steak and a variety of homemade pies, it's a perfect spot for a hearty, satisfying meal. Friendly service and a quaint, nostalgic setting make it an ideal stop for a comforting break on the road. Park at Flying J and step into a world of comfort food and pies that taste like home.
“Delicious food that's reasonably priced. Friendly, small-town service. Good-sized portions. Definitely value for the money.”
Location: Exit 7 Off I84. Park At The Flying J. 1 Block, View Map
Closest City: Salt Lake City
Rating: 4.5 (967) on Google
Ease of Parking: Okay
Food Type: Diner
8. Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, Dandridge Tn Exit 417 Off I40 On Pilot Lot
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery in Dandridge, TN, is a haven for truckers seeking a delicious meal. Known for its warm atmosphere and diverse menu, it's ideal for a satisfying break. Favorites include blueberry muffins, french toast, and crispy bacon, making breakfasts especially delightful. Committed to great service, Perkins ensures a pleasant dining experience, making it a top stop for those on long hauls through Tennessee.
“They have an optional holiday menu that features prime rib. I love steak and eggs, so I elected to get the prime rib, medium rare, and eggs, with a seasonal pumpkin muffin. OMG! This was one of the most tender cuts of prime rib I've had in a long time. It was delicious!
Service was also excellent, too. I also love that they aren't afraid to promote the true meaning of Christmas with this exterior nativity scene.”
Location: Exit 417 Off I40 On Pilot Lot: View Map
Closest City: Jefferson City
Rating: 4.2 (2,913) on Google
Ease of Parking: Good
Food Type: American
9. The Vienna Beef Factory Store, Chicago Il Exit 55b Off I90/I94
The Vienna Beef Factory Store in Chicago is a must-visit for truckers seeking authentic Chicago-style hot dogs. This unique spot offers the chance to savor these famous franks right at their source. The store's cafeteria-style setting, adorned with sports memorabilia, serves up a genuine taste of Chicago's culinary history. It's more than just a meal; it's an experience that celebrates the city's rich food culture.
“Great place to stop for a hot dog burger or polish. They also sell boxes of hotdogs & hamburgers. Before your next cookout or tailgate stop here 1st.”
Location: Exit 55b Off I90/I94 And Several Blocks West On W Pershing Road, View Map
Closest City: Jefferson City
Rating: 4.5 (896) on Google
Ease of Parking: Good
Food Type: American
10. Trainer’s Midway Diner, Bethel PA Exit 16 Off I78
Trainer's Midway Diner in Bethel, PA, is a haven for truckers on the road. Offering a cozy, vintage cafe vibe and ample parking, it serves up delicious, home-style meals like the popular pumpkin pie. Renowned for its friendly service, this diner creates a homely atmosphere, making it a perfect stop for truckers seeking a warm, comforting meal during their travels. Its convenient location and inviting ambiance make it a top choice for a fulfilling dining experience.
“Trainer’s Midway Diner was an unexpected treat. It is very much like the old-school diners that I grew up eating at. Not fancy, just great food and very friendly staff. They have a number of selections on the menu and everything we ordered was great and with generous portions. They also have a nice selection of homemade pie. This place makes me happy.”
Location: Exit 16 Off I78: View Map
Closest City: Allen Town
Rating: 4.0 (1424) on Google
Ease of Parking: Good
Food Type: Diner
Good news. There are tons of resources available and linked below. There are many delicious bites along the road no matter where you go. Check out our mega list of 68 trucker-friendly restaurants here. For a comprehensive truck parking directory, click here.
That wraps up our journey through the "Top 10 Restaurants with or Near Truck Parking." We hope this guide makes your long hauls a bit more flavorful and a lot less stressful when it comes to finding a spot to park your rig and enjoy a good meal. Remember, the road is long, but with the right pit stops, it's also full of delicious possibilities. Keep this list handy, and happy trucking!
You know what else makes life easier? FinditParts is the number one online supplier of heavy-duty truck and trailer parts with the largest database of part numbers in the industry. We pride ourselves on making a hassle-free way to get the parts you need to your doorstep. So make sure to check us out at Finditparts.
