I have previously written about some hidden gems here in Corona, and the next place I plan to showcase is the Cowboy Surfer Grill. It is located at 387 Magnolia Ave. near the Vons. This family-friendly restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day! They serve breakfast, lunch, and delicious sides/drinks. It is a fun, surfer-themed diner that is highly recommended.
How Did They Start?
The Cowboy Surfer Grill has a rich history. It all started back in 1940. Jim Botkin, a veteran, settled in central California to start his family. Later, he discovered his love for surfing and the surf culture. In the 80s, surfer Jim discovered his inner cowboy, and finally, in the 90s, Jim settled in Corona and decided to make his dream come true. The Cowboy Surfer Grill was born. Although Steve’s dream was to take over for Jim whenever the time came, his wife was hesitant and resisted. A woman named Loretta stepped up and managed the Cowboy Surfer Grill in 2008. Finally, in 2015, when it was time for the reins to be passed, Steve convinced Kathy and fulfilled his dream of taking over and managing the restaurant alongside his son/chef David. I can say without a doubt that Steve is an excellent and overwhelmingly optimistic person and a fantastic owner. His warm smile and cheerful personality bring the restaurant alive, along with the loving staff.
Recommendations/Fun facts
I have been going to this restaurant with my family since I moved to California in 2018. My father and I had a tradition when I was younger to get up super early and have breakfast together. Although sadly, we haven’t had as much time to continue this tradition, I will never forget the mornings spent at this restaurant. The delicious food, the books available for everyone to read, and the fun conversation with the workers. Since then, I returned to the restaurant this past week and got my old usual order, which I highly recommend: The breakfast combo with waffles and bacon. They always manage to top the plate with whipped cream and strawberries, which always fills me up in the best way.
This restaurant is one of the most unique places I have ever attended; it has many specific details that I have observed, from the silly signs on the walls to the painted murals and much more. My favorite has to be the fun newspaper-like menus; when I first saw them, I thought they were such a fun detail. Another is the book/coloring cupboard, available to anyone who wishes to use it. I recall being younger and always looking forward to finishing where I left off on a book they had. This family-friendly atmosphere is a nice and cozy place to have a delicious meal. You will be welcomed with a warm smile and excellent service when you enter. Don’t believe me, ask the regulars! People like my father have been going to this restaurant for 6 years, and it is a great experience every time. I highly recommend that you consider the fantastic Cowboy Surfer grill when you wake up one of these mornings and are hankering for a delicious breakfast meal.
