Lou's Luncheonette

You can tell things are made fresh and from scratch. The hush puppies are fantastic, but they're not what most places offer. Instead, the batter is much lighter in texture and doesn't have a heavy grease feeling. No one ingredient dominates, so you can really taste everything, including what I think are mild pickled jalapenos. The pimento cheese on the fried chicken sandwich #2 is also delicious.

I ordered the catfish sandwich and it was sloppy with condiments. Just oozing ketchup and Tartar sauce. It totally overpowered the fried fish, which was otherwise pretty good. Coleslaw was tasty. The employees were short and kind of rude. Pleasant outdoor atmosphere and nice seating area. Would like to try again and maybe have a better experience.

It’s been a while since I was here, but this is a 5/5 spot in the middle of nowhere. The chicken sandwiches are tasty, the fries are some of the best, and the sides are very unique. Definitely worth a visit if you’re visiting Sonoma!

You don't need me to tell you that you need to stop...but grabbing a quick bite shortly before closing was the ticket! I love this fried chicken and their hushpuppies that I promised myself that if I could park I'd stop. I didn't realize it was close to closing so I grabbed a bit of everything, had a few bites, then headed back on the road with fragrant to go boxes!

I would skip the burger next time (a bit too gristly for me). The fries were very good, and the chicken sandwich was good. We both really liked the potato salad, very pickle-forward. Loved the choice of sparkling wine at this roadside diner. Not sure why they changed the name several times, but it was worth a stop.

Classic California roadside diner. Been here forever. I’ve been eating here for at least 20 years myself. Great food, cool place, nice patio.

Great biscuits and gravy (one of the best I’ve ever had) lo op and really good chicken sandwiches. I’m not much for smoked food so won’t comment on the BBQ but great place. Very nice staff and just a nice chill place with authentic vibes.

What a pleasant stop today at Lou’s Luncheonette, I ordered the deviled eggs for an appetizer and the 1/2 fried chicken for lunch. It was terrific. The potato salad was really good and the biscuit was as good as I have ever had.

Scrumdiddlyumptious! I've had this place on my must-try list for a while, and I finally got the perfect opportunity to check it out. I had only one Sonoma winery tour scheduled for 3:00 pm, so I made my way up from the city and arrived around 1:30 pm for a slightly late lunch. It was still a bit busy at this time, but despite the crowd, the service was friendly and fast. If you love Southern food and aren't afraid of mayonnaise, this place is for you. For the classics - their potato salad, hushpuppies, and deviled eggs were all perfect. While I thought the fried chicken could have been made with better quality meat, the biscuit and fixins were absolutely divine. I probably wouldn't order the chicken again, but I'd definitely return for everything else. I'll be sure to order extra biscuits next time. The food and service were great, and the ambiance was really nice too. The interior is itty bitty, but they have a sizable outdoor patio, complete with umbrellas, a huge mural, and even few Tonka trucks. It seemed super kid/pet-friendly overall. There were several dogs on the patio, each with their own water bowl. This is a perfect spot to bring the whole family to relax and enjoy warmer weather days.

Open 4 days a week, Lou's offers some of the best fried chicken, smashed burgers, along with a delicious herb egg salad sandwich. Staff is knowledgeable and courteous. Orders are taken at the counter with a number given. Your called for pickup to dine in an outside area. It was interesting that the chef was taking the temperature of every piece of chicken to ensure it was cooked to perfection. The self-service approach works well as the food comes out hot. Counter space is limited, looking forward to bringing a larger group.

This place gets five stars for great food and great nostalgia. This is a fantastic roadside food shack with an elevated twist on a classic menu. Yes, you can get burgers and fries. But you can also get a fried oyster sandwich on a buttered roll or a heap of homemade pimento cheese served with picked and celery. The fried shrimp roll that I ordered was delicious and the red sauce wasn't very spicy. It wasn't huge, so I'm glad I ordered the pimento cheese snack platter as a side.

We met another family for lunch here and got chicken sandwiches, hamburgers, coleslaw, fries and lemonade! Everything was delicious and it was perfect for the kiddos, because there is ping-pong, trucks and goats, oh-my! You put your order in at the counter and then they give you a little ring-a-ding, which will, you guessed it, ring when your order is ready! The place is kept clean and orderly, and service is fast even when it's busy! There are a few tables inside, but since we had a big group we sat outside. Lots of seating outside! We will be here again for sure!

Fantastic lunch spot! We stopped for some lunch on the way to some wineries. Hubby and I split the Big Lou Burger and some fries - lots of food and we couldn't even finish the fries. The burger is a double smash burger - came out hot and fresh. The fries were well seasoned and crispy. Highly recommend!

Delicious food. Huge servings. If you sit outside there are some flies but it's outdoors so just part of the ambiance. Beautiful views.

Lou's is a no frills place that serves delicious food. The cheeseburger was one of the best burgers I've had in awhile. It was perfectly seared, topped with melted cheese, sauce and onions. The fried chicken sandwich was just okay, kinda dry. Definitely a fan that they use potato rolls. They have limited seating inside and picnic tables outside. Great place to stop for lunch while out wine tasting in Sonoma!

Every time we come to Sonoma we stop here. It's just outside of town, oozing with charm and nestled in between vineyards and baby goats (at least it was on a recent friday in July). Although it's called a Luncheonette (and in my mind, I still call it the Fremont Diner as it used to be named), I feel like it's the perfect brunch spot. They have biscuits that would do a southern grandma proud. I get the ham biscuit that comes sweet and sour with mustard and jam (sounds like an unorthodox combo but hold your judgement until you try it). They have waffles, fried chicken, a rotating selection of old timey desserts, eggs, salads, sandwiches. Comfort food, simple but delicious. You should sit outside if you can, although there are a few inside tables. Play ping pong while you wait for your order to come up at the window, chat with the goats, put your phone away and gaze into the rolling, grapevine filled hills in the distance.

Simply the best chicken fried steak in the area. The chicken fried steak has a crust like fried chicken, exactly the way I like it, and so yummy!

Finally tried here this weekend. I LOVED the ambiance and decor. The outside is dog friendly and child friendly- they even have toy trucks and dog bowls for your child/dog. The butter that came with the biscuits was DELICIOUS and the hush puppies were great. The burgers/tenders were good, although a bit basic. Very good!

The amount of time that I have been saying that I want to try this place and dont actually come is insane. I was finally in the area and decided that this was the day. To order, you stand in line and order at the counter. They have menus to look over just in case you arent too sure on what to order. After you order you are given a buzzer and you find somewhere to have a seat, we decided to sit outside since it was a beautiful day and they had picnic tables with umbrellas for shade. We ordered the hush puppies, a burger and a chicken tender basket. Portions were great on everything except the burger. It came out child size and with a TOWER of fries. The hush puppies were dry and no real jalapeño favor to them. I wasnt too impressed with the food especially with all the fame the local people have given it, but I would try it another time because it might have been their off day. Btw: everything is "do it yourself" so help yourself to napkins, condiments, togo containers and the water station. And dont forget to bus your own table afterwards.

This place is a nice hidden gem. Has a lot of breakfast brunch and lunch option. Order at the counter and find an outdoor seat. They'll bring the food to you. It's super casual yet comfy. They have items like chicken and waffles, grits, double Patty burger, kale salad, fries, and more. I wanted to try the dessert but was so full. The food can be pretty heavy- I was stuffed for hours. Tour buses even make a stop here- and great choice as it's quick and easy. Def stop by and get some shade or sunshine!

We stopped by Lou's on the way to play pickleball at Cassidy Ranch... prices were so reasonable and food was tasty. I ordered on the app, it was test when we got there and we were still on time to our appointment. I'm so happy that places like this still exist! I had the BLT and potato salad my friend had a smash burger and fries our bill was under $30. You can't beat it!!

Probably the one of the best fried chicken sandwich. We went for lunch I ordered the classic fried chicken sandwich and fries. We were eating the outside in a great area with bench tables , they even have a ping pong table. Service was fast and friendly. I think my sandwich and fries was about $15.99 What a great location too.

Consistently excellent food and service. Good portions for the price. Comfortable atmosphere that promotes digging into a good conversation with friends over breakfast and coffee, or lunch. Chicken and waffles, bacon and eggs and home fries with a biscuit, or a BLT - all delicious. Honestly, I am not here nearly often enough. I need to make more breakfast plans with friends. 2025 goals.

Yum Nashville chicken had some real spice and was delicious. Great service. Casual. Good prices for the area. We'll be back

This place is so cute! It's a roadside diner off one of the small Sonoma hwys. The menu is elevated though with good quality ingredients and the menu has the typical diner fare but better tasting. You stand in line for the counter ordering service and then you grab a seat with your number. I got the single burger, and my daughter had the chicken tenders. I also ordered the hush puppies to try out. Everything was really tasty and felt a little gourmet with how the food was better than the usual greasy diner style. Hoping to go back there again one day to enjoy the breakfast.

My partner and I were reminiscing about Fremont diner while we were in the area this past weekend and decided to give Lou's Luncheonette a shot. We were on our way back from the city so ordered takeout: two Nashville fried chicken plates with Mac & cheese and a basket of biscuits. The Nashville chicken was super spicy and had a ton of seasoning, definitely reminded me of the Fremont diner days. The chicken was super juicy and flavorful on the inside and super spicy and crispy on the outside. I don't care that much for mac & cheese but this version was delicious. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area. Would definitely stop by again if we're in Napa/Sonoma.

Goodness gracious, how have you redeemed yourself Lou's! Amazing, delicious and comforting food! I enjoyed every single bite! I had to take back to work, but man would I have loved to have eaten on-site. I ordered the two-burn with a side of slaw. Such a different take to the coleslaw! Very flavorful fried chicken! Such a great atmosphere, and customer service by the staff! I would LOVE to come back again!

Those who've been going to wine country for quite sometime might be familiar with Roadside drive-ins. I have fond memories of one I used to go to, before it became EXCEPTIONALLY fancy and started opening up chains. Lou's gets back to the original appeal. Lou's is a cute, literal roadside stand with ample outdoor seating and a menu that features simple dishes done very well. The catfish sandwich has the perfect crunch, with just enough heat in the sauce to bring out the sweetness of the catfish. Oh, and the collard greens! You want to get the collard greens, in all their slightly vinegar, bacony, bit of sauteed oniony joy. They're done perfectly with just enough crunch to balance the catfish. The menu also features trusty regulars like burgers, dogs, and steaks if you like. There's also a wine and beer selection, because you're in Sonoma, and yeah, of course there is. Seating is ample, clean and well laid out. Service is prompt an friendly. Seriously, if you're in town or passing by, it's absolutely worth a stop.

Lou's Luncheonette delivers a laid-back dining experience where you order at the counter and have the option of enjoying your meal at their cozy outdoor seating. The fried chicken is a standout, crispy perfection that satisfies the soul. While I missed out on cornbread last Saturday coz they didn't have it, the honey butter paired seamlessly with the biscuits, a savory delight. The shrimp po boy stole the show with its portion of small succulent shrimp, and the onion rings were a crispy, flavorful addition. Lou's strikes a balance between comfort and culinary excellence, making it a solid choice for a casual yet delicious meal. With good food and a relaxed vibe, it's worth a visit, even if the cornbread isn't always on the menu. Can't wait to explore more of their offerings on my next visit!

New menu no bueno. Bring back bone in Nashville chicken with spice level options. Also no brisket for lunch and way too strict breakfast cut off time. Used to be a staple. Go back to old ways. UPDATE:Touché Lou's. Spice levels are here to stay. Get the chicken tenders. Ask for Nashville style and select your spice level. Biscuits and honey butter a must.

After having a morning wine tasting in Napa, we stopped off Highway 12 for a quick lunch at Lou's Luncheonette. After ordering from the window, we got our number and were given a choice of seating indoors out outside. With it being a warm day, we sat outside on their patio that had table tennis and toy trucks for kids. Lou's big salad with added grilled chicken was extremely fresh and refreshing. With homemade ranch, the freshly cut dill was fragrant and added depth to the already delicious salad. Highly recommend adding chicken if you want some added protein as it was juicy and full of flavor. The fried shrimp po' boy was fantastic, loaded with crispy fried shrimp and fresh veggies. The bread was warm and fluffy with a great crust that held together throughout the meal. The remoulade had a slight spicy and tangy flavor which gave the authentic Cajun style that I enjoyed. The daily special was the cornbread which was cooked in a cast iron pan to create a crispy crust. Although the inside was a bit dry, the honey butter was amazing and gave the cornbread a moist texture that made me leave no crumbs behind.

Wow. Went wine tasting at Jacuzzi which is about 3 miles away and wanted to find a place close by rather than deal with traffic and parking somewhere like downtown Napa. Happened upon this spot while searching Yelp and what a happy find it turned out to be! Feel guilty about buying three bottles of wine when you haven't even touched the wine you bought wine tasting a few months ago? No problem! Come get a super reasonably priced sandwich to lessen that guilt! I had the shrimp po'boy, one friend had the catfish po'boy, another had the shrimp basket, and another had the fried chicken sandwich. We all had hush puppies and it was five stars across the board for EVERYTHING. I was elated since I was the one who picked the spot sight unseen so thanks, Yelpers! I cannot wait to go back!

A must stop in Sonoma! We first tried Lou's a couple of years ago when we were staying in Sonoma and this time made the quick drive over from Napa and a morning of wine tasting to grab Lou's for lunch. The line was fairly long when we arrived but we didn't let it deter us and waited for about 15 min to get our order in. The inside seating area is a bit small but most people elect to sit outdoors. Ordering takes some time as they only had one cashier (and plenty of people were buying merch as well as food) but trust me, it's worth the wait! We ended up getting a half chicken plate, the Nashville hot chicken sandwich, and a honey butter chicken biscuit to share between the 2 of us. Of course we ordered too much food for 2 people but everything was delicious! Loved the hot chicken sandwich and chicken biscuit which was actually bigger than expected. The fried chicken was super tender and juicy and we loved the collard greens and cole slaw sides. The cole slaw is vinegar-based which helps cut through the oilness of the fried chicken and adds a refreshing bite. Would definitely recommend this spot to anyone visiting wine country!

This placed used to be better (when it was Fremont Diner?) Nothing absurdly wrong, just nothing great any more. Fried chicken sandwich was dry. Catfish poboy was floppy. The deviled eggs were good. Most off was the waffle, which came with this maple syrup, which had clearly been majorly diluted with water. And they came back to replace it with a little tub of honey (?!??! What?)

My mom and I used to come here when it was Fremont Diner, and I'm pleased with the new evolution. My partner and I came here to enjoy some tasty foods. We lost track of time and arrived a little before 3. We didn't realize they closed around this time. Staff were patient and kind. The space looks familiar, but I'm sure it's changed a bit. We ordered a fried food fest: chicken biscuit #2, the two burn, and hush puppies. They had a beer selection that pleased my partner and I ended up with the rosé. The food took less than 10 minutes to come out. The food was delicious and left us pleasantly stuffed. My first bite was of the two burn and it was nice and crunchy. The flavors were tasty, but I wouldn't say it was hot. Maybe a bit from the jalapeños? I personally think it could have used more slaw, but what was there was delish. What stood out about this sammie was that it stayed together. It was pretty easy to eat, considering it size. Next I had a hush puppy with the tartar sauce. It was crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Really nicely done. I then had some of chicken biscuit #2 and I really enjoyed it. The biscuit was tender/soft/crumbly, a nice foil to the fried chicken. I also liked the pimento cheese--all the flavors together were quite pleasing. Part way through the meal, a staff person came by and offered us leftover biscuits on-the-house. I felt awful to be rewarded for my tardy arrival, and I happily received them. We had them for breakfast the next morning with butter and honey. Omg. So good. It was nice returning to a familiar spot and I look forward to my next visit.

Omg I wish I took a photo of the delicious food we were served but the double Lou's and the shrimp basket were so yummy. Can't wait to go back for more.

The chicken fried steak was fresh and delicious. and the biscuit was just as yummy... with homemade strawberry jam! Super friendly staff and food arrived within 10 minutes.

I first started coming here for lunch when it was known as Fremont Diner. The menu may have slimmed down but the food is still solid. We had more than enough with a couple trays worth of deviled eggs, fried chicken, biscuits and a really great burger. The soft burger bun and the smashed cheese burger patty became my favorite! It's still very family friendly. Order at the counter and pick up your food to eat at one of their big picnic tables outside. The tables are enclosed making it a safe space and they have toy construction trucks for kids to play with.

Lou's Luncheonette is hands down my favorite place for chicken sandwiches. Been here twice and both times I loved the way they cooked their chicken. The crunch of the bite, the savory flavor of crispy layer, the tenderness of the meat, and toasted bun is what won me over. This place really mastered the chicken sandwich. They have a wide selection of alcohol so feel free to explore their local beers along with your meal. They have indoor and outdoor seating along with an outdoor ping pong table. It does get windy occasionally though, so napkins will fly or dust into your food when a car is passing to park to leave. Be wise with where you sit if it gets windy. Plenty of parking though.

I have been here a couple of times, and it has always been very good. The setting is super cute and convenient. The outside has a beautiful background of the vineyards. There is plenty of things for your kids to play with and entertain themselves with while you eat. Each table has sanitizer wipes to clean up before you eat or after which I really liked. We got the chicken and waffles one spicy and one not, breakfast special, and the smoked brisket hash. All were so so good. I will defiantly be coming back.

Everything here is amazing, and my favorite thing is their fried chicken sandwich. I tried a classic chicken sandwich Nashville style and subbed spicy mayo, and I am not exaggerating when I say it was probably the best spicy chicken sandwich I've ever had. Perfect and so delicious - everything from the flavor of the breading/batter to the bun and the mayo. Just a really well done sandwich and their fries and lemonade are also amazing. Probably the best fries in Sonoma and some of the best fries I've actually had anywhere, they are so good. Seriously everything they do at Lou's is nothing short of fantastic. Love this place and it's really worth a stop if you're visiting from out of town or even just passing through - don't miss this really cool and unique diner.

Never had anything that wasn't delicious here. Oyster Poboy is very good. Setting is beautiful and people creating the dishes are thoughtful

I had heard so much about the chicken & waffles here & just needed to try them for myself -- I was not disappointed & am now addicted to their chicken & waffles! The portions are so generous & prices are very reasonable. It's such a great spot to stop for some breakfast/brunch. Can't wait to come back, I need to try their biscuits & gravy next!

Epic fried chicken sandwich, clean bathrooms, large outside space with goats is fun, plenty of parking!

We've been at this location during each change (fremont diner, boxcar chicken) and the one consistent outstanding item is the fried chicken, especially if you get the louisiana style. This time someone at our table ordered eggs benedict and we had a disagreement...I said why are you ordering that at a place like this, and my dear friend said if its on the menu, it should be good. Hmm. The eggs benedict was not good (eggs were runny etc), and the potatoes next to it were 'bland and flavorless', however the coffee, chicken biscuit, chicken and waffle, and basket of biscuits with honey butter were outstanding so be warned. Our chicken was boneless breast (juicy and crispy) but I think it will be on the bone for the lunch part of the menu. You order at the register, pay and take a number to your table, and the food comes out lickity split. There are self service free refills on coffee at a little dresser by the entrance to the counter seating, where you may also help yourself to water and various hot sauces. A bit chilly even at the inside tables but we expected it to be rustic as usual so not really a problem. We will definitely go back for more louisiana chicken.

A great breakfast & lunch spot in Sonoma/Napa. You can enjoy your food with beautiful views of the wineries. I love the City Lou Burger, it is such a classic & nostalgic burger! The Classic Chicken Sandwich is also one of my favorite chicken sandwiches! Everything is so fresh and the staff are always so helpful and sweet!

Such a gem!! So glad we stumbled upon this spot. Would definitely be back again. Their biscuits were so buttery and fluffy. What we ordered: Filet o fish Tenders basket Chicken biscuit #1

Stopped for quick lunch! Very good diner food - we got the burger, fries and loaded nachos. It was all very filling and also got a milkshake as well! It's self seat and it wasn't too busy when we first got there but there was a long line when we left

Best food spot in town!! Great after wine tasting at some of the spots outside of the downtown. (Ie Donum, domaine carneros etc. Inside is super small, so if it's cold outside either dress appropriately or eat in the car. There's no heaters or wall for the outside seating so if it's windy....they do have a couple umbrellas out though. Tons of beverage options from coffee to wine beer etc. We've only explored the chicken biscuit section of the menu. Best meal under $8 if you can believe that. And you won't have too much food (for room for wine later). Spot is an order at the counter and if your outside pick up at the counter. Casual. Water is self serve.

Super cute dinner on a very busy street. We stayed nearby and walked over each morning for breakfast/lunch. We enjoyed their grits, fried chicken & waffles, hard boiled eggs (so yummmyyyy!!) and cheese burgers. Everything tasty. Small section to sit inside. Outside has a ton of benches and room for large groups/families.

Charming, Yummy, Fun !! Don't wait to get to Napa to eat. (but do call for the latest hours ).

Stopped into Lou's while we were waiting for our next wine tasting. Ordered the chicken sandwich and fries. The wait time was a bit longer than anticipated between the line and after ordering given that we went during the lunch rush so budget for that. It was a hearty chicken sandwich but in my opinion was a bit greasy so not my favorite.

We have driven past this place a thousand times and it was finally open! Great outdoor seating, if busy takes a while for your food, portions are huge but good. Only negative is we ordered peach pie to go and got a cup of uncooked peaches with granola and custard. Pretty terrible.

Awesome little shanty on the side of the road. You've definitely got to try the egg salad sandwich it's amazing. I did have the deviled eggs and Jesus I lost my taste buds for a sec. Way too much salt for my liking. But the sandwich was great.

What looks like an unassuming road side diner is actually a culinary delight! During several of our last trips to Napa, Lou's had been a reoccurring recommendation from locals and we finally got to stop in for lunch. Counter service is the name of the game at Lou's. Breakfast is served until 11AM, with lunch after that. Lou's offers a solid selection of beers and wines as well as their awesome food. I ordered the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich with a side of cheesy grits. The chicken was warm enough to make you sweat, but didn't make you feel like you were going to instantly combust. It was topped with a creamy slaw and the chicken was wonderfully juicy. The cheesy grits were everything you would want them to be. Comfort food in a cup! We sat outside in a cute courtyard adorned with a California mural, but inside seating was available. Do yourself and don't pass by Lou's.

Pleasurable, made-to-order food. I ordered fried chicken and it came with biscuit, collards, and slaw which were divine! My table ordered lots of different items that all looked amazing. Casual, lots of seating both in and out door. Line looks long when you're driving by, but moves quickly. An awesome lunch spot and good for groups and families if you're in Sonoma and don't want to spend not too much.

Nice spot. Great outdoor space. Good fried chicken biscuits of various kinds. Solid collard greens. Good hush puppies. You could do a lot worse. It's also pretty close to sonoma raceway if you're there for a track day.