It’s a Sunday afternoon when the spring air is filled with perfume, and blossoms are carried by the wind–a delight. It’s the perfect day to drive with the windows down and to fully immerse yourself in its wonder. Whether you’re coming or going from a hike at Anderson Marsh, gliding through the peaceful waters of Cache Creek in the morning on a kayak, wine tasting at scenic Wild Diamond Vineyard, or experiencing the quiet escape of Six Sigma Ranch and Winery, it’s always a good idea to begin or end one’s day at the Old Mill Restaurant on Main Street in Lower Lake.
For me, it happened a bit like this: I had just finished a lovely stroll at Anderson Marsh and was feeling a bit peckish. So I made my way to downtown Lower Lake, excited for a first visit to The Old Mill Restaurant, a locals’ favorite. Church had recently ended at Lower Lake United Methodist–my eyes glanced at a couple of church ladies dressed in their Sunday finest, enjoying a post-church smoke.
Two people stepped out of a red pick-up truck parked beside me and greeted a family emerging from a car parked across the street. A young couple dressed in jeans, boots, and western shirts, carrying a toddler, hugged what were clearly their parents and the child’s grandparents. A warm conversation followed as I walked past them down the sidewalk and along the brightly painted building with a high-hanging sign that read, “The Old Mill Restaurant.”
Inside, the warm red walls contrasted nicely with the cream-tiled floors. Everything looked fresh and clean, and a feeling of “come on in and make yourself at home” filled the room. One patron was just finishing up his meal at the bar, sitting on a stool as comfortably as if in a corner saloon.
I made my way to a back booth. Firm seats, fresh flowers in an old wine bottle now turned into a vase, and a smiling face greeting me completed my welcome experience. The family that arrived at the same time I did settled themselves at the booth across the dining room. Their happy chatter and smiling faces filled the restaurant with that perfect Sunday afternoon feeling—a pinch of holiday cheer and a celebration of togetherness.
My mind slowly came back to the matter at hand: Breakfast or lunch? I decided to have a bit of both! Classic hot-off-the-grill choices and some traditional Mexican breakfast options piqued my interest. I started with a generous serving of hot, smooth, fresh coffee, which hit the spot. It paired rather well with my three mini breakfast burritos stuffed with potatoes, ham, eggs, and a bit of cheese. The burritos were served with a side of salsa verde, which gave every bite the perfect kick. I smiled, thinking of how much my kids would have loved this meal when they were younger. But the winner in this choice was the warm flour tortilla fresh from La Unica. Its chewy softness promised that whatever fills it will taste that much better.
And my second choice? The name is in the burger! For lunch, give the Old Mill burger a try. A cooked-to-order seasoned patty accompanied by grilled onion, pineapple, and ham, topped with fresh lettuce and tomato, is a great start for sure. But add their secret cheese sauce, and this burger is off-the-hook delicious! And choose your side of house-made potato salad, macaroni, coleslaw, green salad, or fruit cup. For a more traditional choice, pick a side of onion rings and fries.
By the end of the meal, I knew I’d be back to try other things. And a gut feeling tells me their daily specials shouldn’t be overlooked among the standard menu selections.
And because this meal was a bit of breakfast with a side of lunch, I couldn’t help but indulge in a taste of their homemade flan. I promised myself just a taste for the review. Well, one small taste turned into finishing the dessert. Here is how I describe the perfect flan: it must be rich, yet light and smooth all the way through. It must have the right firmness to hold its form, yet be delicate with the glide of the spoon. It can’t be overly sweetened with too much or too little caramel glaze. My friends, this is one of the finest flan desserts I have encountered. It not only met the criteria but surpassed my every expectation. Whether you visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, please treat yourself to dessert!
With not one, but two to-go boxes, my week was already off to a great start! I made my way out to the unusually quiet main street. There was no rush to go anywhere, it was a Sunday after all, I reminded myself as I settled into my car. I drove away with a new scene: Mom and Dad hugging their son while holding their grandson in their arms. The daughter-in-law came in for a group hug and kisses all around. It’s just that kind of place, I think softly. It’s where you go to eat with the family, neighbors gather, and you always take a bit of home with you on your way after being there.
I’ll be back, Old Mill. I’ll be back. Many thanks!
The Old Mill Restaurant
16250 Main St, Lower Lake, CA 95457
(707) 995-9500
