Esparza Family Restaurant

Good service price and food, I really liked the Esparza fries

We recently stopped by Esparza Family Restaurant on Main Street in Trona during a morning drive between LA and Death Valley and had a pretty good early lunch. Opening ours are 5.30am to 7.30pm (Mon-Sat) and 5.30am to 2pm (Sundays).

Interestingly, this is a historic cinema from the 1950s that has been converted to a small family dinner where you can order a range of traditional American diner and Mexican food orders that are reasonably priced. You'll find pictures on the wall and a bit about the local history of the building if interested.

During our visit we tried a burger and fries that was ok. Not the best burger you're going to find but not bad either. More impressive was the Enchilada style burrito topped with red sauce. This was a huge serving size and tasted very good. The carne asado and other fillings were flavourful and the sauce quite tasty.

Only a handful of tables available. However, we were the only visitors at the time of our visit so unsure if there is ever a time when it is difficult to find seating here. Service was very friendly and food was served rather quickly, allowing us to finish up and get back on the road in no more than 30 minutes.

Overall, we'd probably stick with the Mexican food orders next time. However, on the whole, we liked this place and would gladly return for another meal here if passing through Trona and in need of a meal stop.

I first visited Esparza on assignment for Visit California and the Adventure Travel Trade Association in 2017. After moving to California to live, I had to go all the way to Trona for my birthday this year to have their tacos again and this time try their fried ice cream. (Which was amazing as well!) This is a true treasure and exactly the kind of family establishment that I love giving my hard earned money to. I only wish I lived closer!! It's a must stop if you're anywhere near the town of Trona. You should even drive out of the way for it - you won't be disappointed.

Nice restaurant .. cooperative and friendly staff .. they are continuously improving .. providing variety of food.

This little family run place is quite the surprise. Built from the former town theater, Esparza is a bright spot in a very barren place. Who knew? They have a pretty large menu and a fairly small seating area, but but there’s only about 17 people in the entire town so 2-3 would have to sit outside.

On the outskirts of Death Valley, this is a welcome break in an otherwise bleak drive. If you missed lunch on your way to Death Valley, or you’re on your way back, this is a surprisingly good eatery in an interesting little town.