Andersen's Split Pea Soup Restaurant, Santa Nella

Driving through the heart of the Central Valley from Sacramento to Bakersfield, one will notice an abundance of flat, green farmland. After all, the area has a reputation for being one of the world’s most productive agricultural regions. Interstate 5 becomes a two-lane byway, filled with trucks and farming vehicles, and for that stretch it’s notoriously short on worthwhile stops and attractions.

Andersen’s in Santa Nella, one of the few notable stops, is marked by a tall brown windmill that can be seen from the I-5. Located about 60 miles south of Stockton, it’s the home of the world famous “all natural” split pea soup. Just like the original location in Buellton, it is a welcoming place for travelers looking to eat, relax, take pictures and buy souvenirs.

You can enjoy their Traveler’s Special, a bowl of all-you-can-eat split pea soup with onion cheese rolls or Danish pumpernickel bread and your choice milkshake, coffee, tea or soft drink for $8.50.