Whether you want a burger, sausage omelet or Chinese buffet, it’s here

Lodi is not only good wine country, but the ideal spot for weary travelers seeking sustenance. From breakfast to dinner, Lodi offers something for even the finickiest of feasters.

Aside from the roadside staples — McDonald’s, Burger King, even In and Out — there are hundreds of small, independently owned eateries catering to all tastes and all budgets. Some are eclectic, some are lavish, but all will be sure to keep you coming back for more.

Just feast your eyes on this:

Best-dressed breakfasts: Conveniently located in downtown Lodi, the breakfast menu at California Street Cafe (322 N. California St.) features everything from Hawaiian pineapple and ham omelets to blueberry pancakes and breakfast burritos.

Best dining for carb counters: Denis’ Country Kitchen (1327 Lockeford St.) not only offers down-home vittles like country-fried steak and biscuits and gravy, but caters to the carb conscious with a separate menu approved for Atkins’ dieters.

Best Lodi locals’ hang-out spot: Village Coffee Shop (416 W. Lodi Ave.) could be an ideal place to grab a quick donut and sling the hash with Lodi locals, or be treated to the very best in American diner delights.

Best brew pub: Lodi Beer Company, 105 S. School St., gives Lodi visitors a peek at the beer brewing process from beginning to end. But the best part, according to some locals, is getting to taste the final outcome. The menu includes standard pub fare, such as fish and chips, burgers and all things beer batter-able.

Best authentic Mexican food for travelers on a budget: Mar y Tierra (Translation: Sea and Land) at the corner of South Central Avenue and Eden Street offers reasonably priced Mexican fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For example, quesadillas loaded with a choice of meat, beans, lettuce, tomato, guacamole and cheese come with rice and beans on the side for only $2.49.

Best fine dining and seafood: For anyone interested in a night on the town, the Back Bay Restaurant (100 N. Cherokee Lane.) might be a good choice. A fine dining menu features a wide seafood selection, from swordfish to sautéed scallops, as well as filet Mignon and lobster tail. Wine lists are also available.

Best themed restaurant: Gaze at the stars at Movie City Grill and Bar (27 W. Elm St.), which offers lunch and dinner favorites with a Hollywood twist. Grab a burger under a replica of the Tyrannosaurus Rex featured in the movie “Jurassic Park” or partake in some family fun in the Wild West movie section.

Best burgers and fries: Moo Moo’s Burger Barn (113 N. School St.) redefines the concept of this American classic, serving treats like the Chili Moo, which pairs a patty with gooey chili and cheese, and the sweet and sour pineapple burger — the Hula Moo. Sides include batter-dipped fries, sweet potato fries and fresh onion rings.

Chocoholic’s paradise: Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory (115 School St., Suite 4) turns cocoa into culinary confections that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Owners offer various chocolate dipped fruits, such as strawberries and bananas, as well as truffles and toffees, caramels and clusters.

A-OK Chinese buffet: China King Buffet (420 E. Kettleman Lane.) offers aisles of Chinese favorites, including all the soups and sauces. Also available are some American favorites, like onion rings, chicken and a salad bar. You won’t walk away hungry.

Pizza perfection: For a slice that’s nice, try Rick’s New York Style Pizza (1320 Ham Lane in the Lakewood Mall). For thin and crispy crust lovers, this pizza comes with generous toppings. Rick’s is also a good place to hang out, catch a game on TV or play video games. The restaurant is large enough to accommodate larger parties.

Where’s the beef?: At Woodbridge Inn Steakhouse (18878 N. Lower Sacramento Rd, Woodbridge) travelers interested in fine dining can take a break from the crowds and eat steak in style. The restaurant also offers fine wines and a full bar. Reservations are recommended.

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