Last week we had lunch at The Bank in Old Town Temecula, CA. I’ve lived in our valley for 34 years. Even though I’ve driven and walked by The Bank Mexican Food Restaurant many times, I had never set foot inside let alone eat there. We had a wonderful time and thoroughly enjoyed the food and history of the restaurant, the building, and the original old town of city of Temecula.
Many years ago The bank was actually just that…the town bank. The First National Bank of Temecula to be exact. Under the direction of the Remington Company, construction on The Bank building began in 1913 and took about a year to complete. The first bank robbery that anyone can remember in the history of Riverside County took place at this very bank. Unfortunately for the robber, Miguel “Jerry” Diaz, the bank teller was the daughter of the man that he worked for at the Pauba Ranch. Diaz made his getaway in a yellow Model A Ford coupe with about $2,000. A local rancher, John McSweeney, and the bank cashier, John W. Chisholm, chased Diaz down firing their gun through his windshield before he surrendered.
The original safe is still intact. But instead of providing a safe haven for any cash … it provides a quiet dining area. The food is authentic Mexican fare and is 100% delicious.
Old Town Temecula is simply delightful! There are antique shops nestled in amongst restaurants, gift shops, boutiques, markets that sell local produce, and the local feed store.
Look what we found in Rooster Creek! A Fleur-de-lis gate finial made of cast iron. It looks gorgeous on our living room mantel.
Walking through Old Town Temecula is a bit like stepping back in time.
Throughout Old Town there are plaques with historical information. Like the Old Temecula Jail. Beware of the prisoners though. They may be stuffed dummies … but they startled me!
All of these darling little houses are actually kiosks that I believe are set up to sell different products on the weekends.
It was a beautiful day with an absolutely gorgeous sky! Perfect for enjoying the (huge) chocolate covered strawberries we bought at the Rancho Fruit Market.
Do you love classic cars? The Temecula Rod Run is an awesome annual event.. There are hundreds of classic vehicles from all over the country cruising Old Town Front Street during the famous “Friday Night Cruise”. Get up close and personal at Saturday’s “Show & Shine” where you can get a look under the hoods of the 500 entries this year featuring pre-1970 vehicles.
So next time you’re in Temecula take a walk through Old Town. We only walked the south end this time, so we’ll be going back again soon . Maybe we’ll see you there!
Old Town Temecula is located just west of I-15 between Rancho California Rd and Highway 79.
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