Anton and Juliette Andersen started this goldmine restaurant in 1924. This restaurant has been a
Buellton landmark ever since. The Danish couple bought land in the Golden State and used their culinary experiences in both Denmark and New York to start this iconic eatery.
Formerly, Andersen’s Electric Café, this spot serves Pea Soup, Danish eats, and all-American
sandwiches. Located right off the freeway, this is the perfect stop for a re-fuel when traveling.
Now here’s a little history for you…
During World War II, the restaurant closed to the public so it could house military members stationed
locally. Rooms and food were provided for free to the service members and their families. For those of
you that don’t know, there is a motel next door to the restaurant.
After the war, the restaurant opened back up and people were flocking to get another taste of Mrs.
Andersen’s Split Pea Soup. The place became so popular that Mr. Andersen hired a Disney artist to draw the two cartoon chefs that we see advertised still today: Hap-Pea and Pea-Wee.
In 1965, the Andersen’s decided they needed a break and sold the business to Vince Evans. Vince
expanded on the booming business, and it began to thrive even more than it already was. At one point
there was a bar, a children’s train ride, and a wild animal park! In 1976, Vince opened a second location in Santa Nella. Sadly, in 1980, Vince and his family were killed in a plane crash outside of Santa Ynez.
Since the Evans family’s passing, there have been multiple owners, however since 2007, both locations
have been owned by the same person, Milt Guggia. Milt remembers enjoying this place as a child, and
wanted to make sure that the Andersen legacy was carried on.
We encourage you to taste Andersens for yourself! Stop in, taste the tradition, and leave with the recipe book so you can continue it within your own home!
Until the next blog, peas out,
TnT