Southern California’s Favorite Since 1946

John Foley Clearman wanted to open a restaurant where his friends and family would enjoy good times and great meals.

Born in 1906 in New York City and being raised in Coronado, California, John enjoyed all things creative and graduated from Yale in 1929 with a degree in theater. After spending several years on the road with traveling productions, he once was quoted saying “A good restaurant has a longer run than a good play.” He abruptly changed his career to reinvent himself as a restaurant owner.

At the age of 40 he opened his first restaurant, the Steak ‘n Stein Inn in 1946, a robust establishment with a California-Mediterranean style. Complete with a fireplace lounge called the Circle Room, the Pico Rivera restaurant was a hit. Over time he opened a few more restaurants across Southern California.

Drawing on the success of each restaurant he opened, John’s vision of a woodsy atmosphere of a snow-topped hunting lodge, used high drama and imagination to inspire North Woods Inn. Complete with authentic animal trophies and antiques, he wanted to add festiveness to the traditional steakhouse and in 1958 he opened his first North Woods Inn in Monrovia. He was so satisfied with this restaurant that when the 210 freeway construction started a few years later, he had the whole building painstakingly moved out of the way, log by log to its present location on Rosemead Boulevard in San Gabriel and created Clearman’s Village.

Eventually, two more North Woods Inn restaurants and Clearman’s Galley “The Boat” were added to the Clearman’s family of restaurants. All North Woods Inn locations, the Galley and the original Steak ‘n’ Stein are now run by the Clearman’s Trust.

John Clearman’s first restaurant, the Steak ‘n Stein Inn has withstood the test of time. Originally built with a clean traditional look, over time Clearman pushed the interior design to create an atmosphere of glamour and luxury. Introducing Tiffany lamps, classic paintings and red upholstered chairs, The Steak ‘n Stein Inn pushed a meal to be an experience. Today we offer more than just fine dining—there’s a mystique that adds a layer of intrigue to every meal. With whispers of the restaurant being haunted, the dim lighting and timeless decor create an aura of mystery that transports you to another era. Every visit feels like a journey into the unknown, where rich history and elegant dining intertwine, making each experience both captivating and unforgettable.

Warm in the winter and a cool retreat in the summer, the environment is ‘log cabin
timeless’ with an interior just as unique as the exterior. Diners enjoy the beautiful leaded glass windows, antique chandeliers, and old-time paintings. Each restaurant was designed by architect Robert Frank Duff to look like 19th-century Alaskan hunting lodges, with raw, rounded, interlocking logs complete with faux snow-covered roofs and dangling “icicles.” Like the restaurants before them, Clearman’s North Woods Inn all comes down to showmanship. We celebrate the nostalgia of bringing your family back year after year. Our comforting, homey flavors are designed to remind you of cherished moments shared around the table. Each visit feels like coming home, where traditions continue and new memories are made with every meal.

From the rustic decor to the hearty, flavorful dishes, every detail is designed to capture the essence of a true cabin getaway. Each time you visit, we bring the relaxed, welcoming vibes of your favorite retreat, making every meal feel like a special occasion. It’s more than just dining—it’s an experience that transports you to a place of comfort and connection with nature, right here in our cozy space.

We’ve designed a space that wraps you in the rustic charm of a cozy cabin retreat. With our moody, warm ambiance and log cabin vibes, you’ll feel instantly transported to a serene escape. Whether you’re unwinding by the fire or enjoying a hearty meal, our goal is to offer a sense of comfort that feels like a second home.

We believe quality should be at the heart of every dish. Our menu is crafted so you can enjoy rich flavors and create memorable moments. Whether for a family gathering or a great meal, every bite reflects our commitment to excellence.

Clearman’s Galley – ‘The Boat’ – started out as a mail-service vessel serving ports between San Francisco and Alaska. In 1968, John Clearman bought it, rechristened it Clearman’s Galley and permanently anchored it on Huntington Drive in San Gabriel to become a hamburger stand. The Galley soon sailed into the hearts of generations of food lovers who called it “The Boat.” The distinctive red-and-white hulled boat became an architectural landmark. The original hamburger stand expanded with a patio, indoor seating, and big-screen TVs for sports night fun for all ages. After going through major renovations in 2008, The Boat continues to be the heart of family gatherings. We’ve crafted an environment that treats you like family because we believe in making you feel at home. Our goal is to ensure you’re comfortable and enjoying food that not only satisfies but also makes you feel great. Join us to experience hospitality that goes beyond just a meal—it’s a warm embrace of culinary delight and comfort.

We’re dedicated to providing top-notch service so you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying time with friends, family, great food, and the game. Let us handle everything else while you relax and savor the moment. At our restaurant, your experience comes first, ensuring that every visit is one to remember.

At our restaurant, we offer a warm, friendly atmosphere that brings back the nostalgia of the good ol’ days. From the moment you walk in, we aim to rekindle the charm and comfort of simpler times, where good food and great company came first. Come relive those cherished memories with us, where every meal feels like a trip back to the moments that made you smile.

We’re committed to giving you the ultimate game day experience, where the food is delicious, the drinks are always flowing, and every seat has a perfect view of the game. With TVs everywhere you look, you won’t miss a single play. Come for the action, stay for the unbeatable atmosphere and great company!