PACHECO VALLEY, CA — Located in Santa Clara County's Pacheco Valley, Casa de Fruta has grown from a 1908 orchard into a well-known roadside destination. The landmark sits along State Route 152 between Monterey and Yosemite, offering a mix of farming history and modern travel services.

The history of the property dates back to the 1790s, when Spanish missionaries recorded a natural spring on the site. This water source later became popular with travelers during the Gold Rush. The modern era began in 1908 when Italian immigrants, the Bisceglia brothers, planted the first orchards in the valley.

The family began selling to the public in 1943. Clara Bisceglia Zanger encouraged her sons—George, Joseph, and Eugene—to open a roadside cherry stand on the Pacheco Pass Highway. The business expanded in 1967, adding a restaurant, a gift shop, a gas station, and a playground with a miniature train.

In 1992, State Route 152 was widened to four lanes, and the original two-lane segment of the road was renamed Casa de Fruta Parkway. Today, the families of Eugene and Joseph Zanger continue to run the various businesses.

Modern Services and Attractions

The site now includes a 24-hour Chevron and diesel station, an RV resort, and a hotel. Visitors can browse specialty food and wine shops, a deli, and a full-service restaurant.

Family-friendly attractions include a carousel and a miniature train known as the Casa de Choo-Choo. For 25 years, the restaurant was home to a famous employee known as the 'Cup Flipper.' He appeared on "Late Night with David Letterman" to show off his skill of spinning coffee cups until they landed upright. Every September and October, the grounds also host the Northern California Renaissance Faire.

Operating Hours and Schedules

Through March 8, 2026, Casa de Fruta is operating on the following seasonal schedule:

  • Fruit Stand: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Monday–Thursday); 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Friday–Sunday).
  • Restaurant: Opens daily at 6:00 a.m.; closes at 8:00 p.m. (Monday–Thursday) and 9:00 p.m. (Friday–Sunday).
  • Wine and Deli: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Monday–Thursday); 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Friday–Sunday). The deli counter closes five minutes before the shop.

On Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, the train and carousel are scheduled for special holiday hours from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Management says the rides close during rain or when the temperature reaches 95 degrees.