The Best Restaurants in the Lake Tahoe Area
Whether you’re planning a visit or considering a move to the Lake Tahoe/Truckee/Incline Village/South Lake area, one aspect you’ll certainly want to explore is the local dining scene. This region boasts an impressive array of restaurants, ranging from quaint, local diners to upscale dining establishments. After living in the Lake Tahoe area for over 20 years, I have discovered some of the best restaurants that Lake Tahoe has to offer.
Truckee Area Delights
Located on the south side of the tracks in Truckee, Cottonwood Restaurant & Bar is a destination that offers more than just a meal. With a history that dates back to the skiing boom, this eatery is housed in one of the nation’s oldest ski lodges, providing a rustic yet refined dining experience with a view of downtown Truckee. Known for its live music and cozy atmosphere, it’s a place where dinner comes with a side of history.
- Why Dine Here? Historic setting, live music, downtown Truckee views.
- Known For: New American cuisine, historic ambiance.
Old Town Tap
Old Town Tap stands out as a contemporary pizzeria in the heart of Truckee, where classic and modern culinary creations come together. The menu is a celebration of originality, boasting creative cocktails and a selection of craft beer that complements the vibrant flavors of their dishes.
- Why Dine Here? Innovative menu, craft beer, and cocktails.
- Known For: Neapolitan-style pizzeria, contemporary cuisine.
Truckee Tavern & Grill
Truckee Tavern & Grill is a culinary gem in the historic district of Truckee, specializing in wood-fired cuisine that highlights locally sourced produce and meats. The tavern’s cocktail program is equally impressive, featuring fresh herbs, juices, and house-made components that elevate the dining experience.
- Why Dine Here? Wood-fired specialties, local ingredients.
- Known For: Seasonal menu, sophisticated American cuisine.
Craft & Logic Taproom
Craft & Logic Taproom, a high-end tap house located in downtown Truckee, CA, is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts. With a wide selection of craft beers on tap and elevated pub fare made from fresh ingredients, it’s a place where quality and comfort converge.
- Why Dine Here? Extensive craft beer selection, elevated pub fare.
- Known For: High-end tap house experience, fresh ingredient focus.
Rubicon Pizza Co.
Rubicon Pizza Co. is a cornerstone in Northstar Village, right next to the skating rink, offering a family-friendly atmosphere where gourmet pizza is the star. Since 2007, they’ve been serving up delicious pizza, cocktails and draft beer, making it a must-visit for anyone in Truckee.
- Why Dine Here? Gourmet pizza, family-friendly setting.
- Known For: Italian cuisine in a vibrant village location.
Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats
Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats, located in the heart of historic Truckee, is a blend of refined dining and lively atmosphere. With a 4 out of 5 rating on Yelp, Moody’s is known for its sophisticated yet relaxed setting, offering a menu that features modern American cuisine. The restaurant is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, providing an ideal setting for enjoying a meal accompanied by live music and a vibrant bar scene.
- Why Dine Here? Sophisticated dining, live music.
- Known For: Modern American cuisine, lively atmosphere.
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Incline Village Eats
Lone Eagle Grille
The Lone Eagle Grille in Incline Village offers a dining experience that’s as grand as the views it provides. Located lakeside at the Hyatt, it’s a place where the ambiance is matched only by the quality of the food, making it a top choice for dinner in Lake Tahoe.
- Why Dine Here? Lakeside dining, upscale ambiance.
- Known For: Intimate setting, stunning lake views.
Tunnel Creek Café
Tunnel Creek Café is a charming spot in Incline Village, perfect for a casual breakfast or lunch with a view. Offering a range of coffee, bagels, and burritos, it’s a local favorite for both early risers and afternoon adventurers.
- Why Dine Here? Casual atmosphere, breakfast and lunch options.
- Known For: All-day breakfast and lunch, great coffee.
FUMO Cafe, Eatery & Bar
FUMO in Incline Village is a versatile eatery, offering a delightful breakfast menu by day and transforming into a pizza and craft cocktail bar by night. It’s a spot where relaxed Tahoe vibes meet great food and drinks, making it a popular choice throughout the day.
- Why Dine Here? Versatile dining options, craft cocktails.
- Known For: Breakfast offerings, evening pizza and cocktails.
BITE American Tapas
BITE in Incline Village is a culinary hotspot where the concept of American tapas shines, offering small plates perfect for sharing in an intimate setting. Established in 2007, it’s a place that combines a full bar with a thoughtfully curated menu, making it essential to book in advance.
- Why Dine Here? Shareable small plates, full bar.
- Known For: New American cuisine, cozy dining experiences.
T’s Mesquite Rotisserie
T’s Mesquite Rotisserie is a beloved Incline Village eatery famous for its fire-roasted chicken, beef, and pork. It’s a casual spot that’s perfect for a quick bite, offering various tacos, burritos, and more for both lunch and dinner.
- Why Dine Here? Fire-roasted meats, quick service.
- Known For: Casual dining, local favorite.
Austin’s Restaurant & Bar
Austin’s Restaurant & Bar in Incline Village is a cozy spot that prides itself on home-style American cuisine, using fresh, seasonal, and often locally sourced ingredients. Open daily, it’s a place where every dish is made from scratch, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
- Why Dine Here? Home-style cuisine, fresh ingredients.
- Known For: Comfort food with a focus on sustainability.
Kings Beach Delights
Whitecaps Pizza
Nestled in Kings Beach, Whitecaps Pizza is the go-to spot for craft pizza and delicious sandwiches, known as ‘sandos’. With a great selection of beer and wine, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the flavors of Lake Tahoe.
- Why Dine Here? Craft pizza, excellent beer and wine selection.
- Known For: Cozy atmosphere, variety in menu.
Caliente
Caliente, located in the heart of Kings Beach, is a lively Mexican restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors. The restaurant boasts a colorful and festive setting, perfect for enjoying a range of Mexican dishes and signature cocktails. With its inviting ambiance and a menu that celebrates the richness of Mexican cuisine, Caliente is a must-visit for those seeking a fun and flavorful dining experience in Kings Beach.
- Why Dine Here? Festive atmosphere, authentic Mexican flavors.
- Known For: Vibrant setting, signature Mexican dishes and cocktails.
North Lake Tahoe Favorites
Gar Woods Grill & Pier
Gar Woods Grill & Pier, located at 5000 N Lake Blvd in Carnelian Bay, is a celebrated establishment in North Lake Tahoe. This venue is known for its traditional American cuisine and bar offerings, along with a stunning lakeside setting. With a 3.5 rating on Yelp, Gar Woods stands out for its picturesque views and a menu that features a variety of American classics. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or a special dinner, this place offers a memorable dining experience with its beautiful pier and inviting atmosphere.
- Why Dine Here? Lakeside views, traditional American cuisine.
- Known For: Picturesque setting, variety of American classics.
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South Lake Staples
Artemis Lakefront Café
Artemis Lakefront Café is a gem in South Lake Tahoe, offering a delightful Greek and Mediterranean menu prepared with the freshest ingredients daily. Located waterfront on Ski Run Boulevard, it’s not only known for its food, but also for having been voted “Best French Fries” for several years.
- Why Dine Here? Fresh Mediterranean cuisine, waterfront dining.
- Known For: Greek specialties, award-winning French fries.
Kalani’s
Kalani’s in South Lake Tahoe brings a taste of the Pacific to the mountains with its upscale Hawaiian and Pacific Rim cuisine. Located in the Heavenly Village, it’s an ideal spot for an elegant dinner, and they recommend making reservations to secure a table.
- Why Dine Here? Hawaiian-inspired upscale dining with Pacific Rim flavors.
- Known For: Seafood and sushi, chic ambiance.
Chart House
Chart House in South Lake Tahoe offers a fine dining experience with a stunning hilltop view of Lake Tahoe. Known for its excellent seafood and steak, it’s a place where the view is as spectacular as the menu, making it a favorite for large groups and special occasions.
- Why Dine Here? Breathtaking views, fine dining.
- Known For: Seafood and steak, exceptional service.
MacDuff’s Public House
MacDuff’s Public House is a South Lake Tahoe institution, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere along with high-quality food that has made it a local favorite. With a great outdoor area complete with heaters, it’s an ideal spot for groups of up to 10 to enjoy a meal together.
- Why Dine Here? Welcoming atmosphere, quality food.
- Known For: Great for groups, outdoor seating.
Scusa Italian Ristorante
Scusa Italian Ristorante is a South Lake Tahoe favorite, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy a variety of traditional and modern Italian dishes. Known for its delicious pastas and salads, Scusa is a place where every meal feels like a special occasion.
- Why Dine Here? Traditional and modern Italian cuisine, cozy ambiance.
- Known For: Variety of Italian dishes, warm hospitality.
Sprouts Café
Sprouts Café is a health-conscious eatery in South Lake Tahoe that’s been serving clean, fresh, and wholesome food since 1990. With a menu that includes healthy sandwiches, smoothies, and juices, it’s a popular spot for those looking for a nutritious meal close to Lakeview Commons beach.
- Why Dine Here? Health-focused menu, close to the beach.
- Known For: Fresh juices and smoothies, wholesome food.
Evans American Gourmet Café
Nestled in a vintage Tahoe cabin surrounded by towering pine trees, Evans American Gourmet Café stands out as South Lake Tahoe’s finest restaurant. Acclaimed for its blend of cuisine styles from around the world, Evans offers a unique dining experience in a cozy, intimate setting. The restaurant, top-rated by Zagat in the Sierras, is open from Tuesday to Saturday starting at 5:00 PM. Whether it’s for a special sunset dinner on the shores of Lake Tahoe or a memorable dining occasion, Evans promises an exceptional culinary journey.
- Why Dine Here? Intimate setting, top Zagat rated, blend of global cuisine styles.
- Known For: Fine dining in a vintage Tahoe cabin, world-class cuisine.
Freshies Restaurant & Bar
Freshies Restaurant & Bar in South Lake Tahoe is a haven for those seeking a vibrant and health-conscious dining experience. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and scenic views, Freshies offers a menu that’s as refreshing as the Tahoe breeze. Specializing in Hawaiian-inspired dishes, this eatery is a favorite for both its flavorful food and its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Why Dine Here? Tropical ambiance, health-focused cuisine.
- Known For: Hawaiian-inspired dishes, fresh and organic ingredients.
Tahoe City Tastes
Wolfdale’s Cuisine Unique
Wolfdale’s Cuisine Unique in Tahoe City is a fine dining establishment that has been creating unique culinary experiences for over 40 years. Situated on Lake Tahoe’s North Shore, it offers sophisticated, seasonal Californian cuisine along with breathtaking views of the lake.
- Why Dine Here? Seasonal Californian cuisine, lakeside location.
- Known For: Transforming food into cuisine, meals into memories.
Christy Hill
Christy Hill offers a lakeside dining experience in Tahoe City that is as much about the ambiance as it is about the French-inspired California cuisine. The restaurant provides a panoramic vista of Lake Tahoe, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a sunset dinner on their lakefront patio.
- Why Dine Here? Lakefront patio seating, French-inspired California cuisine.
- Known For: Panoramic lake views, elegant bistro setting.
River Grill
The River Grill in Tahoe City is renowned for its year-round riverside dining experience, complete with a deck and an outdoor fire pit. It’s a picturesque spot located at the head of the Truckee River, offering a serene dining environment and a menu that’s just as impressive.
- Why Dine Here? Riverside dining, outdoor fire pit.
- Known For: Seasonal menu, scenic location.
Jake’s On The Lake
Jake’s On The Lake is a staple of Tahoe City, offering a lakefront dining experience that combines New American fare with Californian and Hawaiian influences. The restaurant’s patio is a prime spot for enjoying the view and their diverse menu, making it a longtime favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Why Dine Here? Lakefront patio, New American cuisine with a twist.
- Known For: Spectacular lake views, unique blend of flavors.
Za’s Lakefront
Za’s Lakefront in Tahoe City is a relaxed space with a prime lakefront deck, serving a mix of American and Italian fare, including pizza, pasta, and burgers. It’s a spot that offers not just a meal, but an experience, with its beautiful views and an eclectic menu that caters to a variety of tastes.
- Why Dine Here? Lakefront dining, American-Italian menu.
- Known For: Stunning views, diverse menu.
Tahoe House Bakery & Gourmet
Tahoe House Bakery & Gourmet in Tahoe City is a beloved local bakery that offers a wide array of fresh baked breads, pastries, and European style tortes. Known for their motto “While you sleep, we loaf,” they provide a delightful selection of deli-style lunch options, making it a must-visit for breakfast and lunch.
- Why Dine Here? Freshly baked goods, European style tortes.
- Known For: Deli-style lunches, cozy coffee drinks.
Bridgetender Tavern
Bridgetender Tavern and Grill, nestled along the Truckee River in Tahoe City, CA, offers a delightful riverfront dining experience. Known as The BT, this Lake Tahoe restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with both indoor and outdoor patio dining options. With 15 beers on tap and a reputation for serving the best burgers and bloody marys in Lake Tahoe, Bridgetender Tavern is a must-visit for those seeking a casual yet memorable dining experience.
- Why Dine Here? Riverfront dining, great burgers and bloody marys in Lake Tahoe.
- Known For: Casual American fare, outdoor patio seating.
Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge
Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge in Tahoe City is a renowned lakeside dining destination, offering a blend of American and seafood cuisine. Known for its classic lodge-style setting and prime location on the shores of Lake Tahoe’s west side, Sunnyside has been a landmark since the 1950s. The restaurant features mouthwatering appetizers, refreshing cocktails, and satisfying entrées, all enjoyed with gorgeous views from their expansive deck, the largest on Lake Tahoe. It’s a perfect spot for a day at the lake or a sunset dinner.
- Why Dine Here? Lakeside dining, largest deck on Lake Tahoe.
- Known For: American and seafood cuisine, classic lodge-style setting.
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