If you’re heading up to Lake Tahoe to take advantage of this wonderful winter season, you’re definitely going to need to know the best places to eat. Whether you want delicious pizza for the whole family, a hearty breakfast before hitting the slopes, or an elegant lakeside restaurant to celebrate a special occasion, Lake Tahoe has amazing food options for everyone.
In between all of your snow adventures, be sure to check out these 15 spots, all of which have great food, good drinks, and amazing views of the lake, because what’s a winter vacation without indulging in some delicious grub.
Azul Latin Kitchen
“Great service and terrific location with a large outdoor dining patio. The live music with local musicians was a huge plus! The food was delicious. We had the wings, chicken and carnitas tacos and fajita bowl. I highly recommend stopping by!” – Reyna J. from San Jose, CA
Base Camp Pizza Co.
“We love Base Camp Pizza! Their food is absolutely delicious and the environment of their restaurant is fantastic as well! We frequent Base Camp Pizza when we are in town, at least a few times each trip. If you’re looking for somewhere to sit back, relax and listen to live music outdoors (especially during COVID) in a safe environment with delicious food and drinks – hands down Base Camp Pizza is the place to be!” – Jessica B. from San Ramon, CA
Blue Agave
“We always look forward to Blue Agave when we are visiting Tahoe City! The food is always delicious and the atmosphere and service are great. The owner, Steve, is always there to ensure that you are never disappointed. See you again soon Blue Agave and Steve!” – Nikki O. from Walnut Creek, CA
California Burger Company
“A great place for a huge delicious burger and a draft beer! I loved that the Caprese burger actually tasted like Caprese (as opposed to just a regular burger with some Caprese elements/ toppings). The outdoor dining was really nice and they had a live band with a nice fire pit. A must-visit for burger lovers!” – Laura C. from Tracey, CA
Fireside Pizza
“Highly recommended spot in The Village! The pizza is amazing and well worth the wait if it’s a busy night. It’s probably the best gluten free crust I have ever had! The crust was thick and actually tasted similar to regular crust! The safety measures for COVID were excellent. And of course, the outside dining and views are spectacular! We would definitely come back!” – Liz G. from La Verne, CA
Fire Sign Café
“Don’t miss this breakfast spot in Tahoe City! The spaced out, outdoor seating makes you feel like you’re in the woods. Great atmosphere and dog friendly. Delicious food with a wide variety to choose from. Make sure to get a mimosa mug! Hadley was our server and she was professional, friendly, attentive and sweet, going so far as to bring our dogs water. ” – Katie B. from Tahoe City, CA
Gar Woods Grill and Pier
“A perfect oasis in a beautiful setting! We ate here twice it was so good – the service, views, cocktails, food, music, all stunning for a much-needed vacation. The first night we were seated on the patio in cold weather but their setup is genius – heaters with umbrellas to hold in the heat. We went back for lunch and sat in the bar. Again, perfect service. It was hard to risk eating anywhere else.” – Kristi M. from Phoenix, AZ
PJ’s – Tahoe Mountain Club
“Beautiful setting with great service and menu. The menu has expanded since we were last here. We had excellent margaritas, a cheeseburger and a chicken sandwich. Both entrees came with fries. Our meals were very delicious and easy to enjoy with a superior outside view. It’s great for children to run around the hill while remaining within eyesight of parents. Prices comparable to other places in Truckee. A gem of a place.” – Sue K. from Fish Camp, CA
Riva Grill on the Lake
“The food and drinks here are incredible. I highly recommend trying one of their signature Woody’s. I had the Razberry On My Woody and loved it! I ordered the Peppered Tenderloin and Blue Cheese salad and it was probably one of the best salads I’ve ever had. The combination is just perfect. Our server, Savannah, was also incredible. She was very knowledgeable of the menu and was very enthusiastic, friendly and personable. She helped us pick what we wanted by giving recommendations and was super willing to accommodate some of our requests. Overall great food and service and the view is very pretty. A must-go if you are visiting the area.” – Paulo I. from West Hollywood, CA
River Ranch Lodge
“Charming setting right on the rushing Truckee River. We visited the restaurant after a great day of skiing at nearby Squaw Valley. We enjoyed the excellent elk, meltingly delicious salmon and a nice creme brûlée for dessert. All the sauces and side dishes were tasty. Definitely come here!”– Laura L. from Honolulu, HI
Rubicon Pizza
“The best pizza in the Lake Tahoe area! The crust, the sauce, the cheese, veggies, meat…they all tasted fresh! The crust was soft and full of flavor. Usually, I’m not a crust guy, but today I was! If you’re skiing/boarding at Northstar, call in your order from the top of the gondola, and ski down village run. Once you get to the bottom and walk over to Rubicon, your pizza will be ready! I’ll be back Rubicon!” – Kaniela F. from Honolulu, HI
South of North Brewing
“South of North Brewing remains one of my absolute favorite places in the Tahoe basin to grab a pint. The quality beers and quirky setting just make them a fun joint that really stands out in this touristy area. It’s well worth a visit for anyone staying or passing through. I’m always looking forward to my next visit.” – Griffin B. from Reno, NV
Sunnyside Lake Tahoe
“Sunnyside is always a favorite stop on the west shore of Lake Tahoe. Sunnyside is an iconic place! We love the food and cocktails. Sit outside on the deck and take in the beautiful breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding areas. We never go to Lake Tahoe or the west shore without stopping here for a bite.” – Gregory L. from Oakland, CA
Swiss Lakewood Restaurant and Lodge
“The restaurant has a very intimate atmosphere, a great selection of gourmet dishes and very attentive personnel. In my opinion, it’s the best fine dining restaurant in the Northern Lake Tahoe area. Quite different and exceptional from the typical mainstream dishes you find in the area. The Wiennerschnietzel was authentic, and so was the veal, and escargot, which was delicious. The desserts were outstanding, we chose the cobbler and sorbet.” – Chip. S. from Arlington, TX
Ten Crows BBQ
“Ten Crows is absolutely representative of the heart of Tahoe. I highly recommend going at sunset to enjoy the pink skies, world-class BBQ, and handmade drinks. Ten Crows is a must-see in South Lake Tahoe for an authentic and delicious experience. If you’re lucky enough to get Kelly as a waitress her sweet personality will keep you coming back.” – Robert M. from South Lake Tahoe, CA
