5 Best Restaurants in Lake Tahoe, California

Background Illustration for Restaurants

On weekends and in high season, expect a long wait at the more popular restaurants. And expect to pay resort prices almost everywhere. During the "shoulder seasons" (from April to May and September to November), some places may close temporarily or limit their hours, so call ahead. Also, check local papers for deals and discounts during this time, especially two-for-one coupons. Many casinos use their restaurants to attract gamblers. Marquees often tout "$8.99 prime rib dinners" or "$2.99 breakfast specials." Some of these meals are downright lousy and they are usually available only in the coffee shops and buffets, but at those prices, it's hard to complain. The finer restaurants in casinos deliver pricier food, as well as reasonable service and a bit of atmosphere. Unless otherwise noted, even the most expensive area restaurants welcome customers in casual clothes.

Artemis Lakefront Cafe

$$

A festive marina restaurant with a heated outdoor patio, Artemis reveals its Greek influences in breakfast dishes like baklava French toast and gyros and eggs. All day, though, the menus encompass more familiar options (eggs Benedict in the morning, burgers and grilled mahimahi later on).

Fireside Pizza Company

$$

Adults might opt for the signature pear-and-Gorgonzola pizza at this modern Italian restaurant, but most kids clamor for the house favorite—sausage and pepperoni with a four-cheese blend. Salads and pasta dishes round out the menu.

1985 Palisades Tahoe Rd., Olympic Valley, CA, 96146, USA
530-829–0982
Known For
  • Inventive pizzas
  • Reasonably inexpensive dining option in a pricey area
  • Family-friendly

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Jason's Beachside Grille

$$

If the kids want burgers, but you want bourbon, Jason's has a full bar along with nachos, wings, and fried calamari starters; French onion soup and clam chowder; a dozen-plus sandwiches and burgers; and steak, chicken, seafood, and baby back ribs entrées. The whole place is wood, from floor to ceiling, lending it an ultrarustic feel.

8338 N. Lake Blvd., Kings Beach, CA, 96143, USA
530-546–3315
Known For
  • House Bloody Mary and other specialty cocktails
  • Summer dining on deck overlooking the lake
  • Tables by fireplace in winter
Restaurant Details
Reservations not accepted

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Lanza's

$$

When you're craving spaghetti and meatballs, this wood-paneled roadside spot with a cordial staff and loyal clientele is the place to go. Other good old-fashioned Italian American classics—served to tables with red-and-white-checked cloths—include lasagna, ravioli, chicken and veal piccata, eggplant Parmesan, and Sicilian-style pizzas. 

7739 N. Lake Blvd., Kings Beach, CA, 96143, USA
530-546–2434
Known For
  • Generous portions
  • Create your own pasta-and-sauce combination
  • Spumoni for dessert
Restaurant Details
No lunch
Reservations not accepted

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Scusa! Italian Ristorante

$$

This longtime favorite turns out big plates of veal scaloppine, chicken piccata, and garlicky linguine with clams—straightforward Italian American food (and lots of it), served in an intimate dining room warmed by a crackling fire on many nights. There's an outdoor patio that's open in warm weather.

2543 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe, CA, 96150, USA
530-542–0100
Known For
  • Classic Italian American recipes
  • Fritto misto, grilled radicchio, and fresh-baked mozzarella appetizers
  • Sticky-bun bread pudding for dessert
Restaurant Details
No lunch

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