23 Best South Lake Tahoe Restaurants to Try in 2024
SEARCHING FOR THE BEST SOUTH LAKE TAHOE RESTAURANTS?
You’re in the right place. We’ve spent months traveling throughout California and always love it when we’re able to find some time to enjoy South Lake Tahoe. Food is an important part of travel for our family, and we love trying new restaurants. And South Lake Tahoe restaurants are some of the best around.
Whether you’re after a spot with an amazing view of the lake or don’t want to veer too far from the casino floor, we’ve put together a list of the best places to eat in South Lake Tahoe.
South Lake Tahoe Restaurants with a View
1. Jimmy’s Restaurant
$$-$$$
What to Eat: Breakfast, Landing Martini
Why Eat Here: Located at The Landing Resort and Spa, Jimmy’s Restaurant is a small and cozy space. A contemporary-styled restaurant, patrons can sit in private dining areas (some even equipped with fireplaces!) or outside on the expansive patio, where your dog is welcome too!
No matter where you end up, the views from Jimmy’s can’t be touched by any other South Tahoe restaurants. Almost like a postcard, the sight seems unreal. This is a great place to visit if you’re dining in Lake Tahoe and want to enjoy a stunning view.
Wood-fired, regional California cuisine is the specialty at this joint. And the restaurant prides themselves on sourcing from local growers. The menu is expansive and highly acclaimed, but it seems breakfast is where it really impresses.
2. Beacon Bar & Grill
$$-$$$
What to Eat: Calamari, Sausage and Shrimp Nachos, Rum Runner Cocktail
Why Eat Here: Beacon Bar & Grill is the long-time winner of Tahoe’s best outdoor patio award, so you know what you’re in for at this place. A truly immersive experience, no matter whether you sit on the renowned lakeside dining deck or inside the restaurant, the views will be amazing.
The Beacon Bar & Grill is known to be one of the most creative Lake Tahoe restaurants. They have some amazingly unusual entree pairings. Take the Sausage and Shrimp Nachos for example. This isn’t an option on many menus across the US, but it’s highly regarded here.
You can expect sports bar style food here. Salads, sandwiches, burgers and lots of large and elaborate appetizer platters. And of course, we can’t forget the bar side of the establishment. Adults can indulge in award-winning specialty cocktails and get swept away by live music.
3. Chart House
$$$
What to Eat: Steaks, Hot Chocolate Lava Cake
Why Eat Here: There are a handful of South Lake Tahoe seafood restaurants, but Chart House stands apart. The mood is sophisticated and classy, more of a romantic dinner setting rather than a rowdy night out with the kids.
This high-end establishment serves the typical seafood fare you would expect, along with an array of delectable steak options. The Hot Chocolate Lava Cake dessert is what seals the deal though. It’s a massive gooey brownie topped with an equally generous scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Chart House is hands down one of the best restaurants in South Lake Tahoe to watch the sunset from. The restaurant is located on the top of a hill, so the views of Lake Tahoe are breathtaking as the sun sinks low into the sky.
4. Friday’s Station Steak & Seafood
$$$
What to Eat: Crab & Shrimp Cake,
Why Eat Here: Friday’s Station Steak & Seafood is one of a few restaurants in Harrah’s South Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino. Another seafood restaurant, Friday’s Station offers an upscale, fine dining experience that they consider, “a cut above” the competition.
From the top floor of the hotel, large bay windows feature views of Lake Tahoe. But the massive Sierra Nevada Mountains are also stunning. Dishes here consist of certified Angus and USDA choice beef, not to mention only the freshest ocean seafood.
This restaurant strives for overall excellence in atmosphere, great food quality, presentation and service. It’s an amazing place to enjoy a meal in South Lake Tahoe. Keep in mind the check will reflect the elevated experience as well.
5. The Loft Restaurant & Lounge
$$-$$$
What to Eat: Duck Tacos, S’mores, Smoke & Mirrors Cocktail
Why Eat Here: The Loft Restaurant and Lounge has perfected the one-stop-shop atmosphere of a night out that no other restaurant has ever been able to achieve. They bring a lounge, dining and entertainment experience to patrons all in one space.
Though the restaurant does offer a variety of small plates, this spot is most thoroughly enjoyed as a cozy and romantic setting for a drink. Followed by your choice of a comedy or magic show. Best of all? The show is available to enjoy in the intimate theater, also on location.
We loved the food and the magic show. We took our kids and they also had a great time. The best part about these tapas style restaurants is you get to try multiple different tastes and they are all so good. You either want to try everything or you find something you love and you get multiple dishes of it.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth you might swing back by the restaurant after the show. Enjoy S’mores over an open flame. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your experience at The Loft in Tahoe.
South Lake Tahoe Restaurants on the Water
6. Boathouse On The Pier
$$-$$$
What to Eat: Coconut Shrimp, Grilled Fish Tacos
Why Eat Here: Boathouse On The Pier gets you as close to the water as possible without getting wet. Specializing in American cuisine (with seafood and steak additions), this place tops the list of nice restaurants in South Lake Tahoe without pretension.
Indoor, balcony and dockside tables are elegantly set for fine dining, but the atmosphere is as light and enjoyable as the lakeside breeze. No matter which entree you devour from the stacked menu, the panoramic views of Lake Tahoe will be the centerpiece of your waterside dining experience.
7. Artemis Lakefront Cafe
$$-$$$
What to Eat: Artemis Fries
Why Eat Here: It can be a challenge to find top-tier Greek Mediterranean restaurants in South Lake Tahoe, CA, but look no further than Artemis Lakefront Cafe.
This cafe is one of many restaurants in South Lake Tahoe located in the Ski Run Marina area of town. They’ve got all your Greek favorites here: gyros, pita wraps, falafel and some fun twists as well. Portions are generous and prices are reasonable for the area.
All the food here is delicious, but the Artemis Fries are far and away the most popular dish. These house seasoned fries paired with the restaurant’s signature Artemis Sauce will keep you coming back for more.
One of the most vegetarian-friendly locations on our list, Artemis Lakefront Cafe offers a beautifully decorated indoor setting and also outdoor seating on the water.
8. Riva Grill
$$$
What to Eat: Shrimp & Lobster Bisque, Salt & Vinegar Chips
Why Eat Here: Riva Grill is a large restaurant. Modeled after the look of a lodge, the varying hues of mahogany and the large bay windows provide a welcoming warmth and comfort to the restaurant.
Elegant seating is available indoors and also on two patio levels, looking out onto Ski Run Marina. As is common when dining in South Lake Tahoe, the options here are largely American based with highlights of fresh seafood. The delicious food is largely enjoyable, but runs a little pricey for the quality.
Kids will love the fun dessert menu, best of luck narrowing down a choice between the White Chocolate Snickers Cheesecake or The Peppermint Stick Sundae.
Consider making reservations if you’re hoping to get prime outdoor seating, especially over the weekend when crowds ramp up and live music is featured.
9. Edgewood Restaurant
$$$$
What to Eat: Brandt Farms Prime Rib Mignon, Elk or Lamb Shank
Why Eat Here: Edgewood Restaurant is the central restaurant of the Edgewood Tahoe Resort. The resort is a hotspot for golfers, so many make their way to the restaurant to enjoy a delicious and memorable meal after a round on the golf course.
Small, but upscale, the dishes lean heavily toward quality over quantity. It might not seem like you’re getting much, but what you do get is exquisite.
The food experience is accentuated by stunning views of the surrounding forest and deep blue lake. The use of wood and stones in the elegant lodge setting connects patrons with the nature that surrounds them, even while indoors.
Truly one of the best South Lake Tahoe restaurants, Edgewood offers a fine dining experience like none other in the area. Prices are steep, but the age-old phrase, “you get what you pay for,” has never rang more true.
Best Casual Dining in South Lake Tahoe
10. California Burger Company
$$
What to Eat: Gourmet Burgers, Sweet Potato Tots, Whiskey
Why Eat Here: California Burger Company is the most hip and lively place to dine in South Lake Tahoe. You can blame the fun, casual setting and amazing burgers for the crowd and wait time you will likely face. But don’t leave, we promise the wait will be worth it.
This restaurant is home to one of the most enjoyable outdoor seating areas in South Lake Tahoe. Known for its live music and pet-friendly vibe, you can sit out here all year round thanks to the heaters during the colder months.
If you’re not a burger fan, salads are also a big hit at this joint. And Whiskey aficionados will have a heyday deciding which of their impressive list to sample. Overall, you’re sure to have a great time at California Burger Company.
11. The Bear Moon Bar & Grill
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What to Eat: Ahi Wonton Tacos
Why Eat Here: The Bear Moon Bar & Grill is often considered South Lake Tahoe’s best kept secret, as it’s a hidden gem, tucked away in the Hilton Vacation Club Resort. It’s a super convenient and tasty option for families staying at the Hilton or other nearby resorts, but it could be easily missed by other visitors.
The atmosphere is very relaxed and casual. Patio seating is available, but only during the warm season, when weather permits.
This property is not touted for out of this world entrees, but they do offer surprisingly delicious, quality food for lower than typical prices for Tahoe standards. Burgers, salads, sandwiches and a full bar, this place covers all the bases.
12. Base Camp Pizza Co.
$$
What to Eat: Base Camp Pizza, Root Beer on Tap
Why Eat Here: Locals and tourists alike all claim Base Camp Pizza Co. as the best pizza in Tahoe. The restaurant is comfortable and has a lively atmosphere, as it’s always busy here.
Base Camp Pizza Co. boasts eleven different specialty gourmet pizzas (available in gluten-free varieties as well) to choose from and has an impressive line of beers on tap. A house favorite is the root beer on tap too, so the kids can be a part of all the fun.
The pizza is stellar here, but that’s not all this place has up its sleeve. A selection of delectable pastas make this joint one of the best Italian restaurants in South Lake Tahoe.
13. FiRE + iCE Tahoe
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What to Eat: Build Your Own Bowl
Why Eat Here: When it comes to FiRE + iCE Tahoe, it’s a choose your own adventure type of dining experience. Lake Tahoe food has never been this fun or adventurous, as you play chef and build your own dish from the raw veggies, meats, pastas and proteins displayed at this restaurant’s buffet style bar.
After you’ve filled a bowl with your desired choices, the next step is to craft the perfect sauce (from a variety of different flavors on display) to compliment your bowl.
The third and final step is the most fun and the memory your kids will be talking about for days to come, the grill experience. Cooks will be waiting at a large grill where they will work their FiRE + iCE magic as they combine the food with the sauce right in front of you and cook it to perfection.
The best thing about this perfect place is that it’s all you can eat, so you can give it another whirl if you didn’t strike the right combination the first time though. An all you can eat Salad Bar is also included.
Overall, this spot offers one of the most unique and fun family dining experiences with both indoor and patio seating (with fire pits) available.
14. Freshies Ohana Restaurant & Bar
$$-$$$
What to Eat: Kahlua Pork island Plate, Buffalo Cauliflower
Why Eat Here: Freshies Ohana Restaurant & Bar is where you go if you want to catch some island vibes while visiting South Lake Tahoe. Obviously Hawaiian themed and influenced, this spot is one of the best places to find Lake Tahoe food that fits vegetarian and vegan standards.
There’s friendly service here and the options are healthy, it doesn’t get much better than that. Except they also feature a fun Hawaiian themed indoor dining area and a super cool outdoor roof and patio seating spot too.
15. Sonney’s BBQ Shack Bar & Grill
$$
What to Eat: Deep Fried Mac & Cheese
Why Eat Here: Every town has to have a BBQ joint, and in South Lake Tahoe, that place is Sonney’s BBQ Shack Bar & Grill. This spot specializes in BBQ classics like ribs, pulled pork, brisket and tri-tip. The meat is meticulously smoked and flavored with in-house sauces. But they’ve also got you covered with your favorite comfort foods like wings, mac & cheese and great burgers.
Generous portions are fair for the reasonable prices. Definitely sit on the patio if you’re visiting during warm weather, it adds a whole other level of cool to this laid-back, casual spot.
South Lake Tahoe Casino Restaurants
16. Alpine Union (Hard Rock Hotel & Casino)
$$-$$$
What to Eat: Shrimp Cocktail, Tahoe Cobb Salad, Prime Rib
Why Eat Here: Located inside the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Resort, Alpine Union is one of the most fun casino restaurants in South Lake Tahoe. In true Hard Rock fashion, this eatery specializes in mainly American dishes and is decorated to have a cool and rustic vibe. The shaded patio is a fun place to enjoy a meal as well.
The large menu runs the gamut with sports bar style appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burgers, limited seafood choices and even some Mexican options as well. Even the kids will find something they love, like the Twisted Mac n Cheese.
Don’t walk into Alpine Union expecting the best meal of your life. The food is tasty, and they do offer some high-brow dishes, but this is a far cry from fine dining. This place fulfills the purpose of a casino restaurant, to provide food near the gaming floor.
17. Fatburger
$$
What to Eat: The Original Fatburger
Why Eat Here: Located just steps away from the Casino inside Harrah’s, Fatburger is a long-running burger chain that is sure to hit the spot when hunger strikes. Famous for their hefty fat burgers, this isn’t a place to visit if you’re looking for something light.
The original Fatburger is available in ⅓ lb, ½ lb, 1 lb and 1 ½ lb varieties. These massive burger patties are stacked with “the works” as they put it, lettuce, onion, tomato, mayo, mustard, pickles and relish. You can also customize your burger with additional add-ons like egg, chili, bacon, onion rings and additional cheese.
A vegetarian version of the burger is available with an Impossible patty as well as a vegan version, complete with a veggie patty and non-dairy cheese. Gluten-free buns can be subbed in to replace regular buns and a carb-friendly version of the burger without a bun is also available.
If burgers aren’t your jam, chicken sandwiches, wings and of course fries and onion rings are options too. And don’t forget about a 100% premium ice cream shake for dessert.
Different from the other restaurants on our list, Fatburger is definitely a fast food establishment. Their meals are large and filling, but prices are steep and it’s far from the best food in South Lake Tahoe.
18. Sapori Italian Kitchen
$$-$$$
What to Eat: Carano Mushroom Ravioli
Why Eat Here: Sapori Italian Kitchen specializes in classic Italian entrees and spins them with a modern twist. Enjoy the fruits of secret family recipes through pizza and pasta in the elegantly decorated restaurant while taking in spectacular views from the 18th floor of the Harrah’s Hotel.
The best part about a visit to Sapori Italian Kitchen is dessert. If you’re dining with your kids be sure to order a tiramisu. You get a front row seat to the creation of the dessert as it is assembled at your tableside.
19. Cafe Del Soul
$$-$$$
What to Eat: Deep Fried Snickers Bar
Why Eat Here: Cafe Del Soul features both American classics and international dishes through their elaborate menu. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast classics, a refreshing salad or a hearty meatloaf, this spot covers all the bases.
Located inside the Ballly’s casino, it’s a clean and nicely designed space. It’s comfortable enough to spend a meal there, but definitely not designed to encourage long meals, but instead move people back out to the casino. This spot is convenient when spending time at Bally’s; and the food quality and portions are fair for the price point.
Breweries in South Lake Tahoe
20. Cold Water Brewery & Grill
$$
What to Eat: Craft Beers, Entree & Craft Beer Pairing Recommendation
Why Eat Here: Cold Water Brewery & Grill is one of South Lake Tahoe’s most exceptional all grain breweries. Home to a 7 barrel brew house that produces 200 gallons of beer per batch.
Their craft beers include Tahoe Cross IPA, Good Karma Cream Ale, Stillwater Stout, Preachers Pale Ale, Never The Same Session IPA, Mr. Toads Wild Rye and many others. All beer is brewed on-site and available in 16 oz cans.
As for the grill side of things, Cold Water Brewery sources seasonal farm-fresh items and transforms them into some of the most delicious California comfort foods. Favorites include Baja Style Rock Shrimp Tacos and Pork Carnitas. To raise the experience even further, the menu offers recommendations of which beer to pair with your entree.
21. South Lake Brewing Company
$$
What to Eat: Craft Beers, Food Truck Fare
Why Eat Here: South Lake Brewing Company is a great place to visit if you’ve ever wanted to explore a brewery. The property features an indoor taproom for tasting, an outdoor beer garden and one of the most unique patios in all of South Lake Tahoe, complete with chairlift seating.
This brewery features a rotating tap list of up to 16 different craft beers in a variety of styles. Though they do not have a restaurant on-site, food trucks often join the fun, especially during the weekend when there’s live music as well.
A very laid-back environment, South Lake Brewing’s outside areas are dog-friendly and they permit customers to bring in their own food.
22. Stateline Brewery & Restaurant
$$
What to Eat: Craft Beers, Fish ‘n Chips
Why Eat Here: Stateline Brewery & Restaurant is a large operation. Definitely a restaurant over a brewery, the property’s massive space is largely filled with dining areas and an elaborate bar in a comfortable lodge-like setting.
Home to Tahoe’s largest selection of whisky, paired with 12 different house brews, this is a top notch establishment for people who know a thing or two about craft beers and cocktails.
Typical pub-style food is the standard here. Lots of appetizer type platters and dishes along with burgers and some steak and seafood options.
23. The Hangar – Taproom & Bottle Shop
$$
What to Eat: Craft Beers, Food Truck Fare
Why Eat Here: Visiting The Hangar – Taproom & Bottle Shop is a truly unique experience. Not just a brewery, it’s a space (largely outdoors) to live and enjoy the company of family or friends, while of course, sipping on a craft beer.
The only indoor area is a small “hangar” where patrons can purchase beers on tap and also canned options that are difficult to find elsewhere. The heart of the experience here is the one-acre outdoor space.
Picnic tables offer seating under immense pine trees, where you can relax and listen to live music often on display. They even have yard games like corn hole and bocce ball. It’s a really fun spot to hang out and enjoy the beauty of South Lake Tahoe.
The Hangar does not have a kitchen, but good food truck options are typically available and outside food is also welcome.
Map of South Lake Tahoe Restaurants
FAQ: South Lake Tahoe Restaurants
What food is Lake Tahoe famous for?
Breakfast foods like eggs benedict and potato pancakes are Lake Tahoe staples. The town is also known for its local breweries and brew festivals.
What are the most popular restaurants in South Lake Tahoe?
The Loft Restaurant and Lounge is far and away the most popular restaurant in South Lake Tahoe. The pure creativity of the restaurant, lounge and theater all-in-one aspect of this establishment pulls visitors in from all over the country.
Base Camp Pizza Co. and California Burger Company are also casual South Lake Tahoe spots in high demand, always abuzz with patrons.
What are the best restaurants in South Lake Tahoe that Deliver?
Though experiencing the ambiance of the space is half of the experience, several of the top restaurants on our list offer delivery options.
Jimmy’s Restaurant, Chart House, Artemis Lakefront Cafe, California Burger Company, Bear Moon Bar & Grill, Freshies Ohana Restaurant & Bar and Fatburger permit delivery orders around the Tahoe area.
Which is better – North or South Lake Tahoe?
Overall, Lake Tahoe is a beautiful and an amazing place to visit on vacation. Whether your trip is more suited for North or South Lake Tahoe depends on what you value most when it comes to traveling.
There are so many things to do in North Lake Tahoe! It’s perfectly suited for those traveling with a family who are looking for a laid-back and relaxing getaway. The north side of the Lake tends to be quieter and more focused on nature alone. Mount Rose is a wonderful place to camp in Lake Tahoe.
South Lake Tahoe is abuzz with nightlife, shopping and amazing restaurants. Enjoying the lake and nature is still a great option here, but this side of the lake is more suited for those who are interested in exploring the city and want to be entertained.
What part of Lake Tahoe is the prettiest?
Emerald Bay, located at the most southern point of Lake Tahoe, is noted as the most beautiful portion of the lake. Many Lake Tahoe boat tours explore this area. Visitors can enjoy views of Emerald Bay from several vantage points along Highway 89 too.
Another one of our favorite places to visit in Lake Tahoe is Sand Harbor. It is a beautiful part of the lake and has a great beach to relax at.
Conclusion: South Lake Tahoe Restaurants
No matter where you travel, the food speaks for itself. Fun, backcountry Moab restaurants wait eagerly to fuel you through the rugged frontier. A wide array of Boise restaurants are ready to offer a sneak peek into the city’s culture through food.
South Lake Tahoe restaurants are no different. Pull up a chair and unfold the city’s secrets during your next meal.
