7 Best Southwest American Restaurants In Tahoe City

7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Jake's on the Lake restaurant

1. Jake's on the Lake

4.3

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Tahoe City

Booked 11 times today

Jake's on the Lake in Tahoe City offers an exceptional seafood dining experience that's not to be missed. Renowned for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood, this family-owned gem has been delighting diners since 1978 with its blend of Californian and Hawaiian flavors. Guests rave about the "amazing mahi-mahi fish tacos" and the perfectly cooked "lobster tails," highlighting the quality and taste of the dishes. The restaurant’s setting offers stunning lake views, enhancing the dining experience with a beautiful backdrop. Reviews consistently praise the "fantastic service" and the warm "Mountain Aloah" hospitality, making Jake’s on the Lake a top choice for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy top-notch seafood in a spectacular location.

2. Sunnyside

4.5

Awesome(1666)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Tahoe City

Booked 45 times today

Sunnyside Restaurant in Tahoe City is a gem for those seeking an exceptional Contemporary American dining experience. Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Tahoe, this iconic lodge offers not just breathtaking views but also a culinary journey that reflects the spirit and flavors of America. Guests rave about the "fantastic food" ranging from the "excellent Sunnyside burger" to "delicious fish tacos" and the legendary "Hula pie." With glowing reviews emphasizing the "spectacular views" and "amazing live music," Sunnyside stands out for providing a dining ambiance that truly captures the essence of a magical mountain experience in Contemporary American cuisine. Whether it's a family gathering or a special occasion, Sunnyside promises an unforgettable lakeside dining adventure with "top-notch service" and a menu that delights every palate.

A photo of River Ranch Lodge & Restaurant restaurant

3. River Ranch Lodge & Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(1057)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Tahoe City

Booked 35 times today

At the heart of Tahoe City, River Ranch Lodge & Restaurant offers an authentic American dining experience that resonates with locals and visitors alike. Nestled by the serene Truckee River, its rustic charm and scenic views complement a menu filled with familiar yet inventive American dishes. Guests rave about the "fantastic cocktails" and a menu that changes seasonally to incorporate fresh, sustainable ingredients. Notably praised are the "phenomenally cooked New York" steak and the "out of this world" scallops. Reviewers consistently highlight the "great service" and the special ambiance provided by riverside seating, making River Ranch not just a meal, but an experience. It's a gem that offers not only quality American cuisine but also a delightful slice of Tahoe history.

A photo of Granlibakken Tahoe - Cedar House Pub restaurant

4. Granlibakken Tahoe - Cedar House Pub

4.4

Awesome(171)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Tahoe City

Booked 19 times today

Cedar House Pub at Granlibakken Tahoe is a celebrated haven for Comfort Food lovers nestled in the serene surroundings of Tahoe City. Praised for its "innovative menu and fresh ingredients," this gastro pub delights guests with its award-winning culinary creations. The atmosphere is perfect for relishing hearty meals, featuring a cozy indoor setting with a roaring fire during winter and a scenic deck open in the summer. Guests rave about the "delicious and well-presented" dishes, highlighting the French onion soup, elk pot pie, and grown-up mac and cheese with lobster. Whether you're winding down after a day of adventure or seeking a warm, comforting meal, Cedar House Pub promises a memorable dining experience with "excellent service" and a touch of local charm.

A photo of PlumpJack Cafe Olympic Valley restaurant

5. PlumpJack Cafe Olympic Valley

4.8

Exceptional(678)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Olympic Valley / Squaw Valley

Booked 18 times today

PlumpJack Cafe in Olympic Valley is celebrated for its exceptional American cuisine, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic and high-quality dining experiences. Nestled in the stunning surroundings of Lake Tahoe, this cafe impresses with its "fantastic food" and an ambiance that perfectly complements its mountain locale. Reviewers consistently praise its diverse menu and superior service, describing it as a “first-class” experience. Highlighted dishes such as scallops and steak leave diners in awe, with one guest raving, "Best experience in Squaw Valley. The food, the ambiance, the wine selection. Unmatched." PlumpJack Cafe not only promises delicious meals but also an unforgettable dining journey in the heart of the mountains.

A photo of Smoke Door - Lake Tahoe Saryo restaurant

6. Smoke Door - Lake Tahoe Saryo

4.9

Exceptional(172)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Kings Beach

Booked 7 times today

Smoke Door - Lake Tahoe Saryo, nestled in the scenic Kings Beach, offers a sublime fusion of American innovation with Japanese-inspired techniques. This exquisite dining spot, under the aegis of Executive Chef Tyler Burges, previously of Michael Mina and Saison, serves up a culinary experience that is both authentic and pioneering. Diners rave about the "universally very good" food, with special mentions for the "crispy pork belly" and "embered vegetable course." It's lauded as "the finest dining experience in Lake Tahoe," with service that matches the high quality of the cuisine. Whether you opt for the six or ten-course tasting menu, each dish is a revelation of refined flavors and meticulous presentation, making Smoke Door a must-visit for those seeking an exceptional American dining experience.

A photo of The Sawyer at Schaffer's Mill Club restaurant

7. The Sawyer at Schaffer's Mill Club

4.5

Awesome(706)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Truckee

Booked 8 times today

Located in the heart of the Pinyon Pine-Juniper woodland area of the Sierra Nevada’s, elevated at 5,817 feet in the town of Truckee, resides The Sawyer at Schaffer’s Mill. With food true to the land and served by real Truckee people, The Sawyer is the perfect name for the final, most awaited addition to Schaffer’s MillThe Sawyer is centered around an amazing indoor and outdoor bar with views of Lookout Mountain and the golf course. The restaurant features a locally crafted all-day menu with selections of shareable, freshly-prepared salads, generous sandwiches, and delicious entrees.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Best Southwest American Restaurants in Tahoe City

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7 restaurants available nearby

1. Jake's on the Lake

2. Sunnyside

3. River Ranch Lodge & Restaurant

4. Granlibakken Tahoe - Cedar House Pub

5. PlumpJack Cafe Olympic Valley

6. Smoke Door - Lake Tahoe Saryo

7. The Sawyer at Schaffer's Mill Club

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