Summer in Tahoe is a lot of things: kayaking, boating, swimming, mountain biking, climbing, camping, and adventure. But it’s also time to enjoy the abundance of outdoor and lakeside dining patios that only open during the warmer months. There are several incredible outdoor dining options throughout North Tahoe and Truckee, but these are some of my favorites.
BEST LAKESIDE DINING IN NORTH LAKE TAHOE
These picks seamlessly offer the perfect blend of ambiance, drink selection, and delicious food.
The Sandbar at Christy Hill
115 Grove St., Tahoe City
Winner of the OpenTable Diners’ Choice award this year, Christy Hill’s Sandbar is a quaint patio with a view of Lake Tahoe. The ambiance is reminiscent of Lake Como in Italy. This patio does not require reservations, so swing by when you can. After enjoying one of their lobster rolls, take a walk on the beachfront walking path. Catch live music in the early evenings as you watch the sunset over Lake Tahoe. https://www.christyhill.com/sandbar
Gar Woods Grill & Pier
5000 North Lake Blvd., Carnelian Bay
Gar Woods won the OpenTable Diner’s Choice Award last year, probably for its elevated menu choices and epic lake views. Their floor-to-ceiling windows, large deck, and balconies provide breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra. Catch live music on Friday and Saturday nights and enjoy their famous Wet Woody cocktail. https://www.garwoods.com/
Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge
1850 West Lake Boulevard Tahoe City
Laid-back vibes, fruity cocktails, music, and some of the best fried zucchini in town, Sunnyside’s patio is situated right on Lake Tahoe’s shore. This is a must-stop for Tahoe lakeside dining, whether for lunch, dinner, or a quick happy hour. Don’t miss their weekly specials: Burger & Beer Monday, Taco Tuesday, Wine Down Wednesday, Locals Night Thursday, and Live Music Friday. https://www.sunnysidelodge.com/
Waterman’s Landing Coffee House
5166 North Lake Boulevard, Carnelian Bay
Enjoy fresh, healthy food that caters to everyone, including vegans, gluten-free eaters, and paleo eaters, in Carnelian Bay. Located on Patton Landing Beach, it has a full coffee bar that also offers tea, carbonated drinks, beer, wine, smoothies, healthy snacks, and breakfast and lunch menu items served all day. https://watermanslanding.com/cafe/
BEST OUTDOOR DINING IN TRUCKEE
While Truckee doesn’t have Lake Tahoe access, the quaint town boasts incredible patios for a variety of fun summer experiences.
River Ranch Lodge & Restaurant
2285 River Rd., Tahoe City
Technically in Tahoe City, River Ranch is located on HWY 89 between Tahoe City and Truckee. The huge patio is situated along the banks of the Truckee River and is the pull-out spot for those floating on the river from Tahoe City. Expect a lively summer scene and basic menu items, like Nathan’s hot dogs, chicken tenders, burgers, and more. https://www.riverranchlodge.com/
1882 Bar & Grill
10009 E River St., Truckee
If you want a view of the Truckee River in Downtown Truckee, 1882 is the place to go. Offering a full bar and BBQ-style menu, meats are smoked daily on their authentic Texas smoker. And they serve delicious Beignets daily! Saddle up on one of the bar stools that looks out on the Truckee River and watch the rafters float by. http://riverstreetinntruckee.com/
Craft and Logic
10192 Donner Pass Rd., Truckee
Fun for the family, including your well-behaved dog, Craft and Logic’s laid-back patio offers a sunny spot to enjoy craft beer, pub bites, and incredible people-watching. They have over 30 taps pouring beer of many styles, focusing on self-distributed, highly allocated craft breweries from all over the country. They also offer hard kombucha, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options. Enjoy a menu of small plates to pair with your drink. https://www.craftandlogictaproom.com/
PJ’s
11402 Henness Rd, Truckee
Located on the Gray’s Crossing Golf Course, PJ’s overlooks the greens and out to the mountains beyond. It’s a perfect place to bring the kids, where they can run around on the fresh-cut grass. Casual menu items include a tuna poke bowl, fried green tomatoes, refreshing cocktails, and various wine selections.
