After a long, grueling day of snowshoeing in Big Bear Lake, you’re likely starving and ready to devour something that isn’t an energy bar or a trail mix that’s been squished in your backpack. You could just go to the first restaurant you see, you know the one with the lines out the door and a two-hour wait for a table. As a Big Bear Lake local and big-time foodie, that is not what I recommend. Let’s be honest—Big Bear Lake has some questionable food options, and you’re here to avoid them. So what are the best restaurants in Big Bear Lake? Lucky for you, fellow traveler and lover of all things yummy food, I’ve compiled a list of the best places to eat after burning a few thousand calories trudging through snow. You’re welcome.
Breakfast: Rise and Shine at the best restaurants in Big Bear Lake
The Grizzly Cafe
Let’s get this out of the way: the Grizzly Cafe. Yes, it’s a Big Bear institution, and yes, it’s been featured on the Food Network. But listen—there’s a catch. Is it one of the best restaurants in Big Bear Lake? In my opinion, no way. The cafe is tiny, the pancakes are fine, and the lines are ridiculous. Unless you’re feeling particularly patient and don’t mind playing bumper cars with hungry tourists, I’d suggest we move on. Sure, you can make pancakes and bacon yourself (unless you’re still trying to figure out how to cook bacon without burning it to a crisp). So, what’s the real breakfast scene in Big Bear?
Lumberjack Cafe
Now we’re talking about the best restaurants in Big Bear Lake! The Lumberjack Cafe doesn’t just give you any breakfast—no, no. They serve sourdough pancakes and waffles, the kind that’ll make you think you’ve been transported to the Gold Rush era (minus the whole “fighting off grizzly bears” thing). Big Bear Lake was born during the California Gold Rush, and this cafe honors its roots. And if you love sourdough (or anything that’s not the Grizzly Cafe), this place is where it’s at. This is the only place in Big Bear you can find sourdough pancakes or sourdough waffles, besides my home kitchen.
Dank Donuts
It’s not just a clever name—Dank Donuts is legit. If you’re a donut fan, their cronuts (a donut-croissant hybrid, for the uninitiated) will make your taste buds do the happy dance. Don’t even get me started on the gluten-free options or their breakfast burritos. But fair warning: do not, I repeat, do not ask for substitutions on the breakfast burritos. They’ll look at you like you just asked them where to find Big Bear’s wild burros. It’s not happening.
The Coffee Cart in Big Bear City
Listen up, coffee lovers. If you’re in Big Bear Lake and in desperate need of coffee that will make you feel like a real human being again, head straight to The Coffee Cart. It’s hands down the best coffee in the entire valley. Don’t even try to argue with me. Grab a cup, take a deep sip, and suddenly the world seems like a better place. It’s located across the highway from Community Market in Big Bear City.
Sonora
Sonora is one of those places that serves breakfast all day. Yes, all day. You want chilaquiles at 2 p.m.? Done. You want a breakfast burrito at 4 p.m.? No problem. And folks, this breakfast burrito is the best on the mountain. They’ve also got a great outdoor seating area that’s dog-friendly—because why not enjoy your eggs with a side of puppy love? Plus, the owners Gabe and Maria are fantastic. They’re always out there supporting the local community. And if there’s a fundraiser going on, you can bet they’re the first to show up. Support local? Always.
Lunchtime: Take Off Those Snowshoes, You’re Not Done Yet
Now that you’ve burned off some of those pancakes and are ready for a solid lunch, let’s dive into the food scene.
Dank Donuts (A
gain)
I know, I know—you’ve been here for breakfast, but guess what? Dank Donuts does amazing sandwiches. Their outdoor seating area is also dog-friendly, which makes it a great place to kick back, relax, and finally get your sandwich game on. Plus, the same cronuts you loved for breakfast? They do ‘em for lunch, too. So, yes, you can have dessert and lunch all in one place. Don’t act like you’re not tempted.
The Brewery (The One in the Village)
Order the Avocado Bomb. Seriously, order two. If you love sushi and fried avocado, this is your moment. Don’t even think about sharing it, unless you want to see your friends cry when they realize you ate all of it.
Get the Burger
Yes, they serve the best protein burgers in Big Bear Lake. Add some Jalapeno Bottle Caps or Fried Cheese Curds on the side, and you’re golden. After a morning of snowshoeing adventures, a hot and tasty and incredibly messy protein burger Get the Burger is how I like to do lunch. When I am on the look out for the best restaurants in Big Bear Lake, this is where I head.
The German Deli
Prost! The German Deli will make you forget you’re in Big Bear and have you thinking you’ve been transported straight to Munich. Their Smoked Cheddar Brat is a thing of beauty. The veal wursts? Get them. Seriously, you won’t regret it.
Dinner: Wind Down (Or Not)
After a day of hiking, snowshoeing, or just running around town acting like you’re on vacation, it’s time to refuel for the evening.
The Pines
If you’re in the mood for a lakeside dinner with a little class (you know, where you can pretend you’re on a date but really just want to stare at the sunset), The Pines is the spot. Sometimes they even have elk on the menu (because, why not? You are in the wilderness!). And their rack of lamb? You’ll be dreaming about it for weeks.
Masala Craft
Who knew that Big Bear Lake had Indo-Chinese food? Masala Craft is the only place on the mountain where you can get this fusion, and I promise, it’s worth it. Try the Fish 65, Gobi Manchurian, or the Chili Chicken. Trust me, I’m a food blogger. I know these things.
The Himalayan
For the best Indian food in Big Bear, head straight to The Himalayan. The owners are Nepali, so the food has a delightful Northern Indian twist. You can’t go wrong with Palak Paneer and home-baked parathas. Throw in some samosas or pakoras, and you’re in flavor heaven.
Dynasty
Now, if you’re craving Cantonese-style Chinese food, Dynasty is the way to go. The food is consistently good (a rarity in Big Bear) and the service is quick—something that cannot be said for every restaurant in town. Plus, Barry, the owner, is a legend. He’s from Hong Kong, and he knows how to run a restaurant when the place is packed. You’ll be eating within minutes and won’t have to wait hours for a table. How does he do it? Magic, I guess.
Fast Food That’ll Make You Feel Slightly Guilty But Totally Satisfied
Yes, I’m going there. Sometimes you just want something quick, spicy, and satisfying.
Carl’s Jr. El Diablo Burger
Look, I know it’s fast food, but hear me out. The El Diablo Burger from Carl’s Jr. is pure bliss. It’s loaded with cheesy jalapeños, and after a long day of snowshoeing, it’s the perfect way to fuel up. Just know, it’s spicy. Like, really spicy.
Wing Stop
Big Bear recently got a Wing Stop, and I’m not ashamed to admit it: I’m a sucker for their boneless chicken wings. They’re fast, they’re delicious, and the delivery is on point. If you’re tired after a long day of snowshoeing, just order some wings and throw them in the air fryer. Boom, dinner’s served.
So there you have it, folks. Whether you’re after a fancy dinner or a quick burger, Big Bear Lake has got you covered. Just remember to pace yourself—you don’t want to miss out on any of these mountain gems. And don’t worry, the calories from all that snowshoeing will work themselves off… eventually.
