Big Bear is Southern California's four-season destination and is considered the adventure capital of SoCal. Only two short hours from Los Angeles and San Diego, the convenient location makes this the perfect town for those looking to get away from the city and reconnect with nature.
Whether you love fishing, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, or snowboarding, Big Bear is the obvious destination for your next getaway. With beautiful mountains, scenic views, and the iconic Big Bear Lake, there’s plenty to do and see. But after a long day of exploring, you’ll have certainly worked up an appetite.
That’s why we’re giving you the best restaurants in Big Bear Lake, sure to satisfy your cravings and give you a great place to unwind and catch up with friends and family.
Here are the best restaurants in Big Bear Lake.
GRIZZLY MANOR CAFE
41268 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear City, California 92314 909-866-6226
If you’re looking to fuel up for the fun active day ahead, Grizzly Manor Cafe is the go-to spot. Grizzly Manor is one of Big Bear’s most famous restaurants and known for the best breakfasts around. As you’ll soon see, the line to get in proves it.
Pancakes, Eggs, and all the trappings of your favorite diner foods await you. But be advised, the portions are not for the weak-willed, so share the pancakes with a friend whenever possible. For a fun and casual dining experience, Grizzly Manor is the place to be.
DANK DONUTS
42612 Moonridge Rd., Big Bear Lake, CA, 92315 909-547-6053
Yummy donuts are not all you will find at this famous Big Bear landmark. With plenty of great food options to choose from, everyone in your group will find something to enjoy at Dank Donuts. Breakfast burritos, stuffed croissants, and vegan salad wraps are also a hit. Tuesday nights you'll find a line out the door in honor of their tasty tacos.
The blueberry cake donuts are delicious and there are always a few great vegan and gluten-free options so that there is something for everyone. They do run out often so be sure to get there early.
BIG BEAR LAKE BREWING COMPANY
40827 Stone Rd. Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 909-878-0283
Big Bear's very own microbrewery makes our list of top Big Bear restaurants. An ideal spot whether you spent your day on the trails or the slopes. They have a nice selection of local beers featured in an awesome taproom along with some great options for apps and burgers. While they don’t have many menu items, what they do have are really delicious. Try the avocado bomb, you won't be disappointed.
Choose to dine inside, on their outdoor patio, or opt for takeaway.
SAUCY MAMA'S PIZZERIA
618 Pine Knot Ave Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 909-878-0165
Saucy Mama's Pizzeria is so much more than your average mom-and-pop pizza shop. Aside from using the freshest ingredients for all their pies, and a crust that’s hailed by many as the best in town, it’s adorable. Saucy Mama’s has got a cool retro vibe, with walls adorned with some of the trendiest band covers of the ’70s.
Also offering a few typical Italian menu items, like pastas and meatball subs, their specialty is definitely their pizza. This restaurant is the perfect place to grub out on some great pizza, share a pitcher of beer, some garlic bread, and enjoy all of Big Bear’s local charm.
While our favorite is Saucy Mama’s, there’s plenty of other pizza spots in Big Bear.
PEPPERCORN GRILLE
553 Pine Knot Ave. Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 909-866-5405
Peppercorn Grille is one of the mountain's more upscale restaurants, and it’s slightly more expensive than most in The Village. However, the food and ambiance make this restaurant worthwhile.
The quality of the restaurant is proved by the customers who frequent it, as they are a mix of locals and tourists. This is the perfect place for a filet mignon or some delectable seafood pasta. Good for accommodating a large group or a romantic dinner for two. One of Big Bear's most well-known restaurants for its great wine selection.
SONORA CANTINA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
41144 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake CA 92315 909-866-8202
If you're anything like us, you might agree that Mexican food is one of the world's best comfort foods. This Mexican eatery is great for the traveler who’s had enough burgers and pizza and is looking for some spice in their life.
They’re known for delicious carne asada, enchiladas, great margaritas, and their burrito challenge. If you can eat one of their humongous burritos in under 45 minutes, you’ll get a free t-shirt and your picture on the wall of fame.
HIMALAYAN RESTAURANT
672 Pine Knot Ave, Suite 2, Big Bear Lake, California 909-878-3068 909-866-2907
When you think of Big Bear you may not think of Indian and Nepalese food. Featuring a variety of authentic dishes popular in Tibet, Nepal, and Northern India, The Himalayan Restaurant serves some of the most delicious meals in Big Bear. Dine-in, pick up, or delivery located in the heart of The Village on Pine Knot Avenue.
The lamb masala is a personal favorite of mine, but really, all of their curries and soups are exceptional.
TROPICALI
40616 Village Drive, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 909-878-0499
It may be snowing outside, but there’s always a tropical breeze flowing through Tropicali. Owned by pro-surfer turned actress, Sanoe Lake, and creative director Michael Sterling Eaton, this Hawaiian-inspired comfort food haven has been a favorite on the mountain since it opened its doors.
Easily our favorite restaurant on Big Bear Lake, Tropicali is the optime of good food.The poke bowls are first-class and the super friendly staff will steer you in the right direction when you need a little getaway from your getaway. Fan favorites include...well...literally everything on the menu. Dogs are always welcome on the outdoor heated patio.
CAPTAIN'S ANCHORAGE
42148 Moonridge Way, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 909-866-3997
Located in Lower Moonridge on Moonridge Way, Captain A's is not only one of Big Bear's most popular restaurants, it's also one of its oldest. A fine dining staple since 1947, Captain’s Anchorage feels like an old-school steakhouse. With its rustic stone and log facade, the dining room walls are adorned with much of Big Bears' rich history.
The prime rib and king crab legs do not disappoint. Stop in for happy hour weekdays 4:30-6 pm. Check out the brand new outdoor patio for some fresh mountain air to go with your meal.
TEDDY BEAR RESTAURANT
583 Pine Knot Blvd., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 909-866-5415
Teddy Bear Restaurant offers American home-style food. This is the perfect place for a laid-back atmosphere and great comfort food. Established in 1944, it’s another stable on Big Bear Mountain and one that locals and tourists both love.
Move over weekend brunch, at Teddy Bear Restaurant, you can get breakfast anytime of the day. Other fan favorites are their freshly baked pies and hamburgers.
OAKSIDE RESTAURANT & BAR
40701 Village Dr. Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 909-866-5555
Oakside is a family-friendly restaurant located in The Village. They offer a large menu so it's a great choice if you have picky eaters in your group. Choose from menu items ranging from BBQ to pizza and everything in between. With a wide selection of craft beer and wines, you’ll have plenty of great pairings to choose from, too.
On Fridays and Saturday evenings you can also enjoy live music while you eat. This is a really fun restaurant where you can combine a casual environment with great food.
All of Big Bear's restaurants have a unique appeal, so hopefully, you have enough time to visit a few. No matter where you decide to dine in Big Bear Lake, make sure that you’re surrounded by the people you love most in life and make sure you’ve worked up a hardy appetite. And with so much to do and see, it won’t be hard.
NEED A PLACE TO STAY?
Your trip up the mountain won’t feel like a real mountain excursion without a cozy cabin to come home to, a cabin so nice your kids (and you!) might not ever want to leave.
Complete your mountain experience in Big Bear with a blazing fire, warm apple cider, and an unforgettable cabin stay.
Midnight Moon Cabins has the best cabins in Big Bear! We offer an array of modern luxury dog-friendly cabin rentals right in the heart of Big Bear Lake, and any of the activities that your kids would love are just a short walk, bike, or car ride away.
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