We’ve never compiled a list we genuinely hoped would remain our little secret, but yet, here we are. Actually, hereyouare! After months of culinary exploration, you’re heading to Big Bear Lake. Ready?
Café Crêpe
$ | (909) 878-0460 | WEBSITE
The good news: You finally made it to Big Bear Lake for that weekend getaway. The bad news: Now you have to find parking on a busy street (no shade) where the official challenge is legitimately squeezing into one of those limited spots (shade). So make this lunch count, and head to Café Crêpe to eat as many delicious savory crepes as you can – while you still can. The double salmon crepe is a standout, and the outdoor patio provides a pleasant spot for families.
Sure, the coffee could be better, but with super fast service and creative options, it’s a nice place to try before you head back to reality.
Jakobe’s Famous Foods
$$ | (909) 415-1028 | WEBSITE
From navigating the crowded Village to dodging tourist traps, you’ve finally had enough of the usual Big Bear Lake scene. And now, the only things left to do are finding a quiet spot to watch the snow fall and having a proper meal at Jakobe’s Famous Foods. Tucked away next to Hacienda Grill across from Hampton Inn, eating at this hidden gem feels like you’re in a cozy mountain lodge, or where we imagine locals retreat to when they want a real meal without the fuss.
The food here is the kind of hearty comfort fare that you didn’t know existed in this tourist town, from perfectly cooked sausage and eggs to generous pork chops, plus an excellent Mexican Omelet that receives high praise with flavors that exceed expectations. Sitting by the fire on chilly nights adds to the experience, and the friendly, attentive staff always makes you feel welcome.
It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy scallop pasta or chilaquiles any time of day, and somehow there’s always a seat available when you need it most.
909 taqueria
$ | (909) 366-0440 | WEBSITE
Yes, it’s in Big Bear Lake. And yes, your family might initially groan about another casual Mexican spot. But none of that actually matters, because this is your go-to meal, and everything at 909 Taqueria, from the standout salsa paired with burritos to the street taco plate with options like asada and pastor, is prepared with honest care. Plus, we can’t think of any better family outing than a straightforward drive to a place with ample parking and seating.
An Ran Ju 安然居 Gelato & Teahouse
$ | (909) 547-7576 | WEBSITE
With incredible cranberry apple tea with boba, exceptional Thai tea with boba, and some of the most inspired gelato flavors in Big Bear, An Ran Ju was made for enjoying a delightful break on either a hot day or a snowy one.
And since you’re treating yourself, get the hazelnut gelato – not only does it pair well with their amazing peanut butter cup and spumoni options, but it also goes really well with friendly conversations with the kind owner and staff, and that one time you discovered their generous bourbon apple gelato while waiting through a slight delay.
Big Bear Coffee Roasting Company
$ | (909) 866-0859 | WEBSITE
Finding a quiet seat at Big Bear Coffee Roasting Company isn’t always simple – if you’re hoping to enjoy their fantastic selection of coffees from around the world on a weekend morning, you probably should’ve arrived when they first unlocked the doors.
But even though they’re consistently busy, the cafe is still operating at the very top of their game, including their above-average quality coffee, unique pistachio-infused hot cocoa, and a cozy atmosphere so inviting, you just might find yourself browsing their in-house ground coffee beans on the way out.
El Jacalito Grill
$$ | (909) 866-3537 | WEBSITE
There are other Mexican spots in Big Bear, but when we really want that authentic family dinner feeling, and get as close to that perfect home-cooked meal you remember from childhood, we go to El Jacalito Grill. It’s the local favorite’s only location with that welcoming family atmosphere, which is the perfect space for enjoying their chicken tortilla soup, sipping their mango jalapeño margarita, and talking about how much the kids have grown since your last visit (they’re eating carnitas now).
Barrel 33
$$ | (909) 878-0838 | WEBSITE
Denial is a powerful tool. And although some call it an ‘unhealthy coping mechanism,’ sometimes, denial works just fine. This is one of those times, so order a glass of their curated wine, a side of Buffalo cauliflower, and, for a second, pretend like your entire world isn’t about to be flipped upside down. Because ultimately, you’ll be fine. Good luck in whatever city you’re headed to next (it’s New York, isn’t it?)
La Pergola Trattoria
$$ | (909) 878-0555 | WEBSITE
Not to be dramatic, but unless you’re planning to relocate to Italy, this might be your final chance to savor truly authentic Italian cuisine in Big Bear. We’re not trying to exaggerate, it’s simply reality—La Pergola Trattoria is more than just a restaurant, it’s an exceptional dining destination. So make these precious moments matter, and head directly to the top choice, La Pergola Trattoria, and share the generous, steaming plate of lasagna with whoever you cherish the most.
Santana Mavericks Bar N Grill
$$ | (909) 878-0047 | WEBSITE
Much like a perfect Big Bear sunset over the lake, unfortunately, all good visits must come to an end. So before you leave the mountains, head to Santana Mavericks Bar N Grill, a welcoming spot with that incredible lakeside view. Grab a seat on their new patio, order the Mexican-style salmon or garlic shrimp that’s out of this world, and try not to think about how much you’re going to miss this place.
Peppercorn Grille
$$ | (909) 866-5405 | WEBSITE
You finally got through that mountain traffic (well, most of it), and now it’s time to unwind in true Big Bear fashion – by spending a solid chunk of change on something that will only last a few delicious hours. So head to Peppercorn Grille.
From spinach artichoke dip and macadamia nut crusted crab cakes to pistachio crusted chicken and that thick, juicy Angus Burger, this rustic, cozy gem in the heart of the village is designed to make you feel like you’ve found a warm, intimate escape, rather than just another tourist trying to figure out where to park.
The friendly staff, excellent service, and those perfect Tropics cocktails on the patio—maybe even with a Clydesdale horse chariot passing by—make it all worth it, even if the salad feels like an afterthought. Sure, some dishes might run you a bit more than you’d expect up here, but for a relaxing meal with great views and fantastic food, it’s a gem.
Blanca’s Restaurant
$ | (909) 878-4566 | WEBSITE
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this Big Bear Lake spot is fantastic all of the time, but the real celebration starts in the morning, when the cozy diner turns into a bustling breakfast joint, it becomes the perfect time to order a plate (or two) from their phenomenal menu, and the person you think is just another local enjoying coffee transforms into the same friendly face, but now digging into the best eggs Benedict.
Nuevo Vallarta Grill
$ | (909) 866-7355 | WEBSITE
You’re headed to Big Bear Lake – and although California’s mountain town is filled with ski slopes, good (even great) hiking trails, and vacation rentals, you won’t find anything even close to Nuevo Vallarta Grill there. Part cozy eatery, part culinary gem, there’s no better place in the area to enjoy carne asada and chilaquiles while taking one final mental snapshot (in addition to some digital ones, duh) of the authentic Mexican experience.
Laguna Grill Restaurant
$ | (909) 866-2679 | WEBSITE
Laguna Grill is our go-to for everything, from casual brunch with family to seeking refuge when we’re confronted with the particularly stunning sunset over Big Bear Lake (should this be a postcard?). Grab a few friends, order the excellent molcajete for two or some satisfying bean and cheese burritos, and use their refreshing watermelon happy hour margaritas to soak up the peaceful atmosphere quickly settling over the covered patio.
North Pole Sweets and Treats
$$ | (909) 866-1100 | WEBSITE
Just because you’re surrounded by mountain air and pine trees, doesn’t mean your sweet tooth suddenly has to settle for convenience store candy bars and gas station slushies (not that there’s anything wrong with slushies). Head to North Pole Sweets and Treats – this charming walk-up window shop is undoubtedly Treats with a capital “T” and “S,” but somehow never feels overwhelming.
Maybe it’s the smaller, cozy setup, or the Breyer’s ice cream that’s basically a vacation unto itself (or the fact that everyone seems genuinely happy here), but this is the perfect place to indulge, diet or not.