The 5 Best Lunches Around Lake Tahoe Region

Whether it’s a midday break from the slopes, a quick bite between lake adventures or just an excuse to linger over a view, lunch in South Lake Tahoe can be as laid-back or as elevated as you make it. With an eclectic mix of casual cafes, chef-driven menus and international flavors, the midday meal becomes a highlight rather than a placeholder. The Best of Tahoe shines a spotlight on the places where locals and visitors alike pause their day for something delicious.

Freshies Ohana Restaurant & Bar

Freshies Ohana Restaurant & Bar brings a sense of aloha to the high Sierra. Since 2000, the owners — a husband-and-wife duo — have turned their love for Hawaiian-inspired cuisine and commitment to sustainability into a favorite lunch destination. With a menu that’s thoughtful but unfussy, Freshies offers gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options alongside fresh-caught seafood and local meats. The atmosphere is sunny and welcoming, much like the rooftop deck, which gives diners a breezy view of Lake Tahoe while they dig into poke bowls, fish tacos or grilled veggie wraps.

The Getaway Cafe

Tucked away just outside of South Lake Tahoe, The Getaway Cafe has been feeding hungry adventurers since 2006. It’s the kind of place that feels like it’s been around longer — familiar, dependable and always full of life. While it’s best known for hearty breakfasts, its lunch menu is equally worthy of attention. Think applewood bacon BLTs, blackened chicken wraps and daily specials that reflect both comfort and creativity. The Getaway serves up casual comfort with just enough culinary ambition to keep things interesting.

Bruschetta

Bruschetta offers a midday reset that leans European — unhurried, elegant, and rich in flavor. Located just over the state line in Stateline, this modern Italian restaurant emphasizes seasonal ingredients and classic techniques. At lunch, that might mean a lightly dressed salad with imported tuna, a porchetta sandwich on fresh ciabatta or — of course — the namesake bruschetta topped with house-made tapenade or sweet heirloom tomatoes.

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