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Truckee, California
The Top 10 Places to Eat in Truckee, California

The Top 10 Places to Eat in Truckee, California

Truckee, California is a beautiful mountain town with plenty of delicious restaurants to choose from. From cozy cafes to extravagant fine dining, Truckee has something to offer for every budget and taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, check out this list of the top places to eat in Truckee!

about matthew
Updated March 10, 2023
Hey there! I'm Matthew, I'm a passionate traveler who loves to explore the US with my family. I'm excited to share my experiences and tips on how to make the most of your trips while traveling in the US.
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1. Old Town Tap  

Old Town Tap

Old Town Tap is a contemporary pizzeria that combines classic and modern cuisine with local ingredients sourced through old school preservation methods. The restaurant prides itself on its simple and thoughtful cooking, focusing on the integrity of each ingredient. The menu features a variety of favorites, including Burrata with Morrocan Chermoula, Cheese & Charcuterie Boards, and Fried Cheese Curds with chinata honey & buttermilk aioli.

Owners Marlena and Luke work closely with farmers and ranchers in the region to source the freshest local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients. Their current purveyors include Tahoe Food Hub, Foothill Roots Farm, Coke Farms, Flying V Farm, Towani Organic Farm, and many more. If you’re looking for a delicious dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and sustainability, Old Town Tap is the perfect choice.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (530) 563-5233

Address: 10164 Donner Pass Rd. Truckee, CA 91616    

2. Jax At The Tracks

Jax At The Tracks

Jax At The Tracks is a popular dining spot located in the heart of Truckee, California. The restaurant is housed in a charming, original 1940s diner, which is situated alongside the town’s historic railroad tracks. The diner is a must-visit for anyone who loves good food and a unique dining experience.

Jax At The Tracks serves up classic American cuisine with a creative twist, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create delicious, hearty dishes that are sure to please any palate. The restaurant’s friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or a family outing. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a juicy burger, or a delicious sandwich, Jax At The Tracks has something for everyone.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (530) 550-7450

Address: 10144 W River St, Truckee, CA 96161

3. Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats

Moodys Bistro Bar and Beats

Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats is a popular dining destination located in Truckee, California. Established in 2002, this establishment offers a unique blend of craft-cocktails, farm-to-table cuisine, and world-class music that attracts locals, long-time visitors, and first-time tourists alike.

Guests can expect a warm and inviting atmosphere where they can indulge in a variety of food and beverage options. Moody’s Bistro offers curbside service, making it easy for guests to enjoy their delicious offerings on-the-go.

Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a romantic evening with your significant other, Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats is the perfect destination. Come experience the quintessential Truckee experience and enjoy the friendly staff, free music, and delicious food and drinks.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (530) 587-8688

Address: 10007 Bridge St, Truckee, CA 96161    

4. Cottonwood Restaurant & Bar

Cottonwood Restaurant and Bar

Cottonwood Restaurant & Bar is a historic dining destination located at the Hilltop Lodge in Downtown Truckee. The restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Truckee River and downtown area, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a fun night out with friends. With a vast dining room and an expansive deck, Cottonwood is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the stunning Sierra views.

The restaurant’s rich history is evident in its decor and ambiance. As one of the nation’s oldest ski lodges, Cottonwood has been a staple in the Sierra ski community for decades. The restaurant’s menu is thoughtfully prepared and features a variety of options that are sure to satisfy any palate. The lively music scene and full bar add to the vibrant atmosphere of Cottonwood, making it an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Cottonwood Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for delicious food, stunning views, and a unique Sierra dining experience.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (530) 587-5711

Address: 10142 Rue Hilltop Road, Truckee, CA 96161

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5. Smokey’s Kitchen

Smokeys Kitchen

Looking for the best breakfast and barbecue in Truckee, California? Look no further than Smokey’s Kitchen! This family-friendly restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with fast and friendly service. Whether you want to eat inside the cozy restaurant or enjoy the beautiful scenery on the patio, Smokey’s Kitchen has you covered.

At Smokey’s Kitchen, you’ll find a wide variety of delicious dishes to satisfy your cravings. From classic breakfast favorites like pancakes and omelets, to mouth-watering barbecue dishes like pulled pork and brisket, there’s something for everyone on the menu. And if you’re on the go, you can always pick up your meal to take home and enjoy. So come on down to Smokey’s Kitchen and experience the best breakfast and barbecue in town!

Contact Information

Phone Number:  (530) 582-4535

Address: 12036 Donner Pass Rd. Truckee, CA 96161  

6. Truckee Tavern & Grill

Truckee Tavern and Grill

If you’re looking for a dining experience that evokes emotion and memory, look no further than Truckee Tavern & Grill. This establishment is dedicated to using only the freshest, highest quality local ingredients in their dishes, which change regularly to reflect the seasons and availability. With a focus on showcasing the incredible diversity of food available in California, Truckee Tavern’s menu is sure to impress.

Not only is the food top-notch, but the drink selection at Truckee Tavern is also something to be admired. Drawing from Truckee’s rich history of bootlegging during prohibition, the spirit program focuses on artisanal small batch gin and whiskey, as well as a selection of fine rum, vodka, brandy, tequila, mescal, liquors, and cordials. Whether you’re a regular or just passing through, Truckee Tavern & Grill is the perfect spot to enjoy a memorable meal and drink in a welcoming atmosphere.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (530) 587-3766

Address: 10118 Donner Pass Rd Truckee, CA 96161

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7. Stella

Stella

Stella at Gravity Haus Truckee-Tahoe is a unique dining experience that offers fresh, simple, and inspired cuisine. The restaurant’s open kitchen and garden patios with seasonal outdoor seating exude warmth and energy, creating a special place to share a meal with friends and family. Stella’s menu is a conceptual nod to California, farm-to-table, and international flavors, with a focus on soulful, pure ingredients sourced locally.

Stella is committed to supporting local farmers and producers by promoting sustainable farming and fishing practices and environmental stewardship. They are proud to partner with Zero Foodprint, a non-profit organization that mobilizes the food world around agricultural climate solutions. One percent of Stella’s annual revenue is donated to Zero Foodprint to help local farmers switch to renewable farming practices, making it one of the most impactful initiatives towards solving global warming. By dining at Stella, guests can enjoy delicious food while supporting a great cause.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (530) 562-4670

Address: 10918 Brockway Road Truckee, CA 96161  

8. Pianeta

Pianeta

Looking for an authentic Italian dining experience in historic downtown Truckee? Look no further than Pianeta. Established in 1998, this cozy restaurant has been serving up delicious Italian cuisine for over two decades. Specializing in homemade pastas and inspired by the flavors of Northern Italy, Pianeta’s extensive menu features nightly specials and an impressive rotating wine list.

But Pianeta is more than just great food and wine – it’s also known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. With its eclectic old-world ambiance and impeccable service, Pianeta is a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Truckee. And with husband and wife owners Nicole and Thomas Beckering at the helm since 2010, this iconic eatery continues to be a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (530) 587-4694

Address: 10096 Donner Pass Rd Truckee, CA 96161 

9. Trokay

Trokay

Trokay is a highly acclaimed restaurant located in Truckee, California, that offers a unique and upscale dining experience. Situated at 10046 Donner Pass Road, Trokay’s distinctive atmosphere and refined menu are sure to impress even the most discerning foodies.

The restaurant’s executive chef and owner, John Weatherson, is renowned for his inventive and contemporary approach to traditional cuisine. Drawing inspiration from local ingredients and international flavors, Weatherson’s dishes are both creative and refined, making Trokay a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner for two or a group celebration, Trokay’s elegant and sophisticated ambiance and exceptional cuisine are sure to delight. So, if you’re looking for a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience in Truckee, be sure to make a reservation at Trokay.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (530) 582-1040

Address: 10046 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161   

10. Donner Lake Kitchen

Donner Lake Kitchen

Donner Lake Kitchen is a well-established business that has been serving the community of Truckee since the mid-1970s. As one of the longest running businesses in the area, Donner Lake Kitchen has become a go-to destination for both locals and tourists alike. This cozy restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends and family.

Located near the beautiful Donner Lake, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, creating an idyllic dining experience. With a menu that features a variety of dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Donner Lake Kitchen has something for everyone. From classic American fare to international cuisine, guests are sure to find something to satisfy their cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Donner Lake Kitchen is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal in a welcoming environment.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (530) 587-3555
Address: 13720 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee, CA 96161

About the Author
about matthew
Matthew Mellinger
Hey there! I'm Matthew, and I'm a passionate traveler who loves to explore the US with my family of four. I'm excited to share my experiences and tips on how to make the most of your trips while traveling in the US.

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