TEG’s Top 5 Favorite Restaurants in North Lake Tahoe

We’re officially in the red tier in Nevada and Placer County and that means we are able to get back to safely dining indoors at some of our favorite restaurants around North Lake Tahoe. We’ve really missed gathering with friends over a shared meal and glass of wine, so to celebrate, we rounded up our favorite spots that we strongly encourage you to check out. Now go treat yourself for a night on the town and support your local restaurants. Enjoy!

WOLFDALE’S IN TAHOE CITY, CA

Wolfdale’s has been a local’s (and visitor!) favorite since they opened their doors in 1978. The lake views will certainly lure you in, but Douglas’ Japanese inspired cuisine will have you floored. Your meal will be sensational every time, and you’ll love the local hospitality and exceptional wine list. Sally Gardner has been a longtime loyalist of Wolfdale’s and wouldn’t dare miss the ahi poke cones with wasabi cream. She also recommends the Thai seafood stew with the perfect amount of spice and fresh prawns.

PIANETA IN TRUCKEE, CA

While Pianeta’s outdoor seating offering during COVID has been extra cozy with fireplaces and gas heaters, we're looking forward to enjoying an intimate dinner inside their lovely establishment. Pianeta is a true favorite for Katie Benty -- boasting incredible Italian dishes like veal meatballs smothered in pesto on top of homemade pasta or classics like ragu. You will always leave completely satisfied. 

THE SAWYER AT SCHAFFER’S MILL IN TRUCKEE, CA

Many visitors, and even locals, have not heard of The Sawyer, which makes it one of Truckee’s best kept secrets. Recently awarded Reno & Tahoe’s best outdoor dining experience, The Sawyer serves up classics like pizza and burgers, but trust Dave Gove when he tells you, it’s not like anything you’ll find in Truckee. The “Millionaire Burger” boasts certified angus chuck, white cheddar, smoked bacon, house sauce, tomato, caramelized demi onions, and iceberg on a brioche bun. Is your mouth watering yet? The Sawyer also has a great kids menu, so everyone is happy.

DRUNKEN MONKEY IN TRUCKEE, CA

If you're craving sushi, you'll want to stop by Drunken Monkey. Located outside of Downtown Truckee, the menu here is robust and offers up unique Cal-Asian dishes like DanDan Noodles. Fish is brought in daily from the same suppliers serving some of San Francisco's most revered sushi restaurants, so be prepared to enjoy the best. Mark Lowenstern recommends starting with kawari edamme (edamame tossed in fried garlic) and the Dreaming Monkey roll bursting with fresh ahi, salmon and hamachi. 

BITE IN INCLINE VILLAGE, NV

Of all the places on our list, Bite is hands down the best option for those looking to try a little of everything. Bite is THE ultimate tapas restaurant in Incline Village and their whole ethos revolves around thoughtful bites of creative cuisine. Lukas Brassie loves coming with a small group of friends to share tapas and enjoy a signature cocktail like a High Road with Willet Bourbon, 5 year Madeira, Strawberry, Cynar, Montenegro, Campari and Sweet Vermouth. Lukas has too many favorite tapas to even list out here, so you’ll just have to go and indulge yourself.