5 Best Diners in Big Bear Lake

Zack Garhart
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Traveling to a new place always brings the challenge of finding quality restaurants at an affordable rate. Sometimes, all you want is a greasy burger or crispy hashbrowns. With several spots to choose from in Big Bear Lake, we’ve put together a list of the best diners in town.

5 Best Diners in Big Bear Lake

Untitled Design 519Teddy Bear Restaurant

One of the iconic staples of Big Bear Lake, Teddy Bear Restaurant brings homey vibes and classic diner fare. They’ve been around since 1944, and have been serving up good old-fashioned home-cooked meals ever since. Although the business has changed hands a few times, it remains a family-run establishment. The owner’s wife still oversees the pie making, and they keep to the same classic recipes for their chili, mashed potatoes, and machaca. From the scratch-made pies and fresh-baked bread to the malts and old-fashioned shakes, the food at Teddy Bear Restaurant is as comforting as it is delicious. Note: this is a cash-only business, but there is an ATM on site. 

Untitled Design 520Grizzly Manor Cafe

Drive by the Grizzly Manor Cafe, and you might miss it. This building is small and easy to overlook, but you’re sure to see a line out the door on the weekends. There’s a reason for that. Their massive portions and down-home cooking keep people coming back. From the chocolate chip pancakes and biscuits and gravy to the massive omelets and corned beef hash, the Grizzly Manor Cafe serves up hearty breakfasts that will satisfy a variety of appetites. We recommend their French toast and Portuguese sausages! With how busy it gets, it’s best to arrive early. They open at 6 am every day and close at 2 pm.

Old Country Inn

For classic and simple fare, check out Old Country Inn. They specialize in German food but have a knack for cooking hearty breakfasts and classic American dinners. With items like Chicken Picatta, Rouladen, and Fish & Chips, you’ll find something for every craving. If you’re visiting with friends and want to get a buzz on during breakfast, consider purchasing their bottomless mimosa option. We recommend their Country Fried Steak for breakfast, and their Stuffed Cabbage Rolls for dinner.

Untitled Design 517Mountain Munchies

This local spot has been serving up classic American fare since 1980. As a fixture of Big Bear Lake, Mountain Munchies is one of the best places to grab a sandwich in town. Their fresh-baked bread is one reason why locals keep coming back, and if you haven’t had squaw before, this is the place to try it! Their cozy ambiance creates the perfect place to saddle up for a satisfying breakfast. We recommend their Beef Dip sandwich for lunch, and for breakfast make sure to try one of their breakfast burritos or their biscuits and gravy.

Alpine Country Coffee Shop

Another local gem in Big Bear Lake, Alpine Country Coffee Shop has become a favorite for its homey ambiance and comforting food. With all the breakfast classics that you might expect at a cozy diner, Alpine Country Coffee Shop is a great place to grab a bite before getting out on the lake or hitting the trails. Whether you’re in the mood for Country Fried Steak or something sweet like a Belgian Waffle, they’ve got you covered. They don’t skimp on the portions, so make sure to come hungry!

Want to know about even more great restaurants in Big Bear Lake? Watch this video!

Once you’ve grabbed a bite at one of the best diners in Big Bear Lake, head over to our Big Bear Lake Mountain Adventure Hostel.

Make sure to sign up for our ITH Traveler’s Club! This program is free to sign up for and will save you money on all future bookings. 

 

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  • […] This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning our ITH Hostel & Retreat Center. With a great central location, plenty of space to roam, and added perks like a free pancake breakfast every morning, our hostel is a top spot for backpackers and travelers. On-site, we have a hot tub, a billiards room, a grill for BBQing, a place for meditation and yoga, and a great big fireplace. Our hostel is perfectly suited for travelers who want to experience the lake in the summer or hit the slopes in the winter. We offer nightly activities and a vibrant social scene. If you’re traveling alone or with a group, there are different types of rooms and accommodations available at our hostel. For large groups, inquire about renting out the entire lodge! Even better, it’s close to a handful of great diners in Big Bear Lake. […]

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