Not too far from Lake Tahoe is the small, historic town of Truckee, California. This energetic mountain town is a destination for visitors looking for a getaway that combines the character of the Old West with wintery adventures, modern amenities, and a great art and culinary scene. After a long day of exploring and taking advantage of everything Truckee offers, you’ll definitely want to refuel with a hearty meal. Here are some of the best restaurants in Truckee to try!
Explore the Culinary Scene With The Best Restaurants in Truckee, CA
Zano’s Family Italian & Pizzeria
11401 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee, CA 96161
Who doesn’t love pizza?! Pizza always seems like the great equalizer when choosing what to have for dinner. Firstly, Zano’s Family Italian & Pizzeria is a great spot for hearty, rich comfort food. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be embraced by the scents of garlic and steaming tomatoes – a surefire way to jumpstart your appetite!
You can enjoy your meal at a leisurely pace, savoring every bite. Their menu features custom and specialty pizzas, fresh pasta, salads, and Italian family favorites. Zano’s is a family-friendly joint where everyone can pull up a chair, grab a fork, and dig in.
Jax At The Tracks
10144 West River Street, Truckee, CA, 96161
If you think you recognize JAX at the Tracks, you may have seen their appearance on Diner’s, Drive-Ins, and Dives! This local favorite was started by San Francisco restaurant entrepreneur Robert Carey, who saw a need in Truckee for a restaurant that offered great quality food at affordable prices.
He purchased The Birmingham Grille, a diner for sale just outside of Philly, and paid to have it shipped all the way to Truckee! Today, JAX at the Tracks serves Americana cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Moreover, their huge diner menu has something to suit every palate, including dishes made famous from their Triple-D appearance!
Squeeze In
10060 Donner Pass Rd B, Truckee, CA 96161
Even on vacation, breakfast is a must! Locals and tourists love starting their day with breakfast fare from Squeeze In. Back in 1974, it began as a teeny tiny 10-foot-wide restaurant where guests would literally have to “squeeze in” to enjoy their food. Luckily, as its popularity grew, so did the restaurant.
While it started as a Truckee Institution, Squeeze In now has 12 locations throughout California and Nevada. They’re known for their exceptional omelets (claimed to be the best in the world) and their flavor-packed pancakes, benedicts, sandwiches, and more!
Cottonwood Restaurant
10142 Rue Hilltop, Truckee, CA 96161
Lastly, Cottonwood Restaurant resides in an authentic ski lodge hand-built nearly 100 years ago in 1928. The restaurant combines “comfort and camaraderie” to create a truly unique dining experience in the mountains, with a full bar, a lively music scene, and delicious cuisine.
Their menu features rustic, high-quality steaks, lamb, and other hearty entrees, as well as burgers, salads, and indulgent sides. It’s the perfect place for a high-quality meal that doesn’t skimp on the spirit of Truckee and the mountain ski industry that calls it home.
Check Out These Best Restaurants in Truckee With Your Family!
These are some of the best restaurants in Truckee to try on your next visit! Whether you’re looking for hearty Italian food, a drool-worthy breakfast, or a Food Network fave, you’ll love indulging in something good for your taste buds and soul.
If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy motherhood, you should stick around! I’m a Truckee photographer, and I adore planning photo sessions with families. As a mom myself, I know that this time tends to feel like a total haze. So I want to help you create gorgeous memories so you can cherish this season forever. If you’ve been meaning to plan some pictures celebrating your little one, let’s chat. Contact me today to get the conversation going.
