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Cozy season is in full swing here in the Tahoe-Truckee Region, and that means it’s time for crisp morning walks, foliage hikes and sipping on your favorite warm beverages from locally loved cafes.
There’s no better way to spend a rainy or gloomy day than reading a book or taking in the present, slow moments in a warm, cozy cafe. There are numerous locally owned cafes in the region, and each one brings its own unique energy and charm to the community they cater to. Below, I have curated a list of some of the most highly regarded spots in the region. I hope it adds warmth and comfort to your day. Enjoy!
Mountain Brew is your go-to place for delicious coffee and grab-and-go meals. Photo Credit: Mountain Brew Coffee
Mountain Brew Coffee
Mountain Brew is your go-to for unique coffee blends, exceptional customer service and a cozy ambiance. Sure, their coffee is exceptionally delicious, but what sets Mountain Brew apart is their passionate staff members who are always happy to suggest their favorite items and local trails to explore. Aside from their coffee and beverage menu, there are plenty of grab-and-go options to take with you on your adventures.
Location: 12373 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA
Alder Creek Cafe
Alder Creek Cafe is where outdoor recreation and a hearty appetite meet. Located inside the Alder Creek Adventure Center, this cafe has a menu to satisfy your appetite after a long day on the trails. I personally love to come here when I cross-country ski and fuel up between my training sessions with a warm meal. The options here are healthy, delicious and utilize locally sourced ingredients. You just can’t go wrong with any option!
Location: 15275 Alder Creek Rd, Truckee, CA
Coffeebar is a staple of the North Lake Tahoe and Truckee community. Photo Credit: Coffeebar
Coffeebar
With three locations, conveniently located in Truckee, Palisades and Northstar, as well as a bakery in Truckee, Coffeebar is a go-to for many athletes and coffee enthusiasts who crave a delicious yet convenient cup of Italian-style brews and delicious bakery items.
Besides serving up fresh, sustainably sourced coffee, tea and pastries, Coffeebar strives to create an entire experience. Based on Italy’s cafe culture, Coffeebar cultivates an inclusive and inviting community in their establishments, turning many first-time customers into regulars.
Truckee Cafe: 10120 Jibboom Street
Truckee Bakery: 12047 Donner Pass Road
Palisades: 1750 Village East Road, Unit 61
Northstar: 3001 Northstar Drive
Wild Cherries Coffee House
Born out of a love for coffee and the Truckee community, Wild Cherries is a locally loved spot for coffee, healthy meals and meeting up with loved ones.
Owned by former Olympic skier Kristin Krone, Wild Cherries’ menu is dedicated to ensuring you fuel up for a day of outdoor adventure. Featuring favorite items such as homemade vegetarian chili, panini sandwiches on homemade bread and a wide variety of hearty breakfast options, you’re bound to find the perfect meal to satisfy your appetite.
My go-to: Chicken club panini with a side of veggies and a smoothie or kombucha.
Location: 11429 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA
Zuri Coffee Co.
“A good day starts with good coffee,” and Zuri Coffee is always willing to put in the extra effort to make sure you have both. This locally loved Truckee establishment prides itself on creating the ultimate cafe experience based on quality coffee, food and customer service.
Originally from Switzerland, Zuri’s founders wanted to bring the Swiss cafe charm to their new home in Truckee. They serve a variety of quality coffee roasts, homemade pastries, paninis, salads and grab-and-go options. Stay awhile in the cozy cafe or take your items to the local trails!
Location: 11357 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee, CA
Enjoy sunshine and delicious coffee and food on the Waterman's patio. Photo Credit: Tahoe Waterman
Tahoe Waterman
Wait, you can enjoy a delicious meal and rent a kayak or paddleboard at the same place? Tahoe Waterman found a way to combine their love of watersports, coffee and healthy meals and bring them to their clients at one convenient location, right on the shores of Patton Beach.
Here, you can order a warm cup of coffee, a delicious, hearty breakfast or lunch, paddle out and even have a place to work remotely with stunning views of the lake.
My go-to item on the menu? TBC sandwich, and some homemade granola to bring home.
Location: 5166 N Lake Boulevard, Carnelian Bay, CA
FireSign Cafe
A West Shore classic! FireSign is the top choice for locals and visitors for a plethora of healthy, hearty breakfast, brunch and lunch items.
Almost everything here is made from scratch, and you can taste the quality from your very first bite. Some of their favorite items include eggs Benedict, huevos rancheros, breakfast burrito, and the Cajun Ortega burger for lunch.
Location: 1785 W. Lake Boulevard, Tahoe City, CA
Tree House Cafe
The go-to spot in Kings Beach for breakfast, lunch and BBQ, Tree House is a cozy, family-owned establishment serving up delicious beverages, meals and atmosphere. It’s a great place to stop and catch up with your loved ones, work remotely or grab a meal to bring on your outdoor adventures.
Some of the locally loved items include breakfast burritos and BBQ sandwiches, melts and fresh pastries.
Location: 8160 North Lake Boulevard, Kings Beach, CA
Keys Cafe
“Make yourself at home.” The Keys Cafe is a cute and cozy cabin cafe, formerly a family home, with a welcoming atmosphere and delicious menu items including coffee, acai bowls, pastries, sandwiches and more.
Location: 2279 South Lake Tahoe Boulevard, Suite 2, South Lake Tahoe, CA
Truly a Tahoe getaway! Check out the unique comfort fusion blends at The Getaway Cafe. Photo Credit: The Getaway Cafe
The Getaway Cafe
Located a short drive outside South Lake Tahoe, The Getaway Cafe is a favorite for many locals and visitors. Voted multiple times as one of the “Best in Tahoe,” the unique comfort food fusion menu options, combined with their welcoming environment, make it a top destination for foodies and travelers craving a hearty and healthy meal. It's truly the perfect getaway!
Location: 3140 Highway 50, Meyers, CA
Free Bird Cafe
With two locations in the South Lake Tahoe area, Free Bird is the go-to spot for organic food and beverages. It might be a small spot, but it sure is mighty! Their options pack a flavorful and fresh punch, and they make great spots to go before your adventures on the trails!
I personally love their acai bowls and smoothies.
Locations: 2753 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe, CA
2229 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, Suite C, South Lake Tahoe, CA
Pine Nut Cycle Cafe
A bike shop and coffee stop in one location! With a full menu of coffee and cold-pressed juices, plus bike rentals and expert advice, this is your go-to place for delicious beverages and adventure.
Location: 871 Emerald Bay Road, South Lake Tahoe, CA
To view a full list of cafes and restaurants in the region, visit our Restaurants section.
About the Author Kirsten Alexis
Kirsten is an outdoor adventure enthusiast, writer and photographer. You can typically find her hiking, paddleboarding, cross-country skiing and checking out new spots to share in the Tahoe Donner region. She has been lucky to call Tahoe her second home since she was a child and aims to inspire people to experience Tahoe and fall in love with the beauty and adventurous spirit of the region through her blogs and content. 
