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When you think of Truckee, images of snow-capped summits, sparkling alpine lakes, charming downtown storefronts, vibrant outdoorsy community and a storied past probably come to mind. Beyond the mountain charm lies another reason to explore Truckee even further: an emerging, thriving and diverse culinary scene.
Photo: Restaurant Trokay is a favorite on the Truckee dining scene. Photo Credit: Restaurant Trokay
Over the past decade, Truckee’s restaurant scene has evolved into a top-tier mountain town destination, one of varied and eclectic menu options for every palate to enjoy. Here, acclaimed, award-winning chefs, dedicated local restaurateurs and optimistic newcomers come together to serve the community everything from fine internationally inspired dining to simple and hearty dishes that feel like home.
Below, I have curated a list of some of Truckee’s must-visited restaurants to start your culinary journey and see why this mountain town is so memorable. Bon appetit!
Eat and enjoy music like a local at Moody's. Photo Credit: Moody's Bistro, Bar, and Beats
Moody’s Bistro, Bar, and Beats
Located inside the iconic Truckee Hotel, Moody’s is a quintessential Truckee experience. Featuring fresh regional alpine cuisine, an inviting space reminiscent of mid-century supper clubs, upbeat music and friendly staff, Moody’s isn’t just a restaurant. It’s an experience.
Moody’s Bistro has an extensive menu, which is perfect for small bites or full-course dining. Think pizzas fired up in a brick oven, colorful salads, hearty entrees including salmon, halibut or steak and an extensive drink menu. Moody’s has something for everyone to enjoy. Enjoy your meal in the intimate indoor setting or opt to sit outside in the fresh air surrounded by flowers.
Restaurant Trokay
Five-star dining meets Sierra hospitality at Restaurant Trokay. Consistently ranked as one of the top restaurants in the region, Trokay offers small plates and creative entrees with big, flavorful tastes. The seasonal tasting menu delights the senses and can be paired well with their extensive beverage menu. Come here for the ambience, experience and unique ingredients.
Pianeta Ristorante
Pianeta brings the flavors of Northern Italy to Downtown Truckee and is a favorite amongst locals and visitors for their flavors, ambiance and laid-back yet classy vibe. Fusing handmade pastas, delicious entrees, stellar service and an intimate dining space, Pianeta has it all. As someone who has been here a few times before, I highly recommend asking if the grilled Alaskan halibut is on the specials. Also, make a reservation in advance and see if you can get seating in the upstairs loft.
The Sawyer at Schaffer’s Mill
Come for the golf, stay for the food. Or, just come for the food! Located at Schaffer’s Mill Golf Club, The Sawyer is a luxurious yet laid-back dining experience complete with high-quality cuisine, impressive service and stunning views of Lookout Mountain and the forested golf course. The menu is full of delicious seasonal options including filet mignon, orange-glazed salmon, chicken parmesan, pizzas, salads and children’s options.
Enjoy creative BBQ options at Smokey's. Photo Credit: Smokey's Kitchen and Catering
Smokey’s Kitchen and Catering
Considered “Truckee’s best barbecue,” Smokey’s offers a laid-back environment and hearty options for all ages to enjoy. This family-friendly restaurant fuses friendly and fast service with creative barbecue options that satisfy your palate after a day of adventure in the mountains. And they also offer a full breakfast menu to kickstart your day! Smokey’s also offers catering services, and promises to cater to every event, at any time, including weddings, corporate events and parties.
Alibi Ale Works - Truckee Public House
Alibi’s Truckee location offers a place for locals and visitors to enjoy delicious food, beverages, live music, seasonal events and community engagement. Home to the largest beer garden in Truckee, Alibi is more than just a pub. It’s a place to gather, mingle and relax after a fun-filled day of adventure and sunshine. As someone who personally doesn’t drink alcohol, I love that Alibi offers non-alcoholic options, great food and easygoing and welcoming vibes to every customer.
Cloud Sushi
As a sushi fanatic, I am really picky when it comes to sushi. Cloud Sushi has always hit the spot and impressed me on a level of taste, presentation and professionalism. This hidden gem has a fresh menu and offers outdoor seating options by reservation only. You can also order it to go and bring your meal to your favorite spot (sunset on a pier by Donner Lake never disappoints).
So Many Truckee Restaurants
Of course the options above are just a small sampling of the dining delights that await you in Truckee. For a full rundown of the local restaurants, visit our Truckee Restaurants listings. You can sort our listings by type of cuisine and location, and as you'll see, there is something for everyone!
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. 
