Top Restaurant Ideas for Valentine’s Day

Mammoth Lakes Tourism food writer Lauren MacLeod reviews the fresh and favorite restaurants of the Eastern Sierra – and tells the stories behind them. If you have ideas for local restaurants she should cover, please let us know!

For most winter travelers, skiing at Mammoth Mountain is the highlight of a trip to Mammoth Lakes. 

However, if you happen to be here on February 14 — that is, Valentine’s Day — you can enjoy outdoor fun and romance all in one place. 

Read on for an inclusive guide to local dining experiences for this love-filled holiday in Mammoth Lakes. Whether you are dining with your besties, your kids or your partner, there’s something for everyone.

Breakfast and Brunch

Before the day’s adventures, head to Mammoth Coffee Roasting Company bright and early. This welcoming cafe specializes in donuts – and V Day is no exception. Choose between a heart-shaped pastry and classic Mammoth donuts with festive toppings. Pair your selection with a brew made from locally roasted beans. 

For a more substantial breakfast, Warming Hut offers one of the most extensive menus in Mammoth Lakes. Choose from chilaquiles, buttermilk pancakes, homemade hashes, or build your own meal to share. 

Après

If you’re feeling boozy by the afternoon, there are plenty of happy hours in town to enjoy. Roberto’s Cafe offers half-priced margaritas from 2-5 pm or you can stop by Lakanuki Bar & Cafe for a mai tai during Aloha Hour from 3-6 pm. If you’d prefer to enjoy your apres fresh off the slopes, head to the Yodler at Mammoth Mountain’s Main Lodge.

If alcohol isn’t your thing, pop into Stellar Brew Natural Cafe for a dose of afternoon caffeine, house-made pastries, wraps and a cozy atmosphere. 

Dinner

After a day of play in the snow, or simply cozying up by the fireplace, find the perfect place to warm up and wind down with your significant other.

Mammoth Lakes’ restaurants offer the perfect atmosphere for a romantic evening amid the mountains. Those offering the ideal Valentine’s Day experience include:

DISH Bistro – Typically reservation-free, DISH will be taking reservations for three, dinner seatings with a fixed, four-course menu. Call for a seating at 5, 6:30 or 8 pm.

The Lakefront Restaurant – The restaurant attached to Tamarack Lodge plans to offer a dinner and wine special. Call ahead to reserve your seat.

Petra’s Bistro & Wine Bar – For a classic, candlelit dinner, go to Petra’s for the duck confit appetizer and coq au vin main course. Top it off with one of their 30 wines by the glass or 350 wines by the bottle. 

Skadi Restaurant – An intimate restaurant experience featuring elevated Scandinavian and Swiss cuisine.

This is a mere sample of the great restaurants that Mammoth Lakes has to offer. Click here for a full list.