Nestled amidst the breathtaking wilderness of Lake Tahoe is a hidden culinary treasure known as The Woods. Owned and operated by dynamic brothers Connor and Dillon McKeen, this modern gastropub offers a unique twist on traditional pub fare, providing a gathering place for those seeking exceptional food and memorable experiences.
For Connor and Dillon, the concept behind The Woods is deeply rooted in their love for the Tahoe region. With a commitment to capturing the true essence of Lake Tahoe, they aimed to create a restaurant that resonates with their local community while remaining welcoming to visitors.
"We wanted a name that reflected the heart of Tahoe without being too obvious," Connor says. "Growing up here, we spent a lot of our free time in the woods, skiing, biking, hiking and more. The name The Woods just felt right to both of us."
As lifelong locals, Connor and Dillon possess an intimate understanding of Lake Tahoe and its culture. This knowledge significantly influenced the development of The Woods, from its menu to its ambiance. They worked closely with head chef Chris Ibarra to create a menu that distinguishes The Woods from other local eateries.
"We wanted to offer something different," Dillon emphasizes. "While we have unique items on the menu, we've kept some classics like our burger and fish tacos to ensure our local customers feel at home."
Recently, The Woods unveiled a revamped menu, meticulously curated by Chef Chris to mirror the changing seasons. The new offerings, which include delectable choices like braised short ribs and pappardelle pasta, exemplify the McKeen brothers' dedication to providing fresh, seasonally relevant cuisine.
The cozy and welcoming atmosphere at The Woods epitomizes the warmth and hospitality of Lake Tahoe's local culture. A significant part of this atmosphere is attributed to the exceptional employees who bring the place to life. Their collective work ethic, positive attitudes and unwavering commitment to customer service are at the core of The Woods' identity.
"We're more than a restaurant; we're a family," Connor says. "Our staff is exceptional, and they work together to make each guest's visit unforgettable."
Beyond being passionate restaurateurs, what truly sets the brothers apart is their heartfelt engagement with the community. One memorable experience was collaborating with local businesses and the Make-A-Wish Foundation to fulfill a young boy’s dream of fishing on Lake Tahoe. The restaurant was asked to prepare a celebratory meal, but soon the experience took on a grander sense of importance.
In Dillon's words, "It was more than a meal; it was a community coming together."
Local police and fire departments joined in, crafting lasting memories for the young boy. The speedy response from the Tahoe community and contributions from local businesses, including Sprouts, Big 5, Mountain Chiropractic, The Landing and others, made it a powerful display of unity and compassion.
Dining at The Woods is a culinary adventure that encapsulates the spirit of Lake Tahoe, brought to life by two brothers who intimately understand the area and are deeply involved in their community. Connor and Dillon have crafted a culinary haven in the pines, making The Woods an essential destination for both locals and tourists visiting Lake Tahoe.
(530) 600-0921
15 Harrison Avenue, South Lake Tahoe
thewoodslaketahoe.com
About the Author Shanie Matthews
A longtime Lake Tahoe local, Shanie is a freelance writer, Vinyasa Flow yoga teacher and positivity warrior. A true lover of the the gorgeous Tahoe region, she connects with the serenity of the mountains via skiing, biking and backpacking. She also believes in the gift of yoga and its way of allowing one to become his or her true best self, a passion she shares with the world with her online yoga studio.
