Java, java, java! It’s the elixir of the gods according to a large swath of the population. (Wonder what would win out on a national poll: coffee or beer?) At last count, there were approximately 60 Tahoe restaurants in this area that would qualify as a Lake Tahoe coffee shop. That’s a lot of coffee options per capita, right? That should also mean that, with so much competition, you can expect the coffee game to be at high levels here. Meaning, you might ask? Well, cold drip, nitrous, French press, espresso, Aeropress and more, and, of course, beans roasted in-house. Not every coffeehouse will offer all options, but with so many Lake Tahoe coffee shops to choose from, you’ll soon find your favorite. And, yes, you can still get just a plain old cup of coffee out of a hot pot. Pass the creamer, please. Oh, and the lemon rind and cinnamon and half & half and exotic flavorings too. If you want to stick with Lake Tahoe coffee shops whose names are already familiar to you, you’ll find those here too. But our advice is to experience Tahoe to its fullest. You can always go back to the familiar when you leave.
Featured for Your Visit
Lake Tahoe Coffeehouses & Smoothies
571 North Lake Boulevard, Tahoe City, CA
Rosie's Cafe, a longtime player on the Tahoe City restaurant scene, has fed patrons since 1964. It not only offers basic American fare like hamburgers, salads and steaks, but also delicious breakfast and pizza. As a place that pays homage to the history of the area with local antiques, memorabilia and photos of long ago, the atmosphere is entertaining, homey and welcoming. The adjoining bar can be quite lively seven days a week and is a fantastic spot for enjoying Lake Tahoe at its finest. Be sure to try their prime rib, served only on Friday and Saturday evenings. When open, the patio at Rosie's Cafe is dog-friendly.
Rosie's Cafe, a longtime player on the Tahoe City restaurant scene, has fed patrons since 1964. It not only offers basic American fare like hamburgers, salads and steaks, but also delicious breakfast and pizza. As a place that pays homage to the history of the area with local antiques, memorabilia and photos of long ago, the atmosphere is entertaining, homey and welcoming. The adjoining bar...read more
Rosie's Cafe, a longtime player on the Tahoe City restaurant scene, has fed patrons since...read more
Lake Tahoe Coffeehouses & Smoothies
Where We Met Gelateria and Espresso Bar is an adorable cafe recreating a little bit of Italy in Lake Tahoe. Owner Elizabeth Fontaine decided to bring the engaging, friend-creating atmosphere that she found while traveling around the Italian countryside back to Tahoe. Her hope is that over espresso and gelato people will find new friendships and new connections. Her gelato is made fresh daily, and...read more
Lake Tahoe Coffeehouses & Smoothies
Long before those ubiquitous chain coffee places started popping up across America, Truckee had its own go-to spot: Wild Cherries. The long-standing meeting place in Truckee is a cross between “Cheers” (sans the adult beverages) and an establishment owned by a buddy, which means after a while employees will know your name and order upon your entrance. No worries, though, if you’re just visiting town....read more
Lake Tahoe Coffeehouses & Smoothies
Longtime residents and visitors know it as the Lodge, even though it now goes by the name of the Zephyr Cove Restaurant. This historic building has a stonework fireplace, views of the lake and forest and some of the best milkshakes at the lake. Adjacent to the Zephyr Cove Resort amenities, the Lodge serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. This means pancakes and eggs, sandwiches, burgers...read more
Lake Tahoe Coffeehouses & Smoothies
Zuri Coffee Co. is a fresh option for coffee in Truckee. Offering incredibly tasty black gold from all over the world, they also have homemade pastries such as scones, muffins and cinnamon rolls. They offer other breakfast items such as bagels and yogurt with granola and fresh fruit. Zuri Coffee also serves a small lunch menu with paninis, sandwiches and salads. The crepes, whether savory...read more