This year-round resort has snowmobiling, horseback riding, a beach and a marina, and two solid dining options. From late spring to early fall, the spot to be at is the very popular Sunset Bar & Grille. Just find a home base under one of the palm-style umbrellas, and your server will bring you whatever your heart desires (as long as that is a frozen drink and pub fare). There is also a deck with umbrellas that feels like a 24/7 beach party. If you need a break from the sun, but still want the fun, the Zephyr Cove Restaurant (open year-round, currently with 25% capacity) still has lake views, but in a quaint space with a stone fireplace, a full bar, and a menu of casual American classics.

Don’t wait for a special occasion to make a reservation at this magical fine dining restaurant (that is the closest to the lake you’ll find in South Lake since it was built before new laws when into place). Floor-to-ceiling windows show off stunning views of the lake and mountains, and the meat-centric entrees, as well as the wine selection are fantastic. Be sure to book your reservation with the timing of the sunset in mind; it will help take the sting out of your bill. And right now, since it’s only open at 25% capacity, you’ll almost feel like you have the place to yourself.

This chop and steakhouse inside of the Montbleu Resort and Casino is the only choice in South Lake when you want to splurge on steak, seafood, and wine. Ordering from the a la carte menu will run you a couple hundred bucks for two, but if you’re on a “budget,” there is also a $50 and $60 three-course prix fixe with options that include some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.

Even if you’re not staying at this super chic hotel, you can still enjoy the friendly and welcoming vibe thanks to a lobby bar that serves coffee, beer, and wine. Take your drink outside where you can sit around the fire pits and play cornhole or snuggle up under blankets and gaze at the stars.

Located at the base of Heavenly Ski Resort (hence the name), this family-friendly spot with indoor and outdoor dining serves up tasty pies and craft beer to hungry tourists and locals, but … mostly tourists. Expect long waits during the high season (summer and winter).

There are two Artemis Cafes in Tahoe, but the one you want is the one in Ski Run Marina because that’s the one where you can sit outside with your dog friend, while eating tasty Greek and Mediterranean food and taking in the views of the lake and the Sierras. Everything is good, but you can’t go wrong with the falafel or veggie pita, both of which are fresh and filling.

The key to maximizing your enjoyment at The Boathouse on the Pier in the summer is to get there for the afternoon happy hour (daily, from 3 to 6 p.m.). Then you can sip discounted drinks on a picnic table on the longest pier in Tahoe while watching people boat, kayak, and paddle board around the lake. If you go for dinner, be sure to arrive well before the sun goes down and grab a seat on the top deck for maximum romance (or by a window during cold weather). Like almost every restaurant with a view in Tahoe, the prices aren’t cheap, but the fish tacos are reasonable, though it’s worth it to shell out a little more for the Cajun shrimp boil pasta, “a Tahoe twist on the Southern classic”.

The locals love this restaurant that specializes in innovative vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free food, as well as a great selection of craft beer (including Pliny the Elder). The servings are huge, the service is super friendly, and even better: from Memorial Day to Labor Day, there’s a second-story deck with lake views. Right now, Freshies is only offering takeout, which includes the entire menu, as well as wine, beer, and cocktails.

This counter-service café is the best place to go in South Lake when you’re craving something healthy and satisfying. The sandwiches are filling (get the Vegetable Crunch with turkey), as are all of the bowls. This is also the place to get fresh-squeezed juices, like a Kale Refresher or a Tahoe Turmeric. But don’t worry, there are also a couple of beers on tap if that’s more your scene. Order it to stay and enjoy your food at a table (indoors or out) or, weather permitting, get it to go and have a picnic on the nearby beach.

It’s easy to put aside the fact that this cash-only taqueria is located in a strip mall once you get a taste of the authentic and affordable Mexican food, as well as the friendly service. The three taco combo with beans and rice is especially satisfying after working up an appetite during a long day on the mountain. During COVID, you’ll just have to get it to go.

Burger Lounge has all kinds of chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, and salads on the menu, but you’re going here for one thing: yup, you guessed it: the burger. There are 16 to choose from (plus six veggie burger options), but the classic Cheese Deluxe never disappoints. Depending on your hunger level, you can opt for a 1/2 lb. or 1/4 lb. patty. Add a side of cheesy fries and a shake; there are over 40 flavors, including litchi, Nerds (yes, the candy), and cheesecake, but when it comes to eating a burger, sometimes a classic vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry is the best pairing.