Best Budget Eats in North Lake Tahoe
North Tahoe’s Best Cheap Eats
A trip to the northern shores of Lake Tahoe isn’t always easy on the bank account, especially when you have to allocate parts of your budget towards fun activities like skiing the slopes or stand up paddleboarding the lake. But when it comes time to look for food options, there is a bit of wiggle room, and while most fine dining restaurants may be out of reach, you’ll find there is a plethora of dining options for those on a budget in North Tahoe.
Follow along with us as we dive deep into the North Tahoe food scene to find the best 4 restaurants to grab food for a good price.
Grab a Burger at Char-Pit in Kings
Burgers are classic budget eats, and if you’re hanging out in the Kings Beach area and need a quick bite, you won’t find a better hole in the wall than Char-Pit, located conveniently off of North Lake Boulevard. Although this spot may seem small on the outside, what’s awaiting you inside is a whole lot of flavor and interesting decor that will draw you right in. From the crispy fries to the signature burgers to the freshly-made BBQ ribs, everything on the menu is worth a try, and it won’t break the bank like other places in town.
Delicious standouts from their menu include the ¼ lb Char Burgers, a classic menu item, as well as the specialty burgers such as the Avocado Bacon Cheeseburger. Other patrons recommend the BBQ ribs, although these aren’t quite as budget-friendly as the burgers are. The one thing you don’t want to miss out on is the fries–reviewers and regulars alike agree that the hot, crispy french fries are one of the best foods at Char-Pit.
Enjoy Mexican Rotisserie at T’s Mesquite Rotisserie in Incline Village
For those of you who are staying near Incline Village, you will probably notice that there are very few budget-friendly options for food in town. But if you have cash in hand and an appetite for some delicious Mexican eats hot off of the rotisserie, you really won’t find a better place around than T’s Mesquite Rotisserie. This cash-only spot boasts a huge selection of delicious Mexican food, with everything from burritos to tacos to marinated roasted meats represented on their menu. Plus, you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank when eating here–you’ll find full meals available for under $15 before tax, full of delicious Mexican flavor that will leave you satisfied for hours.
Highlights of the menu include the $4 Tri-Tip Soft Tacos, a great deal for those on a budget, as well as the $9.25 burritos, available with tri-tip steak, marinated chicken, or loaded with vegetarian goodness. The Family Pack is also a great deal for a larger group–for just $29.50, you’ll receive a whole marinated chicken, three large side dishes, tortillas, and salsa.
Dine on Diner Fare at the Eclectic Rosie’s Cafe in Tahoe City
Diners are in short supply in Lake Tahoe, but if you’re craving some traditional breakfast fare in an eclectic setting for under $20 a person, you’ll fall in love with Rosie’s Cafe in Tahoe City. This historic spot has been a staple for Tahoe City residents since 1964, and the decor shows its history, with antiques covering the walls and ceilings of the restaurant.
On their menu you’ll find a huge amount of variety, but where they really shine is in their breakfast meals. Be sure to check out the Quiche of the Day for just $13.99, or the Huevos Rancheros for just $14.99. For lunch, the BLT sandwich won’t break your budget at just $13.49, while for dinner Rosie’s Hamburger is only $14.99.
Snag a Burger and a Beer for an Unbeatable Price at The Grid Bar and Grill in Kings Beach
Kings Beach might be a small lakeshore town, but that doesn’t mean that all of the restaurants are high-end fine dining spots. The Grid Bar and Grill is perhaps one of the best sit-down bars and grills in town, and it offers an incredible view of the lake as well, as it’s situated just across the street from the shoreline. Sit on the outdoor patio and gaze at the lake as you enjoy your burger and beer after a long day of Tahoe activities.
As far as budget eats at this spot go, you can’t go wrong with getting a Cheeseburger or Corn Dog for just $9. If your budget allows, you can build your own 10-inch pizza for only $14, or grab a Bratwurst or Honey Habanero Chicken Sausage on a bun for only $12.
Uncover More North Lake Tahoe Things to Do on the LocalVR Blog
Lake Tahoe might be an expensive destination to travel to, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a way to do it on a budget, especially when it comes to eating out while you’re on vacation. Although you have to hunt a bit to find meals that come in under $20 a person, there’s plenty of options available, like Char-Pits famous burgers or the burritos at T’s Mesquite Rotisserie.
Want to learn more about things to do in the Tahoe area? If bars are your thing, we’ve cobbled together a list of the best places to imbibe after a morning spent skiing. And for those who are keeping to a budget, check out our recommendations of the best free and frugal activities in North Lake Tahoe.
