The Best Aprés-Ski Spots in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe Entertainment
Lake Tahoe is known for its epic skiing and snowboarding, and one of the best ways to end a day filled with powder is to go out for a bit of aprés-ski entertainment at one of the local eateries and bars on the southern shore.
If you’re unfamiliar with the term, aprés-ski is a French word that literally translates to “after skiing”, and it’s used to describe the social entertainment that people enjoy after a day spent on the slopes. While it doesn’t exclusively mean just enjoying a drink, people typically take it as an opportunity to celebrate their best runs of the day with some alcoholic beverages as well as some live music and dancing. Today we’ve gathered together some of the best spots to finish the day with a nice cocktail after you’ve completed your day on the slopes.
#1: Cold Water Brewery and Grill
If you’re a fan of locally brewed beer, you should definitely check out the Cold Water Brewery and Grill when you’re done with a day of skiing or snowboarding and are looking for a place to unwind. Located in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, you’ll find a menu of delicious comfort foods here as well as a vast beer selection. Best of all, every ounce of Cold Water Beer is brewed onsite. While you’re there, be sure to check out the Fish and Chips menu item paired along with an ice cold beer.
#2: Tamarack Lodge
For those who are interested in live music to go along with your after-ski cocktails, check out the lineup at the Tamarack Lodge. During ski season, you’ll find this venue jam-packed with activities to fill up your day, starting at 3pm, with events going on throughout the weekend. Tamarack Lodge is located right at the top of the Heavenly gondola, and features a menu of tasty drinks, including the Tamarack Toddy (which mixes together brandy, apple cider, pineapple juice, and a hint of cinnamon). Stop by for a drink after a well-spent day in the powder and enjoy some live music for your aprés-ski entertainment.
#3: The Loft Restaurant/Lounge
Magic is something that Tahoe has a ton of, but few restaurants and bars will offer a magic show by a talented performer. However, that is exactly what you’ll find at The Loft Restaurant/Lounge, located right in the midst of Heavenly Village, not far from the gondola. Those who are on the hunt for a delicious cocktail will also find a vast selection here, with reviewers mentioning in particular the Smoke and Mirrors, perfect to enjoy the magic show with. There’s also a large selection of tapas to choose from, including the Scallop and Seafood Risottos and a vast array of other dishes like Elk Tenderloin and Seared Ahi Tuna.
#4: The Loft Restaurant/Lounge
Looking for some local color and character to go along with your after-ski drinks? Check out Whiskey Dick’s, a bar that’s a lot more dive bar than it is a classy aprés-ski joint. Visitors who are a fan of no-frills service and strong drinks will more than appreciate the unique atmosphere and ambiance of this establishment. No need to put on your best post-skiing outfits–Whiskey Dick’s welcomes all, and has a few pool tables and shuffleboard courts for you to entertain yourself with once your day on the slopes has been completed.
#5: Jimmy’s Restaurant
If you’re someone who wants to warm your feet and hands by a cozy firepit after a long day spent skiing or snowboarding, Jimmy’s Restaurant offers one of the best views in town. With its delicious regional California fare, Jimmy’s is the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal paired with one of their signature cocktails. Try out the Toasted Pecan Old Fashioned, which features pecan-infused spirits along with maple syrup, bitters, and cherry. Or, if you’re up for a martini, take a look at the Landing Martini, which is garnished with blue cheese olives. Reviewers also rave about the Ribeye Steak and the Sea Bass entrees.
#6: Lake Tahoe AleWorX
Who doesn’t love a pizza after a day spent on the slopes? For our last aprés-ski spot recommendation, you should try out Lake Tahoe AleWorX, located very close to the Heavenly gondola. At this casual and relaxed eatery, you’ll find a variety of different beer and cocktail options, as well as a delicious array of woodfired pizzas to enjoy, which are noted by locals and visitors alike to be some of the best in town. One of the coolest parts of this unique little aprés-ski locale is that you can pour your own beer from their tap wall, and their selection is truly gigantic.
More Things to Do in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is known for being a skiing and boarding destination, and who doesn’t enjoy a little bit of aprés-ski entertainment, including drinks, live music, and food? While you’re vacationing in Tahoe, be sure to check out a few of our other travel guides in the area, including our list of the best summer events and festivals in Tahoe or our guide to easy hikes for beginners who want to see more of the emerald shores of the lake.