Our 5 Favorite Places to Apres in Tahoe

Winter is one of those seasons that ignites a love affair with Tahoe for so many -- it’s not just for the downhill skiers and snowboarders either, cross-country and adventure seekers love our winter playground too. Just ask Katie Benty, who moved here for “one winter season” back in 1992 and never left. Whether it’s the 300+ sunny days, the big Sierra storms that bring FEET (not inches) of snow, mild temps and endless outdoor recreation opportunities -- winter in Tahoe is truly magical. This winter certainly looks a little different with COVID, but that hasn’t stopped us from chasing a perfect powder turn off Rubicon Peak or lapping KT-22 until 3:58pm. We live for these adventures. And the best way to cap off the perfect day in the mountains is another favorite activity: après. We take our adventures and après seriously here at Tahoe Estates Group, so we’ve put together our 2021 Tahoe après guide so you can hit the town safely and enjoy that glass of Bordeaux, because you earned it.

TWENTY TWO BISTRO IN SQUAW VALLEY

If you’re out in Squaw Valley, there is no better place to enjoy a cocktail than the 22 Bistro. The views of KT-22 are unmatched and the outdoor patio gets great afternoon sun until 4pm. Head to the patio from 3-5pm for happy hour where you can enjoy $5 draft beers, $6 well cocktails and $7 wines. A must try is the Tower 16 Tuna Tower -- you will love the avocado wasabi cream atop a heaping pile of ahi tuna. 

ALIBI BREWERY IN TRUCKEE, CA

Photo: Alibi Brewery

Alibi Brewery was first founded in Incline Village and soon after opened a tasting room in Truckee in 2017. Since day 1 it has been a local’s favorite. During Covid, Alibi was forced to get creative, and this winter they converted their parking lot to a huge outdoor beer garden. We love Alibi for the 21 craft beers on tap, heated seating and ability to bring your furry friend on a leash. Come here for the tasty local brews and famous mustache pretzels with warm beer cheese.

CHRISTY HILL IN TAHOE CITY

Photo: Christy Hill

If you’re looking for lake views, look no further than Christy Hill. Christy Hill has got the Lake Tahoe sunset views and an exceptional dining experience to match it. Every Wednesday through Sunday, you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery from 3-4pm with light appetizers and drinks. The house charcuterie board is perfect to share and they’re always changing up the cheese selection. Take our word for it, you should probably plan to stay for dinner.

RIVER RANCH AT ALPINE MEADOWS

Photo: River Ranch

River Ranch might be one of the more underrated après scenes in Tahoe. Located at the base of Alpine Meadows, the River Ranch has a rich history dating back to 1888. Their restaurant boasts a cozy lodge atmosphere, where in normal circumstances, you will find skiers and Alpine patrollers enjoying a cold beer next to the wood fire and looking out at the Truckee River. These days, you can enjoy après on their outdoor patio and even enjoy Happy Hour from 2-5pm Sunday-Thursday with awesome food and drink options. Come here for the friendly local scene and heaping pile of nachos. 

MOODY’S IN TRUCKEE

Photo: Moody's

Moody’s has always been a classic in Truckee and when Covid struck, they knew they had to take immediate action to continue offering their unique experience. The team built out an expansive stage into the parking area outside of the restaurant that boasts the best outdoor atmosphere in Truckee, in our humble opinion. Moody’s is known for their incredible cocktail list. Nowadays, we’re ordering a classic Old Fashioned and enjoying every sip in the heated patio with truffled deviled eggs and beef tartare. 

See you at Après...

Winter is certainly different, but our small community has risen to the challenge at hand and is still delivering an exceptional après experience. We hope to see you soon, whether it’s on the slopes or grabbing a beer at Bistro 22 in Squaw Valley.