01
Best overall pick
Andy's Mountain Grill & Deli
Cold Springs Village On Highway 108 • Casual Mountain Grill • Local Favorite
Big portions, friendly service, and a classic mountain‑town vibe make Andy's the go‑to stop in Cold Springs.
This is where locals send hungry friends when they ask where to eat on the way to Pinecrest or Dodge Ridge. Expect hefty burgers, tri‑tip sandwiches, and hearty breakfasts that can power a full day on the trails or the slopes. It feels like a true community hub, with chatty staff, laid‑back energy, and a satisfying small‑town roadside feel.
02
Best grab-and-go stop
Cold Springs Market & Deli
Center Of Cold Springs Along Highway 108 • General Store Deli Counter • Best For Picnic Supplies
Part old‑school mountain market, part sandwich spot, this deli is ideal when you want to stock up and hit the road quickly.
Cold Springs Market & Deli is an easy one‑stop for fresh sandwiches, snacks, and last‑minute cabin essentials. The made‑to‑order deli counter turns out solid cold cuts and hot options that pack well for the lake, trail, or car ride. It’s not a sit‑down restaurant, but it’s invaluable for picnic lunches and low‑key dinners on the deck.
03
Best lakeside meal
Steam Donkey Restaurant & Bar
Pinecrest Lake Resort Area • Lodge-Style American Restaurant • Best For Families
A classic Pinecrest lodge restaurant with a relaxed dining room, full bar, and kid‑friendly menu steps from the lake.
After a day on the water or a hike around Pinecrest Lake, the Steam Donkey is a comfortable place to sit down for a proper meal. The menu leans toward familiar comfort food—think burgers, steaks, pastas, and big salads—with portions tailored to hungry outdoor crews. Its proximity to the marina and cabins makes it especially convenient for families staying at the lake.
04
Best breakfast and bakery stop
Alicia's Sugar Shack
Sugar Pine, Down Highway 108 Toward Twain Harte • Rustic Bakery And Cafe • Best For Early Risers
A warm, woodsy cafe known for strong coffee, fresh‑baked pastries, and substantial breakfasts before heading higher into the mountains.
Alicia's Sugar Shack has the kind of cozy, slightly bohemian feel that makes you want to linger over a second cup of coffee. The pastry case is usually loaded with cinnamon rolls, scones, and muffins, while the griddle turns out satisfying egg dishes and breakfast burritos. It’s an excellent stop on the way up to Cold Springs or Pinecrest when you want to start the day right.
05
Best for craft beer and pizza
Mia's Restaurant & Lounge
Strawberry On Highway 108 • Casual Pizza And Craft Beer Spot • Evening Hangout
A lively mountain roadhouse where hearty pizzas, burgers, and a strong craft beer lineup draw in both locals and road‑trippers.
Mia's feels like a classic Highway 108 stop, with a slightly rowdy, fun energy and a menu built for post‑adventure appetites. Wood‑fired or oven‑baked pizzas are the main draw, backed up by burgers, wings, and other pub staples, plus a rotating list of regional beers on tap. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a relaxed evening, live‑ish atmosphere, and a break from cooking at the cabin.