01
Best trailhead lunch
Sierra Subs and Salads
Central Three Rivers On Highway 198 • Casual Sandwich And Salad Counter • Best Grab-And-Go Trail Lunch
A beloved stop for creative sandwiches and fresh salads before or after a day in Sequoia.
Sierra Subs and Salads is where locals send visitors who want something quick but genuinely good. The board is packed with hot and cold subs, vegetarian options, and hearty salads that travel well in a daypack. Go early on busy summer weekends and stake out a spot by the river if you have time to linger.
02
Best riverside dinner
River View Restaurant & Lounge
Kaweah River Bend North Of Three Rivers • Riverside American Grill And Lounge • Top Pick For Sunset Patios
Classic burgers, steaks, and bar bites served with some of the best river views near Lemon Cove.
Perched above a wide, rocky stretch of the Kaweah, River View leans into its scenery with a big deck and relaxed, slightly old-school vibe. The menu runs to burgers, ribs, and other familiar comfort dishes, plus a full bar that keeps the lounge side lively on weekends. Time your visit for golden hour when the light hits the water and the foothills glow.
03
Sweetest stop
Reimer's Candies, Gifts & Ice Cream
Highway 198 Strip In Three Rivers • Old-Fashioned Candy Shop And Ice Cream Parlor • Go-To For Sweets And Afternoon Snacks
Handmade chocolates, generous ice cream scoops, and a few simple bites make this a must-stop treat shop.
Reimer's feels like a small-town candy store from another era, complete with glass cases of truffles and a rainbow of house-made sweets. Most people come for ice cream cones and sundaes on hot foothill afternoons, but you can also grab a quick snack to hold you over between meals. It is an easy add-on to any drive between Lemon Cove and the park entrance.
04
Top Mexican option
Casa Mendoza
Foothills Stretch Of Three Rivers • Relaxed Sit-Down Mexican Restaurant • Best For Big Groups And Comfort Food
Hearty combo plates, sizzling fajitas, and cold margaritas draw hungry park-goers and locals alike.
Casa Mendoza is the kind of place where chips and salsa appear almost as soon as you sit down and the portions lean generous. Expect all the classics—enchiladas, tacos, burritos—along with a few seafood and steak specials that feel especially right after a full day outdoors. The casual atmosphere and roomy tables make it an easy choice for families and mixed groups.
05
Classic roadside stop
A&W Restaurant Lemon Cove
Roadside In Lemon Cove Along Highway 198 • Retro Fast-Food Burger Drive-In • Quick Family-Friendly Option
A throwback burger joint known for frosty root beer mugs and fast, friendly service.
Right on the main drag through Lemon Cove, this A&W is a convenient fuel-up before heading deeper into the mountains. Burgers, fries, and corn dogs keep things simple, but the real draw is the old-school root beer floats and creamy soft-serve. It is especially handy if you are rolling into town late and just need an easy, reliable bite.