01
Best overall pick
Saw Shop Public House
Downtown Kelseyville • Upscale Gastropub And Cocktail Bar • Best For Date Night And Special Occasions
Creative comfort food, polished cocktails, and a lively patio make Saw Shop the most refined but still relaxed choice near Soda Bay.
Housed in a charming old building just off Main Street, Saw Shop manages to feel both special and unpretentious. The menu leans into updated pub favorites—think elevated burgers, seasonal entrées, and shareable small plates—backed by Lake County wines and a serious cocktail list. It’s the place locals suggest when you ask where to go for a proper sit-down dinner.
02
Best vegetarian choice
Arti Natural Indian Cafe
Kelseyville Main Street • Organic Vegetarian Indian Restaurant • Destination For Plant-Based Eaters
A cozy spot serving thoughtfully spiced vegetarian Indian plates that feel surprisingly at home in small-town Lake County.
Arti Natural Indian Cafe is a find if you’re craving fresh vegetables and bold flavors after a day on the lake. The kitchen focuses on organic, mostly locally sourced ingredients, with curries, dosas, and thali-style plates that work well for both vegetarians and omnivores. It’s unassuming from the outside, but the warm service and deeply flavored dishes make it worth the short drive from Soda Bay.
03
Neighborhood go-to
Woody's Café Grill & Bar
Riviera Neighborhood Above Soda Bay • Relaxed American Grill And Bar • Best For Casual Burgers And Beers
A friendly hillside grill where locals drop in for generous plates, a full bar, and views that remind you you’re close to the lake.
Woody's has the easygoing feel of a true neighborhood spot, with a menu built around burgers, sandwiches, and hearty classics. Portions are substantial, the staff tends to remember regulars, and the bar keeps the vibe lively without getting rowdy. It’s a reliable choice when you want something satisfying without dressing up or driving all the way into town.
04
Best lakeside deck
Richmond Park Bar & Grill
Clear Lake Shoreline Near Kelseyville • Waterfront Bar And Grill • Laid-Back Spot For Boaters
Pull up by car or boat for straightforward grill fare, cold drinks, and one of the more easygoing decks on this side of Clear Lake.
Richmond Park leans into its setting, with picnic tables, lake views, and a classic mix of burgers, fries, and bar-food staples. It’s more about the atmosphere than fine dining—the draw is the chance to linger over a beer while fishing boats and pontoons drift past. On warm evenings, it’s an especially good choice if you want to stay in that on-the-water headspace as long as possible.
05
Breakfast favorite
Santana's Cottage Cafe
Central Lakeport • Homey American Breakfast And Lunch Café • Best For Hearty Breakfasts And Brunch
A welcoming cottage-style café known for big breakfasts, friendly service, and fair prices a short drive up the lake from Soda Bay.
Santana's is the kind of place where mugs of coffee appear quickly and plates come out hot and generously filled. The menu covers all the breakfast standards—omelets, pancakes, scrambles, and country potatoes—along with simple lunches like sandwiches and salads. It’s a smart first stop before a day of exploring, especially if you prefer a low-key, locals’ atmosphere over anything fancy.