The Bear Trap Taproom & Kitchen — Restaurant in Big Bear Lake

This was the first time we dined at this location while visiting Big Bear Lake. There are both indoor and outdoor dining areas, but they are both limited in size along with a bar stool area. The parking lot in front of the taproom is not the biggest and can be difficult for those of us who drive larger pickup trucks, let’s say you might have to back & forth it depending on how busy the taproom is. The food menu is limited, primarily your typical bar food, hamburgers, artisanal pies and a house salad, but all at a reasonable price. I am glad we do not drink, because those fancy drinks sure cost a pretty penny and can easily rack up quite a hefty bar bill in a matter of a few drinks. The food did take a long time to serve, even though the place was not very busy, but it was hot, and we had no complaints about the flavor or quantity of the serving. All the staff members we encountered were very friendly, cheerful and a pleasure to talk with. We would dine here again, but I think this place caters more to the local cliental thank to the tourist traffic. Best indication of that is the hours of operation, which are limited to 1130 – 2200 hours on the weekend and they are only open Thursday...

Im so conflicted by my visit because I wanted to like this place more and make it a go-to spot, especially since my last visit was more pleasant. I think one of the owners helped me that time and they were nice. For how sweet the owner is I give it the 4 stars but my current visit probably deserved more of a 1 star.

Unfortunately, this visit didn’t quite match that other impression. The service felt a bit awkward and not very attentive, even though it wasn’t busy. It kind of felt like we were bothering the lady just by being there, which made things uncomfortable. I wasn't able to get another round to drink. I think they forgot to bring it. We ended up just leaving and went to eat at Captain's where we got a full meal and a drink for not too much more. I even regretted leaving a tip tbh.

As for the food, the $13 burger was just okay. It didn’t come with fries or anything else, so it didn’t fill me up. For the price and portion, it didn’t feel worth the drive out from where I live.

Maybe their focus is more on tourists coming up the hill, and that’s fine. I’m not saying I’d NEVER give it another try, but based on this experience, I’m in no rush to go back...

New spot on Big Bear Lake which is always a welcome sign, although I was it was closer to home near Erwin Lake. Came during lunch hour on a Saturday and it wasn't too crowded compared to the places in the village which is a good thing. I wanted a burger (the look delicious) but ended up getting the pepperoni pizza which was a great choice. Depending on your appetite it can be for a single person but it's definitely enough for two people. The staff was friendly and attentive, the brothers are cool AF people. The drinks weren't bad, I had a beer and some kind of margarita, can't remember the name, it wasn't bad at all. Pets are welcomed which is cool and a plus. Plenty of parking, tiny lake view which also isn't bad. After getting our check and getting ready to pay we noticed that management noticed us waiting to pay and we were promptly taken care of, that's great customer service. Again, location isn't bad since it's pretty much at the so called entrance to Big Bear Lake/The Village. The decor inside is also pretty awesome I kinda want to live there haha. Overall I highly recommend this place. Definitely a must try... OH they also have...