Ernie's Coffee Shop — Restaurant in South Lake Tahoe

Nestled in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, Earnie’s Coffee Shop is a true culinary haven for breakfast, brunch, and dinner enthusiasts. With its charming ambiance, diverse menu, and a commitment to offering vegan and vegetarian options, this eatery promises a delightful dining experience for everyone.

My visit to Earnie’s Coffee Shop was a journey through flavors and tastes that left me utterly satisfied. The breakfast spread was nothing short of extraordinary, with options that catered to a variety of preferences. Starting with the Mollete, the perfectly toasted bread topped with refried beans, cheese, and salsa was a fusion of textures and flavors that instantly energized my taste buds.

The Biscuit with butter, their specialty, was indeed a standout. Flaky, buttery, and simply divine, it’s no wonder it’s a star on their menu. The care and craftsmanship that went into creating this simple delight were evident with each scrumptious bite.

For a healthier option, I opted for the Oatmeal and Granola. The oats were cooked to perfection and combined with crunchy granola, creating a comforting and nourishing morning treat. The balance between textures and the sweetness from the granola made it a hearty choice.

The Breakfast Quesadillas with Tofu were a revelation for anyone seeking a vegan delight. The tofu provided a satisfyingly hearty protein, perfectly complemented by the array of vegetables and spices. It’s a dish that would impress even the most ardent carnivores.

The Sprouts Salad with bread was a refreshing and light dish that packed a punch of flavor. The combination of fresh sprouts, vegetables, and a side of bread made it a well-rounded and satisfying choice, especially for those looking for a healthier option.

The Two Eggs Omelette with Hash Browns was a classic done right. Fluffy eggs enveloped a medley of fillings, and the accompanying hash browns were crisp and golden – a quintessential breakfast comfort dish.

To complete my meal, I indulged in a Mocha that was nothing short of divine. The perfect balance of rich chocolate and robust coffee was a match made in beverage heaven.

One aspect that truly stood out was the attentive and friendly staff. Their willingness to accommodate dietary preferences and provide recommendations added an extra layer of warmth to the dining experience.

Earnie’s Coffee Shop in South Lake Tahoe is a culinary gem that masterfully weaves together a diverse menu with top-notch execution. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or a devoted carnivore, this eatery caters to all palates. With its inviting ambiance and mouthwatering offerings, Earnie’s Coffee Shop is more than just a dining spot – it’s a destination that transforms a meal into an...

Ernie’s Coffee Shop – South Lake Tahoe

If you’re into old-school diners that feel like a warm hug from your mountain grandpa, Ernie’s is the spot. Cozy cabin vibes, lightning-fast service, and plates that hit like a hearty Tahoe bear hug. It’s been feeding locals since forever, and it shows.

Here’s your first tell-tale sign it’s legit: people waiting outside in the cold, willingly. That, and the fact you can buy a $10 Ernie’s screen print tee to rep the joint like you just joined a Tahoe breakfast cult (which you basically did).

We opted to dine in, but you’ll usually hit a 20–30 minute wait—totally worth it if you’re people-watching and absorbing the chaos like a true diner enthusiast. Or skip the crowd and grab takeout—just as reliable and way faster if your stomach’s louder than your ski boots.

My go-to? The breakfast burrito—massive, cheesy, and built like it’s ready for a trail hike. Which is exactly what we did. Picked it up, walked over to South E Bike next door, and hit the trail. Ideal trail fuel. We cruised through Lake Tahoe paths, stopped beachside, and soaked in snowcapped views amidst a cool 60 degree weather.

Pro tip: While you’re waiting, check out Snowshoe Thompson Ski Rental next door—where there are life-size sculptures of a bear and Bigfoot. Nothing like staring into Sasquatch’s cold, judgmental eyes while pondering whether you’ll upgrade to a mimosa.

Menu highlight? The Montana Turkey Sandwich—grilled Ortega chile, mushrooms, Swiss, and sliced turkey on sourdough. Big flavors. No notes.

And shoutout to the manager (or guy who looked extremely managerial) who kindly explained the difference between rye with seeds vs. seedless. He didn’t flinch once when my partner asked about the seed/bread ratio like a full-on bread nerd.

All in all, Ernie’s is Tahoe breakfast royalty. Come hungry, stay cozy, and grab a tee on the way...

Ernie's Coffee Shop, located in a typical mountain resort setting, boasts a charming design with beautiful courted ceilings and lovely wood beams. The ambiance alone is enough to make you feel cozy and relaxed.

While waiting for our entire group to arrive, we decided to order some coffee. I must say, the coffee was excellent. However, we did face a slight challenge in getting creamer. Initially, we were given small cups, but after requesting a larger one, our waitress kindly accommodated us with a huge cup. It's the little things that count, and we appreciated her attentiveness.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh my, the food was simply amazing, especially for diner fare. I opted for the Biscuits and gravy with eggs over medium and hash browns. Let me break it down for you: my eggs were cooked to perfection, exactly as I had requested. Unfortunately, my friend's scrambled eggs were cold, which was a bit disappointing. Similarly, the gravy wasn't very hot either. However, the saving grace was the absolutely delicious biscuits. They were a true delight. The hash browns, although not piping hot, were still tasty.

It seemed like the kitchen may have gotten overwhelmed, as our food took longer to arrive than expected. Nevertheless, the quality of the food made up for the delay. Plus, the portion sizes were incredibly generous, enough to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. We were pleasantly surprised.

Moreover, the staff at Ernie's Coffee Shop were incredibly friendly and accommodating. Their warm and welcoming attitude added to the overall positive experience.

If you find yourself in Lake Tahoe and craving a nice breakfast or lunch, I highly recommend giving Ernie's a try. You won't be disappointed. The food is delicious, the portions are substantial, and the staff is super nice. It's the perfect spot for a casual and...