Nestled in the mountainous region of California’s San Bernardino National Forest, Lake Arrowhead offers spectacular scenery and plenty of outdoor activities. There is also a wide array of family-friendly places to eat, which range from grab-and-go spots to relaxed dining establishments. Book a stay at one of numerous Lake Arrowhead vacation rentals today. Choose from among these top 10 kid-friendly Lake Arrowhead restaurants to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts.
1. Belgian Waffle Works
Indoor or patio seating, awesome lake views, and waffles of all kinds all day long make Belgian Waffle Works a favorite destination for Lake Arrowhead family vacationers. While the kids top their hot waffles with bananas and strawberries, or sandwich yummy ice cream between them, you can savor a Monte Cristo sandwich or Belgian Benedict, the restaurant’s version of eggs Benedict on a waffle. With vegan and gluten-free choices on the menu, everybody leaves satisfied.
2. El Papagayos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
When the kids want tacos and burritos, it’s time for a trip to El Papagayos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina in Lake Arrowhead. Gaze at the lake from the patio while you wait for your Southwestern-influenced lunch or dinner, served in large portions by friendly, attentive staff. This casual environment has big booths that give your lively children plenty of wiggle room before their food arrives and elbow room while they eat. Don’t forget to leave some space in your stomach for your fried ice cream dessert.
3. LouEddie’s Pizza, Skyforest
Located in Skyforest, Lake Arrowhead, LouEddie’s Pizza offers a casual, rustic atmosphere to go with its homemade, hand-tossed Italian pizzas and salads. Gather the family at an outdoor table, or order food for takeout and enjoy the sounds of trees rustling in the breeze. Along with fresh garlic knots and the traditional meat toppings kids love on pizzas, LouEddie’s menu includes gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
4. Bill’s Village Coffee Shop
For an old-fashioned American diner atmosphere, visit Bill’s Village Coffee Shop, a family-owned restaurant in Blue Jay, Lake Arrowhead. Comfortable booths, excellent service, and delicious chicken-fried steak draw locals and families staying in vacation rentals. While you and the kids are eating your breakfast, lunch, or dinner, don’t be surprised if Bill comes to your table to ask whether you’re enjoying it.
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5. Lake Arrowhead Village Pizza and Arcade
Tell the kids you’re taking them to Lake Arrowhead Village Pizza and Arcade, and then get out of the way as they rush to your car. Video games, big screen TVs, lots of indoor and outdoor seating and space, and plenty of pizza choices make this restaurant a kid’s paradise. The casual atmosphere and family-friendly servers let you breathe easy after a busy day of sightseeing or outdoor activities. Pizza-weary adults can dine on tasty burgers, hot fries, or crisp salads while taking in the relaxing lake views.
6. Woody’s Boathouse Restaurant
When your taste buds say seafood, Woody’s Boathouse Restaurant answers the call. Conveniently located on the water in Lake Arrowhead Village, this dining location offers booths and tables to accommodate your family for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. If the kids don’t want seafood, the menu includes pizza, fresh fruit, and a soup and salad bar. Watch your children have a ball as they sit in an old cutout boat and take in the terrific water views.
7. Cedar Glen Malt Shop, Cedar Glen
What’s a family vacation without a trip to an ice cream shop? Cedar Glen Malt Shop, located a short drive from Lake Arrowhead Village, satisfies the ice-cream-loving kid in everyone. Enjoy burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, milkshakes, malts, and hot-fudge sundaes in a 50s decor. Don’t mind the kids’ laughter as you stroll down Memory Lane, viewing pictures of Elvis and Marilyn Monroe on the bright-red walls.
8. Hungry Bear Deli & Bakery Cafe, Skyforest
To start or end a day on the mountain trail, bring your hungry family to Hungry Bear Deli & Bakery Cafe in Skyforest. Select a Reuben or another made-from-scratch sandwich, and add a side of macaroni salad for a delicious and filling lunch. This cozy log cabin restaurant offers a casual atmosphere, cheerful servers, and positive affirmations on the walls. The result? You and the kids can enjoy an upbeat, family-friendly vibe to complement your meal and vacation visit.
9. Hortencia’s at the Cliffhanger, Crestline
Hortencia’s at the Cliffhanger in Crestline offers your family a spectacular panoramic view of the San Bernardino Mountains and valley along with great Mexican food. Whether you sit inside or outdoors, the friendly restaurant staff help you and the kids feel welcome and comfortable. Located just a few miles from Lake Arrowhead Village, this restaurant sits on the edge of a cliff, giving your family something to talk about as you enjoy your chips and salsa, shrimp tacos, and chicken burritos.
10. Hot Shots Coffeehouse, Blue Jay
Hot Shots Coffeehouse features a simple menu of made-to-order food including bagels, eggs, hot panini sandwiches, soft-serve yogurt, and coffee, of course. Families with picky young eaters receive personalized service, and the casual-style eatery offers choices for adults who favor vegan dishes, too. The restaurant’s location in Blue Jay makes it convenient for Lake Arrowhead Village locals, visitors, and residents of area vacation rental properties.
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