The 5 Best Lunch Spots Around Truckee/North Lake Tahoe Region

When it comes to lunch, Americans eat about 400 billion sandwiches a year — and that’s just one option among many. Whether it's a midday refuel, a long-overdue break from work, or an excuse to catch up with a friend, lunch here is more than just a meal. It's a moment to pause. The Best of North Lake Tahoe and Truckee toasts local spots that turn the noon hour into something worth planning your day around. From food trucks and delis to riverside taverns, these beloved establishments know how to serve up satisfaction, one plate at a time.

Red Truck

At Red Truck, global flavors meet Tahoe altitude in a way that feels both grounded and adventurous. This airport-adjacent eatery is a standout for its commitment to organic ingredients and its globally inspired menu. Owner Larry Abney built Red Truck around the idea of “farm-to-finger,” and it shows in dishes like the turmeric-tinged sweet potato samosas, Thai chicken wraps, and Moroccan beef bowls. The food is vibrant, fresh, and deeply satisfying without being heavy. With its roots in food truck culture and a home base at the Truckee Tahoe Airport, Red Truck manages to make lunch feel like an unexpected layover on the way to somewhere delicious.

Full Belly Deli

Full Belly Deli doesn’t shy away from going big. Known for bold sandwiches and unapologetically hearty portions, this Truckee favorite blends classic deli comfort with a dose of local irreverence. Owners Eric and Tom founded the spot with a simple mission: feed people well and make them laugh. The menu reads like a stand-up routine with entries like the “Stairway to Veggin’” and “Menage a Trois” — but the ingredients are serious business. House-roasted meats, scratch-made sauces and dressings, and fresh bread fuel the creations that have made FBD a lunchtime rite of passage for both locals and visitors. It’s not just a sandwich shop. It’s a personality with pastrami.

Bridgetender Tavern and Grill

There’s something timeless about grabbing lunch at the Bridgetender. Maybe it’s the view of the Truckee River trickling out of Lake Tahoe, or maybe it’s the old-school charm of a tavern that knows exactly what it is. The Bridgetender has long been a go-to for locals craving burgers, crisp fries and cold drinks at noon — or really, any hour the kitchen’s open. The outdoor patio fills quickly when the sun’s out, but the cozy indoor seating and friendly staff keep the vibe laid-back year-round. For those who want their lunch with a side of scenery and a lot of local character, the BT hits just right.

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