The 5 Best Place for Salad Around Truckee/North Lake Tahoe Region

Crisp greens, colorful vegetables, nutrient-dense toppings and house-made dressings have evolved the humble salad into a meal worthy of its own spotlight. Local restaurants are taking salad beyond the side plate, offering bowls that balance texture, flavor and freshness. The Best of North Lake Tahoe and Truckee includes recognition for restaurants that excel at this art of wholesome, well-balanced eating.

Sylva

At Sylva in Tahoe City, salads aren’t an afterthought. They’re central to the culinary philosophy — fresh, seasonal and composed with care. This modern eatery blends global flavors with a plant-forward approach, which shows in their salad selections as much as anywhere else on the menu. A look into Sylva’s approach reveals attention to both ingredients and presentation. The restaurant focuses on locally sourced produce, bright herbs and vibrant colors that turn each dish into a visual and nutritional feast. But the greens don’t just look good — they’re layered with thoughtful details, from house-made dressings to unique crunch elements and proteins that elevate the whole experience. It’s a place where ordering a salad feels intentional, not obligatory.

Blue Coyote Bar & Grill

Known for its laid-back vibe and expansive menu, Blue Coyote Bar & Grill may not be the first place one thinks of when craving a standout salad — but it should be. This Truckee favorite has built its reputation on variety, and its salad lineup holds its own among the burgers, wings and brews. Whether it’s a hearty Cobb with grilled chicken and avocado or a lighter Mediterranean-inspired mix, Blue Coyote gives diners plenty of ways to go green without sacrificing flavor or portion size. Their approach to salads feels grounded—reliable, generously portioned, and built with the same attention to quality as their more indulgent offerings. It’s proof that a sports bar can still serve up something crisp and clean.

Old Town Tap

When a restaurant puts as much thought into its salads as it does its wood-fired pizzas, you know it takes its vegetables seriously. Old Town Tap, located in historic downtown Truckee, is a study in balance. Here, refined flavors meet casual dining in an atmosphere that invites both locals and visitors to slow down and savor. Their salads highlight peak-season ingredients—think arugula, shaved root veggies, fresh citrus and herbs — while bringing in unexpected elements like pickled onions, artisanal cheeses or spiced nuts. Every forkful has depth. Their attention to detail mirrors the care they put into every part of the menu. Salads at Old Town Tap aren’t just part of a meal. They are the meal.

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