The 5 Best Truckee Restaurants

This Sierra Nevada town punches far above its weight when it comes to culinary offerings. From old-school bar fare to upscale seasonal menus, the dining scene in Truckee reflects the character of the community — creative, independent and always evolving. The Best of North Lake Tahoe and Truckee celebrates the local gems that keep both residents and visitors well fed, no matter the craving.

Pianeta

Pianeta doesn’t try to be the flashiest restaurant in town. It doesn't need to. This downtown Truckee mainstay has been winning people over for decades with its warm ambiance and consistently refined approach to Italian-inspired cuisine. The house-made pastas (pillowy gnocchi, rich pappardelle, and perfectly al dente spaghetti) form the heart of the menu, but it’s the attention to detail that keeps diners coming back. Pianeta draws heavily from Northern Italian traditions while still leaving space to evolve with the seasons. The wine list is curated to complement the food without overshadowing it, and the bar has become a favorite spot for locals looking for a strong Negroni or a well-balanced Manhattan. With a space that blends old-world charm and relaxed Truckee vibes, Pianeta is the kind of restaurant where time seems to slow just enough.

Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats

Moody’s is more than a restaurant — it’s part of Truckee’s cultural fabric. Housed inside the historic Truckee Hotel, this bistro blends jazz, cocktails and food in a way that feels both elevated and grounded. Executive Chef William Burns oversees a menu that leans into seasonal California fare, with dishes that range from upscale comfort food to inventive small plates. Think truffle fries and wild mushroom risotto served in a room with velvet booths, vintage light fixtures and live music pulsing from the corner. Moody’s is a place where you might catch a Grammy-winning musician one night and a cozy, quiet dinner the next. The bar program is equally ambitious, offering classic cocktails with a contemporary twist. Moody’s doesn’t just feed you; it entertains you, engages you and gives you a reason to linger.

Blue Coyote Bar & Grill

If you’re looking for a laid-back spot to watch the game, enjoy hearty American eats or unwind after a day on the mountain, Blue Coyote Bar & Grill answers the call. This locally owned and operated grill has carved out its identity as a neighborhood hub where locals gather for wings, burgers and beers. The menu leans into familiar comfort food — think loaded nachos, flatbread pizzas and sandwiches stacked high. But the kitchen keeps things interesting with rotating specials and a surprisingly broad list of options, including healthier fare and a kid-friendly lineup. With over 20 screens, a full bar and a sports-loving crowd, Blue Coyote manages to be lively without feeling chaotic. It's unpretentious and reliably good, which might explain why so many Truckee families and friend groups make it their regular haunt.

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