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After a day of chasing waterfalls, exploring giant sequoias, or hiking scenic trails, nothing hits the spot like a great meal. Luckily, some of the best restaurants near Yosemite’s South Entrance are just minutes from your vacation rental.
Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast before hitting the park or a lakeside dinner after sunset, the Oakhurst–Bass Lake–Yosemite area has you covered. Here’s your local guide to where to eat, what to order, and how to make the most of Yosemite’s food scene.
🍳 1. South Gate Brewing Company – Oakhurst
Type: Casual American, craft beer
Perfect For: Burgers, brews, and post-hike refueling
A local favorite, South Gate Brewing is known for its farm-to-table burgers, smoked ribs, and house-brewed beers with names inspired by Yosemite landmarks (try the Glacier Point IPA!). Grab a spot on the patio for mountain views and live music on select nights.
What to Order: South Gate Burger, sweet potato fries, and a pint of their flagship IPA.
🍝 2. The Elderberry House – Oakhurst
Type: Fine dining, European-inspired
Perfect For: Romantic dinners and special occasions
Located inside the elegant Château du Sureau, The Elderberry House offers a five-star dining experience that rivals anything in San Francisco — right here in the Sierra foothills. Expect seasonal tasting menus, world-class wine pairings, and impeccable service.
What to Order: The nightly tasting menu — it changes with the seasons but never disappoints.
Pro Tip: Reservations are a must.
🌮 3. Smokehouse 41 BBQ – Oakhurst
Type: Texas-style barbecue
Perfect For: Casual lunch or family takeout
If the smell of slow-smoked brisket makes your mouth water, head to Smokehouse 41. It’s a laid-back spot with picnic tables and a loyal local following. Everything’s smoked fresh daily — once they sell out, that’s it!
What to Order: Brisket plate or pulled pork sandwich with mac & cheese and coleslaw.
🍕 4. Ducey’s Bar & Grill – Bass Lake
Type: Lakeside dining
Perfect For: Sunset dinners and family-friendly meals
For a true Sierra experience, dine right on the water at Ducey’s Bar & Grill in Bass Lake. Watch the boats drift by while you enjoy casual American favorites and local wines. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day in the park or a swim at the lake.
What to Order: Fish tacos, tri-tip sandwich, or a local craft beer on tap.
Pro Tip: Go early for golden-hour lake views — it’s photo-worthy every time.
🍕 5. Pizza Factory – Oakhurst
Type: Family-friendly pizza & pasta
Perfect For: Easy meals after a long park day
Sometimes you just want pizza — and Pizza Factory delivers exactly what tired hikers crave: hearty portions, fresh ingredients, and friendly local service. It’s casual, affordable, and perfect for takeout to enjoy back at your cabin.
What to Order: Yosemite Special Pizza or their classic baked spaghetti.
☕ 6. Cool Bean Café – Oakhurst
Type: Coffeehouse, breakfast, and light lunch
Perfect For: Early risers heading into the park
Need caffeine before tackling the Mist Trail? Cool Bean Café is your go-to. They serve excellent espresso drinks, smoothies, and breakfast sandwiches made to order.
What to Order: The breakfast burrito and an iced latte for the road.
Pro Tip: Opens early — ideal for pre-park fuel.
🥩 7. Jackalope’s Bar & Grill – Tenaya Lodge (Fish Camp)
Type: Upscale lodge dining
Perfect For: Families or couples staying near the South Gate
Located just minutes from the Yosemite South Entrance, Jackalope’s Bar & Grill at Tenaya Lodge offers hearty lodge-style meals with a mountain atmosphere. Think wood-fired steaks, local wines, and cozy indoor-outdoor seating.
What to Order: Sierra steak salad or the grilled salmon.
Pro Tip: Pair dinner here with a spa visit or a glass of wine by their outdoor firepits.
🏡 Eat, Explore, and Relax at [Your Property Name]
One of the best parts of staying at a vacation rental near Yosemite’s South Entrance is having all these amazing restaurants within easy reach — plus the flexibility to cook your own meals if you’d rather stay in.
Our rentals feature:
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Fully equipped kitchens for easy meal prep
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Outdoor BBQs for family cookouts
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Spacious decks for al fresco dining with mountain views
Whether you dine out or stay in, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds — comfort, convenience, and local flavor.
🌄 Final Bite: Local Dining with Local Character
From fine dining to lakeside grills and cozy coffee shops, the Oakhurst and Bass Lake dining scene brings authentic Sierra flavor to your Yosemite getaway.
So next time you’re planning where to eat near Yosemite, skip the chain restaurants and experience what locals love — great food, warm hospitality, and views you’ll remember long after the last bite.
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