17 Unmissable Spots Where To Eat California Highway 395 (2024)

Lone Pine

Toward the southern end of California Highway 395, you’ll find the tiny town of Lone Pine, which is the gateway to both Mount Whitney and Death Valley. There are noteworthy things to do in Lone Pine, including visiting nearby Manzanar, Alabama Hills rock formations, and the Museum of Western Film. Fuel up for explorations for breakfast or lunch at Alabama Hills Cafe on the California Highway 395 near Whitney Portal Road. 

Big Pine

Further north along the California 395, you’ll come across the town of Big Pine, whic is home to Copper Top BBQ. According to Yelp, this is the best BBQ in California, and the proof is that tourists and locals alike line up to taste it.

Stop by for a taste of California’s very own cut, tri-tip, or for some ribs to go. They conveniently vacuum seal most of their BBQ so you can take it to go and reheat it for anything from camping to dinner at your vacation rental. Just make sure you leave room for the classic sides like potato salad and decadent mac and cheese. Pro Tip: If you pass by after hours, hit up their BBQ vending machine!

Bishop

The largest town (and most northern town) in Inyo County along California Highway 395, Bishop has the most food choices outside of Mammoth Lakes. There are beloved spots like Schat’s Bakery and classic spots like Whiskey Creek alongside taquerias, Japanese restaurants, and dive bars, making Bishop a great place to stop for a bite to eat and rest. 

We recommend trying Schat’s Roadhouse for burgers, roast chicken, and BBQ sandwiches. They also have a full bar and live music on the regular. Head to the newer Pupfish Cafe for breakfast classics and quality sandwiches or Mercado Mexico for fun, modern Mexican including plant-based tacos, spot-on esquites, great shrimp ceviche, homemade tamales and conchas ice cream sandwiches.

If you’re more in the mood to cook or just looking for a delicious fresh sandwich when you’re wondering where to eat California Highway 395, Mahogany Smoked Meats has you covered. Mahogany has been in service since 1922 and is nationally famous. They offer quality smoked meats and also have a full deli menu.

Crowley Lake & McGee Creek

Adjacent to stunning Crowley Lake are the small communities of Crowley Lake and McGee Creek. Head here to stop by the East Side Bake Shop where baker Elizabeth McGuire serves up wholesome baked goods including beloved scones, pies, and a selection of gluten free treats.  

Convict Lake

For one of the easiest ways to access one of the many alpine lakes in the Eastern Sierra, head to Convict Lake. Located between McGee Creek and Mammoth Lakes, Convict Lake is surrounded by mountains mirrored in the lake’s blue-green water.

It’s also home to the cozy fine-dining spot that is The Restaurant at Convict Lake Resort. Head here for white tablecloth service and classic dishes like the clay-pot roasted garlic, steak frites, and delicious rainbow trout. 

Mammoth Lakes

The main resort town along California Highway 395, Mammoth Lakes, is known for skiing in the winter and fishing and hiking in the summer. There are only a couple of chains, so you can easily eat local when in town.

While many places cater to families or travelers on a budget, there are a handful of quality local restaurants to check out. Head here to read all our recommendations of where to eat in Mammoth Lakes including the healthy spot Elixir Cafe, the Mammoth Tavern for burgers, and the fine dining option, Skadi.

June Lake

June Lake is an adorable town with breathtaking views, and its lakes, canyons, glacial rocks, and ski resort draw tourists, backpackers, and fishermen worldwide. As you exit the highway, you can take the June Lake Loop to access the town “village,” where there is an assortment of options from Mexican food to juice spots. 

Head to June Pie Pizza Co. for New York-style pizza made with fresh ingredients cooked in a brick-fired oven. They also have gluten-free and vegan options! Also, stop by the T-bar Social Club — a speakeasy bar located downstairs — for a tasty cocktail or refreshing brew.

Another beloved option is La Parilla Grill & Tacos food truck at June Lake Brewing. They offer an extensive menu of Mexican food ranging from street tacos to burritos and soft serve. We’re fans of the carne asada tacos, the poblano enchiladas, and the churros. Wash your food down with a beer from adjacent June Lake Brewing while you sit at one of the outdoor picnic tables. 

Lee Vining

If you turn off the 395 to take the 120 to Tioga Pass, you’ll pass the Lee Vining Mobil Station. And, if there’s good weather, you’ll likely see crowds noshing at the outdoor picnic tables making it a prime place where to eat California Highway 395.

They’ve got food at Whoa Nellie Deli, located within the gas station. The menu is vast with breakfast options to pizza, but they’re best known for their grilled and BBQ dishes and chili. 

Bridgeport

At the intersection of Highway 395 and state route 182, you’ll come across Bridgeport. It’s known for trout streams and lakes, but it is also home to a handful of restaurants. The recently-opened Growler’s has quickly won the hearts of locals and travelers alike thanks to their generous portions, excellent service, and fresh food.