ESN Epic Eats: Best of 2025

Copper Top BBQ – Big Pine
Copper Top is a must-stop roadside BBQ joint known for its smoky, slow-cooked tri-tip burgers and generous portions. The atmosphere is casual and outdoorsy with picnic-style seating and mountain views, making it a perfect stop along Highway 395. Its reputation for bold flavor and hearty plates has made it one of the most talked-about food stops in the Eastern Sierra.

The Patty Shack – Mammoth Lakes
The Patty Shack is a favorite burger spot right in the heart of Mammoth, offering juicy, classic smash-burgers with crisp fries and a fun, relaxed ski-town vibe. It’s an easy go-to after a day on the slopes or trails, and locals love it for its simple menu, great flavors, and comfortable indoor dining experience.

Best Pizza

The Upper Crust Pizza – Bishop
The Upper Crust is one of Bishop’s most dependable pizza spots, known for its flavorful crust, hearty toppings, and classic pizzeria feel. They offer a gluten-friendly crust and you can build-your-own pizza or try one of their unique pizza combinations. It’s a welcoming place to sit down for a meal with friends or family, or grab takeout after a busy day. Locals love it for its consistent quality and relaxed small-town atmosphere. Delivery available.

June Pie – June Lake
June Pie in June Lake is a favorite for New-York–style, thin-crust pizza with a perfect balance of sauce, cheese, and crunch. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day in the mountains, whether you’re staying in June Lake or just passing through. The vibe is cozy and mountain-casual, making it an easy pick for delicious, well-made pizza in the Eastern Sierra. They do offer a gluten-friendly pizza crust.

Best Place to Get a Drink

Back Alley Bowl and Grill – Bishop
Back Alley Bowl and Grill in Bishop isn’t just for strikes — it’s a lively bar and bowling alley where you can grab a drink, enjoy some casual bowling, and hang out with friends. With a laid-back vibe, it’s a local favorite when you want good drinks without a fuss.

Distant Brewing – Mammoth Lakes
Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes offers a cozy, craft-brew vibe perfect for unwinding. Their selection of house-brewed beers (and sometimes rotating seasonal brews) makes it a go-to for beer lovers. It’s a great spot to settle in after a day on the slopes or trails — friendly, casual, and with a mountain-town atmosphere.

Best Sandwich

Brewed Awakening – Big Pine
Brewed Awakening in Big Pine is a cozy café famous for its hearty, made-to-order sandwiches, from stacked turkey clubs to veggie wraps all served with a friendly small-town vibe. They offer gluten free bread and bagels, making it one of the few sandwich locations with this option. It’s a perfect everyday breakfast or lunch stop or before hitting the road or heading into the hills. The welcoming atmosphere and consistently good sandwiches make it a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Nic-n-Willie’s – Mammoth Lakes
Nic-n-Willie’s in Mammoth Lakes stands out for its satisfying sandwiches, ranging from classic deli-style subs to creative, hearty combinations are great for refueling after a day of hiking or skiing. Its convenient Mammoth location and casual, laid-back feel make it an easy go-to when you want a quick, tasty meal without sacrificing quality.

Best Tacos

Crearéé – Bishop
Crearéé in Bishop serves fresh, flavorful tacos with a mix of traditional and creative options, including vegan choices. They have an easy to use, build your own taco option when online ordering. It’s a cozy and friendly spot that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner for locals and travelers alike.

Latin Market – Mammoth Lakes
Latin Market in Mammoth Lakes is known for its authentic street tacos, generous portions, and no-frills style. It’s a local favorite for fast, delicious Mexican food — ideal after a day outdoors or if you just want a quick, satisfying meal.

Best BBQ

Copper Top BBQ – Big Pine
Copper Top BBQ is a beloved roadside stop known for its Santa Maria style smoky tri-tip, tender ribs, hearty plates, and 5-Star reviews. The outdoor picnic seating and casual small-town feel make it a perfect lunch break along Highway 395. It’s widely considered one of the must-try BBQ spots in the Eastern Sierra.

Miller & Sons at Rock Creek Lake Resort – Mammoth Lakes
Miller & Sons offers flavorful smoked meats, sandwiches, and house-made sauces with a relaxed mountain vibe. It’s an easy spot to settle in for comfort food after a day on the trails or slopes, and locals appreciate its satisfying portions and friendly atmosphere.

Best Steak

Back Alley Bowl and Grill – Bishop
Back Alley Bowl and Grill in Bishop surprises visitors with how good its steaks are, especially for a casual bowling alley environment. The portion sizes are generous, the prices are fair, and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. Locals love it because it’s consistent, unpretentious, and delivers a great meal without needing a reservation or a special occasion.

The Restaurant at Convict Lake – Mammoth Lakes
The Restaurant at Convict Lake offers a more refined steakhouse experience with quality cuts, great service, and a cozy, scenic setting near the lake. It’s a favorite for date nights, celebrations, or simply unwinding after a day in the mountains. Their food is elegant yet comforting, and the historic lakeside atmosphere feels special every time you go.

Best Coffee Shop

Brewed Awakening – Big Pine
Brewed Awakening in Big Pine is a warm, inviting café known for smooth, delicious coffee that avoids the bitter bite and delivers some of the best lattes you’ll find along Highway 395. They offer excellent milk alternatives, making it easy for every coffee drinker to enjoy their go-to drink exactly how they like it. Locals love it for their coffee and because it’s perfect for fueling up in the morning or grabbing a relaxing afternoon snack.

Looney Bean – Mammoth Lakes
Looney Bean in Mammoth Lakes is a favorite coffee stop for visitors and locals alike, offering a solid range of espresso drinks, drip coffee, and comforting vibes. It’s a convenient place to warm up after a morning on the slopes or a chilly hike. Locals appreciate it for its welcoming atmosphere, reliable coffee, and easygoing ski-town energy.

Best Desserts  

Brown’s Town – Bishop
Brown’s Town in Bishop is known for its nostalgic, homemade-style desserts — including hand-scooped ice cream, pies, and other sweet classics that feel straight out of a small-town bakery. Because it’s seasonally open, enjoying dessert here feels extra special and worth the stop when you catch it during its open months. Locals love it because the treats are generous, comforting, and perfectly paired with the campground’s relaxed, small-town charm.

Roberto’s Café – Mammoth Lakes
Roberto’s Café in Mammoth Lakes serves tasty, satisfying desserts that make for a sweet ending to dinner or a fun treat after a day in the mountains. The cozy dining atmosphere and reliable dessert menu make it a popular spot with locals and visitors wanting a dessert with a Mexican twist, with flan being a favorite.

Best Food Truck