Evan's American Gourmet Café

Evan's American Gourmet Café

536 Emerald Bay Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, United States

+1 530-542-1990

New American restaurant, Restaurant
(249)
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About This Place

Nestled in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, Evan's American Gourmet Café stands out as a refined gem in the world of New American cuisine. This intimate restaurant, with just 11 cozy tables, offers a dining experience that seamlessly blends impeccable service with an inventive menu, making it an ideal destination for couples and small groups seeking something truly special.

From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between warmth and elegance. Attentive staff ensure every detail is met with care, allowing you to focus fully on the culinary journey ahead. The menu showcases a harmonious spectrum of flavors, featuring standout dishes such as the succulent Rack of Lamb drizzled with a luscious Raspberry Wine Demi-Glace and the tender Pan Roasted Veal Loin Medallions complemented by a silky Marsala Beurre Blanc. For seafood lovers, the Wild Salmon Mignon and expertly prepared Seabass are unforgettable, each bite revealing layers of freshness enhanced by thoughtful preparation.

The appetizers set the tone with vibrant options like the flavorful Mushroom Soup and a unique, flavor-packed Pizza Appetizer that Guests have described as an "explosion of flavors." Transitioning into dessert, handmade delights such as the rich Bread Pudding and the imaginative Chili Cheesecake provide a luxurious finish, indulging your palate with surprising twists and comforting textures. Equally enticing are the homemade ice creams and the blackberry crème brûlée, which have left a lasting impression on returning diners.

Complementing such a refined menu is a well-curated wine selection. Whether you prefer the crisp elegance of a Balletto 2017 Russian River Sauvignon Blanc or the bold depth of a Caymus 2017 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, each bottle is chosen to elevate your meal experience. For those seeking variety, the extensive range of whites, rosés, and reds—including estate-bottled gems and thoughtfully selected blends—ensures that every sip pairs perfectly with your chosen dish.

What truly sets Evan’s American Gourmet Café apart is how each component—from the distinctive dishes crafted from scratch to the genuine smiles of the knowledgeable servers—works together to create an immersive gourmet experience. Diners consistently praise the intimate environment and the culinary creativity that turns every meal into an adventure, making it clear why reservations are essential for this sought-after spot.

As reviewer Julianne Evans beautifully puts it, “What a great place! The food was divine... It felt like dining in a culinary sanctuary where every dish is an art piece.” Whether savoring a perfectly cooked Filet Mignon and Lobster or delighting in the seasonal specials like saffron fettuccine with seared scallops, guests leave Evan’s with a deep sense of satisfaction and anticipation for their next visit.

In short, Evan's American Gourmet Café is more than a restaurant—it’s a celebration of New American cuisine at its finest, perfectly suited for those looking to indulge in an elevated, intimate dining experience in South Lake Tahoe.

Service options
Dine-in Delivery Takeaway
Highlights
Great dessert Great wine list
Popular for
Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Healthy options Private dining room Small plates Wine
Dining options
Dinner Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets Toilet
Atmosphere
Cosy Quiet Romantic Upmarket
Crowd
Tourists
Planning
Reservations required Dinner reservations recommended Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards Credit cards
Parking
Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    05:00 PM - 08:30 PM
  • Wednesday
    05:00 PM - 08:30 PM
  • Thursday
    05:00 PM - 08:30 PM
  • Friday
    05:00 PM - 08:30 PM
  • Saturday
    05:00 PM - 08:30 PM
  • Sunday
    Closed

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Julianne Evans
    1 month ago

    What a great place! The food was divine. Intimate setting with the most delightful staff. Loved it here. They had so many options to choose from and everything was made from scratch! Only 11 tables so make reservations! Even their desserts were all homemade on site.

  • Scott Robinson
    2 month ago

    Had the filet. It was excellent (bad picture, great steak). We were a group of 6 (reservation), but this is a great place for a couple.

  • S. Franquiz
    2 month ago

    This hidden gem will not disappoint ! Had the pizza appetizer with an explosion of flavors and the Halibut special was mind blowing! The banana bread pudding and blackberry crème brûlée was like no other I have ever had. Not to mention the service with a huge smile and great knowledge of their specialties was right on point. We will definitely return,

  • Rebecca Rementer
    2 month ago

    If you are looking for a very intimate dining experience with a loved one this place is perfect. There’s probably about 10 tables in the whole place so your server will be very attentive. The food is definitely a culinary adventure. Imaginative, creative and absolutely delicious.

  • Edward M
    3 month ago

    Evan's came with a great recommendation, and it didn't disappoint. Everyone was welcoming and attentive. My wife and I split the heirloom and watermelon salad, which was very nice. My entree was a homemade saffron fettuccine with seared scallops in a white vodka sauce. It was a great choice and perfectly prepared. The dining room is small, so you'll definitely need a reservation ahead of time. I'm visiting from out of town, so I won't be back anytime soon; but for the locals, you have a gem. Hope they appreciate it.

  • Anna Hyatt
    3 month ago

    What a divine meal! I'm not local, but spent the weekend in Tahoe visiting friends and they said we absolutely had to go to Evan's because it was the best meal around....and boy was that true! Cute, cozy atmosphere with just a handful of tables and really personalized service. The food was out of this world - the goat cheese hummus millefeuille, the savory cheesecake ( I mean....WHAT!?), asparagus soup - all of it was phenomenal. Absolutely worth the splurge - a meal to remember!!

  • Pat Franklin
    4 month ago

    Delicious food, excellent service. I mistakenly thought there was a view of the lake, there isn't. Notable menu and dining experience. Reservation recommended.

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