Today I am going to profile The Stove Restaurant, located at 644 Old Mammoth Road in Mammoth Lakes. It is a cheery joint with amazing food, friendly staff, and yummy "cutie pies." Whether you need to refuel after a morning of activities or want a nice brunch after sleeping in, the Stove's country cookin' will knock your socks off. Quick Details Hours: Open daily from 7 am to 2 pm during the summer and winter. Kid Friendliness Level: Big booths and highchairs, kids menu with crayons and activities - very kid friendly. Dog Friendliness Level: No dogs. Vegetarian options: There are vegetarian options. Gluten Free options:  Gluten free items available, including substitutions for bread and granola. Drinks: Delicious fresh squeezed juices, coffee, and mimosas. Price point: Reasonable, with most plates between $8 and $15. Parking: There is a parking lot, with a big lot across the street as well. Reservations: None, first come first served, expect a short wait by noon. Ability to accommodate large parties: There are large booths and a side room, I would call ahead if group is larger than 8 or 10 people. Take out: Yes, but not available if they are on a wait. The Experience The Stove is an OG restaurant in Mammoth, this breakfast and lunch spot goes back 50 years. But it isn't dated or drab, in fact it is delightful and colorful, full of light, and so delicious. It feels like you were invited to your best friend's grandmother's kitchen for breakfast. I went on a Sunday with one of my best friends and my toddler after a lovely hike in the woods. We got there around noon and had to wait about 10 minutes for a table. It looked like they had just filled up, but also there were a few tables that turned over shortly after we arrived. Luckily the waiting area had a lot of fun things to look at and my son was entertained. We were immediately greeted with waters and an offer for coffee. My son got a kids menu with games and crayons. I ordered the fresh squeezed juice, a combination of the orange and grapefruit juice, and my friend got a lemonade. They both came out in large mason jars. The booth we were seated in was spacious, and it functioned well to corral my toddler and (mostly) to prevent him from running amok in the restaurant. We did switch to a high chair once his food arrived, but it was really nice to have the option to move between the two. I think it prolonged the time before meltdown, a big kid friendly plus. Our waitress was really attentive despite it being busy, she seemed to know what we wanted before we knew. I was able to order a pancake for my boy right away. I ordered the garden wrap with the mac and cheese for a side, and my friend got the tuna melt with sweet potato fries. The pancake came up quickly and my son was able to get started before us, thankfully. Even from the kids menu, it was a large fluffy pancake with a big gob of butter on top and a side of syrup. You can upgrade to Jake's Family real maple syrup for a small price, which is worth it. My bestie described her tuna melt as having fresh avocado, the tuna being light and not overly mayo'd, and with cheddar cheese, a classic. The portions were generous and she took half home for later. My garden wrap was delicious, with loads of fresh veggies and the poppy seed dressing made it a little sweet and tangy. The mac and cheese side is worth mentioning as well, because man was it hearty and cheesy. The Stove has freshly baked pies for sale. Do not skip these. Don't do that to yourself. You can get a whole pie or a "cutie pie" - a three inch diameter pie that is both cute and scrumptious. I took a cherry cutie pie home and shared it with my husband that night with a dollop of whipped cream. The cherries had the quintessential sour taste but was baked into a sweet gooey center, the crust was buttery and the right amount of flaky, and just the right size. I will be going back for these pies. WELL DONE to whoever is baking them, I'd love to give you a hug. The Stove is the perfect breakfast/lunch spot if you want something hearty and wholesome. It is family friendly, delicious, and seriously has good pies. It has withstood the test of time and is a Mammoth Lakes classic favorite. As always, please comment with any questions, thoughts, or your own experiences.

Heading to the mountains is one of the most glorious and worthy endeavors one can embark on.  Mammoth Lakes is a special place with its own challenges, and there are some things you really just don’t learn that you need until you get here.  And then you learn the hard way. This is by no means an exhaustive list, and I am not going to remind you to bring your underwear and toothbrush.  This is a list of mountain specific items that you may not think to bring to Mammoth Lakes.  I am sure other locals will have their own thoughts, preferences, and tricks.  This list is merely what I use and recommend.  I am sharing in hopes that you can avoid learning the hard way.  I am also adding affiliate links for each item that direct you to Amazon, so you can purchase any of these items before you head up here.  I will get a small kickback from Amazon for using my links.  Think of it like you treated me to coffee so you could pick my brain on what to bring.  Thank you! HYDRATION Mammoth Lakes is at elevation.  We have special directions for cooking rice and baking, and many professional athletes train here.  But there are special directions for you too, YOU NEED TO HYDRATE or you might get altitude sickness or just generally feel off.  Whenever someone comes to visit me, I make them drink a Nuun hydration at least the first day, and always if they are drinking alcohol (Protip: the drinks will hit you way harder up here so please double fist with water, and then drink a Nuun).  The Nuun hydration will help stave off altitude sickness, a hangover, or fatigue by keeping you hydrated.  I find that they almost immediately make a headache feel better, whatever the reason for it.  I drink one after a run or a big hike or a day of skiing and it restores me.  They don’t taste bad like some hydration tablets and Nuun comes in a variety of flavors.  Because I go through so many, I buy the bulk pack.  (https://amzn.to/49xoatx). SUN PROTECTION I had a friend tell me once that sunscreen is an essential part of Beyoncé’s daily skincare regime and that has stuck with me.  It is absolutely essential in Mammoth Lakes, again because of the elevation.  In the winter the sun reflects off the snow and in the summer it reflects off the lakes.  If you don’t screen up you are surely going to be sorry.  This goes for your lips too.  Many a day I have forgotten about my pucker and spent the next few days peeling skin off my lips.  Don’t skip the sun protection you guys. My husband’s cousin lives at elevation in Colorado, and she went down the rabbit hole on the safest sunscreen, both for us (I mean, we apply it and it absorbs into our skin so we don’t want to be slathering on just anything) and for the environment (Mammoth Lakes is so special, don’t jump in our lakes with your greasy poison sunscreen please).  She recommends Think sunscreen, and I blindly followed and have been pleased with it. (https://amzn.to/40wpUiR). They have a baby version too, which I use on my toddler every single day.  (https://amzn.to/40BrlfH). For chapstick I like Burts Bees (https://amzn.to/40BpK9J) and Sun Bum, another ecologically conscious, reef safe brand based in San Diego.  (https://amzn.to/3QCCOqO).  Sun Bum’s sunscreen is great too and smells nice, I like the spray one because it is easier to apply to myself. (https://amzn.to/3FTqKwm). For sunglasses, I’m a Zeal Optics gal.  Everyone feels some kind of way about sunnies, so I won’t delve that deep, but Zeal is a great brand with a mountain vibe.  (https://amzn.to/47qRtfC). PIMP MY RIDE After last winter with record breaking snowfall, you must you must you must come prepared if you are driving to Mammoth Lakes.  I cannot stress it enough.  Our emergency services are top notch and our locals spent many hours lending a hand to help stranded motorists – in fact, if you see an emergency services worker or any local you should look them in the eye and thank them from the bottom of your beating heart – but it is ON YOU to be ready in case you are stuck in a snow situation.  I won’t go into snow tires, but otherwise here are some of the essentials I have in my car at all times.  Be safe! ·       Snow shovel – there are two competing beliefs about the best snow shovel, metal tipped or not, and if you live here you probably own several of both types.  But for my car, I prefer the Bully polypropylene shovel.  I’d rather not have a metal tipped shovel in my car and have my dog or kid hurt themselves on it.  The Bully isn’t super large and it will work to get you out of a mess.  Bully is a small business, which I support. (https://amzn.to/3FWOkIY). ·       Snow brush/ice scraper – Gotta have it.  I like the long ones because it saves your back, and sometimes the snow accumulation is quick to pile up.  Even after a quick stop you are moving a lot of snow off your windows.  The short ones don’t cut it.  (https://amzn.to/49uw5bh). ·       Tire Chains – in certain conditions you must use them and in some conditions you must carry them, even with snow tires.  CHP will ticket you and it isn’t cheap.  I always carry them.  Check your car’s tire size and order appropriately.  You can buy chains locally, but they are often marked up.  If you want to come prepared, check out this easy to install set: https://amzn.to/49uqm5d. ·       Water – I keep a jug of water in my trunk in case we get stuck in a storm and must wait it out.  I used to have a glass jug, but mistakes were made and lessons were learned.  I now carry the big Hydroflask.  It wasn’t a cheap option, but it is great quality and it won’t break.  (https://amzn.to/40zXg0c). ·       Windshield wiper fluid – You should top off before you head to the mountains.  Make sure you get the cold weather wiper fluid!  My best friend from the Bay came to visit and her wiper fluid was freezing to her windshield.  Not ideal. (https://amzn.to/3MGloZr). ·       Blanket – I keep it year-round in the car so we can use it as a beach blanket in the summer and for warmth in the winter, especially if stranded for some time in a storm.  I carry an old comforter and one of these:  https://amzn.to/3QySzPC. ·       Basic First Aid Kit – always good to have, no matter the weather or where you are.  I like this one, because I grew up with Johnson & Johnson and I deeply believe Neosporin can and will solve anything.  (https://amzn.to/3SCyLxh). SAFETY MEASURES One thing that is wonderful about Mammoth is that it is relatively safe as far as crime goes.  But we have bears, coyotes, and mountain lions that share our forests, and you should be prepared if you are out in nature.  Not to freak anyone out, I have spent so much time in the woods and haven’t had to ever use my spray.  But I always carry it, just in case, especially if I am alone or with my toddler.  This bear spray comes with a bear horn, which we keep in our house.  You never know when you’ll need it.  (https://amzn.to/46iOR2E). I use this one when I am trail running, and the strap makes it comfortable and easy to hold in my hand. (https://amzn.to/3QSzQjt). NIGHTTIME COMFORT Mammoth Lakes is an alpine desert, and the air is dry year-round and especially in the winter.  If you are spending an extended amount of time in Mammoth - like if you have a ski lease, you’re a ski team family, or you work remotely and you have a spot for the summer - consider getting a humidifier.  They are annoying to clean, but they make a huge difference sleeping at night. We use this one for the adult bedrooms.  It can also be used to diffuse Vick’s vapor rub when you are sick, which is a nice bonus.  (https://amzn.to/3u8060h).  We use this one in our baby’s bedroom because it is also a fun nightlight and we have used and liked the Baby Frida products.  (https://amzn.to/47a12jh). If you are here in smoke season, which unfortunately happens, we use the Alen air purifier.  I did a TON of research, because I was on maternity leave with a newborn during the late summer of 2021 when we had the worst air quality in the world. The Alen brand quickly rose to the top.  It is expensive, but it does an amazing job of keeping our indoor air clean. There are several levels depending on the need, and it is quiet.  Alen air purifiers come in natural colors and ours blended into our living room décor well.  The filter has also held up.  I would definitely recommend.  (https://amzn.to/49ADd63). I hope you have a wonderful, safe trip to the mountains!

Today I am going to profile John’s Pizza Works & Outlaw Saloon, located at 3499 Main Street in Mammoth Lakes.  John’s is part restaurant, part sports bar, part takeout, part kids’ arcade, and 100% awesome.  Whether it is to catch a game, share a pizza, entertain your kids, or play shuffleboard, John’s is a great spot. The Quick Details Hours: Open daily 11:30 am to 11:00 pm; Sunday ticket NFL games open at 10:00 am. Kid Friendliness Level:  Very welcoming with highchairs, a kid’s menu (with Kraft mac and cheese for your picky eaters), a video game arcade, and an ice cream station. Dog Friendliness Level: Dogs on the outdoor patio, open in the summer. Vegetarian options: There are vegetarian options. Gluten Free options:  Gluten free crust is available. Drinks: Full bar with a cocktail menu. Price point: Pizzas range from $10 to $34; Entrees are $15 to $25. Parking: There is a lot with some parking in the back, but does get full. Reservations: None. Ability to accommodate large parties: There is a lot of seating, but it is first come first served. Take out available. The Experience It was quite by accident that I discovered the charms that make John’s Pizza Works & Outlaw Saloon stand out.  If you have read any of my blog at all, you know that I am a pizza fiend.  I took up running as a means of supporting my habit, that is the level we are talking about here.  I first came to John’s for the simple purpose of eating pizza. What I have discovered is that they have huge TV’s that play every sports game, they have an arcade for kids to play games while they wait for pizza, they have an ice cream bar for dessert, they have shuffleboard for bar games, and they have amazing skiers and snowboarders on staff who are awesome people.  Seriously, what a plus to good pizza. Our last visit to John’s was during the World Series and with another couple and their toddler.  We sat on the Outlaw Saloon side.  When you walk into John’s you can sit to the left, by the arcade, and you order at the takeout counter and get a number.  If you go to the right, you are in Outlaw Saloon, where there are essentially two rooms of tables with full service and a bar.  We grabbed a high-top booth.  Both my son and our friend’s daughter loved the experience of being out of a highchair, sitting like the big folks, sitting high up, and of course being able to watch TV. John’s has a well rounded list of beers and cocktails, and we ordered beers.  We started with an order of onion rings, a wedge salad, and a Caesar salad.  The wedge salad was decent sized with a generous portion of dressing, bacon bits, and bleu cheese.  We ordered a large Caesar, and my husband and I shared it while our toddler ate the croutons. The salad was very fresh and not at all wilted, it had a very satisfying crunch to it.  The onion rings were surprisingly good and were not overly greasy, soggy, or hard. While we waited for our pizzas, the kids went to the arcade.  It’s a lovely age where they don’t need quarters to be entertained by the games.  My son sits in the car race game and watches the screen and moves the steering wheel.   I’ll relish this while I still can. They also have the big buck hunting game, a stacker game, and two claw games. Other kids were there playing as well while their parents relaxed at a table nearby. We ordered a cheese pizza for the kids and the Pizza Picante for the adults.  One thing about John’s is you cannot switch up a pizza sauce, you have to be consistent if you are going to split a pizza’s toppings.  You can't get half tomato sauce half pesto, which I like to do. So we just got whole pies with the same topping.  The cheese pizza is always good and a hit with the littles, and I always order a large so that we have leftovers for lunch the next day.  The Pizza Picante is spicy but delicious, with heaps of toppings.  My husband separately ordered the ribeye steak sandwich, which is his John’s go to order.  I would never make this for him at home, so I get it. I appreciated that John’s was able to fit our families in a hightop booth, which afforded us some privacy while still being part of the bar atmosphere.  With the big table we were able to share all the good stuff we ordered.  Our kids were entertained and happy.  Overall, we had a great time. John's is a great pick for families, pizza night, après ski or adventure, or for a sports bar experience. As always, please comment with any questions, thoughts, or your own experiences.

Today I am going to profile Shelter Distilling, located in the Village at 100 Canyon Blvd #217 in Mammoth Lakes.  Shelter is a fully operational distillery, brewery, and restaurant bar located just off the plaza in the Village.  The cocktails are the specialty, and the food menu has a wide variety of options, from tacos to pizzas to sushi. The Quick Details Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11 am to 10 pm (kitchen closes at 9pm); Friday and Saturday 11 am to 11 pm (kitchen closes at 10pm). Happy Hour: Drink specials 8:00 to 10:00 pm and food specials 8:00 to 9:00 pm on Monday through Thursday. Kid Friendliness Level:  No highchairs or changing table in the bathroom, but kid friendly food items like pizza and grilled cheese. Dog Friendliness Level: Dogs are allowed on the patio. Vegetarian options: The menu has many vegetarian options. Gluten Free options:  Yes, with substitutions. Ciders available. Drinks: Cocktails and beer are the specialty! Price point: Mid-range, with small plates for $8-$18; tacos $6 each; sandwiches $15; and pizzas for $13-$19. Parking: Parking can be limited in the Village.  There is some street parking, a paid parking lot, and a lot below the Westin.  The village is easily accessible by bus, trolley, and gondola, and is walkable from many spots in Mammoth. Reservations: None accepted. Ability to accommodate large parties:  Seating is first come first serve, and the layout is set up to accommodate larger parties. The Experience My bestie was in town, and she is one smart, sophisticated lady who knows the hospitality industry (having opened restaurants in New York City, Chicago, and San Francisco), and if anyone knows cocktails, it’s my girl.  I wanted to take her somewhere where we could enjoy a fancy drink and share a bunch of food that would impress even her.  We went early on a Saturday night during shoulder season – with my toddler in tow – to Shelter Distilling. We got to Shelter around 6:30 pm and were able to find a table, but within an hour the indoor seating was pretty much filled up.  The back patio was closed, and the front patio was empty despite the heat lamps, which was reasonable because it was super cold out.  The indoor seating included bar seating, some high-top tables, and low tables.  The tables were set to accommodate larger parties, and small groups would likely do better at the bar seating.  There were TVs playing the baseball game (the World Series was on), and the music was pretty loud, I think due to the acoustics of the high ceiling and the metal distillers.  We sat in the back of the restaurant where it was quieter.  The décor was dark with an open, industrial feel – it is a working distillery and brewery after all! – but there were bright chandeliers that lit up the restaurant.  Being inside a real distillery added a fun element to the vibe of Shelter. Other people at Shelter appeared to be groups of friends meeting up and watching the game, girlfriends gossiping over cocktails, and a few couples on a date.  I noticed one other family with older kids who were enjoying a pizza while their parents partook in the specialty drinks. Like many restaurants post-COVID, the menu was accessed through a QR code that is linked to the table or section of the bar you are seated at.  It is a quick and effective way to order and pay upfront, but it does require you to look at your screen and cuts down on the service/human interaction aspect.  For us it was great though, and we immediately ordered a grilled cheese for my little, so he would be occupied.  It came up very quickly, and my son was able to ignore the actual sandwich like a true toddler and eat all the BBQ flavored chips that accompanied it. Aside from that, we did not course ourselves well and our food did come up before our cocktails, so be aware of that if you care about the timing of your order. Of course we both indulged in the extensive cocktail menu.  My friend, who by the way is a superwoman, got the ginger cucumber margarita, which she described as “super-smooth, and definitely refreshing.  The garnish was elegant, and the salt was tangy in a really pleasant way – something that I could have a few of.”  I got the strawberry gin sour, served up and topped with an egg white foam.  It is a sophisticated gin and juice really, but with sour grapefruit and lemon juices expertly mixed with sweet strawberry juice and lightened with egg white.  There is an option for vegan foam.  It was dangerously delicious. We sampled across the menu and tried a little of everything that Shelter has to offer.  We started with the tacos.  You cannot go wrong mixing booze with tacos, and Shelter is brilliant for having such great options.  We tried the vegetarian spicy chipotle sweet potato taco, the harissa shrimp taco, the crispy confit pork belly taco, and the Philly gordito taco.  The sweet potato and shrimp tacos were served on corn tortillas, and the pork belly and Philly tacos were on a pita round, more robust.  These tacos were largely nontraditional, but they were generous portions of fixins with a flavorful blend of ingredients.  I would recommend trying them for sure. You always need something green, so we got the blistered sesame shishito peppers.  These are the Russian Roulette of vegetables, where you never know if you’re going to pick a spicy or mild one until you bite in.  This is more fun for people who love both, while I am wimpy about the spicy ones.  Normally my husband is a taste tester for me, but on this evening, I was on my own.  Despite that fact I still loved this dish.  The peanut dipping sauce that came with it was sweet and countered the spiciness.  I also loved the toasted sesame seeds sprinkled over the peppers. We tried the warm pretzel roll, which comes with a house IPA mustard and a white cheddar cheese sauce that was incredible.  I wish I had eaten more of it, but my son ate the bread and cheese I bought for myself and I ended up eating his bread and cheese – the grilled cheese sandwich – that I bought for him.  He loved the white cheddar cheese dipping sauce too. On the sushi side, we got the spicy tuna handroll and the veggie roll.  My first impression was that the rice was so good.  It was sticky and flavorful, and from my elementary understanding of sushi, the quality of the rice is a big deal.  The handroll was a generous portion of spicy tuna and rice mixed with avocado, cucumber, and spicy aioli.  It felt like the distribution of tuna and rice was not even and depending on where you bit you’d have mostly rice or mostly fish, but the flavors were all there.  The veggie roll was also good, with strands of fresh vegetables – avocado, cucumber, carrots and asparagus - mixed with the delicious rice.  It came with plenty of ginger, which is a highlight for me. I would have stayed for more cocktails, but it was bedtime for my munchkin.  Shelter is a great choice for a date, a girls’ night, or for a big group of friends going out.  There is something for everyone in the way of cocktails, beer, and cider, and lots of different types of good food.  We had a great time and I hope you do too. As always, please comment with any questions, thoughts, or your own experiences.

Today I am going to profile The Warming Hut, located at 343 Old Mammoth Lakes Rd in Mammoth Lakes.  The Warming Hut serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner made with fresh ingredients right there in house.  It is family owned with friendly staff and is a great spot for any occasion – I especially love it après ski. The Quick Details Hours: Everyday: breakfast/lunch 9:00 am-3:00 pm, dinner 5:00 pm-8:00 pm. Happy Hour: 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm daily, drink specials and a limited snack menu. Events: Once a month “Not Your Grandma’s Bingo Night” to benefit a local charity. Kid Friendliness Level:  Has highchairs, a kid’s menu with games and crayons, and a real change table in the bathroom. Dog Friendliness Level: Dogs are welcome on the patio. Vegetarian options: The regular menu has many vegetarian options. Gluten Free options:  GF dishes are available and are noted on the menu. Drinks: Great coffee/warm drinks, wide selection of beverages available. Price point: breakfasts range from $8 to $18 with a “do it yourself” corner; lunches range from $10 to $18; and dinners range from $15 to $40. Parking: There is a parking lot, but it fills up quickly. You can park across the street. Reservations: Call to make a reservation - 760-965-0549. Ability to accommodate large parties:  I would call ahead for a large party. Take out available. The Experience I think everyone I know in Mammoth has a go to on Warming Hut’s menu.  It is that good; you try something once and go bonkers, and then it becomes your thing at Warming Hut. And if you go enough, the staff will remember your order too. My most recent visit to Warming Hut was for lunch with a girlfriend, just us girls.  No husbands and no kids.  We sat on the outdoor patio, which is lovely.  Many of Mammoth’s decks are known for not being sunny, either in the shade of tall pines or the shadow of a mountain, but somehow the patio at Warming Hut always has bright sun.  It is a treasure on a nice day, including this day.  The patio allows dogs, and they have water bowls spread out between tables. The indoor dining area is divided into two rooms, the front dining area that is large and spacious with plenty of big tables, and the back room with a bar, TVs that play surf and ski videos, and high-top tables.  Warming Hut has local art on the wall that is for sale, and they also sell bottles of Jake’s Vermont maple syrup that they serve with their breakfast dishes.  I will note that the women’s bathroom has a real, sturdy changing table for babies, not one of those folding down ones that make me nervous every time - especially as my child gets older and squirmier. It is a small thing that makes a huge difference for Mamas. I always order the Hot Vanilla, which is like a hot chocolate but is vanilla flavored.  It comes is a big mug with a load of whipped cream that makes the kid in me giddy.  But today I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried the Butter Coffee because it always intrigued me.  It is coffee mixed with butter and MCT oil, which I had to look up.  MCT oil is a healthy fat that is quick to break down and turn into energy and may have detox benefits.  The result was a warm and creamy coffee that may rival my hot vanilla obsession.  My friend ordered an Arnold Palmer that came in a tall glass with a personal sized carafe on the side for refills.  A very nice touch. My go to on the lunch menu is The Surfside Sandwich, which is a generous portion of seared ahi tuna on a brioche bun with sprouts.  I have a coworker who swears by the ahi tuna salad, which is probably also amazing, but I can’t deviate from the sandwich version.  It comes with a jalapeño-wasabi cream sauce and a squirt of lemon that just rocks.  It isn’t spicy, which can go either way for people, so fair warning.  I always get sweet potato fries for a side, but I know the soups are a delicious option too. My friend’s go to order is the Chicken B.L.A.T. salad, except she substituted steak for the chicken.  B.L.A.T. is of course smoked “B”acon, romaine “L”ettuce, “A”vocado, and “T”omato with a house made ranch dressing.  It is a big salad with lots of fixin’s, one that will leave you full.  She loved it.  Throughout our lunch, our waitress provided quick service but at no point rushed us – a couple of gossiping ladies enjoying their break in the day. If you are looking to end sweet, Warming Hut serves Pie in a Jar, made by the local bakery Dessert’d.  These are homemade pie layers baked in a mason jar topped with ice cream. Every day they have a few different types of pies to choose from.  If you have room, go for it. This is not relevant to the quality of ingredients or the friendly service, but in the front window of Warming Hut there is a clever neon sign that reads vertically "NOPEN." When they are closed, it reads "NOPE" and when they are open it lights up "OPEN." Every time I drive by I read the sign and it makes me chuckle. Warming Hut is a fun, casual, and delicious place to choose whether it is a work date, friend date, family date, or actual date.  As always, please comment with any questions, thoughts, or your own experiences.

Today I am going to profile Mammoth Brewing Company and The EATery, located at 18 Lake Mary Road in Mammoth Lakes.  Mammoth Brewing Co. is a Mammoth Lakes staple with a chill mountain vibe.  The EATery kitchen is in the building but is distinct from the brewery, and you order separately.  Together, they are a great time for visitors and locals alike. The Quick Details Hours: Brewery is open every day at 10:00 AM and closes at 9:30 PM Sunday through Thursday and 10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.  The EATery is open daily from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Events: Mammoth Brewery rents space to host your own events, like a wedding reception, fundraiser, or work party.  They also do live music in the summertime on the outdoor stage. Kid Friendliness Level:  Has highchairs and a kid’s menu. Dog Friendliness Level: well behaved, leashed dogs are welcome in the outdoor beer garden. Vegetarian options: The regular menu has several vegetarian options; vegan cheese option for the flatbreads. Gluten Free options:  GF buns for sandwiches and GF dough for flatbreads available. Drinks: BEER – discussed below.  You can buy beer to go, including growlers. Price point: Most dishes are between $12 and $26 with some small plates for less. Parking: There is a parking lot, but it can get full.  You can also park in the lot across Lake Mary Road and walk over. Reservations: They do not take reservations. Ability to accommodate large parties:  Seating is first come first serve.  They have three floors of dining space and an outdoor beer garden. Take out and growlers available. The Experience In the summertime when you pass by Mammoth Brewery Co., the outdoor picnic tables are full of patrons with pints of beer, dogs at their feet, and kids playing cornhole.  Strings of bright white lights give it a backyard ambiance, and there is often a line for a table.  During the winter, the three restaurant levels are full and bluegrass music plays in the background.  Any time of year, the staff are friendly, quick, and knowledgeable about the beer they serve. On our most recent visit we sat upstairs in a large booth with a window facing Lake Mary Road.  The upstairs dining room is open, with picnic tables, high top tables, and booths.  We had the option to order at the bar or to use a QR code linked to our table.  We knew what we wanted to order, so we used the QR code.  There was one code for the EATery food menu, and then we had to order separately on the QR code for drinks from the brewery.  I don’t love ordering over the phone because staring at my phone screen feels rude and impersonal, but it is convenient and quick.  My toddler was too busy watching baseball on the big screen TVs to notice that I was on my phone anyway. The bartender quickly brought out our drinks: I had the cherry sour and my husband got the Mammoth Pilsner, which he described as “good, bitter, and Czech.”  My cherry sour came in a delicate tulip glass and had a pretty red color with light effervescence.  I know sours are not for everyone, but if they are, this one has that light, tart cherry taste that makes it a good one.  Another favorite of mine is the IPA 395, which I did not order this time but often buy to take home.  This IPA gives a nod to the Eastern Sierra, adding desert sage and juniper berries to a classic IPA.  If you want to live large, try the beer flight, which lets you try 7 beers with a 2 ounce pour of each. I ordered my usual, the damn good vegetarian burger.  It comes with dark greens on top, which makes it feel healthy, and a few slices of gouda cheese.  The cheese gives it a smokey taste.  The burger itself is handmade and superior to anything storebought. My toddler always steals the homemade pickles that taste uniquely of cloves, but if I can save a few I like to add them to the burger.  I opted to add the side of waffle fries, which comes with a delicious chipotle aioli for dipping.  I put it on my burger too because it goes great with the gouda.  My husband ordered his usual, the Chic’fil Sriracha Sandwich, which is tasty but not too spicy.  We skipped the kid’s menu and got our son a cheese flatbread, which never misses and always leaves us with delicious leftovers. My family loves Mammoth Brewery Co. and the EATery.  We have been there for local fundraisers, for trivia night, for a backcountry safety presentation by the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center, and of course, for beer!  If you are planning a trip in August, check out their blues and beer event Bluesapalooza, a festival of beers with several stages of live music in the woods.  There is always something going on at Mammoth Brewery. As always, please comment with any questions, thoughts, or your own experiences.

Today I am going to profile Giovanni’s Restaurant and Bar, located in the Minaret Village Shopping Center at 437 Old Mammoth Road in Mammoth Lakes.  Giovanni’s is a family friendly Italian food spot that has amazing lunch specials, delicious dinners, a full bar, and speedy take out. The Quick Details Hours: Lunch served 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, Dinner served from 5:00 pm to close; open every day except Christmas and Thanksgiving. Kid Friendliness Level:  Very welcoming with highchairs and a kids menu. Dog Friendliness Level: No dogs. Vegetarian options: Many vegetarian options and a vegan cheese option for pizza. Gluten Free options:  Gluten free crust is available. Drinks: Full bar with a cocktail menu. Price point: Great lunch deals; Pizzas range from $10 to $37; Entrees are $15 to $19. Parking: Lots of parking in the shopping center. Reservations: None. Ability to accommodate large parties: I would call ahead.  They can handle to go orders of up to 10 pizzas and ask for a contact form if you’re planning to order more. The Experience I have accepted pizza as my savior, and I eat it at least once a week.  I have been to all the pizza spots in town and have grown to love each for their own reasons, and Giovanni’s is no exception.  Giovanni’s is casual, family friendly, and has delicious Italian food options outside of pizza for my other family members who don’t need or want pizza at the same rate I do.  Giovanni’s is a family go-to. Our last visit was on a weekday evening, and we were able to sit right away in a booth next to the window.  Giovanni’s will often have waits on days when town is busy.  It is conveniently located in the Von’s shopping center, which makes it easy when you first get to town and want to eat and then grab groceries for the rest of your Mammoth Lakes stay.  The shopping center also includes the movie theater, making it a great option for dinner and a movie date or lunch and a matinee for the kids.  Another bonus is that parking is plentiful. Giovanni’s layout makes it feel intimate when it is actually a large restaurant.  When you walk in, straight ahead is the takeout counter and host station.  Behind the counter is a large window where you can watch them make pizzas in the kitchen.  To the right is the bar with booths and high tops.  There are several TVs playing sports channels.  To the left are two dining rooms with booths and tables.  Large windows face the parking lot outside, and my son loves to look for trucks while we wait for our food. I ordered a hazy IPA and my husband had a pilsner, opting to skip the cocktail menu midweek.  It was very tempting though, especially the fruity cocktails “Fanta Creamsicle” and “Cherry Lemonade.”  The server offered a cup with a lid for our toddler, but we came prepared with his sippy cup.  The booth next to us was a family with three young children, and they shared their toys with our son.  All the kids were having fun.  That really upped the ambiance for us as a family. I always start with their Caesar salad.  It is a classic Caesar: no frills, no extras, no surprises.  It is just what you imagine a Caesar should be, and it is delicious.  My son cherry-picks the croutons from the salad, and thankfully they are abundant.  They also have a classic dinner salad, Greek salad, spinach salad, or Antipasto Italiana. One thing I love about Giovanni’s is that you can mix up a pizza.  For example, many restaurants won’t let you do a half tomato sauce, half pesto sauce pizza.  You have to commit to one sauce.  Not Gio’s.  We got a large pizza that was half plain cheese and tomato sauce for our son, and half of the “Spicy Thai” specialty pizza for us.  The Spicy Thai pizza consists of a peanut sauce, chicken or spicy tofu (we got chicken), cilantro, corn, red onion, and mozzarella.  It was extremely delicious. Giovanni’s offers regular crust or thin crust in both regular or whole wheat, as well as a gluten free crust option.  They also offer vegan cheese.  There are four sauces to choose from: Italian (mild or spicy), New York (extra virgin olive oil and herbs), pesto, and white sauce.  Of course, the 10+ specialty pizzas include other sauces like BBQ or peanut, so you really have a lot of options if you are going to order pizza, especially since you can mix up a pizza.  It helps with a family of picky eaters or for those with dietary restrictions. We also ordered the vegetable lasagna as an entrée.  The veggies included artichoke, spinach, carrot, and onion, which mixed well with the layers of pasta and ricotta.  The marinara sauce on top was plentiful.  Luckily it came with garlic bread to sop up the sauce, which is one of my favorite parts of any pasta dish.  I really enjoyed this hearty lasagna. Our experience is always a good one at Giovanni’s.  It has prompt friendly service, lots of Italian food and pizza options, and a casual ambiance that is welcoming.  Don’t miss out on it. As always, please comment with any questions, thoughts, or your own experiences.

Today I am going to profile Vulcania, located at 6201 Minaret Road, in the Village in Mammoth Lakes.  Vulcania is the high-end restaurant option in the Village, and it is trendy but not pretentious.  The drinks are phenomenal, the food is amazing, and the ambiance is cool, making it a great date night or girls’ night out option. The Quick Details Hours: Thursday through Monday open 5:00 – 9:00 PM; closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Kid Friendliness Level:  Highchairs, kid friendly menu options, and cornhole outside. Dog Friendliness Level: Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the patio. Vegetarian options: The menu includes vegetarian options. Gluten Free options:  There are not many GF options. Drinks: Cocktails are amazing, large wine list with many by the glass options. Price point: Expensive.  Main courses were in the $25-$50 range. Parking: Parking can be limited in the Village.  There is some street parking, a paid parking lot, and a lot below the Westin.  The village is easily accessible by bus, trolley, and gondola, and is walkable from many spots in Mammoth. Reservations: Make reservations on OpenTable. I would recommend them on a weekend, at a busy time of year, or for a large party. Ability to accommodate large parties: With a reservation. The Experience Vulcania recently opened and it came in with a buzz, given that the chefs – Bryan and Michael Voltaggio - are Food Network stars with a slew of awards between them.  I was prepared for high prices, small portions, stuffy atmosphere, and all-around disappointment.  I was not only pleasantly surprised on all fronts, but I had an absolute blast and will not hesitate to go back again and again. We made reservations over OpenTable for a Wednesday night, and the hostess accommodated us with a table switch that was half booth and half chairs so that we could sit with our toddler on the booth side and put his highchair on the chair side.  We went early and the restaurant was not busy yet, but as the evening went on they got more full. The location of Vulcania is ideal.  It is in the Village with both indoor and outdoor seating.  The outdoor patio looks out onto the Village stage, and along the edge of the patio are four glass igloos with large tables inside.  When patio seating is done for the season, these igloos still provide an intimate “outdoor” dining experience year-round.  And, they look super cool.  Also the patio had a cornhole set up, so kids and adults alike can entertain themselves while they dine. Inside the restaurant the vibe is trendy.  There are mirrors on the walls, purple neon tube lighting, big globe lights from the ceiling, and modern style furniture.  The bar counter lights up, which my son loved, and it honestly looks really neat.  The indoor seating is in a large, open space with seating that radiates from the bar, located in the middle of the room.  The open kitchen is the first thing you see when you walk in, and you can watch the chefs use the giant pizza oven to make delicious food. I knew that I wanted to go the cocktail route, and the list at Vulcania had all the classics.  I went with the first drink on the menu, the Clover Club, which was Bombay Gin, raspberry, luxardo aperitivo, egg white, yuzu bitters, and lemon.  I don’t know what half of those things are, but wow was the drink incredible.  It started sweet and ended with that bitter gin taste, and the egg white made it feel light and airy.  It was truly a sensory experience to sip on.  The drink was a light pink color with a frothy top and came with a purple orchid flower garnish. Our waitress informed us that Vulcania was a family style restaurant, where sharing plates was encouraged, and that our food would be served as it was prepared – not exactly coursed out in the traditional sense.  She was very knowledgeable about the menu and offered suggestions on how many plates we might need.  We still went overboard and ordered something from each menu heading.  I regret nothing. We started with the caprese bruschetta, which replaces mozzarella with burrata.  I am a sucker for burrata cheese, and this switchup on the classic salad, which is then plopped onto fresh bread drizzled with olive oil, was bomb.  We also got the spicy tuna appetizer, which my husband especially loved.  It also came with bread and was seasoned just right. For a salad we tried the Caesar, which again, was a twist on the classic.  It came with a parmesan churro instead of croutons, which was essentially like a large, crispy, cheesy, crunchy knot of goodness, and the salad came with two laid across the bed of lettuce with shaved parmesan on top.  Then there was a pocket of black garlic, which is a strong but delicious taste.  Once the salad was cut up and mixed, the blend of flavors was incredible. We ordered the Voltaggi-o’s, which is the restaurant’s spin on the classic Chef Boyardee spaghetti-o’s.  We got it for our son, who devoured them.  The plate also comes with a giant meatball in the middle with a basil leaf garnish.  I have to hand it to them; it tasted very much like the original and gave pleasant flashbacks to childhood. With that big oven in front and my pizza obsession, we were not going to skip trying a pizza.  The ratatouille pizza came with zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, basil and squash blossoms, a melding of the classic French soup and Italian pizza.  The bright colors and the squash blossom flowers made for a beautiful presentation.  The oven made the crust crunchy on the outside and soft in the middle, and the flame gave it that charred taste. From the Italian-American classics section, we wanted to try the fish with the chimichurri sauce, but unfortunately they were out the day we went.  I love chimichurri and will be back to try it.  Instead, we ordered the Braciole, a hanger steak with a polenta side.  Here, the blend of flavors was what made the dish, honestly taken individually it wasn’t a standout.  The polenta came in a separate bowl and was bland on its own but combined with the meat it transformed into something else entirely. At one point our table looked ridiculous with the amount of food we had on it.  We boxed up what we couldn’t finish and had it again for dinner the next night, and I had the extra pizza for lunch.  It was just as good. Vulcania is a great upscale dining experience in the Village.  As always, please comment with any questions, thoughts, or your own experiences.

Today I am going to profile Gomez Restaurant and Tequileria, located at 100 Canyon Blvd in the Village in Mammoth Lakes.  Gomez’s serves good Mexican food, great drinks, and is always hopping.  The claim to fame is a large wall behind the bar with almost 1,000 bottles of tequila. The Quick Details Hours: Every day from 12:00 to 8:30 PM, closed Christmas and Thanksgiving day. Kid Friendliness Level:  Very welcoming with a kids menu, highchairs, and a sandbox with toys outside for the littles to enjoy during the warmer months. Dog Friendliness Level: Dogs are welcome on the patio. Vegetarian options: Many vegetarian and vegan options that are well signed on the menu. Gluten Free options:  Many options available for “gluten sensitive” dishes. Drinks: Famous for tequila, but a wide variety of drink options, including Horchata. Price point: small plates range from $7 to $17, and entrees are $18 to $30. Parking: Parking can be limited in the Village.  There is some street parking, a paid parking lot, and a lot below the Westin.  The village is easily accessible by bus, trolley, and gondola, and is walkable from many spots in Mammoth. Reservations: None. Ability to accommodate large parties:  Seating is first come first serve, and they can get busy.  I’d recommend going at a slower time or calling ahead to ask about the wait time. The Experience It was a warm, sunny afternoon and I wanted a margarita.  The best place to quench this particular thirst is Gomez Restaurant and Tequileria, I mean tequila is in the name.  So my husband and I packed up our toddler and dog and walked to the Village. We sat outside because we had our pooch, which worked out well because there were a bunch of kiddos playing in the sandbox.  My son immediately joined them and had a blast.  Our table was comfortable with heat lamps and an umbrella, and it overlooked the Village stage.  Even though we went early, it was still pretty busy.  Gomez’s does not take reservations, and in my experience if you go during the busy season at dinnertime you should expect to wait for a table. I perused the drink menu and chose the Paloma, a tequila and grapefruit drink, and my husband ordered a beer.  If you want an experience, Gomez’s offers a tequila tasting flight menu.  My Paloma was beautiful and delicious.  It came in a curvy glass with a pink salted rim and an orange slice.  Gomez’s adds some Jarritos grapefruit soda to the drink to add a sweeter flavor and some bubbles, which I personally love.  Of course, the tequila hit the spot. We started with a large guacamole and the sample platter – chicken tenders and yucca root fries for the boy, and coconut lime shrimp for me and hubby.  We chose this in lieu of the kids’ menu for our little one, but the options on that menu look good for an older batch of children.  The guacamole was fresh and mild, which is great if you aren’t into spicy food or you are sharing with kids.  We always devour it quickly.  The chips also come with salsa that is tasty and good for mixing with the guac.  The sample platter was also a hit, especially that shrimp with the jelly sauce.  The shrimp were lightly fried and not overdone.  I usually order the Mexi-corn fritters appetizer and regretted not doing so this time, though we had plenty of food. For an entrée I had the combination platter with two ahi tacos with black beans and rice.  The fish comes on a bright purple bed of cabbage on tortilla, and the cilantro sauce to drizzle on top makes this dish a winner every time for me.  Sometimes I mix it up with an enchilada instead of two ahi tacos.  My husband always gets the duck tacos.  Not exactly traditional, but he loves it.  The fajitas are always a good choice as well, and the sizzling platter they come out on is not only delicious but also highly entertaining.  I am a huge fan of mole and have not tried it here yet, so if you get this dish then please leave me tantalizing details in the comments section. Throughout the meal our waitress was attentive but not overbearing.  She did not skip a beat when I ordered the caramel churros with raspberry drizzle to go and had them promptly delivered with the check.  My son had hit his restaurant limit, but we took the dessert home and enjoyed them later.  The traditional Mexican pastry did not disappoint, and the tart raspberry sauce balanced the sweetness of the churros. Mexican food is absolutely gorgeous, with bright colored garnishes and melted cheese and green limes on the side for squeezing.  The plates are always hot and when the waiter places them down in front of you with potholders and gives you a warning, the excitement for that content feeling of warm, nourishing, and satisfying fullness washes over you.  Plus Mexico is the land of tequila and mezcal. Praise the higher powers that California borders Mexico and its food and culture permeate our own.  If you want a taste of that fusion, check out Gomez’s in the Village. As always, please comment with any questions, thoughts, or your own experiences.

Today I am going to profile Mammoth Pizza Co. & Slice Bar, located in the Village at 6201 Minaret Road, Unit 109, in Mammoth Lakes.  Mammoth Pizza Co. is budget-friendly with humungous slices ready to go in a central location.  If you need a quick fix, Mammoth Pizza Co. & Slice Bar is one of your best options. The Quick Details Hours: Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM; Monday and Tuesday 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM; Friday and Saturday 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM. HAPPY HOUR: Every day from 2:00 to 5:00 they offer $6 cheese and pepperoni slices, $3 cans of domestic beer, $5 drafts, and $1 off any specialty slice. Kid Friendliness Level: Pizza by the slice - No kid menu needed! No highchairs. Dog Friendliness Level: Dogs are allowed at the patio, and there are water bowls for your pups.  The location is along a busy road where people and other dogs pass by, which may be a lot for some dogs. Vegetarian options: There are several vegetarian pizzas on the menu, and they always have a cheese pizza option for slices to go. Gluten Free options: Mammoth Pizza Co. offers gluten free dough. Drinks: Mammoth Pizza Co. has a lot of good beer, wine, and soda options. Price point: Very reasonable, and the slices are HUGE! If you are on a budget and want bang for your buck, this is it. Parking: Parking can be limited in the Village.  There is some street parking, a paid parking lot directly across from the pizza spot, or a lot below the Westin.  The village is easily accessible by bus, trolley, and gondola, and is walkable from many spots in Mammoth. Reservations: Not needed!  Just swing by. Ability to accommodate large parties: If you are a large group I would recommend taking pizza back to your place.  The indoor/outdoor seating is limited. The Experience It is a blessing and a curse that I can walk to Mammoth Pizza Co. & Slice Bar from my home.  On the days when my child will not eat, Mammoth Pizza Co. is there for him.  On the days I cannot imagine cooking, Mammoth Pizza Co. is there for me.  On the days we got caught up in adventures and we are all hangry…saved again.  And I would be remiss if I failed to mention that Mammoth Pizza Co. & Slice Bar is open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, so if you are out in the Village and you need something greasy to soak up what’s happening in your stomach, the slice bar is there for you. The most recent visit I had was in the early evening.  We packed up the baby in the stroller and the dog on the leash and walked to Mammoth Pizza Co. & Slice Bar.  When we got there, I tied the dog to the table and sat under the umbrellas with the baby while my husband ordered us slices and sodas.  My son and I got cheese and my husband got pepperoni for the happy hour special.  The ratios of sauce to bread to cheese are good, with none too overbearing (which I hate). I want to reiterate: these slices are enormous.  One slice is enough for my son to have dinner and lunch the next day.  I can usually destroy pizza, and one slice from here is good for me too.  I have two if I just worked out or am otherwise starving.  The benefit of sitting there and eating as opposed to taking it home is that you can order one slice and then decide after you eat it if you have it in you to go for more.  They always have some pizza slices ready to go. Growing up, my parents would take us out for pizza for special occasions.  They always ordered salad, which I never fully understood but grew to expect with pizza.  Mammoth Pizza Co. has me covered with their Capone Salad, and they offer several other salad options for families like mine that just can’t go full junk food.  And for the families that can and will – try the garlic knots.  They are fantastic! The staff at Mammoth Pizza Co. are young locals who can probably ski circles around any one of us.  They are friendly and kind.  Definitely tip these kids generously. Whether it’s after hitting the slopes on skis or mountain bike, coming off the hiking trail, or bar hopping in the village, you cannot go wrong with a large slice from these folks.  If you want something quick, filling, and reasonably priced, Mammoth Pizza Co. & Slice Bar has you covered. As always, please comment with any questions, thoughts, or your own experiences.

Today I am going to profile Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe, located at the Village Plaza in Mammoth Lakes.  As advertised, Side Door is a wine shop, inside a wine bar, inside a café.  The wine list is hand chosen with a wide selection featuring something for everyone at all price points, but make sure you don’t get caught up and miss out on the delicious crepes. The Quick Details Hours: Thursday through Monday 9:00 am to 9:00 pm; closed Tuesday and Wednesday.  They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Events: Wine Not Mondays featuring select wine flights. Kid Friendliness Level:  Has highchairs.  No kids menu but has kid friendly plates. Dog Friendliness Level: Dogs are welcome! Vegetarian options: The menu has many vegetarian options and vegan options. Gluten Free options:  Side Door is GF friendly with options for GF crepes, paninis, and crackers for the cheese and charcuterie plates. Drinks: extensive wine list with the option to buy bottles to go; full bar and beers. Price point: Reasonably priced with salads, crepes, and paninis from $14.00 to $17.00. Parking: Parking can be limited in the Village.  There is street parking, a paid parking lot directly across the street, or a lot below the Westin.  The village is easily accessible by bus, trolley, and gondola, and is walkable from many spots in Mammoth. Reservations: None accepted. Ability to accommodate large parties:  Seating is first come first serve, with limited indoor but more outdoor seating. The Experience Every time I have gone to Side Door it was to relax.  You can certainly get things to go and get out quickly, but the real joy of Side Door is to go sit, order a bottle of wine and some food, and watch the Village life go by. Our most recent visit was no exception.  I went with my family and another couple and their toddler.  Along the side of the restaurant there are long tables, and we were easily able to fit four adults with our two highchairs and two strollers.  We did not bring our dog this time, but Side Door is dog friendly and has bowls out for water.  Behind where we sat was a little pond and the Village pool, and in front of us was the Village Plaza with all of its goings-on, so there was plenty to entertain the kids. My friend and I started with a $21 bottle of albario, which the bartender helped me pick out from the white wine cooler.  He brought it out promptly in a bucket of ice.  It was exactly what we were looking for – crisp, minerally, and dry – and it was refreshing on a summer afternoon.  My other friend had a beer and my husband had his standard fernet branca and coke.  You would be surprised at the number of establishments that do not carry fernet, but Side Door had it in their fully stocked bar. We started with the baked brie with strawberries and jam.  It was delicious and a hit with the little ones. While the idea is to eat the cracker with the jam, strawberry, and cheese on it, my son of course ate each thing individually.  Which is great!  Highly recommend.  Other starters that are great for sharing are the artichoke spinach dip and the crostinis. I got my usual, which is Side Door’s niçoise salad.  It never misses.  There is a generous portion of ahi tuna on a big salad of green beans, olives, potatoes, tomatoes, and hard-boiled egg.  Dressing comes on the side.  The salad feels healthy to eat, is protein packed, and tastes delicious.  I would also give a nod to the spinach salad because it is another tasty salad on the menu that is a vegan option. My husband got a panini with chicken and pesto.  It was warm, crunchy, and he thoroughly enjoyed it.  My friends went with a savory crepe.  The crepes are a house specialty, and the one portion was big enough for them to share.  They noted that there was a lot of mayonnaise on the top of the crepe, which looks pretty, but they scraped a lot of it off.  Once the mayo was toned down, it was a delicious dinner. It would be a sin to skip the dessert crepes, so we ordered two.  I personally prefer the chocolate ganache to the sweeter chocolate flavor in Nutella, so I went with the chocolate ganache and added strawberries and banana.  The fruit makes it healthy right?   We also got the citron crepe, which is the perfect blend of sweet and sour.  I didn’t order it this time, but shout out to the apple crepe that is stuffed with apple pie filling. Before leaving, I got a bottle of wine from the wine shop to bring home.  The staff at Side Door are knowledgeable about wine and were easy to engage in conversation about what to try from their large selection.  I liked the Spanish white wine earlier, so the bartender mentioned a white Rioja that he believed would be different from anything I have had before, but in a good way.  I have never tried a white Rioja and I was intrigued.  He was right and it was an awesome bottle of wine. Go to Side Door for a fun atmosphere, good food, and great wine.  The lovely folks there will be happy to make sure your experience is a good one. As always, please comment with any questions, thoughts, or your own experiences.

Today I am going to profile Distant Brewing, located at 568 Old Mammoth Road in Mammoth Lakes.  Distant Brewing is cool and hip: the staff are cool, the vibe is cool, and there is always something cool going on there.  Plus, it has great food and even better beer. The Quick Details Hours: Sunday – Thursday 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM; Friday and Saturdays 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Happy Hour: 3:00 to 5:00 PM on Monday through Thursday. Events: Open Mic on Mondays at 6:00; Pool Tournaments on Wednesdays at 5:00; and Free Live Music on Thursdays and Sundays. Kid Friendliness Level:  Has highchairs.  No kids menu but kid friendly plates like pizzas, grilled cheese, and a hummus dish. Dog Friendliness Level: Dogs are welcome! Vegetarian options: The regular menu has many vegetarian options. Gluten Free options:  Nothing advertised on the menu, but they have salads that can be GF and sandwiches that can be breadless and GF. Drinks: BEER – discussed more broadly below. Price point: A budget friendlier option; plates range from $11 to $16 and pizzas are $11 to $24. Parking: There is a parking lot in front of the restaurant. You can also park across the street and walk over. Reservations: None. Ability to accommodate large parties:  Seating is first come first serve.  There is a lot of seating available, especially with the outdoor seating. The Experience We went to Distant Brewing on a Monday night after hiking Mammoth Rock trial.  We got there when open mic was in full swing and the spot was hopping.  A pair of women were performing and crooning Stevie Nicks.  I recognized some people from town were there, and a few families we talked to were visiting.  There was a table of young girls making friendship bracelets and eating pizzas while their parents sat nearby sipping beers.  Many patrons brought their dogs, and they were sitting both inside and outside the restaurant.  The pool table and dart board were both in use. We sat outside because the volume of the open mic night was a little loud for our toddler and dog, but outside it was perfect.  The outside patio has a lounge area with low tables and cushioned seats under the overhang of the building that is perfect for relaxing, as well as high-top tables under shade structures.  The outdoor seating is admittedly in a parking lot, but you can peek the Sherwins and catch a beautiful sunset.  The evening we were there, the cloud show did not disappoint. Being at a brewery, we of course tried the beers.  Distant Brewing has a bunch of their own beers as well as collaborations with other breweries, which is super cool.  The names of the beers were witty and hilarious, like Full Send, Sky Pillow, Coastal Elevation, and Nutty Professor.  Based on names alone, I wanted to drink them all.  I landed on Distant Future, which is a coconut hazy that is conditioned on toasted coconut with citra hops, coming in at 7.0% ABV.  I understand that IPA’s have been a trend in American brewing for a long time now, but I had never seen a beer like that before.  I figured it would either be delicious or taste like sunscreen.  It was frankly very pleasant.  The coconut flavor was present but not overbearing.  I don’t think I could crush coconut hazy’s all night long, but it was lovely to sip while I waited for my food.  My husband got the Mister Nelson West Coast IPA that checked all the boxes for a refreshing IPA. At Distant Brewing you order at the counter, get your drinks and a number for your food, and have a seat of your choosing.  The service team consisted of a bartender, a food runner, and the kitchen staff.  The system seemed to work well, and I bet (and hope) that they made a lot of money with two front of house staff serving a full restaurant of people.  As a result, our food came out staggered and my husband’s wrap came out late.  Not a problem when you are there to hang out and enjoy the atmosphere, but my hubby did get a little hangry watching me with my panini. For food, we ordered the hummus plate as a starter.  The presentation was lovely, with a generous portion of hummus and plenty of pita chips.  The garnishes added a nice flavor.  I had the veggie panini, which was bursting with flavor.  It had pesto, mushrooms, olives, and thick balsamic that was a unique and delicious blend.  It came with a pickle and salt and vinegar potato chips.  My husband ordered the buffalo chicken Caesar wrap, which he described as filling, delicious, and something he will order again.  Neither plate was fancy or overdone, but they hit the spot. The ambiance of Distant Brewing is what makes it a real standout.  There was a lot to do: watch live music, play pool or darts, sit outside and watch the sunset, sample beers, or just hang out with friends.  There were families, couples, and groups of friends. Many people brought their dogs.  Everyone was in a good mood.  If you are looking for a casual and engaging dining experience, Distant Brewing is a fantastic choice. As always, please comment with any questions, thoughts, or your own experiences.