Nation

Photo courtesy of Dana Givens

Travel

Explore adventure guides and design a custom itinerary for the destination of your choice in and around the city.

Best Travel Guides, Cool Hotels and Interesting Events - Thrillist

I was not prepared for Montana’s elevation.

How Black Skiers and Snowboarders Are Finding Community on the Slopes

HomeExchange Collection

When it launched 15 years ago, Airbnb was just an opportunity for a few guys to rent out their apartment to folks in town for a conference.

Go Beyond Airbnb with These Alternative Lodging Options

rusm/E+/Getty Images

Unless you’re dead-set on skiing in the Bavarian alps of immersing yourself in the frozen wonders of Iceland, chances are the European vacation of your dreams has some serious summer vibes.

These European Cities Are More Dazzling—and Cheaper—in Winter 

Denver

Loveland Ski Area

Colorado is known for its timeless beauty and plethora of incredible skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

The Most Epic Ski Trips Within 2 Hours of Denver

Las Vegas

First Look

Thrillist takes you inside the hottest new restaurants, from upscale destinations to casual cafes.

First Look - Thrillist

Photo courtesy of Arte Museum 

Lifestyle

Everything falls under the banner of entertainment in Las Vegas—food, sports, gambling, and, to an increasingly noticeable degree, art.

A New Immersive Museum Brings the Northern Lights and Interactive Cartoon Animals to Las Vegas

Late Checkout

Thrillist presents 'Late Checkout,' bringing you the most unique Airbnbs, bucket list hotels, and extraordinary places to stay around the world.

Late Checkout: Airbnbs, Hotels & Where to Stay Around the World

Photo by Lauren Breedlove

I’ve only been asleep for an hour when the phone rings.

This Luxe Icelandic Hotel Comes with an ‘Aurora Wake-Up Service’

Los Angeles

Travel is magic, a way to broaden your experience, refresh your spirit, and find new appreciation for the world at large.

The Best SoCal Airports That Are Not LAX 

3alexd/E+/Getty Images

Money-Saving Secrets Car Rental Companies Don’t Want You to Know

Gift Guides

Thrillist's gift guides have everything you need to buy for friends, family, or a little something for yourself this holiday season.

Holiday Gift Guides: Everything You Need to Buy For Friends, Family & More

Design by Maitane Romagosa for Thrillist

Shopping

Shopping - Deals, New Products & Gift Ideas From Across the Web - Thrillist

LiveNation_1342561_Nov23

It’s easy enough to shop for music lovers and travelers, but what do you do when your loved one holds an equal affection for tunes and globe-trotting?

Great Gifts for the Music-Obsessed Traveler in Your Life

French photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson famously said: “Your first 10,000 shots are your worst.”

Great Gifts for the Aspiring Photographers on Your List

The holidays are us, which means ’tis the season for packed airports, finding new ways to make eggnog even worse for you, and pulling a Thanksgiving all-nighter for Black Friday deals.

Great Gifts for the Digital Nomads in Your Life

Shopping for frequent fliers isn’t easy.

The Best Gifts for the Frequent Flier in Your Life

Photo courtesy of Mono County Tourism

Bell's Kitchen

Take a break from the slopes and visit any of these restaurants or bars featured in this Mammoth Lakes, California food and cocktail guide.

Morrison's Bar & Grill

Just a five-hour drive from LA in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Mammoth Lakes has long been known as a <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/the-guide-to-a-perfect-mammoth-lakes-visit">year-round adventure resort</a>. Although the town of Mammoth Lakes is only four square miles and has a year-round population of approximately 8,000, it swells to several times that size during winter and summer months when visitors come for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking, plus easy access to <a href="https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm">Yosemite National Park</a> and the basalt rock formation, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/depo/index.htm">Devils Postpile National Monument</a>. 
 
All of those tourists need somewhere to fuel up before and after hitting the slopes, which has led to a boom in the local culinary scene. Here you’ll find a combination of old favorites and newer establishments that reflect the changing identity of the town. Whether it’s a lively gastropub or a fine dining restaurant inside a bowling alley, these restaurants, breweries, wine bars, and bake shops showcase the best that Mammoth has to offer.

Just a five-hour drive from LA in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Mammoth Lakes has long been known as a <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/the-guide-to-a-perfect-mammoth-lakes-visit">year-round adventure resort</a>. Although the town of Mammoth Lakes is only four square miles and has a year-round population of approximately 8,000, it swells to several times that size during winter and summer months when visitors come for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking, plus easy access to <a href="https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm" target="_blank">Yosemite National Park</a> and the basalt rock formation, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/depo/index.htm" target="_blank">Devils Postpile National Monument</a>.

All of those tourists need somewhere to fuel up before and after hitting the slopes, which has led to a boom in the local culinary scene. Here you’ll find a combination of old favorites and newer establishments that reflect the changing identity of the town. Whether it’s a lively gastropub or a fine dining restaurant inside a bowling alley, these restaurants, breweries, wine bars, and bake shops showcase the best that Mammoth has to offer.

Just a five-hour drive from LA in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Mammoth Lakes has long been known as a <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/the-guide-to-a-perfect-mammoth-lakes-visit">year-round adventure resort</a>. Although the town of Mammoth Lakes is only four square miles and has a year-round population of approximately 8,000, it swells to several times that size during winter and summer months when visitors come for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking, plus easy access to <a href="https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm" target="_blank">Yosemite National Park</a> and the basalt rock formation, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/depo/index.htm" target="_blank">Devils Postpile National Monument</a>.All of those tourists need somewhere to fuel up before and after hitting the slopes, which has led to a boom in the local culinary scene. Here you’ll find a combination of old favorites and newer establishments that reflect the changing identity of the town. Whether it’s a lively gastropub or a fine dining restaurant inside a bowling alley, these restaurants, breweries, wine bars, and bake shops showcase the best that Mammoth has to offer.

Helmed by brothers Georges and Daniel Daou of the esteemed <a href="https://daouvineyards.com/" target="_blank">DAOU Vineyards</a> on DAOU Mountain in Paso Robles, DAOU Lounge is an opportunity to taste their award-winning wines at 9,000 feet elevation in McCoy Station on Mammoth Mountain. Stop by any weekend through February 13, and sink into Adirondack chairs as you take in pristine, snow-capped views while sipping on a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or enjoying a tasting flight. How to book: Ski or walk-ins only.

Photo courtesy of DAOU Vineyards

DAOU Lounge

Helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Mark Estee, Campo serves up rustic Italian fare like wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and risotto, all made using organic and seasonal ingredients. Highly recommended are the Wagyu Short Rib Ravioli and the Black Winter Truffle Risotto. Campo also offers a full wine list available by the glass and the bottle, and a selection of premium cocktails, such as the Apple Cinnamon Sour. How to book: Walk-ins welcome, reservations recommended on weekends. Delivery available via <a href="https://order.doorstep-deliveries.com/restaurants/campo" target="_blank">Doorstep Deliveries</a>.

Campo Mammoth

Serving up a mix of Cuban, Spanish, and Puerto Rican cuisine that’s influenced by the owners’ heritage, this restaurant is located between downtown Mammoth and Snowcreek Resort, and the dining room windows showcase stunning mountain views. Indulge in their Picadillo Con Arroz, a Caribbean tomato-based ground beef stew with Cuban black beans and Puerto Rican red beans, served with a side of tostones (smashed plantains), or opt for the Escabeches, a signature Puerto Rican dish that adds proteins like chicken, shrimp, and pigeon peas to a pickled base marinade. There’s also a menu of panini-pressed sandwiches and larger plates like Guava-Glazed Ham and Roasted Garlic Pork. Dos Alas often has live music and dancing on the weekends. How to book: Walk-ins welcome, call ahead for larger parties. For takeout, call 760-965-0345.

Dos Alas CubaRican Café & Lounge

Dos Alas

As you make your way through The Village, wander into Shelter Distilling and take a seat at the bar or one of the high tables inside. If you can find a seat, that is. Shelter is not only a distillery and brewery that makes all of its spirits and beer in-house, it is also a kitchen and full bar that serves up an array of delicious bites like a Warm Pretzel Roll with house-made IPA mustard and white cheddar cheese sauce, a Crispy Confit Pork Belly Taco, and Mammoth Mac, a loaded mac and cheese with chorizo, sundried tomato, broccoli, and jalapeño. Warm up with an Irish Coffee, or keep it low-key with a beer and cider flight. How to book: Full menu available for indoor dining, heated outdoor dining, and takeout. Walk-ins only, but you can order online.

Shelter Distilling

Visit this hybrid gourmet market and restaurant, and you are in for a treat—here you’ll find a 100% all-organic bakery, deli, and kitchen with housemade salads, pastas, soups, and hand pies. Enjoy a cheese and charcuterie board at the restaurant, and browse Bleu’s selection of hand-crafted and small batch products. You’ll find a variety of treasures, including a hand-picked selection of craft beer and wine, international spices and sauces, and artisan pastas. How to book: Walk-ins welcome, and you can shop the market in-person or place an order online&nbsp;in advance for pickup.

@bleumarketandkitchen

Bleu Market & Kitchen

An upscale restaurant with a lively atmosphere, Morrison’s is a great option for a special occasion. It’s owned by Convict Lake Resort, whose <a href="https://convictlake.com/fine-dining/" target="_blank">namesake restaurant</a> located just outside of town is also worth a visit. Be sure to bring your appetite: the Blackened Shrimp with guacamole is the perfect way to start off your meal, which is best followed with the Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad before tucking into hearty entrees like Ribeye Steak and Braised Lamb Shank. An extensive wine list and cocktail menu are also available. How to book: Make reservations online&nbsp;or by calling 760-934-7427.

Morrison's

Who knew that one of Mammoth’s classiest restaurants would be found inside Mammoth Rock ‘N’ Bowl, the town’s bowling alley? That is certainly the case here, with chef Frederic Pierrel recreating French-inspired classics like Escargot and Elk Medallions. Time your visit right and you can enjoy the sunset over the Sherwin mountain range. Be sure to save room for dessert—we recommend the Brick Oven Apple Tart Normandy. How to book: Walk-ins welcome or make a reservation for parties of six or less online. For larger parties, call 760-934-4200, ext. 233. Delivery available via <a href="https://order.doorstep-deliveries.com/restaurants/brasserie" target="_blank">Doorstep Deliveries</a>.

The Brasserie, Mammoth Rock Brasserie

Mammoth Rock Brasserie

mammoth rock brasserie

Located inside the Tamarack Lodge on the banks of the stunning Twin Lakes, Lakefront Restaurant is a splurge that’s absolutely worth it. With only ten tables, this is an intimate and memorable dining experience. Lakefront’s seasonal menu features sustainable and locally-sourced selections, and attention is paid to the smallest detail when it comes to the presentation of these gastronomic delicacies. Make a reservation for a Friday or Saturday evening during the winter and dip into dishes like Wild Boar Osso Buco, Duck Confit, and Wild Mushroom Cannelloni while musician Joe Grey croons jazz standards in the lodge lobby. How to book: Call 760-934-2442, ext. 5 for dinner reservations and takeout orders.

@tamaracklodgeandresort

The Lakefront Restaurant

Serving up a variety of healthy dishes including those that are vegan, vegetarian, and paleo-friendly, Elixir believes in eating clean. This fast-casual restaurant is 100% gluten-free, and uses organic, whole-food ingredients. Pick up a cold-pressed juice or wellness shot, or try a grain bowl, such as the Thai Buddha Bowl. The food is both fresh and nourishing, and one of the best new additions to Mammoth’s food scene. How to book: Walk-ins welcome, or place your order online&nbsp;for pickup. Delivery available via <a href="https://order.doorstep-deliveries.com/restaurants/elixir" target="_blank">Doorstep Deliveries</a>.

Elixir Superfood & Juice

Elixir Superfood And Juice

Side Door aptly describes itself as a wine shop inside a wine bar inside a cafe. Slide in for European cuisine with American flair, featuring savory and sweet crepes, paninis, and cheese and chocolate fondue. You can also browse from an assortment of wines from around the world, draft microbrews, and craft cocktails. This laidback spot has indoor dining and a heated outdoor patio. How to book: Walk-ins welcome. <a href="https://www.toasttab.com/sidedoormammoth/v3" target="_blank">Online ordering</a> available for dine-in, takeout, or curbside service.

Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe

Side Door Cafe

This brewery caters mainly to locals and visitors in the know who come here to unwind with one of the beers on tap and a flatbread or sandwich. Situated in an unassuming strip mall, you can post up at an outdoor table or warm up inside. Try the Crystal Crag, a West Coast pale ale, or Cold Smoke, a Bohemian-style pilsner. Don't miss open mic Mondays, where you can down a bit of liquid courage before hitting the stage. How to book: Walk-ins welcome, and you can <a href="https://www.talech.com/biz/ordering/596319/DISTANT-BREWING-LLC-MAMMOTH-LAKES-CA#/menu" target="_blank">order online</a> to have your order ready when you come in. For takeout, call 760-266-5023. Distant Brewing also ships beer anywhere in California and merchandise anywhere in the United States.

Distant Brewing

An eco-friendly organic bake shop, Dessert’D was established in 2011 and has evolved from selling only cookies to a full-service menu that includes cakes, brownies, pies, ice cream, and cupcakes. Its desserts are all organic and made with the best quality ingredients, catering to allergies and specialty diets. Celebrating a birthday or anniversary while in town? Order from a selection of layer cakes, with scrumptious flavors like Double Chocolate Salted Caramel. How to book: Call or text 760-924-0877 at least 24 hours in advance to place an order for pickup. Dessert’D also ships nationwide via <a href="https://www.goldbelly.com/dessertd-organic-bake-shop" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer sponsored">Goldbelly</a>.

Dessert’d Organic Bake Shop

Dessert’d

Craving a big bowl of soul-soothing ramen? GOJIRA won’t disappoint. Ever tried fried sushi? That’s an option as well as regular sushi rolls and rice bowls. You might visit for the food but you’ll stay for the ambiance. Gojira is the Japanese word for Godzilla, and the space is decorated with memorabilia that range from posters to collectible toys. Don’t forget to order a boba drink, which comes in flavors ranging from taro to coconut to lavender milk tea. How to book: Walk-ins welcome. Order online&nbsp;for takeout.

@gojiramammoth

Gojira Ramen & Sushi

With a goal of concocting a full range of microbrews that capture the spirit of the mountain, Mammoth Brewing Company offers indoor dining and a spacious beer garden for warmer months. Established in 1995, it’s located in the former Whiskey Creek building. With 14 beers on tap that are a combination of original and seasonal selections, you can also order a tasting flight if you’re feeling indecisive. The Eatery menu has a variety of bar bites, salads, sandwiches, and flatbread pizzas. How to book: Walk-ins welcome. Online food orders are currently unavailable.

Mammoth Brewing Company

If you visited Mammoth back in the day, you remember The Mogul—an unpretentious steak-cabin where you could grill your own steaks near your table and enjoy an all-you-can-eat salad bar. Times may have changed, but you can always count on The Mogul to provide a hearty and satisfying meal. Save room for the Cinnamon Charlotte cupcake and ice cream concoction, a house specialty since 1971. How to book: Walk-ins welcome, but reservations are recommended on weekends and can be made by calling 760-934-3039.

@mogul_restaurant

The Mogul

Family-owned and operated for over 20 years, Good Life Cafe is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is a great spot to people-watch, and depending on when you decide to stop by, you can enjoy dishes like Country-Fried Steak and Eggs, a Monte Cristo Sandwich, or Chicken Piccata. The food is unfussy and always satisfying, while still offering options for gluten-free and plant-based eaters. How to book: Walk-ins welcome, and takeout is available. Delivery via <a href="https://order.doorstep-deliveries.com/restaurants/good-life-cafe" target="_blank">Doorstep Deliveries</a>.

Good Life Cafe

Roberto’s claims the title of being Mammoth’s favorite Mexican restaurant since 1985, and the proof is in the flan—but before you end your meal there, don’t miss out on dishes like Shrimp-Stuffed Chile Relleno, which is best paired with a cerveza or killer margarita. Don’t miss their daily happy hour from 2 to 5 pm, when you can enjoy tacos, beer, or a margarita for just $4. How to book: Walk-ins welcome, and takeout is available by calling 760-934-3667.

Roberto's Cafe

You can’t miss this bright red gourmet food truck as you drive into town—do yourself a favor and make it a point to stop here for breakfast or lunch. Now under new ownership, Bell’s Kitchen was originally called First Chair Foods and maintains the same chef and menu. The Fireball Burrito is a favorite among locals, as well as the Banh Mi and Grilled Tri-Tip Sandwich. This is affordable comfort food at its best. How to book: Takeout only. Delivery available via <a href="https://order.doorstep-deliveries.com/restaurants/belles-kitchen" target="_blank">Doorstep Deliveries</a>.

After an invigorating day on the slopes, make your way from the Village gondola to this gastropub. Well-known for its happy hour specials and premium drink menu with house-infused and barrel-aged creations, its equally satisfying food menu often flies under the radar. Choose from five different types of wings or a selection of sandwiches, such as the Open-Faced Fried Chicken, served with mashed potatoes and gravy. How to book: Walk-ins welcome. Call 760-934-0707 for takeout.

53 Kitchen & Cocktails

In operation for 50 years, The Stove is a Mammoth fixture. Its hometown diner-style breakfasts are legendary, but expect a wait as this is a common stop for weekend brunch. Select from specialities such as Huevos Rancheros, or treat yourself with their Cinnamon Swirl French Toast. The Stove is also open for lunch, offering a full menu of sandwiches, soups, and salads. How to book: Open for walk-ins and takeout orders.

@garethponeats

The Stove

If you’re in the mood for pizza or a specialty sandwich, look no further—Nik-N-Willie’s has got you covered. Available by the slice, to take-n-bake, or hot to-go, their pizza will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. And with options such as the meat-laden Devil’s Pizzapile or the spicy Thai pie, this should come as no surprise. Veggie pizzas are also available, as are chicken wings and spaghetti and meatballs with garlic bread. How to book: Takeout only. Call 760-934-2012 to place an order in advance or walk in. Delivery available via <a href="https://order.doorstep-deliveries.com/restaurants/niknwillie-s-pizza-subs" target="_blank">Doorstep Deliveries</a>.

Nik - N - Willie's

Nik-N-Willie's

<a href="https://www.thrillist.com/authors/danielle-bauter">Danielle Bauter</a> is a contributor for Thrillist.

Find the best spots daily to eat and drink in hipster neighborhoods. Hit the roof, drink a beer and eat delicious at top-tier restaurants. Plan your nightlife adventure with maps and reviews of unknown micro-brews, rooftop parties, and independent drink.

Best Restaurants & Bars - Places to Eat & Drink - Thrillist

Mountain Towns

This California Ski Destination Is a Hidden Gem for Dining and Drinking

Where to Eat and Drink in Mammoth Lakes

From a gourmet food truck to Cuban, Japanese, and vegan restaurants, Mammoth Lakes has an option for everyone.

Just a five-hour drive from LA in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Mammoth Lakes has long been known as a year-round adventure resort.

Bell's Kitchen

Featured In

This California Ski Destination Is a Hidden Gem for Dining and Drinking

More From Thrillist

How Black Skiers and Snowboarders Are Finding Community on the Slopes

Both organizations and individuals are working to create more inclusivity in sports that are historically classist and white.

Go Beyond Airbnb with These Alternative Lodging Options

New platforms are popping up for house swapping, pet sitting, and more.

These European Cities Are More Dazzling—and Cheaper—in Winter

Off-season = magic.

The Most Epic Ski Trips Within 2 Hours of Denver

From Copper Mountain to Keystone, here's where to find some adventure.

A New Immersive Museum Brings the Northern Lights and Interactive Cartoon Animals to Las Vegas

Art and technology come together on the Strip, and it will be televised.

This Luxe Icelandic Hotel Comes with an ‘Aurora Wake-Up Service’

Plus glaciers, volcanoes, and candle-lit dinners in a cave.

The Best SoCal Airports That Are Not LAX

LAX is the worst, but luckily it’s not your only option to fly out of Southern California this holiday season.

Money-Saving Secrets Car Rental Companies Don’t Want You to Know

Gas is expensive, rental cars have shortages—don’t get ripped off even more.

Great Gifts for the Music-Obsessed Traveler in Your Life

Because they can do better than those airplane headphones.

Great Gifts for the Aspiring Photographers on Your List

Need to shop for a wannabe shutterbug? We've got you.

Great Gifts for the Digital Nomads in Your Life

It's not easy to shop for loved ones who live on the road.

The Best Gifts for the Frequent Flier in Your Life

Perfect picks for anyone on your list who spends more time in the air than on the ground.