Best Breakfast in Big Bear | Where to Start Your Mountain Morning

The best breakfast in Big Bear brings together hearty mountain flavors, cozy cabin vibes, and that unmistakable small-town charm.

From classic diners serving stacks of fluffy pancakes to modern cafés focused on fresh, local ingredients, these breakfast spots are the perfect way to start your day before hitting the slopes or exploring the lake.

Grizzly Manor Café

Location: 41268 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Ask anyone in Big Bear where to find the best breakfast, and you’ll hear one name again and again—Grizzly Manor Café. 

This tiny, graffiti-covered cabin off Big Bear Boulevard is legendary for its generous portions and unfiltered charm. Expect to wait in line (even before they open), but it’s worth it once that giant stack of pancakes or the massive “Manly” breakfast plate hits your table.

Inside, the atmosphere is equal parts lively and rustic, with regulars swapping stories while the cooks keep the griddle sizzling. Grizzly Manor feels like stepping into Big Bear’s breakfast soul—a place where every plate is piled high and the vibe is pure mountain comfort.

Teddy Bear Restaurant

Location: 583 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

 Big Bear Village staple since the 1940s, Teddy Bear Restaurant is the kind of place where locals and visitors alike gather for a no-fuss, home-style breakfast. 

It’s cozy, unpretentious, and full of small-town warmth—from the friendly servers who remember your coffee order to the smell of sizzling bacon drifting through the air.

Their menu is classic diner fare done right: fluffy omelets, golden hash browns, and freshly baked pies that tempt you even at breakfast. Portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and the old-fashioned charm feels like a comforting hug after a chilly mountain morning.

Lumberjack Café

Location: 1001 W Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear City, CA 92314

Lumberjack Café serves up hearty mountain breakfasts that live up to its rugged name. This friendly, family-run spot in Big Bear City is known for its sourdough flapjacks—perfectly tangy, golden, and big enough to fill even the hungriest hiker. 

You’ll also find comfort classics like thick-cut bacon, buttery pancakes, and country-fried steak covered in creamy gravy.

The interior has that down-home, lodge-style feel with wood paneling and warm, casual energy. Service is quick and welcoming, making it a favorite stop for locals heading to work or visitors fueling up before a day on the slopes. 

If you’re craving a true mountain-style breakfast without the village crowds, Lumberjack Café is the perfect place to start your day.

Benny’s Family Restaurant

Location: 41196 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Yes, it’s Benny’s, not Dennys.

This restaurant delivers exactly what its name promises—warm hospitality and satisfying, home-style breakfasts that make you feel like part of the family. 

The menu is extensive, offering everything from fluffy buttermilk pancakes and Denver omelets to chilaquiles and huevos rancheros for those craving a little spice.

They also offer an “Under $10” menu, making it one of the best values in Big Bear without sacrificing quality or flavor. It’s the perfect choice for families, groups, or anyone craving a hearty mountain breakfast at a fair price.

Stella Luna

Location: 40679 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Stella Luna is a modern, locally loved café focused on sustainable dining and fresh, made-from-scratch meals. The menu highlights organic ingredients, creative flavor combinations, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, making it a top choice for mindful eaters who don’t want to compromise on taste.

Their Eggs Benedicts are a standout—especially the Blue Crab Cake Benedict, a rich and indulgent favorite among regulars. Even better, Stella Luna serves their Benedicts until 1 p.m., so you can still enjoy a late breakfast or brunch without rushing.

They also offer bottomless mimosas, adding a bubbly twist to your mountain morning. With doors opening around 9 a.m. on weekends and 10 or 11 a.m. on weekdays, it’s perfect for those who prefer a slower, more relaxed start to the day.

Alpine Country Café

Location: 41546 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Alpine Country Café feels like stepping into a cozy mountain cabin, complete with woodsy décor, friendly staff, and the smell of sizzling bacon in the air. It’s a local favorite for classic, no-nonsense breakfasts served hot and hearty.

The menu features generous portions of diner staples like country omelets, pancakes, and biscuits with gravy—all made fresh and served with a smile. Service is consistently quick and welcoming, even during busy mornings. For those traveling with pets, Alpine Country Café also offers dog-friendly outdoor patio seating, making it a perfect stop before or after a morning walk by the lake.

Thelma’s Family REstaurant

Location: 337 W Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear City, CA 92314

Thelma’s Family Restaurant is a longtime Big Bear favorite known for hearty comfort food, friendly service, and generous portions that feel like a home-cooked meal. The cozy, country-style dining room gives off that welcoming “Grandma’s kitchen” vibe—warm, relaxed, and full of locals who’ve been coming for years.

Breakfast here is all about the classics: fluffy pancakes, country omelets, and biscuits smothered in gravy. Their shareable-sized cinnamon roll is a must-try—gooey, soft, and big enough for the whole table. On sunny mornings, guests can also enjoy breakfast on the outdoor seating area, surrounded by crisp mountain air and tall pines. If you’re looking for an authentic, down-to-earth breakfast away from the Village crowds, Thelma’s delivers every time.

Read our full Thelma’s Family Restaurant review for a closer look at this Big Bear favorite.

Barnstorm Restaurant — Now closed

Sadly, Barnstorm Restaurant has closed due to the Airport renovation. I hope they come back when renovations are done.

This was located at the Big Bear Airport, Barnstorm Restaurant offers a unique dining experience where people from all over fly in with their small plane to eat here then take off again.

They were known for their hollandaise sauce, so we just had to try it for ourselves. Check our review and see why this creamy, flavorful sauce lived up to the hype and made their breakfast dishes truly exceptional.

This was a true hidden gem and hope they re-open when the renovations are done.

Insider Tips

• Arrive early: Many of these spots are popular and can get busy, especially on weekends.
• Check the hours: Some restaurants have limited breakfast hours, so plan accordingly..
• Be patient: Big Bear is a laid-back mountain town and also a resort mountain destination so it can get busy. Relax and enjoy your time up in the mountains.

Final Thoughts

Big Bear offers a variety of breakfast restaurants, each with its unique charm and flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional diner experience or a quick, delicious meal on the go, you’ll find something to love on this list. 

Remember to arrive early, especially on weekends, and take the time to savor the welcoming atmosphere that each of these establishments offers. Enjoy your morning meal, and let it fuel the rest of your Big Bear Lake adventure!