Where to Eat in Mammoth: Lakefront Restaurant

If you’re looking for fine dining in Mammoth, look no further than the Lakefront Restaurant, which is tucked inside the Tamarack Lodge, on the shores of Mammoth’s Twin Lakes. The French menu—crested by chef Frederic Pierrel, who was trained at France’s Institute Culinaire de Gerardmer—would make Julia Child proud: a fromage de France sampler, escargot Bourguigno, elk medallions au Poivre, filet mignon grilled aux deux sauces prime beef tenderloin. But it’s also inspired by the restaurant’s eastern Sierra locale, with local and organic produce, seafood, and wild game. Save room for dessert, like the wild blueberry tart or a nougat glace. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere fits only 10 tables (so make a reservation), and it’s set inside an original 1920s lodge. Prices aren’t cheap (entrees go up to about $30), but it’s well worth it for the quality of food and service.