Skip to main content

Sunnyside

3.6(1,174 reviews)$$$Restaurant
🕑 1.5-2 hours👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers and young children appreciate the casual vibe and simple menu options, while older kids and teens enjoy the beautiful lake setting and can explore the shoreline before or after meals.

About

Sunnyside offers families a relaxed lakefront dining experience where kids can enjoy casual American fare while parents take in stunning Lake Tahoe views from the outdoor patio. The restaurant's laid-back atmosphere means you won't stress about noise levels, and the combination of kid-friendly menu items with more sophisticated options keeps everyone at the table happy.

Highlights

  • Stunning lakefront patio seating with panoramic Lake Tahoe views
  • Kid-friendly menu alongside elevated New American cuisine for adults
  • Casual, relaxed atmosphere perfect for families
  • Direct lake access for pre or post-meal shoreline walks
  • Beautiful sunset views during summer evening dining

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Request patio seating for the best views and easiest dining with active kids who may need to stretch their legs between courses
  2. 2.Arrive before sunset (especially in summer) to snag waterfront seating and enjoy the spectacular golden hour lighting over the lake
  3. 3.Park in the lot adjacent to the restaurant, but arrive early during peak summer weekends as spaces fill quickly
  4. 4.Bring layers even in summer,the lakefront can get breezy, especially on the patio during evening dining
  5. 5.Take a short walk along the lakefront pier after your meal to let kids burn off energy and enjoy the scenery

Best Time to Visit

Visit during weekday lunches or early dinners (4-5pm) to avoid peak crowds and long waits. Summer offers the best patio experience, but shoulder seasons (spring and fall) provide gorgeous views with fewer tourists.

What to Know

This is a moderately priced restaurant ($$$) with parking on-site. The outdoor patio is the main family draw, so call ahead for weather updates during unpredictable seasons, and note that waits can be lengthy during summer peak times.

Seasonal Notes

While open year-round, the outdoor patio (the main family attraction) is seasonal and weather-dependent. Summer months offer the best experience, while winter visits limit you to indoor seating. Spring and fall shoulder seasons can be hit-or-miss depending on weather.

More Activities Near Lake Tahoe

Restaurant

Tramarello's Pizzeria

$

Tramarello's Pizzeria is a Lake Tahoe favorite where families can unwind after a day of mountain adventures with consistently delicious pizza that even picky eaters approve. The relaxed atmosphere means parents don't have to stress about noise levels, and the kid-sized portions are perfect for little appetites without the waste or expense of full-sized meals.

Adventure

Cascade Falls Trail

Free

Cascade Falls Trail offers families an achievable outdoor adventure with a spectacular payoff. This 1-mile round-trip hike is perfectly suited for little legs, featuring gentle terrain that leads to a stunning cascading waterfall where kids can feel the mist and enjoy a well-earned snack. The short distance means even reluctant hikers will make it to the end, and the beautiful Lake Tahoe wilderness setting provides an excellent introduction to mountain hiking for young children.

Amusement Park

Tahoe Adventure Park

$$

Tahoe Adventure Park is a one-stop destination for family fun in the stunning Lake Tahoe setting. With activities ranging from thrilling go-kart races and refreshing water slides to challenging climbing walls and classic mini golf, there's something to keep every family member entertained for hours. The variety of attractions means kids of different ages can find their perfect adventure, while parents can enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.

Park

Sand Harbor State Park

4.8Free

Sand Harbor State Park is Lake Tahoe's crown jewel for families, featuring crystal-clear turquoise water, gentle sandy beaches, and shallow areas perfect for little swimmers. The protected coves create calm wading zones while massive granite boulders provide natural playgrounds for climbing and exploring, making it ideal for a full day of beach fun.