After a full day of outdoor activity, whether it's skiing or hiking, you might start to think that Mammoth Lakes is named for the size of your appetite. If you're like me, your stomach seems to have its own brain, rumbling for something completely different every moment. One afternoon it wants brandy foie gras on Royal Doulton china, and by dinner it insists on a fat burger in a styrofoam box. Fortunately, this is an area where you can find a restaurant to satisfy your most-finicky-of-organs' every whim. I've made it easy for you by mapping out the best choices for each tummy demand.
Best Place to Grab a Burger: Berger's (Minaret Rd., near Canyon Blvd.)
This is the place to go when your stomach sounds like the plant in Little Shop of Horrors. The portions here are monstrously huge, and the burgers are the best for miles around. Try a sourdough patty melt and wash it down with an old-fashioned malted. Berger's is easy on the wallet, too.
Best Place to Indulge: The Restaurant at Convict Lake (Off US 395)
Sit by the fire under a soaring rustic cathedral ceiling and feast on Prime Rib of Elk or Beef Wellington. The wine list here is first rate, which may be why the super-particular Wine Spectator featured the place. Finish it off with Bananas Foster fired up by your tableside. The restaurant is a little pricier than some, but you absolutely get what you pay for.
Best Place for Contemporary Cuisine: Nevados ( Main St. and Minaret Rd.)
Lots of Mammoth Lake locals (and visitors too) name this as the best restaurant in town, and it's undoubtedly one of them. The dishes are California fusion, which means you'll find hints of Europe and Asia with modern twists. The Ahi Tuna Tartar is a must-have, but save room for a Caramelized Banana Split.
Best Place to Eat and Drink With Friends: Grumpy's Saloon and Eatery (Old Mammoth Rd.)
Sometimes you want to wear jeans and flannels and relax with a few beers while you fill your belly. Grumpy's is a sports bar, so you'll be surrounded by noisy flat-screen TVs and pool tables, but it means you can laugh it up all you want. Dare one of your pals to eat the Dogger, a hot dog of extraordinary proportions. Show up on all-you-can-eat taco night for a real feast, or fill up with one of the regular menu staples like chili or ribs.
Best Place for a Date: Petra's (Minaret Rd.)
Petra's is known for its fresh Mediterranean fusion cuisine as well as for being a dimly-lit romantic wine bar. Start with a cheese course that is always served with fresh fruits and berries, then move on to one of the tempting and unique specialties, like Crispy Duck in a Pomegranate Molasses Reduction. Impressive selections and a romantic atmosphere make this a hot couples spot.
This guide to all that's fit to eat in Mammoth Lakes was brought to you by Elizabeth Kelly.