The Pub at Donner Lake - Truckee, California

Paveena J.

If you’re looking for a cozy spot with amazing food and drinks in Truckee, The Pub at Donner Lake is it! We stopped by after a day of exploring, and honestly, it was exactly what we needed—a chill vibe, friendly service, and some seriously tasty food.

The whole place has a warm, laid-back vibe, and you can’t beat the location right by Donner Lake. If you time it right, you can catch an epic sunset while you’re there—total bonus.

Tips for anyone heading there:
Definitely try one of their seasonal specials—they’re all about using local ingredients.
Grab a seat outside if the weather’s nice. The lake view makes everything better.
Go hungry because the portions are generous, and you’ll want to try a little of everything.

If you’re passing through Truckee, The Pub at Donner Lake is one of those places you’ll want to come back to. Can’t wait to visit again!

Joan R.

Went to donner lake and this is the restaurant i found on google where there is a view of the lake, its across the road to the lake.

Its a small pub, the staff are welcoming, very warm amd hospitable. Love their service. Food was amazing too. They had games to pass the time we played dominoes, tv for watching sports.

Their prices are reasonable, and food tasted great. I would definitely recommend this place whenever you're in donner lake.

Shizuka M.

Take out this time.
Mac n Cheese = $18 + tax + tip!
I even wondered if it was really an entree’s Mac n cheese (not a side), Because the salad I ordered as a side for burger came in that size. But they said it was correct size. (Then the side mac n cheese would be very small😳)

I ordered Clam chowder but it came in much bigger cup for $20…
I also ordered beer battered prawn which was same price ($18) and it was tasty especially with sauce.
Burger and lug nuts were salty.
Their pricing and portion are really interesting.

Wes H.

Upon stumbling upon the Donner pub in Truckee, our weary party of six found solace in its welcoming doors. Quickly seated amidst the charming ambiance of what appeared to be a newly renovated establishment, our hopes were high for a much-needed respite from our arduous journey.

The menu boasted a diverse selection of food and drinks, sparking excitement among our famished group. However, our enthusiasm quickly waned as the dishes arrived, revealing the true nature of our predicament.

The fish, was less than fresh... A brave soul amongst us dared to sample a single bite, only to be met with unpleasant experience, that it remained untouched thereafter.

The chicken, served in hues of gray and pink, bore an uncanny resemblance to the unfortunate souls lost along our tumultuous path. It was a haunting reminder of our mortality, served upon our plates.

As for the Caesar salad, its "homemade dressing" boasted the inclusion of whole grain mustard, a curious addition indeed. A departure from traditional Caesar flavor if that is something you expect when taking your first bite.

The brisket sandwich, intended to offer succor to our weary bodies, proved to be dry and tough, more suitable for travelling through the pass on a snowy day.

Yet amidst our culinary tribulations, there was a glimmer of hope in the form of the French fries. Curled chips of potato, they were a delightful surprise, offering a brief respite from our disappointment.

In a commendable display of hospitality, the staff noticed our uneaten fish and promptly removed it from our bill, a gesture that did not go unnoticed by our grateful party. Despite our culinary misfortunes, we departed the Donner pub with gratitude for the kindness of its staff amidst our trials.

Cathy K.

Small space but worth the wait. Good was so good. And the waitress was great.

Coppa S.

Really, really wanted this to be a great spot. It's got to be a bit tough on the Far end of Donner lake for enough business. Our server was good, but she was over worked for clearing and serving 8 tables. Not sure why 2 bartenders on maybe a 12 seat bar didn't help her more. My food was cold- smoked brisket and onion rings. I made a mistake on a drink. I acknowledged it, they brought me a new one, but charged me 50% for the first one. It took almost 30 minutes, I went to the to ask for it as server was swamped " they forgot, it will be right out". Got charge reversed but lord have mercy, tell me if you are going to charge me for a mistake if you are going to take it from me. Probably my first time in 30 years getting a charge on a returned bar drink. My kids French dip he loved, and was hot.

Calvin B.

The Pub at Donner Lake is not only a picturesque lakeside venue with great drinks but also a dog-friendly spot. While the food may be average, the lakeside view and refreshing beverages make it worth a visit. 🌟🍹🍔🐶

Syl ?. M.

I really look forward to going to this place, they have the best fries i have ever had, their chicken sandwich is awesome too. They have a good selection of beer but sadly every time i have been there they are out of several of their own options. On my last visit they where also out of essential ingredients to make basic bar drinks; but i was truly disappointed when my children ordered a dessert that came with a sort of frosting thing on it and they brought it without, so we basically had a flavorless expensive donut hole plate, when i told them that they forgot (so that they would bring it) they said "oh yeah we are out" without caring one bit or offering a solution.
All and all just know, we still like this place and will continue to go for their fries and due to the lack of other options near Donner.
I truly hope they get it together, this is a place with so much potential