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About

Ernie's Coffee Shop, the perfect spot to start your day, is a cozy Breakfast restaurant and Brunch restaurant in South Lake Tahoe, CA. Located at 1207 Emerald Bay Rd, our charming Cafe and Coffee shop serves up delicious morning favorites and mid-day treats. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying lunch, our Diner has got you covered. As a locally-owned Coffee shop, we're passionate about serving high-quality, expertly-brewed coffee and espresso drinks. Pair your favorite beverage with a freshly-baked pastry or a made-to-order breakfast sandwich. Our friendly staff is dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring a warm, welcoming atmosphere. At Ernie's Coffee Shop, we're committed to using only the freshest ingredients and sustainable practices whenever possible. Join us for a relaxing breakfast or lunch in our cozy cafe, or grab a coffee to-go and enjoy the beautiful scenery of South Lake Tahoe. We can't wait to serve you!

Ernie's Coffee Shop Review Summary

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4.6
(1235 Reviews)
5
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1
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Esby Alvarado
Esby Alvarado -Google user
a month ago
While we were waiting to get a table seating outside a couple came out and told us "it was worth the wait" we knew then it was going to be delicious and it didn't disappoint us.
Atmosphere: 5
Amy
Amy -Google user
2 months ago
Great food and great service. The waffles are delicious! Everything was great. I would defy go back!
Atmosphere: 5
Ash Ster
Ash Ster -Google user
a year ago
Overall great restaurant! Highly recommended! Great breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant! Wait is usually very very high! …
Lily Li
Lily Li -Google user
2 months ago
We enjoyed the food and friendly service. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor tables and plants around. There are more local customers than tourists.
$20–30Atmosphere: 5Quiet, easy to talkNo waitIndoor dining area, Outdoor patio / terraceSomewhat recommendVegetarian menu or sectionI had a vegetarian breakfast.Plenty of parkingFree parking lot
Katherine Sherlock
Katherine Sherlock -Google user
2 months ago
Was recommended this place by a local when I asked for the best cafe for breakfast with gluten free options. I was so stoked to be able to FINALLY have French toast again because they have the gluten free option. Their menu was very diverse...Read More
$10–20Atmosphere: 5Quiet, easy to talk2 peopleNo waitI have a gluten intolerance and they had options!Plenty of parkingFree parking lotVery kid friendlyNo stairs and wheelchair accessible
Angelique Tafoya-Graham
Angelique Tafoya-Graham -Google user
a month ago
The food was delicious! The menu has something to offer for just about any taste. We stopped in on for breakfast on our way home. We were so happy that we did. Everyone enjoyed their selection. From my vegan burrito to the cornbeef and...Read More
Breakfast$10–20Atmosphere: 5Up to 10 minIndoor dining area, Booth seatingHighly recommendVegetarian menu or section, Clearly labeled vegetarian dishesVegan
Hannah Montroy
Hannah Montroy -Google user
a week ago
This place was great! We went for breakfast and it was delicious with huge portions. The lattes were great as well. The staff was friendly and attentive.
Atmosphere: 5
Ethan Mullen
Ethan Mullen -Google user
3 months ago
With plenty of breakfast places on offer nearby it’s a tough choice deciding which one to go into. This restaurant would be my recommendation. We were seated quickly, received great service and ate some very tasty food. The menu is plentiful with options available for everyone...Read More
$30–50Atmosphere: 5Quiet, easy to talkUp to 10 minIndoor dining areaPlenty of parking
David Basse
David Basse -Google user
a month ago
The food was delicious. Atmosphere was manic, but the staff took it all in stride. Service could have been better without the mayhem of the patrons. Overall, excellent 👌
$20–30Atmosphere: 4Loud, but you can still talk3-4 people10-30 minHighly recommendClearly labeled vegetarian dishesKids are there, might not be their "cup of tea."
David T
David T -Google user
a month ago
Been coming to Tahoe for years and I found Ernie's on accident.. Best breakfast in Tahoe hands down.. If you haven't been here yet you are missing out!
$10–20Atmosphere: 5Moderate noiseUp to 10 minIndoor dining area, Outdoor patio / terrace, Booth seating, Counter seatingKids menu 😋
Gary Griffith
Gary Griffith -Google user
a month ago
Terrific spot for breakfast or just coffee. Super helpful and friendly staff and quick service. Highly recommended
M Perez
M Perez -Google user
a week ago
Let me tell you something....this was our last breakfast spot in Lake Tahoe for a trip and it was the best brunch by far. The brunch burger had me speechless with how juicy and delicious it was and the egg was the perfect touch. Hot...Read More
$20–30Atmosphere: 5Moderate noise10-30 min
Wendy Magarin
Wendy Magarin -Google user
2 months ago
We are visiting Tahoe and came across this diner. We walked through the doors and were immediately sat. The service was excellent, always refilling the water and coffee and checking in too. The food was phenomenal - the Mexican breakfast with avocado is definitely a...Read More
Breakfast$10–20Atmosphere: 52 people, 3-4 peopleNo wait
Mike Zapien
Mike Zapien -Google user
3 months ago
From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel welcome. Our server, Leanna, was incredibly attentive, thoughtful, and made the entire experience special. The food was great, but Leanna’s exceptional service is what truly stood out. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a warm...Read More
$10–20Atmosphere: 5Moderate noiseUp to 10 minIndoor dining area, Outdoor patio / terrace, Booth seating, Counter seating
Ashley Beels
Ashley Beels -Google user
a month ago
Got us in quick despite them being very busy. Seems like a well oiled machine! Peanut butter shake was incredible. Fresh squeezed orange juice was very good too. Food was good! Would come back next trip to Tahoe.
Atmosphere: 5
Dominic Spengler
Dominic Spengler -Google user
4 weeks ago
We loved the food and the old traditional diner experience, with wholesome food and comfy seating. Shame that the blinds were down so we couldn’t enjoy the lovely first views outside. Our table service came to ask us too many times if we were ok,...Read More
Brunch$30–50Atmosphere: 5Moderate noiseNo waitPlenty of parking
d johnson
d johnson -Google user
3 months ago
Searched for a breakfast establishment near me. Came across Ernie’s. There’s a reason the parking lot is full on a weekday. Immediately greeted and seated. Huge portions. Great tasting. All servers assist each other giving prompt, courteous service.
Atmosphere: 5
Gennadiy Karavan
Gennadiy Karavan -Google user
3 months ago
Absolutely Impeccable All Around, Coffee tasted fresh, food was delicious, and the portion size left nothing to be desired. Service was great too, Kind servers that actually enjoy interacting with customers, if you're rolling through the Tahoe Area and Need a Good Breakfast Bite to...Read More
Breakfast$10–20Atmosphere: 51 person, 2 people, 3-4 peopleNo waitPlenty of parkingFree parking lot
Thomas
Thomas -Google user
a month ago
My coffee has to be strong. I mean why drink it if it’s not. This place. Had excellent coffee. Not to bitter. Not acidic. And they had someone who just went around pouring it freely. Thank you for the best Tahoe breakfast experience!
Breakfast$10–20Atmosphere: 5No waitIndoor dining area, Outdoor patio / terracePlenty of parking
Marion Blais
Marion Blais -Google user
2 months ago
Very good breakfast! I had the Green Acre Scram and it was delicious with the pico de gallo! Friendly and relaxed ambiance as well.
$20–30Atmosphere: 5Moderate noiseNo waitBooth seating
David Huffman
David Huffman -Google user
3 months ago
The food is always delicious, the service is great and quick, and is a perfect modern classic mountain diner! Sometimes it’s pretty busy, but even then the wait isn’t very long. Best breakfast in South Lake Tahoe!!
Breakfast$20–30Atmosphere: 5Moderate noiseNo waitPlenty of parking
Paula Boardman
Paula Boardman -Google user
3 months ago
Delicious food, very nice environment and very good service. I had the breakfast burrito and it was great.
Allison Nelson
Allison Nelson -Google user
a month ago
Best breakfast in Tahoe. We love Ernie’s! Only eat here if you want Great Food, Great Service and Great Cozy Ambiance!!!!
Sadie Barquilla
Sadie Barquilla -Google user
2 months ago
We visit South Lake Tahoe several times a year and we alway make it a point to visit Ernie’s’ . We are never disappointed. Food is delicious and consistent. Very friendly staff!
Mo Stidum
Mo Stidum -Google user
7 months ago
I’m eating my food as I type this review because I couldn’t wait to tell the world how amazing this place is. The service has been top-notch. The coffee is some of the best coffee I’ve ever had in my life. The atmosphere is cozy....Read More
Andrew N
Andrew N -Google user
2 months ago
Beat waffle in town! The hash browns were crispy just like the wifey wanted! Can't believe we have never been here before, we'll be back!!!!
Kathy Garcia
Kathy Garcia -Google user
3 months ago
The food was good and they also have espresso drinks! Incredible service, def recommend. …
Nellie Scott
Nellie Scott -Google user
a month ago
Fabulous place. Our first time here and we’ll definitely be back. Highly, highly recommend Ernie’s! Make this your regular place for breakfast or lunch. The service is Top Shelf, be sure to order fresh squeezed OJ. Authentic. Oh, yes and then...Read More
Service: 5
gurungmusic
gurungmusic -Google user
a week ago
This was my second time coming to Ernie’s and it did not disappoint again. I discovered this place last year because Bert’s cafe across the street was an hour wait and decided to come here, and man did i make the right choice. I got...Read More
Leslie Anne Harnell
Leslie Anne Harnell -Google user
2 weeks ago
We were visiting Southlake Tahoe for a family reunion. We decided to stop in at Ernie’s coffee shop for breakfast. We received a text message when our table was ready and were seated right away. The wonderful staff at Ernie’s are all …

Features

Service options

check icon Outdoor seating
check icon Curbside pickup
check icon Delivery
check icon Takeout
check icon Dine-in

Highlights

check icon Fast service
check icon Great coffee
check icon Great tea selection

Popular for

check icon Breakfast
check icon Lunch
check icon Solo dining

Accessibility

check icon Wheelchair accessible entrance
check icon Wheelchair accessible parking lot
check icon Wheelchair accessible restroom
check icon Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings

check icon Alcohol
check icon Beer
check icon Coffee
check icon Comfort food
check icon Healthy options
check icon Quick bite
check icon Vegetarian options
check icon Wine

Dining options

check icon Breakfast
check icon Brunch
check icon Lunch
check icon Dinner
check icon Dessert
check icon Seating

Amenities

check icon Restroom

Atmosphere

check icon Casual
check icon Cozy
check icon Trendy

Crowd

check icon Family-friendly
check icon Groups
check icon Tourists

Planning

check icon Usually a wait
Accepts reservations

Payments

check icon Credit cards
check icon Debit cards
check icon NFC mobile payments

Children

check icon Good for kids
check icon High chairs
check icon Kids' menu

Parking

check icon Free parking lot
check icon Parking