Following an energy-draining day on the slopes at Northstar California, when the discussion turns to – where to eat – the choices are numerous.
There is no shortage of restaurants in the spacious Northstar Village. Got a favorite food type? Chances are it’s available. The choices are numerous, including Mexican, sushi, pizza, Italian, steakhouse, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and even Happy Hour bar bites.
And if none of those dining options seem enticing, arguably the best Northstar California restaurant is located at mid-mountain, where the picturesque Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe resides. The Manzanita is the jewel of Northstar restaurants, offering a gorgeous setting for a fine-dining experience.
Before sitting down at a table, take a moment to enjoy the recently renovated Manzanita restaurant. The ambiance is tantalizing. The new dining room features high, soaring beams, exposed stone, and a glowing fireplace that’s centrally located. And the window views of the mountain face are invigorating, no matter what time of year.
If an intimate dinner with a large group of family and friends is the goal, the Manzanita also features a private dining room that seats up to 25 guests, affording a beautiful setting for casual gatherings or celebratory dinners.
“There’s nothing like dinner at the beautiful Ritz-Carlton at Northstar after a day of skiing with family and friends,” said Craig Vandegrift, who was visiting Northstar in early February. “The Manzanita restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere. Its food selections, coupled with the extensive wine list and outstanding service, is the perfect closure to a fantastic ski day.”
Executive Chef Christopher Bean came to the Ritz-Carlton restaurant in December 2024 and oversees the hotel’s culinary operations, which includes several other dining locations at the hotel.
No stranger to the Ritz-Carlton way, Bean has more than 13 years of experience with the luxury hotel, previously serving as Executive Sous Chef at The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco.
Shortly after arrival in Lake Tahoe, Bean put his stamp on the Manzanita, incorporating a modern culinary philosophy and what he believes celebrates the Sierra seasons and the incredible food producers who define the region.
“Our ingredient-driven dishes are designed to feel both elevated and approachable, complemented by our beverage program and wine list that thoughtfully showcases standout producers from California and around the world,” Bean said. “Guests may come here for time on the mountain, but we aim to give them a dining experience that’s just as memorable.”
The Manzanita menu has historically reflected a unique vision, presenting a dining experience that is special. The variety and complexity of the menu a year ago served notice that chef Bean brought a fresh approach to his food selections. He and Chef de Cuisine Edgar Palau have collaborated on many creative dishes again this year.
New seasonal dishes currently include Truffle Ricotta Malfatti with foraged mushrooms, Osetra Caviar and Farro Esquites, Beet Root Carpaccio, and signature dishes like the 32-ounce Aged Côte de Boeuf and the Double Cut Heritage Pork Chop.
Other appealing menu items – from appetizers, side dishes, to entrées – include Alaskan Halibut, Ahi Tuna Tiradito, Capay Organics Farm Asparagus, Hokkaido Scallops Aguachile, Fettuccini “En Rajas,” 8-ounce Prime Filet Mignon, Roasted Broccolini, and Forage Mushroom Farrotto.
The wine list is also extraordinary. Also new to the Ritz-Carlton staff, sommelier Lesley Neves has extensive wine knowledge and her suggestions naturally take into account the food being served. Her understanding of wine and warm personality makes every guest feel special.
The Manzanita list continues to highlight renown wine that’s recognized worldwide and standout California producers, including Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon, Joseph Phelps Freestone, Vineyard Pinot Noir, and Arista Chardonnay.
For the third consecutive year in 2025, the Manzanita was honored with Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence, which recognizes restaurants with exceptional wine programs.
Overall, the restaurant service is very congenial and knowledgeable, and will go out of their way to accommodate special requests.
The Manzanita is an exceedingly high-end restaurant, so don’t be surprised by the high-end prices on both food and wine.
Although Northstar Village guests can drive to the Ritz-Carlton in 10-15 minutes, consider taking a scenic gondola ride as well, especially once daylight saving time arrives (March 8) and the evening is inching toward sunset on the mountain.
Located just outside the Village grounds, the Highlands Gondola will drop restaurant patrons off at the back patio of the hotel, located around 7,000 feet elevation.
The Manzanita restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday evenings from 5-9 pm. For more information, call 530 562-3000.
