Lake Arrowhead Village is the heart of our mountain community, offering a wonderful mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment with beautiful lakeside views. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast spot, a gourmet dinner, or the perfect souvenir, the Village has something for everyone. Here’s our guide to the best spots to eat and shop during your visit.
Lake Arrowhead Village Overview
The Village is a picturesque, open-air shopping center located on the shores of Lake Arrowhead. With its charming architecture and scenic backdrop, it’s a perfect place to spend an afternoon strolling, dining, and exploring the unique local shops.
Breakfast & Brunch
Belgian Waffle Works
- What to Order: You can’t go wrong with their classic Belgian waffle, but the fruit-topped options are a local favorite. They also serve excellent sandwiches and burgers for lunch.
- Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily.
- Insider Tip: Sit on the patio for the best lake views. It can get busy, so aim for an early or late breakfast to avoid the crowds.
The Tea & Coffee Exchange
- What to Order: A specialty latte and a freshly baked pastry.
- Hours: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily.
- Insider Tip: A great spot to grab a quick and delicious coffee before a day of hiking.
Lake Arrowhead Deli & Pizza
- What to Order: Breakfast burritos or one of their signature pizzas later in the day.
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM daily.
- Insider Tip: A casual and family-friendly option that serves consistently good food.
Lunch & Dinner
Casual Dining
Lakefront Tap Room Bar and Kitchen
- What to Order: The fish and chips or one of their gourmet burgers, paired with a craft beer from their extensive list.
- Atmosphere: Lively and casual with a great bar scene and frequent live music.
The Grapevine
- What to Order: A wine flight to sample local and international wines, along with a delicious charcuterie board.
- Atmosphere: Cozy and sophisticated, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Papagayos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
- What to Order: The sizzling fajitas and a margarita.
- Atmosphere: Fun and festive with a large outdoor patio overlooking the lake.
Fine Dining
The Grill at Antlers Inn
- What to Order: The pan-seared scallops or the prime rib.
- Atmosphere: Historic and elegant, located in a beautifully restored inn just a short drive from the Village. Reservations are highly recommended.
Stone Creek Bistro
- What to Order: Classic French and American bistro fare, with a menu that changes seasonally.
- Atmosphere: Intimate and upscale, offering a refined dining experience in Blue Jay.
Cafes & Coffee
Higher Grounds Coffee House
- What to Order: Their signature “Mile High” coffee and a slice of homemade cake.
- Location: Blue Jay
- Insider Tip: A cozy spot with comfortable seating, perfect for catching up on emails or reading a book.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
- What to Order: A caramel apple or a piece of their famous fudge.
- Location: Lake Arrowhead Village
- Insider Tip: A must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Shops & Boutiques
- The Wishing Well: A classic gift shop with a wide selection of Lake Arrowhead souvenirs, home decor, and unique trinkets.
- Pendleton Woolen Mills: Famous for their high-quality woolen blankets, apparel, and accessories.
- Coach: A luxury boutique offering leather goods, handbags, and accessories.
- Mr. G’s For Toys: A magical toy store that will delight both children and adults.
- Big on Bears: Find every kind of bear-themed souvenir imaginable in this charming shop.
- Claire’s: A popular spot for jewelry, accessories, and gifts for teens and tweens.
Grocery Stores & Essentials
- Stater Bros. Market: The largest full-service grocery store in the area, located in the Village.
- Jensen’s Foods: A smaller, more upscale grocery store in Blue Jay with a great butcher shop and deli.
Seasonal Events
The Village hosts numerous events throughout the year, including a Summer Concert Series, Oktoberfest, and a beautiful Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Check their official website for the latest event schedule.
FAQ
Q: Is there parking in the Village? A: Yes, there is a large parking structure as well as surface lots. Parking is generally free but can be limited during peak season and events.
Q: Is the Village dog-friendly? A: Many of the common areas and some shop patios are dog-friendly, but always check with individual stores and restaurants.