Experience true indulgence this winter in Lake Tahoe with The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe’s vibrant food and beverage offerings and coveted après-ski experience. In the resort’s all-encompassing “backyard,” evergreen trees emerge through blankets of white snow while the robust aromas of epicurean delights fill the air. Perched mid-mountain at Northstar California, the resort’s backyard boasts sweeping slope-side views amid all the action and provides convenient access for guests right outside of their rooms.
Before laying the first morning tracks on the slopes, stop by Café Blue for steaming specialty coffees, layered croissants, and assorted breakfast bites. Kids gravitate to the gourmet hot chocolates and ciders, and, this year, adult guests can enjoy spiked hot beverages for on leisurely mornings. Baristas can even incorporate the flavors of peppermint and peanut butter liqueurs to enhance hot chocolate, and varieties of whiskeys and liqueurs to concoct classic Irish coffees. Choose from a plethora of snacks and premade sandwiches to keep on hand, perfectly bridging the gaps between meals while on the mountain.
Once true après begins, a buoyant energy enters the backyard, with guests from the resort and the slopes seeking to fill their ravenous stomachs. The Texas-style barbecue smoked on site at The Backyard Bar & BBQ provides a hearty meal for the whole family with various meats, sandwiches, and poutine. A crowd favorite, the classic pulled-pork sandwich with a side of baked beans or mac & cheese pairs nicely with the numerous canned and tap craft beers at the bar. Après-inspired cocktails such as the Epic Ryed and Hannah Teater match the buzz of excitement flowing outside.
Nestled up to the backyard fire pit, the Whiskey and Waffles Cabin offers sweet treats and distinctive drinks for guests on the mountain. A vast selection of premium whiskeys, including Maker’s Mark and Maker’s 46, along with more exclusive Booker’s and Hibiki, taste smooth all on their own against the brisk air. Opt to enjoy the fine whiskeys mixed in craft cocktails including the chilled On the Slopes Islay or warmed I’ll Buy You a Cappuccino. New on the menu this season are warm waffles served with an abundance of delectable toppings, ideal for the youthful après crowd.
Sitting at the fireside terrace, the new airstream bar, Soup & Spirits, features alternating spirits and a delicious soup selection. Highlighted brands of tequila, gin, and rum rotate each month with an accompanying selection of rotating cocktails.
For those with elevated taste, imbibe in a glass of sparkling wine at the Champagne & Caviar Cart. A selection of craft caviar complements crisp Moët & Chandon and Veuve Cliquot with its salty bite.
As the adventurous day on the slopes nears its end, the inviting Backyard Fire Pit gathers families to swap stories from the day while they clutch hot cocoas and ciders. Parents aid their children in roasting gooey marshmallows to create s’mores with the kits provided upon arrival at the resort.
Soon, guests mosey inside to The Living Room and unwind on the comfy couches to grab an early seat for the evening’s live music. Classic cocktails meet unexpected ingredients to create unique Highlands Bar libations. Fresh to the mountain fare menu is a stacked raw bar seafood tower filled with chef’s personal favorites, along with fondues of sweet and savory varieties. The indulgences allow parties of up to four guests to share.
The signature fine dining restaurant Manzanita rounds out the resort’s vibrant culinary offerings with the ultimate wine-and-dine experience. Guests can admire the culinary team crafting their gourmet dishes thanks to Manzanita’s open-kitchen concept. The restaurant’s sommelier hand selects wines from the expansive collection to match guests’ unique tastes and complement their dining choices for the night. For vegetarian and vegan patrons, the subtly sweet Beet Tart provides a fresh start to the palate, with the slow-smoked Pastrami Cauliflower Steak as the hearty main course. For the adventurous foodie, rustic butcher blocks feature rich, earthy grilled venison steak, Manzanita’s renowned Black Silkie Chicken, and tender, marbled wagyu steak.
Topping the night off with a sweet memory, the delectable desserts from the pastry chefs complete the perfect ending to a well-spent day. The Cheesecake Board features a creamy slice of cheesecake accompanied by seasonal jams, sable, and smoked vanilla ice cream.
Or if you need to satisfy your chocolate craving, select the Lake Tahoe Pine Cone, featuring Jivara ganache mousse, passion fruit gel, chocolate cake, chocolate crumble, and orange ice cream.
To plan your Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe adventure, visit Ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/california/lake-tahoe.
