Lake Cuyamaca Restaurant & Store

I’ve been here probably about 10 times over the past few years, the last 2 times as a local. The food is just alright. It’s nothing out of this world but not terrible. It’s usually very bland but nothing a little salt can’t fix. All the staff I’ve interacted with are very friendly, however most of them seem to be forgetful or distracted. For every visit there was something forgotten on the order. The last 4 visits have been disappointing. On 2 separate occasions, a person’s entire order was not put in. This last time, we had received extra items we didn’t order and were charged for them. We were also sitting right in front of the server prep area and part of our table’s order was sitting in the window for a long time until it was served while the staff were chatting. We had to ask for the order and they took it right off the window. They didn’t notice that the table was picking at their food, waiting for our 2 little girls to have their plates. They also don’t remind their guests- which NOT EVERYONE KNOWS THIS- but they charge a 20% service fee, so if you don’t plan on tipping then make sure you address that. I was waitress from 2007-2019 and I absolutely loved it. I enjoy waiting on tables and offering my best service. I’m very understanding but to an extent. Just go ahead and be the annoying customer who keeps asking about their food and request a discount if they messed up your order multiple times or left it sitting in the window for 15 minutes while the rest of your table is waiting.
I am really disappointed in how the service has changed recently. I am annoyed with the service and their lack of compensation for it. I wouldn’t go out of my way to come here anymore but it is convenient if you’re hanging out around the lake. It is an okay place, the atmosphere is nice (especially on the patio) and staff are friendly but don’t give great table service.

It wasn't open

Gorgeous day to sit out on the deck.

Fast service, super nice staff, great food, great view of the lake

Great stop coming back from Julian, or just out for a Sunday drive. This was our first time here since the new owner took over. Burger was better than most, and service was fast and 100% correct, even though we were with a huge group. Will be back for sure.

Fun place to grab a meal or supplies next door. Nice outside area for when the weather is nice as well

I always stop here for a bite when passing through or when fishing the lake. It meets my expectation, and its a good spot to enjoy a great view. Some reviewers sound a bit pretentious, considering this kitchen is FAR OFF THE BEATEN PATH...

Awesome spot to get away in the mountains. I respect that the market doesn't allow this venue to compete with city breweries/eateries.. Great scenery and environment, don't come here expecting more than that. Allow yourself to enjoy the mountain, eat hot food, and grab a beer. Otherwise, get yours somewhere else, stay in the city.

Kid-friendliness: I bring my kids everytime

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 4

Great place on the lake for lunch , especially if you are on a cruise. Great meet up spot too ???

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Sandwiches, Fish and Chips, Chicken Pot Pie

we arrived a couple minutes before closing and were very hungry, but they served us and told us we could sit down and eat in the restaurant. thanks to the staff and the nice girl Ashlyn! we were satisfied. the food was delicious and the view was amazing!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

A restaurant and bar where you can dine while looking out at the wonderful lake and mountains. Some beers are offered by local breweries, and there's also a draft beer lineup. When I ordered iced coffee, I was told that they only had it hot, but the staff was attentive and brought me a glass of locally made canned coffee in ice cream. It was light and delicious. There are quite a few seats, so even if the patio is full, you can still see the view from inside, so I think both are good places to have a relaxing meal.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Best service in Julian, food is flavorful, beer variety is plenty and delicious , prices are totally reasonable, good crowd.
My only complaint is the birds on the patio, super aggressive. Other than that it was relaxing, fun, fast and yummy!! The view is cool!

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

A little spendy but cant beat lake view from outside deck.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Cheese Burger and Fries

Excellent place but they only speak English, we hope to have a translator soon

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Food and atmosphere are nice!
Service: on the menu has a 20% charge of service.
But the waiter, a man in tattoos, said he won't include it for charge, and we added a tip in gratitude.
At the same time, the receipt is not brought immediately, even after I clicked print on the portable POS terminal.
At the exit, we asked for a receipt, they gave it to us and we left. After checking the receipt on the way back, we found that 20% was charged from us. Therefore, if you have many children like us and are financially tight, do not be naive!
Would be a 5 stars, but those guy screwed up!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 2

Food and atmosphere are nice!Service: on the menu has a 20% charge of service.But the waiter, a man in tattoos, said he won't include it for charge, and we added a tip in gratitude.At the same time, the receipt is not brought immediately, even after I clicked print on the portable POS terminal.At the exit, we asked for a receipt, they gave it to us and we left. After checking the receipt on the way back, we found that 20% was charged from us. Therefore, if you have many children like us and are financially tight, do not be naive!Would be a 5 stars, but those guy screwed up!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 2