The Idle Hour | Lake Tahoe

First time visit, maybe my last. Every employee just wasn't friendly or inviting in any way. Made me feel like we were a nuisance just for showing up. After being seated, we waited for some water and then placed our order for some food and several wine flights with another person. Our food dish arrived and asked again for some water. Finally our water arrived, and before we were done eating, our wine flights arrived. Just seemed like we weren't welcome, or the employees were just really not wanting to be there at all.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 3

Service: 1

First time in the area. We stopped here for a quick pre dinner drink and appetizer and ended up ordering more food (flat breads) and drinks! We visited during the “shoulder” time of the season, so it wasn’t crowded.
Great atmosphere and fabulous views of the lake. Would go back!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Wine Tasting Flight, Spinach Artichoke Dip, Local Wine Flight

Quickly seated in beautiful lounge area by front window - stunning views, Great service. Charcuterie Board was delish, accompanied by sparkling Spanish brut Cava. Recommended.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: The Idle Hour Charcuterie

Beautiful spot for a sunset and some small plates and drinks. I would definitely recommend a flight; the Grand Tasting was a good choice. I tried the ceviche, roasted pork, bruschetta. I loved all the food. The service was fantastic and knew when to come around and check up on us. The balcony can get a little chilly after sunset, but the interior is also spacious with plenty of seating and lounging options. Loved my experience here, made for a perfect end to the day.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Dreamy spot on the lake, makes you feel you are in the lake if your lucky enough to get tiny balcony seats outside. Great wine offerings also.

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Very interesting decorations and not the cleanest place. A big dust hairball with gross black hair on the table behind me. Makes you wonder if the kitchen is clean. We sat on couches with a glass round table and the bottom part of table was not clean. Danni our waitress was super sweet. She is an asset to the place.

Also not sure if they are getting ready to paint or what but all the lights were taped. Very odd creepy look. View is beautiful! The view and location could be spectacular they need to redecorate and clean it.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 5

I decided to come here based on the location to the Lake. I was not disappointed. The staff was extremely friendly. A good selection of wine and the Italian bread was amazing as an appetizer. The view of the lake tied everything together. I try not to go somewhere twice since it takes away from a new experience, but I will definitely be coming here again to try more.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Spectacular sunset views. All the wait staff were attentive and outstanding. They checked in regularly with out being intrusive. The wine flights are a must, if you enjoy wine. We had the Lobster Roll, Shrimp Ceviche, Brie Grilled Cheese, Spinach Artichoke Dip and the Greek Mediterranean Pinsa Bread and all were so delicious. When in South Lake Tahoe have to visit once, will not be disappointed.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Wine Tasting Flight

I visited The Idle Hour for the second time last night, and it was another great experience. We ordered a charcuterie and cheese plate, along with wine flights, which I enjoyed the most. The selection of wines complemented the food perfectly. The amazing view of the lake added to the atmosphere, making it a really pleasant evening. I definitely recommend this place for a nice night out!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Charcuterie Board with a Flight of Wine

Best place we found for a lakefront glass of wine! Perfect views especially from outside on the balcony. Cozy interior too, blankets provided for cooler evenings. The appetizers were incredible, highly recommend, we came back twice!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

This was by far our favorite place when we visited Lake Tahoe. The views are insane, the sunset was magical & the service, food & wine were great. The wine recommendation was spot on! I would definitely come back here if I visit again!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We had our intimate wedding at The Idle Hour last month, with a beautiful ceremony on their lower-level patio overlooking Lake Tahoe, followed by a simple yet elegant dinner in their event room. Chris handled our initial inquiry and set things in motion, while Alex managed the rest of the planning seamlessly. They recommended a fantastic catering company, and everything went off without a hitch. Alex and the team made sure we were well taken care of throughout the entire day and did not go thirsty. The staff is friendly and hospitable, and we can’t recommend The Idle Hour enough. We’ll definitely be back to say hello and have a glass of their delicious wine and try their food! Thank you Idle Hour!

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

We recently attended a wedding reception at The Idle Hour. The only thing better than the incredible view of the lake and the food and drinks was the outstanding customer service. We were very impressed how the crew at the restaurant kept the event moving, all the while keeping everyone happy. We will be back!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: The Idle Hour Charcuterie, Wedding Cake

Absolutely beautiful views and a very nice wait staff. But not being able to spark a tab was a little annoying.

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 3

Great little spot! Can't get any closer to the water. Right at the edge of the lake. Friendly people, great wine selection, balconies and patio right over the water. Can't beat the atmosphere.

Parking: Small parking lot. Comes up on you quickly so slow down.

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5