Looking for the best restaurants in Lake Placid right now? If so then you’re in luck because Lake Placid is a paradise for foodies of every variety.
Trust me, I have been living in the area on and off for well over 30 years. And while Lake Placid is known for being an outdoor lover’s dream, it is an epic vacation spot for diehard foodies too.
And since I have been in the area for so long, I know a thing or two about where to go and what to order from some of the best places to eat in Lake Placid.
So, if you want to sample the best that the Lake Placid food scene has to offer then you do NOT want to skip this article.
Not only does it have epic insider tips on where to eat and when to visit Lake Placid, but you’ll also get secret tips on what to eat and drink at the best eateries in town.
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Table of Contents
Best Restaurants in Lake Placid
1. Smoke Signals
Smoke Signals has been delighting locals and visitors since May 2013. So, feel free to sit inside the brick-lined restaurant or enjoy the stunning views of Mirror Lake from their lakeside patio.
Now, the menu at Smoke Signals features small plates and barbecue favorites like brisket, lamb gyro, and smoked chicken.
However, fans rave about their baby back ribs, which are fall-off-the-bone tender with delicious burnt ends, and creamy mashed potatoes.
Plus, most of the menu is suitable for gluten-free diets, and they offer several vegan and vegetarian options.
Just be sure to make a reservation in advance since this is one of the best restaurants in Lake Placid that can get busy in the evenings and on weekends.
However, they can typically take walk-ins if you’re plans change last minute.
Address: 2489 Main St, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open daily from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Price: Cocktails start at $14.00 each with the Blackberry Moonshine Margarita being my personal fave.
2. Black Bear Restaurant
If you’re looking for a cozy, casual place to eat in Lake Placid, Black Bear Restaurant could be perfect for you.
After all, this Main Street Lake Placid restaurant overlooks Mirror Lake and offers guests a friendly welcome that is perfectly complimented by authentic American/Italian food at affordable prices.
So, choose from meat, seafood, and pasta dishes, including their excellent Chicken Parm and Lobster Ravioli.
Just be sure to save some room for their delicious homemade bread which is almost as good as the stuff I used to get on Arthur Avenue.
Black Bear also has a fully stocked bar. So, you can accompany your meal with one of their craft cocktails before heading to one of the best breweries in Lake Placid afterward.
Address: 2409 Main St, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open daily from 11:30 am to 9:00 pm, except on Saturday when they are open from 11:00 am to 9:30 pm.
Price: Entrees start at around $26.00 each.
3. Lisa G’s
You’ll enjoy a warm welcome at Lisa G’s restaurant in Lake Placid, a friendly space decorated with brightly colored murals.
Step inside and enjoy home-cooked American cuisine with a global twist that includes salads, sandwiches, pizzas, and entrees.
In fact, a generous portion of Chicken Parm comes with a delicious garnish of pesto, with the pork schnitzel being another must-try at one of the best restaurants in Lake Placid.
Just don’t forget to save room for their amazing gluten-free chocolate cake for dessert!
Lisa G’s is also tucked away from Main Street on the bank of the Chubb River. Therefore, there’s plenty of outdoor seating on their deck and patio.
Dog-friendly spaces are also on offer, so be sure to bring your four-legged friend too.
Address: 6125 Sentinel Rd, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open Monday/Thursday from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Friday/Saturday from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Price: Entrees start at $15.00 each.
4. Kanu
Kanu is one of two restaurants at Lake Placid’s Whiteface Lodge.
Set amidst the stunning landscape of the six-million-acre Adirondack Park, Whiteface Lodge is regarded as one of the best hotels of its kind in the United States.
So, Kanu is easily one of the best Lake Placid restaurants to visit if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want an unforgettable dining experience.
Surrounded by granite fireplaces and log beams, diners at Kanu can see into the restaurant’s bustling kitchen as their food is prepared.
The restaurant’s à la carte and pairing menus also feature local and seasonal produce sourced from Upstate New York farms.
Dishes include pork chop with Gorgonzola gnocchi (LOVE LOVE LOVE the gnocchi), Lobster Garganelli, and their excellent Filet Mignon Bordelaise.
So, this is easily one of the best things to do in Lake Placid for any foodies out there.
Address: Whiteface Lodge, 7 Whiteface Inn Lane, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open Tuesday through Thursday from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm and Friday/Saturday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Price: Entrees start at $52.00 each.
5. The Cottage Restaurant and Cafe
The Cottage Restaurant and Cafe sits on the shoreline of Mirror Lake, with the Adirondack High Peaks providing a spectacular backdrop.
Now, this scenic Lake Placid restaurant serves casual American comfort cuisine on a menu showcasing produce from across the Lake Placid region.
Just don’t miss the Cottage Cafe’s own spin on some familiar favorites like their excellent Reuben sandwich and BBQ pulled pork.
Additionally, the friendly staff and relaxed ambiance make the Cottage Cafe a fun place to meet up with friends or relax with family.
Sadly, this is one of the best restaurants in Lake Placid that doesn’t take reservations. But, if the restaurant is full, you can leave your phone number, and they’ll text you when a table is available.
I also love this place because they have these cute little ski gondolas that you can dine in, making this one of the most unique things to do in Lake Placid, NY.
Address: 77 Mirror Lake Drive, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Price: Entrees start at $16.00 each.
6. The Breakfast Club, etc
Have you ever wished you could eat breakfast all day long? If so then the Breakfast Club could be the best Lake Placid restaurant for you!
This laid-back restaurant serves breakfast all day long. However, it’s not just your regular bacon and eggs or waffles.
In fact, The Breakfast Club menu is full of delicious homemade breakfast dishes, cooked from scratch and guaranteed to fill you up.
Don’t miss their French toast fondue, cheddar biscuits with homemade sausage, and fantastic daily specials like Chorizo Eggs Benedict or Pumpkin Pancakes topped with toasted walnuts and chai icing.
You can even pair your brunch with a range of craft beers and hand-crafted Bloody Marys and Mimosas that are sure to warm you up during winter in Lake Placid.
Address: 2431 Main St, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm and Saturday/Sunday from 7:30 am to 1:00 pm.
Price: Most breakfast entrees are around $15.00 each.
7. Big Slide Brewery & Public House
This relaxed restaurant and taphouse was the second Lake Placid location opened by the owners of the Lake Placid Pub and Brewery, one of the best Lake Placid breweries.
As well as having 10 of their own craft beers on draft, they serve up delicious farm-to-table dishes using produce from local suppliers.
So, the menu features generous portions of delicious entrées, brick-oven pizzas, steaks, and tempting desserts.
Plus, their pizzas can be ordered with vegan and gluten-free crusts, with the ability to order gluten-free bread on all their sandwiches.
And if you enjoy the Big Slide beers, you can also purchase a growler to take home with you as a New York souvenir after your visit to one of the best bars in Lake Placid.
Address: 5686 Cascade Rd, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 am to 9:00 pm, Friday/Saturday from 11:30 am to 9:30 pm, and Sunday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Price: Most entrees are around $18.00 each.
8. A New Leaf
If you’re looking for a no-frills coffee shop where you can get a great cup of organic coffee, this is one of the best Lake Placid restaurants to add to your Lake Placid itinerary.
A New Leaf is a friendly breakfast joint with welcoming service, an extensive coffee menu, and excellent home-cooked food.
Yes, the breakfast menu at this Lake Placid restaurant is small. But, all the food is delicious, featuring tempting dishes like their breakfast burrito and flavorful croissant breakfast sandwich.
In fact, the coffee at A New Leaf is as good as you could hope for, and the quirky, cozy decor will make you feel like you’ve just stopped by grandma’s house for breakfast.
Address: 2364 Saranac Ave #3377, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open daily from 7:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Price: Breakfast items are between $6.95 and $8.95
9. Peak 47
Peak 47 is Whiteface Lodge’s second restaurant and it’s the hotel’s more casual dining option.
Plus, the wood-burning stove and copper-topped bar make Peak 47 the ideal place to unwind after a day on the ski slopes at nearby Whiteface Mountain.
Now, the seasonal menu at Peak 47 includes burgers, sandwiches, salads, and wood-fired pizzas available all day.
There’s also a variety of entrees available in the evenings. You can even enjoy a Lake Placid beer, a glass of wine from a Finger Lakes winery, or one of Peak 47’s signature after-dinner cocktails.
Just be aware that this is one of the best restaurants in Lake Placid that does not accept reservations so you may encounter a bit of a wait.
Address: Whiteface Lodge, 7 Whiteface Inn Ln, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm from Sunday through Thursday and Friday/Saturday from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Price: Entrees start at $22.00 each.
10. Campfire Adirondack Grill
Lying around 10 miles northwest of Lake Placid, Hotel Saranac was built in the Roaring Twenties and reopened after a complete restoration in 2018.
Campfire Adirondack Grill + Bar is the hotel’s signature restaurant in Saranac Lake. It has all the sophistication and Adirondack heritage that you’d associate with a hotel of this caliber.
Campfire Adirondack showcases fresh, seasonal, and local produce from named local farms. So, the menu changes regularly.
But, you can expect elevated versions of Adirondack comfort food classics, like Shepherd’s Pie, Chicken and Biscuits, and a fabulous S’mores board for two.
Comfy seating, friendly service, and a well-stocked bar make Campfire Adirondack the ideal Lake Placid dining spot after a day exploring the great outdoors and enjoying the best hikes in the Adirondacks.
Address: Hotel Saranac, 100 Main St, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
Hours: Open daily from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Price: Entrees start at $21.00 each.
11. The Stagecoach Inn
The charming and rustic Lake Placid Stagecoach Inn was built in the late 1700s, making it the oldest building in Lake Placid.
It’s the perfect location for an elegant getaway from everyday life, which is reflected in the high standards at the Inn’s restaurant.
In fact, The Stagecoach Inn has one of the best restaurants in Lake Placid, NY if you want a few small plates or want to savor a four-course meal.
The fine dining menu is also updated weekly to reflect the changing seasons and support local farmers,
So, it may feature anything from beef tenderloin or pan-seared scallops to turkey saltimbocca.
Plus, the full-service bar offers classic spirits, wines, local beers, and hand-crafted cocktails. Reservations are required, and early booking is highly recommended.
Address: 3 Stagecoach Way, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Price: Entrees start at $39.00 each.
12. Big Mountain Deli & Creperie
This colorful Lake Placid lunch spot is one of the best places to eat in Lake Placid when you want a quick meal after a morning’s hike.
After all, there are nearly 50 sandwich fillings on the menu at Big Mountain Deli & Creperie, plus a build-your-own option.
So, the combinations range from classic favorites like the Armstrong (ham, Swiss, and Dijon) to the aptly named Big Slide (ham, salami, bologna, provolone, banana peppers, and garlic mayo).
You can choose between sliced bread, wraps, or various homemade rolls, with vegan and gluten-free options available upon request.
The Big Mountain Deli & Creperie also offers a range of breakfast sandwiches, brunch burritos, soups, and sweet and savory crepes that everyone will love.
Address: 2475 Main St, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open daily from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Price: $12.00 each.
13. Top of the Park
This Lake Placid eatery is located on Main Street, and guests can enjoy fantastic views over Mirror Lake and the Adirondack Mountains from its large deck.
As well as a well-stocked bar and signature cocktails, Top of the Park offers a select range of delicious tapas-style small plates.
These beautifully presented dishes include familiar options like Lobster Rolls and Confit Chicken Wings, plus more adventurous dishes like Seared Loin of Kangaroo, and a small selection of delicious desserts.
High-quality ingredients, attention to detail, and excellent service make Top of the Park one of the best places to eat in Lake Placid!
Address: 2407 Main St, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open daily from 3:00 pm to 12:00 am.
Price: Entrees are around $21.00 each.
14. Eleanor’s Pasta Kitchen
This cozy Lake Placid restaurant is named after the chef’s daughter, Eleanor, and has a menu that changes daily.
So, every day, Eleanor’s Pasta Kitchen cooks up three styles of pasta (including a gluten-free option) and at least three sauces that include carbonara, marinara, cacio e pepe, and more.
Just pick your pasta and sauce, decide which protein and vegetables you want to add in, and chef Rory will cook your food to order.
The result is fresh and delicious food that is perfect for a simple meal. However, this is one of the best restaurants in Lake Placid that gets busy. So, visit earlier in the day to avoid the lines!
Address: 2525 Main St, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm, except Tuesdays.
Price: Starts at around $10.00 each.
15. Generations Tap & Grill
Generations Tap and Grill is a lodge-style restaurant at the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort on the shores of Mirror Lake.
The restaurant reflects the eco-friendly philosophy of the resort as a whole, featuring foods from farms and producers in Upper New York’s Adirondack region.
The menu showcases classic American and North Country-style cuisine with a German twist like their German Onion Soup made with dark beer.
However, must-try dishes include the 8oz Wolfjaw Burger, and the Firetower Pretzel served with cheese sauce and homemade Bitburger mustard.
Also, reservations are definitely recommended at this excellent Lake Placid restaurant.
Address: 2543 Main St, Lake Placid, NY 12946
Hours: Open daily from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Price: Entrees are around $16.00 each.
Map of the Best Restaurants in Lake Placid
Best Restaurants in Lake Placid FAQs
Does Lake Placid Have Good Food?
Yes! Lake Placid is an outdoor lovers paradise that is also home to some of the best food in the state. So, expect to find a diverse array of cuisine that is crafted using the finest local ingredients.
Why is Lake Placid So Popular? Why is Lake Placid NY Famous?
Lake Placid was made popular by the fact that this small town in New York hosted both the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics.
In particular, the 1980 Olympics were exceptionally special since the “Miracle on Ice” game between the USA and the former USSR took place here.
There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best restaurants in Lake Placid.
Tell me, did your picks for the best places to eat in Lake Placid make the list? If not then let me know below.
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