The Sawyer

It may be because of its location in an otherwise-exclusive gated community, but The Sawyer is one of the best places for high-end, seasonal American cuisine without the usual large Truckee crowds. It’s a great choice year-round, but it’s especially enjoyable in the summer, thanks to a large patio area with fire pits overlooking the woods and mountains beyond. 

The venue is small but most items can be customized, if, for example, you’d prefer the sriracha honey and house slaw of The Rocketbird sandwich added to your panko-crusted portobello on brioche (which you should). For those willing to drop a few million on a home in the community, you won’t need to book ahead—but those of us outside of the luxe Schaffer’s Mill need a reservation to make it past the neighborhood’s 24-hour gatehouse.