
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
A mountain lodge dining experience near Yosemite, offering unique dishes and a relaxing atmosphere after park adventures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mountain lodge dining experience near Yosemite, offering unique dishes and a relaxing atmosphere after park adventures.
"This place was like an oasis in the desert after a day in Yosemite."
Avoid Peak Times
Visit for dinner around 6:30 pm on weekdays for shorter wait times.
Try Signature Dishes
Don't miss unique options like the El Capitan Bison burger or black bean burger.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Escape to Yosemite's Lodge Atmosphere
Relax in a lodge atmosphere with beautiful outdoor spaces, perfect after a day exploring Yosemite.

Unique Bison and Black Bean Burgers
Savor distinctive dishes like the El Capitan Bison burger or a hearty black bean burger.

Convenient Yosemite Gateway
Enjoy delicious food with shorter wait times compared to crowded Yosemite Valley areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Avoid Peak Times
Visit for dinner around 6:30 pm on weekdays for shorter wait times.
Try Signature Dishes
Don't miss unique options like the El Capitan Bison burger or black bean burger.
Post-Hike Relaxation
Consider visiting after exploring Yosemite for a peaceful meal away from crowds.
Accommodations Available
Extend your stay by booking accommodations at Rush Creek Lodge.
Tips
from all over the internet
Avoid Peak Times
Visit for dinner around 6:30 pm on weekdays for shorter wait times.
Try Signature Dishes
Don't miss unique options like the El Capitan Bison burger or black bean burger.
Post-Hike Relaxation
Consider visiting after exploring Yosemite for a peaceful meal away from crowds.
Accommodations Available
Extend your stay by booking accommodations at Rush Creek Lodge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge receives praise for its accommodating service, especially from staff like Evan, and its beautiful lodge atmosphere. While many enjoyed unique dishes like the El Capitan Bison burger and found the food delicious with vegetarian options, some reviews indicate that the food quality can be inconsistent, with occasional complaints about breakfast items and overall value. The convenience and ambiance, however, remain significant draws for visitors to Yosemite.
"Stopped in for dinner around 6:30 pm on Friday and had under a 5 minute wait. We tried their Philly Cheese Steak sandwiches with fries. Everything was delicious and although our server was busy, she did a good job. Beautiful resort and nice restaurant."
Laura Griffith
"It's always a treat to stop here on the way home after a day in Yosemite National Park. They have great food and an excellent bar selection. Always have the best beers to choose from. The staff are always very accommodating and knowledgeable about the area. This property is gorgeous and is worth the stop. When heading home down Highway 120, you won't come to any other restaurant that's comparable until you reach Oakdale."
Dustin Long
"We were very impressed by the food and service at this restaurant. The menu has a wide selection, including plenty of vegetarian choices. Food is exceptional, and the desserts are even better. Service was impeccable even on a crowded holiday weekend. Will definitely come back to this place next time I visit Yosemite."
Turbo Majumder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The restaurant is known for unique items like the El Capitan Bison burger and the black bean burger.
Yes, it's family-friendly with options like a game room for kids and spacious seating.
Service is often highlighted as impeccable and friendly, even during busy periods.
Yes, the menu includes a wide selection of delicious food with vegetarian choices.
Visiting for dinner around 6:30 pm on weekdays generally results in shorter wait times.
Yes, they can accommodate needs such as celiac and gluten-free diets.
Yes, it's conveniently located near the Big Oak Flat entrance, making it an ideal stop after visiting the park.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
Best restaurants Yosemite National Park, Yosemite & the Sierra Nevada
For a classic Yosemite experience, make a dinner reservation (for breakfast, just show up) at the Tuolumne Meadows Lodge. The place is as basic looking as…
Yosemite Dining at Rush Creek Lodge: Restaurant & Tavern
The Restaurant at Rush Creek is the main place for you to relax and enjoy an authentic mountain lodge style breakfast or dinner in an atmosphere that is relaxed and friendly, vibrant and sophisticated. It offers an expansive dining area with a variety of seating, including intimate booths and areas for larger groups, as well as a spacious outdoor terrace, where you can take in the beauty of the surrounding forest and glorious sunsets.
Dog-Friendly Yosemite Itinerary | Dog-Friendly Trails
In the town of Mariposa, 1850 Restaurant is one, with covered outdoor patio dining where dogs are always welcome. 1850 is equal parts craft brew haven and farm-to-table oasis. Sample over a dozen flagship and seasonal brews with names like Bridalveil, White Wolf and Trailblazer that pay homage to local landmarks and legends.
A Wheelchair Accessible Guide to Yosemite National Park
If you’re looking for another great restaurant in Tuolumne County, I’d highly recommend the Rush Creek Tavern, which is located inside Rush Creek Lodge. After exploring Yosemite National Park all day, we had dinner at the tavern and it was seriously one of our favorite meals in months!
Food & Drink - Yosemite National Park
Why Visit: Featuring local brews and comfort food, this casual spot is ideal for post-hike refueling. Directions: Located near the Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite.
Best Restaurants Near Yosemite National Park
This rustic yet sophisticated dining room is the place to enjoy friendly service and memorable meals that pair perfectly with your Yosemite adventures!
Mariposa, Yosemite & Sequoia a Spotlight on Great Things to See and Do
We recommend having lunch at 1850 Restaurant, also in downtown Mariposa. 1850 is a restaurant and brewery owned by local Mariposa residents.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit