Bryce C.
Can’t go wrong with driving up to this location. The food was incredible, the staff was extremely friendly, and the atmosphere is unmatched. Watched nesting bald eagles while enjoying some of the best pulled pork I’ve had in years. Everything is fresh and hand made. Restrooms and kitchen were cleaner than my house. Do yourself a favor and come up for lunch.
… moreDave M
Had a wonderful experience interacting with the staff and ownership while placing and waiting on our order. I went with the smash burger, which was a “smash” with my wife and myself! It was grilled and assembled to perfection, using high quality and fresh ingredients. And, as the picture below shows, it was as tasty as it looked! The portion, including a side of fries, was large and too good to leave unfinished. Aside from the food, the warm and friendly staff were a delight to exchange time and conversation with. It had a certain, Southern hospitality charm to it. Lastly, we were fond of the place when it was under the previous management/ownership of Frank’s Diner. However, the establishment now has revitalized the place with a new kitchen, opened up the indoor seating space, and in general just up-ed things a notch, or two (or three : ). It was a great experience on a rather ordinary Sunday. A great way to end the weekend!
… moreLene’ Collier
We have never had a bad meal or experience! The food is amazing! Like an explosion of flavor in every bite!
All of the staff are super friendly! You can dine inside or outside and have a beautiful view of Finnon Lake and maybe catch a glimpse of the local bald eagles or play a round of disc golf!
We drive up from the Bay Area just to have a meal!! So grateful to have this hidden gem in our amazing little community!!
… moreBrad Deutschman
If you’re looking for an hidden gem away from the Riffraff of the city this is the place. My family and I were pleasantly surprised by Smoke on the water. They have excellent food and service! Matt and his team produced one of the best burgers I’ve ever had! The carnitas tacos were also excellent. You can tell they don’t take short cuts when it comes to choosing high quality ingredients. Would highly recommend and to top it all off the views are divine.
… moreHunter Rodriguez
Food is amazing, came and tried the pulled pork sandwich, probably the best I’ve ever had in my life. Also has a good view. People are super nice as well 10/10
… moreEmily Gonzaga
Hands down the BEST place to eat around! Consistently had fantastic food, friendly staff, excellent service and the view tops it all off! We have enjoyed breakfast, lunch and dinner menus items. Best pulled pork/burger EVER!
… moreJohn Burnham
Absolutely slammin’ pulled pork, juicy burger, and perfectly crispy fries… to be able to enjoy it all smack-dab lakeside at the end of that gorgeous drive up the mountain from Placerville is a real treat for us and a real feat for these sweet hardworking folks. Great start and can’t wait to head back and see what’s next… !!!
… moreAnthony Russell
Totally impressed. Thank all the staff who helped my daughter, daughter’s mom and myself. The food is absolutely the best.
… moreGigi G
Wow! Just an awesome dining experience! You wouldn’t think a remote restaurant in the forest could seriously be a top American dining restaurant. It’s a casual, warm environment. Very clean. The staff is extremely welcoming and attentive to make sure you have a positive dining experience. The smash burger and pulled pork are delicious! They have a yummy seasoned ranch dressing for your fries. Everything is house made, including the incredible bbq sauce. The slaw is a unique southern style that is simply yummy. Definitely worthwhile to make the drive here or to get familiar with this gem if you are a local in the community.
… moreFeedMeSeymour
This place is a HIDDEN GEM on a mountain next to a catch and release resevoir. Outdoor seating, heaters, excellent food. You cant miss by catching this place when they are open.
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