Higher Grounds Coffee House

Unfortunately, our first visit to Crestline as a family of seven started on a disappointing note…read more While walking through town, we saw the sign for this coffee shop and decided to stop in. There was only one customer ahead of us, so we took a few moments to look over the menu while some of my family members grabbed bottled drinks from the refrigerator. When I asked the older woman working behind the counter if they had any iced coffee beverages, she simply pointed at the menu in what came across as an irritated manner. I then ordered an iced macchiato. After she prepared the drink, she told me the total was $8. I politely mentioned that the menu listed it as $7.50. Instead of explaining the difference, she pointed back at the sign and gestured with her hand as if to hurry me up and pay. I was honestly caught off guard by how unfriendly and rushed the interaction felt. I ended up declining the drink because the customer service made me feel so unwelcome. As a family, we didn't feel greeted or appreciated as customers. We were looking forward to supporting a local small business, and with a group our size, we likely would have spent around $40 or more. Sadly, because of the experience, we chose to leave instead. We visit Crestline and plan to return in the future, but unfortunately we won't be returning to this coffee shop. Great customer service can make all the difference, and sadly, that wasn't our experience here.

I had high hopes as I love small coffee shops... the coffee was way too sweet and way too…read moreexpensive. Also, the prices on the menu should be updated because when it says 7.50 and I got charged 24 dollars for two, the math doesn't add up. It was very cute though.

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The best coffee spot

Goodwin & Sons Market

4.0(269 reviews)

0.4 mi

Goodwin & Sons is a gem near Lake Gregory. The inside and outside are both beautiful, and the…read moreclassic soda fountain area with ice cream in the middle makes it a stand-out star. Every time we go this way, we have to stop at Goodwin's. The market portion itself has a great selection, and the chance to get an old fashioned root beer float before or after walking the trail around the lake is such a win. Check this spot out!

Today I went to get a juice at 5:50pm, but she said she already cleaned the juicer. Ok?? It says…read morethe coffee and juice bar is open till 7. That fits I guess. Every time I buy chicken here, I get chicken juice all over my hands because they're terrible at wrapping it in their little styrofoam trays with saran wrap. They're always leaky. And the produce is often subpar compared to other stores. Wilted or spotted from age. But alas, they're the closest store, so I keep ending up there. Do I recommend? Absolutely not! Sometimes I drive an extra 15 mins just to have better options.

Showing one of their many aisles, they look perfect. They must have someone with OCD straighten them all day.

Hot food and deli

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Seats

Crestline Cafe

4.1(588 reviews)

0.2 mi

I was hungry and came at 1. A lot of people were leaving so a bunch of seats opened up. It was…read morepretty cold with the AC without a jacket. They took my order quick. Theres a TV playing car races. Lots of families on a Saturday afternoon. Mini arcade by the door. Saw a kid meltdown when his family had to leave but he wanted to stay by the machines. Lots of fun things on the menu. Classic American breakfast and lunch. I got the eggs Benedict with hash browns. Didn't disappoint. I saved half for later. No wifi so not a studying kind of cafe, which is unfortunate because I have an exam coming up but there's limited seats so it makes sense.

As newer full-time residents, we find Crestline Cafe part of our home. The food is outstanding…read more Prime rib special is everything special! Generous portions, included! The real part of Crestline Cafe comes from the community. The servers, every one who works there are warm, friendly, professional. It's always a treat to have Paige as our server. She's become part of our Crestline family!

You always order a mimosa flight at brunch, sorry I don't make the rules

2 egg combo

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Mountain Cravings

4.6(115 reviews)

0.5 mi

Never disappoints! Bomb…read more Been here a few times and got different things each time . Haven't been let down yet

Saved my appetite for this!…read more Super glad I did! Mountain Cravings was on my list to hit. The reviews did not lead me astray lol The menu is huge!! I wasn't prepared for that hahaha I was able to find a few things that were vegetarian friendly. My mom wanted nachos, and I wanted a cheese quesadilla. My dad was craving a burger. They had all of those. It was the perfect stop. There was some sort of street fair going on, so we grabbed our food and walked around the little town. Service was good. The restaurant isn't very big. They sure do whip up some good grub though! I can see why they have good reviews. I would recommend this place to anyone visiting the mountain. Next time I go up, I will come back here.

Inside

Tostilocos

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Additional breakfast items listed on the blackboard taken June 16, 2023; see my other photo for the main breakfast menu.

Sweet Pea's Poke

4.3(47 reviews)

0.3 mi

Acute little poke place right next to lake gregory, where you can get poke bowl or ramen and boba…read moredrinks :) the staff were so friendly and the portion is huge, a great stop to grab lunch or snacks when in town

This place is sooooo good! Love the Ramen, love the bowls, and really love the service. Everyone is…read morealways so nice and welcoming, which if you live in the mountains full/time like I do, you know is rare. There are so many great options, plenty of vegan and veggie choices; just overall a great experience and wonderful food.

Inside seating

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Spicy ahi tuna poke bowl with a ton of goodies

El Jefe's Little Kitchen

4.7(51 reviews)

0.3 mi

Wow! Never leave reviews but can confidently say it was the best burger I've ever had and the fried…read moretomato's were amazing. Everything house made down to the pickles and ketchup(as an avid ketchup hater it was delicious ) 100/10 don't know how this place doesn't have a huge line. Can taste the love put into this food!

El Jefe Steve is a master at his craft, we have made this place a weekly event in our home…read more His food is incredible, fresh made patties made with the perfect meat blend. From the home made ketchup to the Mac and cheese balls, the menu is dialed in down to the last detail. Steve is a one man machine and takes customer service to heart! He treats everyone life family! 0

Find the 'dog'... Taste the

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Breakfast Burrito

Top Town Cafe

4.2(58 reviews)

0.5 mi

Cute restaurant and very friendly staff. I enjoyed my salad but unfortunately it was sitting in a…read morepuddle of water in the bowl. I ate the top of it then discovered it. It happens so it definitely won't stop me from trying this restaurant again. My friends ordered breakfast and it looked delicious.

Love it so much, the food is so good. Service is on point. Restaurant is very clean and cozy…read more Plenty of parkings

Outside

Torta

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Outside!

Crestline Shell

4.0(6 reviews)

0.1 mi

horrible service from two girls on 12/30 at around 2pm…read more Horrible attitude not only with me but towards other guests , one girl speaking badly about a customer wanting air after they walked out , instructing other girl not to give him any more air if he walked back in, which is illegal . I walked in for some chicken and the service was horrible , asked for hot sauce and was received with immediate attitude , she replied with I already put "handfuls" in both bags , I quickly glanced in the bag and still asked for more and was again received with attitude saying they weren't allowed to give more . I ordered a family pack spending over $50 and when I got home and emptied the bag the "handfuls " were only 2 honey packs and 2 Tabasco sauces why lie and have attitude? Also not to mention the toddler playing behind the counter around the liquor bottles , not safe

Some of the nicest people around. I just needed a low tire checked before making a trip to the…read moreGulf. The young man who helped me was very thorough and professional.

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Stockade Grub & Whiskey

4.2(625 reviews)

0.1 mi

Food is great. Visited here over the weekend and ate here 3 times. Had their wings and their…read moreburgers and it was all great! Drinks are cold and staff is friendly. They are also dog friendly, took our dog here.

Omg I got the homemade MacNCheese with Brisket. Whoaaa sooo good!! Chef Timmy is the best ever. And…read moreAdam is the best bartender ever! So glad I came here! Not 5 stars... a big 10 stars from me!!

No food photo because I forgot

Filet mignon, veggies, and baked potato

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I really like the wall decor here so old and rustic

McDonald's

2.2(128 reviews)

0.4 mi

Mason was the best..! True professionalism shown…read more.. Not to mention polite, a rarity in this world today. Thank you Mason. You have bright future

Today I made an online order. However they also closed early…read more That was frustrating, but it is what it is. After getting the attention of a staff member through the window, they just yelled "closed" for the better part of a minute as I'm explaining that I made an online order. Eventually, someone else came and told me that they're closed. I informed her, I was aware and recognized that I will not be getting my food tonight. At this point, I just asked them to cancel the order so I could get a refund. They told me they couldn't do that and argued with me to do it on my phone. Which I explained that I cannot. After showing her my phone, she told me I had to "figure it out" and closed the window on me. Awesome. I see why this place has 2 stars. And that's a high bar.

Cheeseburger French Fries 6 pc. Chicken McNuggets®

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15 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Tim M.

8 years ago

This didn't taste like your typical small town coffee shop. I'm amazed that this good of a coffee shop is in the mountains. I was in Crestline for a few days & decided to try out this new coffee shop. I ordered the vanilla latte & it was soo delicious...as good of a vanilla latte as anywhere. The girls at the counter said they hand-make their own vanilla & other flavors for their lattes. You could tell, because of how good they tasted. We also tried their new lavender latte, which was very unique & very good! Their pastries look yummy too. Seems like they've got a premium roaster for their coffee! The workers were very friendly too! & it was nice to use some free WiFi. This is a must stop for visitors & locals alike! read more

Mike C.

549

4 years ago

A really bad choice in life led me to Higher Grounds. Let me back up. For Christmas, my wife gifted me with a retreat in the mountains to clear my head after a busy Christmas season. This morning, I woke up and experienced the worst cup of coffee in the world in my hotel room. I know better. Thanks to yelp, redemption was close by and the friendly staff quickly supplied me with a proper Café Americano. the inside of the shop is clean and it looks cool. if one bring some ear buds, they may be able to get some work done here if there are open seats. its also a good place to grab your stuff and go. Next time I'm in the mountains, I'll try the food. read more

Amberlie B.

2 years ago

No absolutely distraught. I went in today to see about this place since it's part of a "church" I'm not pleased . As a former restaurant employee (far way back of time) I know jokes are made as a way to pass time during shifts but the joke about if a bear came through I'd let everyone get eaten up while I run outback was not what I wanted to hear . I don't feel sad and JESUS WOULDN'T LIKE IT CHAD SHAME ON YOU AND THE KITCHEN STAFF WHO LAUGHED Jesus is upset with y'all shame and the bathroom STUNK what the actual f is that smell ?? Do something about it Jesus ! read more

Joana G.

Elite 26

293

20 days ago

Absolutely loved this coffee shop! I got the Honey Honey Honey Latte, and it was SO good! The coffee tasted fresh and perfectly brewed, you can really taste the quality. The ambience is super chill and such a vibe. It is a smaller coffee shop, so seating is limited, but there's plenty of parking, which is a huge plus. The service was also amazing, super friendly and welcoming. Great coffee, great service, and great vibes. Definitely one of the best coffee spots in Arrowhead! If you're in the area, come check them out. I'll definitely be back! read more

Tyler G.

8 years ago

You can't have a better coffee experience on the mountain. I have had all of their new summer options, and I have been impressed with each of them. My favorite is the blackberry lemonade. They recently came out with sandwiches as well, and they delivered another high quality product. They use very high quality bread and meat. I think it's actually Boar's Head. The manager Alycia and other staff members are awesome, and super friendly. I love this place! read more

Lana K.

175

330

2 years ago

Higher Ground Coffee is the ideal stop before or after a day in the mountains. Their coffee is bold, smooth, and just what you need before hitting the trails or paddleboarding on the lake. Whether you're gearing up for an adventure or winding down after one, this spot always hits the mark. And the fact that they host worship nights in the summer? Even better. Great coffee, mountain vibes, and a place that brings people together--Higher Ground is a gem. read more

Rebecca T.

8 years ago

yes. YES! Definitely my favorite coffee spot. Best espresso on the mountain in my opinion and though we live by the village in Arrowhead, I make my way down to Crestline daily for this treat. My best friend told me about the place since it changed ownership and the new owners definitely make this place a success! read more

Ken K K.

7 years ago

It's a nice place for an intimate evening but menu should be revised. I mostly come here with my friends to taste my favorite dishes and now i am looking for more variety in the food Otherwise nice plac! read more

Coral H.

4 years ago

Coffee that is quick and simple! They have a fantastic menu with some unique flavors. I ordered the horchata coffee, which was both intriguing and tasty. read more

Francis G B.

7 years ago

Very nice experience here and love to visit here again and again just because of their quality work!

Faye M.

6 years ago

Always amazing service and super friendly will definitely refer to anyone who comes up the mountain

angela m.

3 years ago

Great coffee and treats! Very friendly and clean. Will come back if in the area again.

Vanessa C.

5 years ago

Great little coffee shop they are all extremely sweet and help with drink suggestions

John W.

7 years ago

This is a great place to stop in for a cup of Joe. Friendly staff and great coffee.

Doug S.

6 years ago

Great coffee, great customer service!

Higher Grounds Coffee House - coffee - Updated September 2026

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