My family and I always come here and they never fail to make us feel welcome, happy, and satisfied…read more The food is your classic American style diner but with beyond meat and plant-based options for vegan and vegetarian friends. Our server, Arcy (please forgive me if I spelled your name wrong!) is always lovely and just a delight to be around. She is very knowledgeable and is very helpful with any questions we have. As far as the restaurant itself, it's very in touch with the mountain, cabin vibe. It's very comforting and a nice change from your average diner. It's safe to say that my family and I will come back as we've done the years before on our trips to Idyllwild.

My girlfriend was craving a fat, juicy, pink in the middle burger and the winner of the selection…read moretonight was The Lumber Mill. It was their unique burgers that caught our eye so we decided to come in and see what's good. The first thing I noticed is that their prices seem a bit pricey for a burger and fries but all the prices here in Idyllwild are elevated so these prices are in alignment with other restaurants. And for me as the prices get higher so does my scrutiny of the food and overall experience. My reason for 3 stars instead of 4 is price vs amount of food you get - and the fact that they charge $5 for a Dr. Pepper. That's a bit obscene in my books, so 3 stars. Now the details... I was gonna get a pastrami burger ($20.99) until I noticed the Bacon Lovers ($19.99) and I'm a huge bacon lover and this is the first time I've ever seen a bacon lovers burger so I had to go with it. It is a juicy beef patty stuffed with bacon bits & topped with American cheese, more bacon and 1000 island dressing served on a brioche bun. They cooked it to a perfect med rare and it was really good. It comes with your choice of side (fries, coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans or garlic mashed potato's. You can upgrade to fried pickes, zucchini, sweet potato fries, onion rings or corn nuggets for $2.50 and our waitress was raving about the beer battered onion rings so I chose those. The burger was great and so were the onion rings, however as you can see from the picture, there were not many onion rings AT ALL. I don't mind a $2.50 upgrade charge but give me some onion rings PLEASE!! Not happy about the quantity fr that upcharge! My girlfriend got the Wild Western burger ($20.99) which is a juicy beef patty topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce & onion rings. She didn't really like it much. She also upgraded to fried zucchini and she didn't much care for those either. It seems like there are good things here and some not great things here. If there is something ypu want to try here, I would go through the reviews and see what people are saying about it. Again, I feel like I got taken advantage of with that up charge on the 6 onion rings they gave me, but they did deliver on how good they are. I would recommend doing your research before ordering here.

Tommy's cooking is amazing! Delicious plentiful meals with all the accompaniments. If you haven't…read moretried it, you're missing out. Just wish I lived closer so I could buy more often. And he's a nice man.

Tommy's is a former restaurant whose chef turned to takeout and the mountain town of Idyllwild is…read moreall the better for it. We've been coming to Idyllwild for 60+ years (100 as a family) and we've seen restaurants great and small come and go. Tommy's right now is one of the top three, ironically as it is takeout dinners with the occasional holiday brunch. This Sunday on Memorial Day weekend we ordered the Roast Lamb special ($24), a robust herbed port wine jus three slices, which came with a dense square of scalloped potatoes au gratin, buttered peas and glazed carrots--with excellent broccoli cheddar soup with croutons--and a white dark chocolate mousse that was the perfect light dessert (I couldn't believe I ate it all). We're having leftovers for lunch or dinner today. What Tommy's gives is way over price value but it's his European culinary technique that elevates the food, even when doing crispy fried chicken with biscuits and gravy. The menu is set, one dish a day, though some occasionally come with vegetarian options. As a bonus, son James bakes excellent French bread--we bought a sun-dried tomato one which was terrific dipped in olive oil. Best of all, for us, Tommy's allows us to not fill the best hours of the evening with cooking and prep. We can sit out on our deck and enjoy the mountains. I'm a food writer among other things (finalist, Best Restaurant Feature, 2015, City & Regional Magazine Association) and author of The French House.

My wonderful friends Wayne and Roger were married here so I knew off the bat that the ambiance was…read moregoing to be cozy and beautiful. The service was great, waiters and host William, were attentive. We had a great time enjoying the view from the window, the rain was falling outside and we were side of the fireplace. My boyfriend loved his steak, said it was prepared just the way he likes it. I ordered penne pasta with veggies vegan style it was delicious. I would highly recommend this restaurant for a date night or family gathering.

Coming up the mountain to beat the heat in the desert is always good thing here in Idyllwild. This…read morewas our first time here but walked by it loads of time. The cute charming look of this place and nice patio area was what caught our attention. When we arrived, there was two other party seated on the patio. As we had our pup with us, patio seating was what we were looking for. But when we checked in, the host put us on the opposite side where there was no one there. At first we thought since we had our pup, this maybe where they put everyone but that wasn't the case. We clearly could see everyone checking in and noticed loads of dogs. But they were seated at the main patio, which ended up full and loads of dogs. It felt like we were singled out the whole time but at this point, we were just like whatever. During the whole dining experience it was just us on that side until they sat another couple next to us. Everyone else was at the main patio. I'm sure when we left, they must have felt the same, left out. Clayton was our waiter which he was very sweet. Host did mentioned the specials when we got seated as well as Clayton. We asked about a a certain dish (fish and chips), which no one didn't quite know the answer to. Same as everyone else, they had to asked each other what kind of fish was being used. It was a little back and forth that we opted out on that dish. Started off with a cold beer. Drinks menu had pretty much everything as well. Food menu, it was a mixture of everything. Fresh baked bread was brought out which was quite tasty. Hot right out of the oven with butter. Something so simple but so tasty. We actually had a second helping of it which was very nice. For mains, the gnome dip. Their specialty sandwich with braised angus short rib, au jus, cheddar sauce with a hint of spice, on a house roll with fries. It was decent but nothing major to rave about. The short rib did have a lot of fat but whatever. Fries on the other hand were nice. And the Gnomies ramen. It's not your traditional ramen. Chefs secret broth with either angus short rib, grilled teriyaki chicken breast, shrimp or pork. First off, it's not ramen noodles that were used but thin spaghetti noodles. It served with carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, hard boil egg, mushrooms and garnished with cilantro and sesame seeds. I went with the angus short rib for the protein. First impression, it's pretty small. Then comes the taste test, the broth was quite salty. And then that's when I found out it was pasta noodles instead of ramen noodles. Not your traditional ramen but their special version I assume. Sometimes it's better to leave things the way they are... That dish was a miss for me. The restaurants itself is quite nice with the patio seating. It's covered with loads of umbrellas which is nice and charming. Right when you walk inside there's the bar area. Two dining sections, one to the right which people did utilized to cool off from outside. The left side was closed but layout was quite nice. Feels like a nice ski chalet with the fire place. Also for the size of the restaurant, there's only one restroom. Overall, the place is charming and cute. Nice patio but being seated away from everyone else did feel like we were singled out. Didn't want to say anything afterwards as we thought it was the section for pets until everyone else walking in with their pets were seated at the main patio with everyone else. Majority of the guest did prefer to be outside but some outed for indoor. Food, it was whatever. Nothing major to rave about. Ramen was a major disappointment but the fries were great. And the fresh baked bread, that was excellent. Service was nice with Clayton, sweet and constantly checking in on us. Everyone seemed a little lost when we asked about the fish and chips. They were asking one another ...lol.... It is a bit overpriced for what it is. It's charming but would we stop by again, I don't want to say it but maybe no. Who knows, maybe it'll be different.

Of all the times we've been to Idyllwild, this was the first time here. We've seen it pretty much…read morealways whenever leaving town as it's along the way back. Finally, it'd time to give it a try. There's a parking lot behind the pub but the main entrance is around the front area. There's a sign posted to where the parking is. You have a little steep driveway down to the parking lot. I don't think there's an entrance from the back so I wouldn't know how you would enter if you parked in the back. There's a fairly decent amount of parking and to our surprise, they even had a little nature trail along it. Anyways... The front entrance has a good amount of stairs up that will lead you to the pub. Quite an entrance I must say but once you reach the top, it's pretty much an open feel. Majority of the place is out in the open. Some seating inside but everything is pretty much outdoor. Nice little sections off the balcony and then you have the whole bar counter that just looks out to the parking lot and nature. I love that concept. Also, they offer food which is a good addition. Most breweries offer food but it's your basics items while this place has a lot of things to choose from. Of course theres beer on tap, wines as well as specialties cocktails. A good selections of items to choose from. We went with their cider which was perfect for the heatwave as it was nice and crisp. Goes down easily which isn't a good thing... lol... Food/snacks, we went with their jalapeños poppers which came with ranch dipping and a jam spread. That was a first time having it with jam and let me say, it worked. Poppers were really good stuffed with the cream cheese and a nice golden deep fried crunch. Highly recommend. And the pretzel. That came with the single or double. Go with double as it's worth the valve, a few dollars difference. That came with cheese sauce, and two different mustard dip. Pretty good starters as well as the cider. The food menu was quite good with what we had but looking at what others ordered, everything looked delicious. The place was great and the open concept looking out to nature was major. It's also very pet friendly as there were loads of fur babies out and about. On either side of the place, there's outdoor balconies that look out to nature as well but I think the main bar counter as you walk in takes the cakes. Finally trying this place out and I would say it's totally worth it. Service was amazing and all the staffs were excellent. Drinks and food were delicious. Would definitely be back next time .

Hmmmmm.... Fried food and gassy brew. I wish the bartender would have not been in a mood. Don't be…read morehappy and dine there. Cheers!

We had breakfast on a Saturday morning. Food was freshly made and delicious. Service is friendly…read more Food came out fast. Check them out next time you're up in Idyllwild.

Love this place. Third time here and it's SO RELAXING. I like that today wasn't super busy on the…read morepatio. I got biscuits & gravy as an app. Then I got the barbecue beef sandwich on the Hawaiian bun and french fries with a little bit of chili on top. Ridiculously good! The french fries are really good and the chili was OK. Nothing beats the deliciousness of the barbecue sauce! The barbecue beef sandwich was incredible! I usually don't even eat the bun but the bun was so good and there was enough meat that I was needing to separate the top and the bottom of the bun. So WE ARE STUFFED. Jerryanne is ALWAYS A PLEASURE TO HAVE WAIT ON US. She makes the experience feel down home. Thank you!!

Had prime rib tacos they were very good…read more I ordered the molten lava chocolate cake and did not get it Then the manager brought me the right one Makes me happy

Cool setting. There for lunch. I think in tue evening with music and the decks would be a great…read moretime. Food was good

My server Brian is great the food is outstanding got to sit and chat with Marshal Hawkins and his…read morelovely wife Desiree. Plus listen to an excellent trio playing European Gypsy style songs Couldn't finish the pork chop which was the best I've ever eaten. This is Italian elevated for sure !!! Come up and get some soon ( Frank did not pay me for this review! )

We decided to give this place a try, and to be honest, we weren't expecting anything extraordinary…read more We couldn't have been more wrong. Since we didn't have reservations, we were seated at the bar, which ended up being a blessing in disguise. Our bartender and server, I believe her name was Katie, was outstanding. She was friendly, attentive, and made the entire experience even more enjoyable. We started with a couple of glasses of wine and the Insalata Burrata with heirloom tomatoes, fresh burrata, basil, olive oil, prosecco vinegar, local microgreens, Maldon salt, and freshly ground black pepper. It was incredibly fresh, beautifully balanced, and the perfect way to begin the meal. For our entrées, we ordered the Lasagne di Verdure with seasonal vegetables, house-made ricotta, mozzarella, marinara, and Parmigiano-Reggiano. The house-made ricotta was absolutely incredible and elevated the entire dish, making it an easy favorite. We also shared the Salame e Funghi pizza with San Marzano tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, and mushrooms. The thin, wood-fired crust had the perfect texture, and the pizza easily rivaled--if not surpassed--many restaurants that specialize in pizza. To finish the evening, we couldn't pass on the Torta di Nocciole, a flourless hazelnut cake served with vanilla gelato, a drizzle of local raw honey, and freshly grated nutmeg. It was the perfect ending to an outstanding meal--rich, balanced, and absolutely delicious. From the exceptional service to the thoughtfully prepared food, every part of our visit exceeded our expectations. We only wish there were a location closer to home. We'll definitely be back, hopefully sooner rather than later. Thank you for an unforgettable meal and outstanding hospitality!

We chose Cafe Aroma for a birthday dinner and were so happy we did!…read more The bread with garlic in olive oil was a perfect light starter. My husband also enjoyed an old fashioned that was excellent. For dinner he husband ordered the ragu, and I had the penne in creamy basil (without shrimp). Both dishes came out quickly, were well prepared, and completely satisfying. Service was extremely friendly and attentive without being overbearing. We reserved the patio so we could bring our pup, and the staff immediately offered her water, pets, and even a treat. I always appreciate a restaurant that makes dogs feel welcome rather than like an inconvenience. The patio also had a lovely ambiance, with white tablecloths and the same polished table settings as indoors. My only minor note was the live music. The singer was fairly loud and close to the tables, which made conversation difficult. Instrumental music might fit the early dinner atmosphere a little better. If you prefer a quieter meal, dining indoors may be the better choice. Overall, a great birthday dinner and a wonderful experience!

I read a bunch of the 1-star reviews. I read some of the…read more4-star reviews. I have to go with 5-star tho. OVERVIEW of 5 : Seated without reservation (*make one! We got lucky*) Server was amazing Food expediter was super nice Food was delicious Elegant, fine dining experience Music was my mountain playlist (and not too loud) View of mountains for me. View of architecture for my wife. PARKING: Parking can be difficult in the small lot, but there's parking along the street too. INSIDE: It was perfect weather. 68ºF at 6pm after a warm day. They have "indoor/patio" style seating which may be difficult for some to access by multiple steps. We were seated at the top, a table away from the music, along the window side. They have heat lamps - but temps were perfect (lots of people and hot food warmed everyone up). I wanted to walk around the restaurant. The tiered architecture is interesting. FOOD: High End Vegan! Yes - I'm guilty of wanting to give them 5 stars just looking at their vegan menu. (And omnivore selection) Yes - I appreciate the care that it takes to prepare a plate. BUT This food was just delicious by itself. Even in a cardboard box, this food would've been amazing. VEGAN "cheese" appetizer (great for 2-3 people) Nut cheese was warm and tangy. This is NOT just cashews and nooch in a blender. It is spiced with something that brings a little heat. *you will want to lick the bowl. PRO TIP: The welcome bread with ... oh shit.... WELCOME BREAD / Garlic Olive Oil This crusty bread served with microplaned garlic + olive oil is fantastic. Garlic Fiend? You're gonna love this. Not a fan of garlic? What's wrong with you?! I mean... just serve from the oil side. Save some bread for your vegan cheese.... VEGAN CHEESE (cont.) Order the gluten free bread (a little more like Uti's toasted dinner roll) with your vegan cheese app. Omnivores at your table will be surprised how well this vegan cheese and wine pair with each other. TROUT I think my wife got the trout. She loved it. Light and delicate. VEGAN KIMCHI TOFU I've had kimchi. I've had tofu. We all have. This was prepared on a bed of roasty veg that was a great match to the salty kimchi. I don't know if there was a marinade preparation (sesame paste?) with the tofu, or it was made locally, or both, but this firm tofu was excellent. Sweet. Nutty. Salty. Fresh tasting and filling. The vegan menu here isn't just an "alternate version" of an omnivore dish. It is its own thing. DESSERT MISTAKE = not getting it. We thought there would be dessert in town, but we got out late. Town had closed. MUSIC Tonight's music was a pair of musicians playing CS&N, Neil Young, Bob Seger... acoustic session: Guitar, Violin, Mandolin. Quiet & sentimental performance was a perfect accompaniment to a long hike day. THERE ARE 1-STAR REVIEWS of this place. They have their reasons. I've only been here once. But I experienced NONE of the things they've mentioned. Moreover, we experienced even better than what other 5-star reviews suggested. This is an elegant spot, framed by a perfect day in Idyllwild. If I come back to the town, I will want to try other restaurants, but I'll definitely come back here. Not *just* because of their vegan options, but definitely *for* their vegan options.

We really enjoyed this asian inspired fusionish brunch spot. They have good food and even have…read morekimchi making classes. We tried the kimchi Reuben and it was a hit. It was a surprising combination, but it worked well. Almost like a substitute for sauerkraut. Also came with fries which were the right amount of crispy. Delicious food here.

An unexpected breakfast treat. We arrived to Idlewild the evening before on a Tuesday. We found…read moreout that most of the downtown area is closed down and I was hungry. We found the MileHigh Cafe. What a culinary treat. My wife had the avocado toast with her fluffy eggs. They gave a ample serving of avocado, which is unusual. The eggs were prepared the way she likes them and the coffee was fresh great flavor and strong I had eggs Benedict wow the sauce for the eggs Benedict is made from scratch the Canadian bacon it was real, I did help my wife eat a good portion of her sourdough bread . the greatest treat was having homemade strawberry jam presented The whole meal was wonderful and the atmosphere open clean and inviting. unexpected experience and I look forward to going back there.

The first time seeing this place was after having a meal down the street that was so not with it…read more That was maybe a month or so ago. This time, it was a must to try for brunch. The hours are limited as it's only open for breakfast and lunch and closes at 4. We spent the day up in Idyllwild and first and foremost, food. Parking situation, I believe they have a parking lot but majority is street parking or lots in town. We arrived just after 12pm which the place was pretty busy. As it was our first time we didn't know the layout of the place. The patio was where the action was happening. Covered umbrellas to help with the heat which was nice. Inside is quite small with some tables but main dining area was on the patio. I didn't know the go about of this place but noticed a register. Waited a bit though the place was packed. I was trying to get someone's attention on getting a table as there was no hosts counter. Finally someone mentioned that you seat yourself and when you're ready to order, come back inside to place your order. They do offer alcohol with mimosas, Bloody Marys and I believe there's a full bar. It took a while to order as the line was quite long and there was only one register where you order. After your order, they ask your name for when your meal is brought out. While I was waiting, I did see loads of amazing dishes being brought out and the server calling out names so they know who it's for. It's didn't take long for our order to come out. Oh, juice was given to you after you order which their OJ was delicious. Has to be fresh squeezed for 9.00. Meals, we went with the country chicken fried steak with homemade country gravy, 2 eggs any style and a side item. And the ham steak meal with 3 eggs any style, a side and choice of bread. Both item we upgrade to onion rings for an additional fee. Plus a side of sausage for the fur baby. Food was quite nice and delicious. The portion was quite big which I like. I think they're known for the breakfast burritos as it was a favorite for loads of people and let me tell you, that thing was massive. Glad we found out about this place which is a favorite for us now for breakfast and lunch. Also, the patio is quite nice and big. There's a table at the entrance where you can help yourself to ice water, napkins, to go containers and some condiments. Tables do have a tray of condiments as well. Pros 1. The food is great. Portion is big and plenty for takeaway. 2. Juices and smoothies are fresh squeezed 3. They offer alcohol 4. Pet friendly 5. Friendly staff Cons 1. There's one register to order your food

Great little breakfast spot in Idyllwild! You order at the counter and seat yourself in the patio…read morearea. I love that they have outdoor seating where I could bring my dog I got the veggie omelette with hash browns and the Monkey smoothie. My husband got the breakfast burrito with sausage, ham, and bacon. Everything was fresh and really good! If you're a peanut butter lover, definitely try the Monkey smoothie!