Yosemite National Park Restaurant Tips by jessicadf

Iron Door Saloon: Dining in a historic landmark outside Yosemite

The Iron Door Saloon is the oldest continously operated drinking establishment in California, and is on the National Registry of Historic places, or whatever that list is called. It got its name from the iron doors at the front and back of the building, which were hauled up to Groveland via horse and cart in the 1800's. The idea being that if fire broke out, they could just shut the doors and keep the building from burning down. Um. Yeah.

Anyway, this is still a very lively bar, night club and restaurant. You can eat in the saloon, or to the building next door, to which it's connected, in a quieter atmosphere. However, if you eat in the bar on an evening when a band is going to play, they'll wave your admission charge for the band.

Favorite Dish: I had the fettuccini alfredo with chicken and veggies. Very good! Of course it was too much food and without a refrigerator and/or microwave in the hotel room, taking left-overs was out. It would be perfect to share with a dining partner though!

Address: 18761 Main Street, Groveland, CA 95321

Comparison: about average

Directions: MAIN DIRECTIONS: FOLLOW SIGNS YOSEMITE!

TO GROVELAND FROM BAY AREA
Take 580 E to I-205 E (45 mi)
205 E to I-5 North (14 mi)
I-5 to highway 120 (2.5 mi)
Stay on 120 until you get to Groveland (70mi)

Other Contact: info@iron-door-saloon.com

Phone: 209-962-8904

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 4

Theme: American

Website: http://www.iron-door-saloon.com/

Ahwahnee Restaurant: FIne dining in the wilderness Ahwahnee Restaurant Review

I'd heard for many years about the high quality of dining at the Ahwahnee, and brought along a dress and nice shoes, in case we decided to dine here for my birthday dinner. And yes, I was glad to have brought along a nice dress!

The gorgeous, grand dining room is special, just in its ambiance and golden glow. The staff are very attentive, polite and friendly. Word is, many of the staff are climbers and outdoorsmen that work at the Ahwahnee so they can live in Yosemite.

The food is all delicious and creative and wonderfully prepared, with a wide selection of meat, poultry, seafood and vegetarian dishes.

Favorite Dish: The crispy prawn appetizer was absolutely delicious. And Mark's filet mignon was so good I thought he was going to lick the plate -- seriously! And that from a guy with the tiniest appetite I've ever known in a guy...

Address: Located inside the Ahwahnee Hotel

Comparison: most expensive

Directions: In Yosemite Valley, follow the signs to Yosemite Village and then the signs to the Ahwahnee Hotel.

Phone: (209) 372-1489

Price: US$41 and up

Rating: 4

Theme: Eclectic/International