About
When Jon Ganea moved from Romania to Lake Tahoe in 2006, he fell in love with the area and the people. But despite the area's natural wonders and eateries, something was missing: a Mediterranean-style restaurant.
Ganea developed a love of Mediterranean cuisine when attending college in Bucharest, Romania. His passion would energize him to dream and prepare for the day he'd have his own restaurant.
But something happened as Jon dreamed of Mediterranean food; he met Kelley Keleher while working at a local restaurant. They married and worked together to make their dream of opening a Mediterranean Cafe Tahoe a reality.
In 2021, the opportunity came when the owner of Za's moved and gave the couple a deal on his former location and equipment.
On January 30, 2021, they opened the Mediterranean Cafe Tahoe. The menu features vegan and vegetarian meals and signature dishes like shawarma, falafel, gyros, borscht, and polenta. They even serve Romanian cookies!
Mediterranean Cafe Tahoe in Tahoe City is your go-to restaurant for unique global flavors that are fresh and healthy. You'll be in for a taste treat with a relaxed vibe, wholesome food, and friendly staff!
Vibe
The Mediterranean Cafe Tahoe exterior may look like other North Tahoe restaurants. Still, the menu can transport you to the coastal regions of Europe.
The restaurant's exterior is simple yet charming, and a few picnic tables dot the area for al fresco dining.
Step inside, and the interior envelops you in a warm, inviting aura. The dining room has several wooden tables, and natural light bathes the room in warmth.
The decor is minimalist yet lends to the place's intimate, cozy feel. Add the scent of fresh herbs and sizzling food from the open kitchen, and you have an immersive sensory experience.
The Mediterranean Cafe Tahoe is where you're greeted, loved, and fed like family.
Mediterranean Cafe Tahoe: Menu & Drinks
The culinary journey at Mediterranean Cafe Tahoe is nothing short of an adventure. The restaurant's menu is a testament to classic Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist.
Each dish, prepared with locally sourced ingredients, exudes authenticity and freshness that hints at the chefs' expertise and attention to detail.
The Chicken Shawarma Plate is a crowd favorite. This Mediterranean classic features thinly sliced seasoned chicken with salad or turmeric rice. Diners also get hummus, pita bread, and tzatziki sauce.
Another winner is the Falafel Wrap featuring chickpea fritters, cabbage, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and pickles. All this deliciousness is wrapped in a tortilla with tahini sauce and comes with hummus.
The cafe offers infused water along with various tea and soft drinks.
With every bite and every sip, the Mediterranean Cafe Tahoe provides an experience that leaves you longing for more.
Local Tips
- Are you in a rush? Order online for pick up and go!
- They offer a range of vegan and vegetarian options.
- They can be challenging to find, but they share the building with Pete & Peter's Bar.
- You order at the counter, and they bring your food to you.
- You can also eat your meal at Pete & Peter's bar, which can get noisy.