Big Bear is a haven for skiers who want a smaller, more private atmosphere that isn’t totally mobbed by celebrities. This resort gives Californians a chance to drive from the sunny beaches to the snowy wood site in less than a few hours.

Skiing, isn’t the only reason that vacationers from all over the country flock to this private, unique mountain resort.

At The Mandoline Bistro, owners Larry and Theresa Cummings have incorporated local photographer Timothy Wolcott’s stunning nature scenes into their restaurant’s chateau-chic décor. Natural sage and raspberry tones on the walls complement the vibrant colors in Wolcott’s photographs, as well as the building’s blond wood accents and antler chandeliers. The result is a warm space where locals and visitors can enjoy fine-dining cuisine with white-linen service.

After enjoying our savory meals – tasty chicken and penne in a sun-dried tomato and gorgonzola sauce for me, and an impressive standing lamb osso bucco with Yorkshire pudding for my friend – we headed upstairs for the live jazz featured on Friday and

Saturday nights. The second level, called The Loft Bar, offers cocktails and a balcony that overlooks the restaurant’s patio and Village Drive. It’s a great place to take in the evening sunset, if you can time the visit right.

For us, lounging in the Swiss chalet-style space in an overstuffed loveseat, sipping good wine, and listening to the bandleader croon a Frank Sinatra tune, was an excellent way to end our Big Bear adventure. The room’s rustic touches reminded us of Big Bear’s beginnings, and it’s comfortable elegance served as a testament to how far the community has come.

-Deanna George, Editor, Orange Coast Magazine

We headed up to Big Bear Lake for New Year’s this year. An easy 2 hour drive from Southern California. My beau and I decided we wanted a romantic rendezvous, away from the crowded bars and city buzz. We fell in love with this area. I recommend this cute little restaurant called The Mandoline Bistro. They had live jazz (amazing) and the food was really good…

-Internet contact

Enjoy sushi, sashimi and red hot jazz each weekend at the Loft Bar upstairs at The Mandoline Bistro in the Village.

The Bait Bar serves ocean-fresh yellowtail, salmon, eel, ahi tuna and sweet shrimp to go along with weekend hot jazz by the Catz in the Hats. There’s about 20 different rolls to choose from plus fresh sashimi.

The Mandoline Bistro also has full cocktail service available to go along with its excellent selection of beers and wines. Take in the sounds, maybe a little Cajun-seared ahi tuna – it’s outstanding – and enjoy your favorite cocktail including martinis, hot coffee drinks and more.

The popular Catz in the Hats, a cool quintet featuring hot guitarist Mike Wiens, who has spent time with many top bands in Palm Springs, plus crooner Steve Johnson, bassist Terry Copley, drummer Steve Boggio and pianist Mike Cross, entertain each weekend from 8:00 – 11:00.

Sofas, comfortable chairs, great food downstairs or up, and a relaxed mountain décor make for cozy evenings in the Loft Bar – and there’s never a cover charge.

-Big Bear Today

My curiosity piques when I hear someone say, “I had the best…”. If it’s something I really love I plot and plan to get there. I’ve had many of those moments myself. Many even surprising me with foods I didn’t necessarily care about. Below is a list of superior dishes that are too good not to give the restaurant credit…Calamari – The Mandoline Bistro in Big Bear.

-All About The Fun… The Best Of…