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Tropicali

About

Tropicali is a popular restaurant that has brought a slice of Hawaiian sunshine to the mountain town of Big Bear Lake, located in the USA. The establishment specializes in Hawaiian and Californian cuisine, with a particular focus on fresh fish dishes, most notably poke. Guests are welcomed with a vibrant, casual atmosphere and friendly staff, creating the feeling of a true island getaway.

Tropicali. Illustration.
Source: Kupi.com AI

Traveler photos:

The history of Tropicali began with the dream of a family who moved to Big Bear Lake in search of a peaceful life close to nature. Since its opening, the place has quickly won the hearts of locals and tourists alike. The secret to its success lies in the unique combination of island culinary traditions and a mountain resort atmosphere, which is reflected in every dish.

Visiting Tropicali is not just lunch or dinner, but an opportunity to enjoy an original menu, high-quality fresh ingredients, and the very unique atmosphere that makes this place truly special in Big Bear Lake. This establishment has become something of a culinary landmark, offering a unique gastronomic experience.

Contacts

If you're planning to visit the Tropicali restaurant and would like to book a table or clarify details, you can contact the management using the provided contact information. We recommend always checking official resources or calling ahead to verify current information before your visit.

It's best to confirm the official website or email address for Tropicali directly when booking or through local travel guides in the city of Big Bear Lake, as this information may be updated.

How to contactContact
Address40771 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, USA
Phone number+1 909-878-0499
Websitewww.osotropicali.com

What to Do

Tropicali in Big Bear Lake is more than just a restaurant; it’s a true oasis of tropical cuisine where visitors can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Hawaii and California. The main culinary highlight here is undoubtedly poke – a traditional Hawaiian dish. Guests can enjoy the freshest fish, expertly sliced and served with a variety of sides, toppings, and signature sauces, allowing them to create their own unique flavor combination.

In addition to the famous poke, the Tropicali menu offers a wide selection of other dishes to satisfy even the most refined palate. Here you can sample fresh seafood, light and original salads, and other culinary delights with vibrant tropical notes. Each dish is prepared with special attention to the quality of ingredients and presentation, making the meal not only delicious but also aesthetically pleasing.

The restaurant's atmosphere deserves special mention. The interior of Tropicali is designed down to the smallest detail, transporting visitors from a mountain resort straight to a cozy tropical island. This feeling is enhanced by the themed decor and the overall relaxing environment. The hospitality of the staff and the attention to detail make this the perfect choice for a family lunch, a dinner with friends, or a romantic evening.

Getting There

Tropicali is located in the charming town of Big Bear Lake, nestled in the scenic San Bernardino Mountains of California, USA. The primary way to reach Big Bear Lake itself is by car. For instance, the drive from Los Angeles takes approximately 2–2.5 hours. You'll follow CA-330 and then turn onto CA-18, which leads directly to the lake and the town.

Once in Big Bear Lake, finding Tropicali is quite easy, as the restaurant is conveniently located near major tourist routes and the city center. To save time and reach your destination exactly, it's recommended to use a GPS by entering the restaurant's name or its precise address. Given its central location, you might also consider a pleasant walk or a short taxi ride from your hotel or other key points in Big Bear Lake.

Nearest city: Big Bear Lake

History & Facts

The story of Tropicali in Big Bear Lake is a fascinating tale of a dream turning into one of the town's most popular establishments. It all began with a small spot called "Local," located in a former hot dog stand on the main street. The original concept tried to blend the mountain atmosphere of Big Bear Lake with Hawaiian culture, but according to the founders, the idea didn't immediately resonate with locals and tourists.

Despite early challenges, the owners didn't give up on their vision. Over time, they expanded the business and opened Tropicali, where the "Tropical California" concept truly took off. The menu and atmosphere embraced more authentic Hawaiian notes, which caught the attention of visitors. The restaurant was founded by a family who moved to Big Bear Lake seeking a slower pace of life and a chance to pursue their culinary passion.

Success wasn't far behind. Since its opening, Tropicali has won the hearts of many guests and received a wealth of positive reviews. The restaurant quickly became one of the most sought-after spots in Big Bear Lake, offering a unique blend of flavors and ambiance. Notably, the establishment was even recognized by Yelp as "America’s #1 poke spot," a testament to the high quality of its dishes and its recognition among Hawaiian cuisine enthusiasts.

Time Needed

To fully enjoy your visit to Tropicali in the city of Big Bear Lake, it's recommended to set aside about 1 to 2 hours. This is typically enough time to leisurely browse the menu, choose your dishes, and enjoy your meal in the restaurant's unique atmosphere.

Within this timeframe, you'll be able to not only try the signature dishes Tropicali is known for but also immerse yourself in its special environment, relax, and enjoy the experience. Of course, if you're just planning a quick snack, you might need less time, but for a full introduction to the restaurant and its cuisine, it's better to aim for this range.

So, when planning your visit to Tropicali, schedule an hour or two to ensure your culinary experience is as complete and enjoyable as possible, without any rush.

Working Hours

The exact opening hours of Tropicali in Big Bear Lake may vary, so it is highly recommended to check current information before your visit. It is best to check the establishment's official website, if available, or contact them directly by phone. This will also help you find out if a table reservation is required, which is often necessary, especially during peak hours or on weekends.

Generally, restaurants in tourist areas aim to operate year-round, but seasonality or special events may affect the schedule. Therefore, to avoid inconvenience and plan your visit in the best possible way, always check the latest information regarding the working hours and visit conditions of Tropicali right before your trip.

DayOpening hours
Monday11:00 – 18:00
TuesdayClosed
WednesdayClosed
Thursday11:00 – 18:00
Friday11:00 – 18:00
Saturday11:00 – 18:00
Sunday11:00 – 18:00

Nearby

Visiting Tropicali is undoubtedly a wonderful dining experience, but Big Bear Lake has so much more to offer! Exploring the surrounding area will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this charming place and discover new facets of its character. Don't limit yourself to just the restaurant, as there are true gems hidden nearby.

A stroll through the nearby streets or a short trip to neighboring sites will not only diversify your itinerary but also provide new impressions. It’s a great way to feel like a true explorer discovering Big Bear Lake in all its diversity, rather than just a tourist. Here are a few interesting places located near Tropicali:

NameDistance
Pine Knot Park0.1 km
572 Social Kitchen & Lounge0.2 km
Sweet Basil Bistro0.2 km
Murray's Saloon & Eatery0.3 km
The Club at Big Bear Village0.5 km
The Pines Tavern On The Lake0.6 km
Alpine Slide0.9 km

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