Navigating Reno, NV Restaurants for Foodies

Most of our articles focus on California, but if you are flying into Lake Tahoe it is likely you will land in Reno, NV. Reno is a city of contrasts. Even the motto, "Biggest Little City in the World," suggests the town embraces an oxymoron.

If your only reference to Reno is the cult classic TV show, Reno 9-1-1, think again. There is such a mix of causal, upscale, and outdoor dining that it is worth a weekend stay. Many spots have patio seating, great for foodies and dog lovers alike. Plus, the prices overall are much lower than you find in California, making the short drive well worth it.

Below check out our top 7 hidden gems for Reno, NV restaurants, including those with patio seating. Even if you're not traveling with a dog, these patios are still perfect spots to soak up Reno vibes.

Are pets allowed in restaurants in Reno?

Recently, we explored Reno, NV for a long 3-day weekend. The focus was to explore the city, find delicious food and patios where dogs are welcome (where possible). In Nevada, restaurant owners can get a special license to allow pets inside eating establishments, but most restaurants prefer only service dogs inside.

We found that most casinos are not dog-friendly (except for service animals). Whether you have a pet or not, the following list of breakfast, lunch, dinner spots will be sure to get you excited about your visit.

#1 Ramsay's Kitchen

Vibe: Upscale casual
Best For: Date night
Must-Try Dish: Beet Salad
Dog-Friendly?: No

Ramsay's Kitchen, owned by famed chef Gordon Ramsay, is located inside the Silver Legacy Resort. Saturday nights are the most popular, so be sure to make reservations if you have a large group.

For a single diner, or date night, you can get full-service at the bar. The beet salad served over horseradish is a unique dish that makes a light meal. Overall, it is a pricey swanky setting with easy access if you are staying at Silver Legacy or Circus Circus in Reno.

#2 El Jefe's Cantina

Vibe: Casual
Best For: Dinner
Must-Try Dish: Cheese Enchiladas
Dog-Friendly?: No

Another stop inside Silver Legacy Resort is El Jefe's Cantina. If you want quick Mexican food with a fun, festive atmosphere, this is the place. This is a great dinner option for families and larger groups.

El Jefe's offers full-service dine in, but also online ordering for pickup or room delivery if you are staying at Circus Circus or Silver Legacy. Text message updates let you know when the food is ready, or on the way to your room.

This is another great casual dining option if you are staying at Silver Legacy or Circus Circus, and craving Mexican food. Unfortunately, this is not a dog-friendly spot.

#3 Squeeze In

Vibe: Casual
Best For: Brunch
Must-Try Dish: Queen French Toast
Dog-Friendly?: Yes patio seating

With two locations in Reno, NV (and one in Truckee, CA) this breakfast and lunch spot is a must-try. When I told a coworker about traveling to Reno, she said "You have to try Squeeze In!"

This casual café has the usual diner fare of omelets, pancakes, and sandwiches. There are cute pancake options with smiley faces for kids. It also has less common offerings like peanut butter omelets.

Entrees are less than $20, and the patio seating is perfect for pups on leashes!

#4 Brasserie Saint James

Vibe: Dressy casual
Best For: Happy hour
Must-Try Dish: Poutine
Dog-Friendly?: Yes patio seating

This old-world style brewery is a top spot for happy hour in Reno. Be sure to bring your dog, because the outdoor patio is pet friendly!

Located in Midtown Reno, this place is convenient to everyone and the atmosphere is fantastic. This is a non-negotiable spot if you are a foodie visiting Reno. Our favorite dish was the poutine, a cheese and gravy dish served over fries that is popular in Canada.

With separate menus for happy hour, brunch, and dining you can eat for less than $20.00. There are options for both cocktails, wine and beer.

#5 Perenn Bakery

Vibe: Boho artisan
Best For: Breakfast
Must-Try Dish: Brie and fig baguette sandwich
Dog-Friendly?: Yes patio seating

With three locations in Reno, this has a bread counter and café. Grab an espresso any way you like it, and be sure to try the brie and fig sandwich. If you are gluten free, like me, there is a greek yogurt granola bowl option.

There is limited outdoor seating, but if you have a pup with you it may be better to order food to go and find a park or shady spot to enjoy your treats.

#6 Sips Coffee & Gelato

Vibe: Sweet tooth
Best For: Dessert
Must-Try Dish: Chocolate Macaroon
Dog-Friendly?: No

SIPS is hidden gem that is located inside the Silver Legacy Resort. It is easy to miss, so I want to say it is well worth a stop. No dine-in, but they offer take out only desserts and gelato. They also have an assortment of coffee, tea, and gifts.

Everything here was delicious. We tried the tiramisu gelato, brownies, cannoli, and fruit tarts. But, the chocolate macaroon was gluten-free (yay!). It was SO delicious I actually went back the next day to get a second order. If you like fancy pastries, this is an easy spot to overlook but not one to miss.

#7 The Glass Die

Vibe: Quirky
Best For: Drinks or Date Night
Must-Try Dish: Jasmine Tea
Dog-Friendly?: Yes on patio

The Glass Die is the most original spot we found, in line with quirky Reno vibes. It is a board-game cafe, with hundreds of games to choose from, and beers on tap. There is also an assortment of non-alcoholic drinks.

The cool thing about this cozy spot is you can bring your own food in and enjoy playing a board game. For a fun night out, order from one of the restaurants above and bring the food with you to The Glass Die!

Final Thoughts

This was my second visit to Reno, and I found it quite charming for foodies. Part of the appeal is a total lack of pretense, unlike some other cities. Most eating establishments are casual and many have patio seating for dogs.

Pro tip! The only consistent thing about the weather in Reno is inconsistency. See note about this being a city of contrasts above. So be sure to check the daily weather report before heading out with your dog to enjoy patio dining.

Be sure to comment or email us if you have any great recommendations in Reno, or if you have recommendations of cities to visit!