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Sweet Basil Bistro

Founded in 1907, we have served over 1.3 million guest nights over the last 113+ years!

Big Bear, California captivates visitors from near and far with its wonderful balance of options for outdoor adventure, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Guests make their way to this vacation destination in the name of hiking amongst the towering trees, biking along rolling meadows painted the colors of the rainbow by blooming wildflowers, lakeside activities as you splash amongst the blue waters or perhaps boat across the crystalline surface. This not to mention a multitude of options for shopping and dining that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. After a day of exploring, swimming, boating, and hiking it’s likely that there’s an appetite or two to tend to. When you’re in the mood for something savory that transports you to the Tuscan countryside, be sure to make time for lunch, dinner or brunch at Sweet Basil Bistro when you find yourself in Big Bear.

Italian in the Heart of Big Bear at the Sweet Basil Bistro

There’s something comforting and inspiring about a delicious Italian meal, whether it be the creamy sauce that clings to your pasta as your savor every bite, or the juicy chicken covered in pasta sauce and seasoned breading, or even the creamy sweat kick of Tiramisu. Well, when you enjoy a meal at Sweet Basil Bistro, this is exactly what you get and more. Located at 40629 Big Bear Boulevard, Sweet Basil Bistro Big Bear sits in the heart of the city and provides guests with an opportunity to relax and unwind in an intimate and elegant setting while being served authentic and savory Italian cuisine. From the outside it might look rather unassuming, and from the outside looking it one might never expect such an incredible restaurant to be housed in such an odd location as beneath the Bowling Barn. However, they are the perfect example for not judging a book by its cover as you’ll be hard pressed to find better Italian among the streets of Big Bear. Sweet Basil Bistro is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm and invites diners of all ages to come and enjoy time together at this popular Big Bear culinary stop. The fare is always fresh and the sophisticated place settings and atmosphere at Sweet Basil Bistro make it a great place for a romantic dinner night out that’s also suitable for a family brunch on Sunday. Enjoy either eating inside cozied up amongst the warm décor and candles or sit outside under the sky with heat lamps warming your body as the food warms your soul.

Menu Highlights

Antipasti options at Sweet Basil Bistro Big Bear are always a treat and you’ll find a range of delectable plates for you and your group to feast upon as your chat and share memories. You’ll find creamy and flavorful garlic shrimp, crunchy and unique deep-fried cheese ravioli, the rich and slightly sweet flavors of sauteed crab cakes, and for the vegetarians amongst us, grilled artichoke! If you come in the afternoon, lunch paninis are a favorite amongst both visitors and locals alive due to the easy customizability for special diets. For instance, you’ll find paninis stuffed full of rich meatballs, buttery and garlicy portobello mushrooms, or even the strong flavors of tuna! If you are looking for something a bit different, try out their chicken curry salad to taste the combining of cultures. If you find yourself an expert on Italiano de pasta, allow the creativity to flow as you create a creation worthy of even the most seasoned chef’s attention.

When you come for dinner, don’t miss out on options to indulge in everything from perfectly seared filet mignon which seem to melt before your knife, to buttery and rich chicken picatta, flaky grilled salmon or the classic complexities of chicken parmesan. If the carnivore within is crying out to be heard then check out their marinated flank steak served with garlicy mashed potatoes, grilled angus steak, or even the flaky and strong flavors of grilled salmon! They even have a couple interesting fusion meals that combine the rich history of Italian cooking with that of American tastes to create such things as the Italian Meatloaf served with creamy mashed potatoes. Even your little ones can enjoy the flavors of Italy with their expansive kid menu ensuring that the entire family can relax and dine as one.

After you have finished your meal fit for a king, check out their range of desserts including everything from the creamy texture of Italiano Gelato di Vaniglia to the sweet but sharp kick of tiramisu to to the sophistication of crème brulee. However, no matter what you choose to indulge in, you are sure to end your night with a full stomach, smile on your face, and warmth in your soul after enjoying a meal at the Sweet Basil Bistro Big Bear.

Stay and Enjoy Big Bear

There’s never been a better time to book a Big Bear getaway. Let the team at Big Bear Vacations book you into a comfortable and convenient vacation cabin during your stay. Contact us today for more details and to start planning.