Cowboys Wandering in Big Bear Lake is a lively, Western-inspired restaurant and bar located in The Village. It’s the kind of place where locals and visitors naturally drift after a day of hiking, skiing, or exploring the lake. It’s welcoming and unpretentious, with good food, drinks, and a bit of Big Bear character.

The menu features hearty comfort food that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Morning visitors can start the day with satisfying options like breakfast burritos, eggs with bacon and hash, French toast, or pancakes before heading out for outdoor adventures. Later in the day, the menu leans into classic American favorites such as smash burgers, BBQ chicken sandwiches, grilled cheese with tomato soup, sloppy joes, and other casual pub-style dishes. The portions are generous enough that you won’t be hunting for your next meal halfway through a trail.

The bar serves a selection of beers and cocktails, making Cowboys Wandering a popular spot to grab a drink and relax after a long day in the mountains. The atmosphere strikes that balance between laid-back and lively—you can have a quiet meal or settle in at the bar if there’s something happening. The outdoor seating gives you that mountain air and people-watching along The Village.

Dogs are genuinely welcome at Cowboys Wandering, and that extends beyond just a “dogs allowed” sign. Well-behaved, leashed dogs can join their owners in the outdoor seating areas. Better yet, the restaurant offers a special treat just for dogs: a pup beef patty made without salt. It’s a simple but thoughtful touch that shows they actually enjoy hosting dogs rather than tolerating them. After a day spent hiking Big Bear’s dog-friendly trails or strolling around the lake, it’s the perfect place to sit back, enjoy a meal, and let your dog feel included in the adventure too.