Nottinghams Restaurant and Tavern sits right in Big Bear Lake Village, and if you’re heading up to the mountains with your dog, it’s worth knowing about. The outdoor patio—open May through October—is where you’ll want to be, especially on a warm afternoon. It’s a spacious setup with wood-paneled walls that give the place a genuine lodge feel, nothing contrived about it. The staff actually pays attention to dogs, putting out water bowls without you having to ask, and they’ll sometimes offer treats too.

The restaurant leans into a Robin Hood theme with medieval English decor throughout, which could feel gimmicky but somehow works here. The menu mixes standard American food with British-inspired options. Their Nottingham Burger is legitimately good—the kind of burger that justifies the trip up the mountain—and the fish and chips are solid if you want something lighter. The tavern side gets pretty lively, especially on Thursday evenings when they do live music on the patio (weather permitting). Craft beers and cocktails are well-made, not an afterthought.

Nottinghams has been around since 1982, so it’s not a new concept trying too hard. It’s genuinely become part of the Big Bear community. The vibe skews toward locals and regulars who appreciate the place for what it is—a comfortable spot with decent food, a functioning bar, and actual entertainment rather than just being a restaurant. Your dog will be fine on the patio, and you won’t feel rushed. The seasonal aspect of the outdoor seating means timing matters; plan your visit between late spring and early fall if the patio matters to you. If you end up there during the colder months, the interior is still dog-friendly, just ask when you call.