Whether as a standalone adventure or diversions to a broader tour of Nevada County—exploring its state parks, museums, and outdoor activities—this itinerary of foodie destinations will leave your stomach as satisfied as your soul.
Grass Valley – Breakfast & History
Stop 1: But First… Breakfast
Start your morning right with a scrumptious breakfast. Grass Valley caters to all tastes, dietary restrictions, and moods. Tofanelli’s, which features an award-winning breakfast menu, offers over 101 omelets to choose from! For coffee fanatics, Brew Bakers Coffee and Tea is a welcoming sanctuary with a diverse menu and fresh-baked pastries. For more options, dive into Grass Valley’s dining page.
Stop 2: A Cornish Tradition

In the late 19th century, many Cornish miners moved to California’s Gold Rush towns as the mines declined. By 1890, 85% of Grass Valley’s population was of Cornish descent! To honor their heritage, try a pasty—available at Marshall’s Pasties, Grass Valley Pasty Co., or at the Grass Valley Methodist Church on the last Thursday of the month. For those who are gluten intolerant, Corvus Bakery offers gluten-free versions of pasties. And if you’re too full from breakfast, remember that pasties were originally made to be easily heated in the mines.
Nevada City – Lunch & Capuchin Monk Chocolate
Stop 3: From Historic Dining to Local Delicacies

Nevada City’s culinary scene is as rich as its Gold Rush history. Experience some of the historic flair by dining at Lola, located inside the National Exchange Hotel. Or, if you want to sample local flavors, visit the Ham Stand, which specializes in European-style salumi made with local heritage meats. Their offerings include sandwiches like the Reuben and the Ham Standard, a cornucopia of cold cuts with olive salsa. To explore the full culinary scene, visit the Nevada City Chamber’s restaurant page.
Stop 4: European Delectables at The Truffle Shop
Founded in 1986 by Chef DeGroot and Rudy Udarbe, the shop’s roots go back to Chef DeGroot’s 13 years as a Capuchin monk, where his passion for chocolate and baking began. Over the years, their recipes have evolved, and in 2020, Rudy launched Uncle Rudy’s Royal Truffles. In addition to the truffle shop, Nevada County is filled with a variety of shops to satisfy all chocoholics.
Truckee – Dinner & Dessert
Stop 5: Wine, Dinner and a Bit of History

Truckee’s mountain cuisine is as elevated as its altitude. From the charming historic downtown to quaint neighborhoods like Tahoe Donner, you’ll find mouthwatering, creative dishes at every turn. One of the newest stars this winter is the revamped menu by Chef Jesse Frat at Stella, inside the Gravity Haus Hotel. Now anchored by a wood-burning oven, the menu offers flavors reminiscent of campfire comfort, elevated to a whole new level. For those seeking dinner with a view, head to the Cottonwood Restaurant. Set in a beautiful hand-built lodge from 1928, it overlooks downtown Truckee, where you can savor a glass of Pinot while taking in the scenic vistas.
Stop 6: Milk Shakes, Candied Apples and More!

A unique foodie adventure deserves a cherry on top… literally. Truckee offers a special opportunity to bring out your inner child or create lasting memories for your kids. Reminisce about caramel or candied apples at Sweets Handmade Candies. Indulge in a classic milkshake with seasonal twists like French Toast. Scoop into all the flavors Truckee has to offer by checking out the town’s top 5 dessert spots.