Sarafina's Italian Kitchen, 794 Highway 4, Arnold, CA, 209-795-9858
This is our favorite place to eat in Calaveras County! Less than a mile from Snowflake Chalet, Sarafina's offers a cozy atmosphere and Italian comfort food. Everything we've ever ordered has been delicious, but we especially love the Calamari Fritti, Nonnie's Spaghetti and Meatballs, Spaghetti Puttanesca, Ravioli al Burro e Salvia, and Scampi Mediterraneo. Their wine list includes many of the best local wines produced in Calaveras County! This is a very popular restaurant and reservations are a must.
The Lube Room Saloon, 3431 Highway 4, Dorrington, 209-795-2118
Another favorite -- great dive bar vibe, with surprisingly good pub food. Fish and chips are amazing, specialty burgers and sandwiches never disappoint. Nightly specials are definitely worth trying. In the summer, you can eat outside and live music is featured on many evenings.
Snowshoe Brewing Company, 2050 Highway 4, Arnold, CA, 209-795-2272
Nothing fancy, but a nice place to grab a burger and beer. Menu has a nice selection of sandwiches, salads and pub food, and prices are moderate. Great family restaurant.
Firewood, 420 Main St., Murphy's, (209) 728-3248
Known for fish tacos, Firewood almost always has a line, and it's worth the wait! Order at the counter and pick a table while you wait for your food. We often stop for lunch on our way out of town as we are leaving Calaveras County.
Bistro Espresso, 1225 Oak Circle, Arnold, (209) 890-7849
Top spot for a good cup of coffee, with a terrific selection of freshly made salads and sandwiches.
Dogwood, 1224 Oak Circle, Arnold, (209) 813-7101
Gourmet dining in the mountains. This is the most upscale restaurant in Arnold. Honestly, we've only had one meal here, as we tend toward more casual meals when we're at the cabin, but the food was outstanding -- especially if you are celebrating a special occasion!
Other Arnold Restaurants:
Giant Burger, 209-7951594
Round Table Pizza, 209-795-0193
Arnold Chinese, 209-795-6368
Big Trees Market and Deli, 209-795-1950
El Vaquero, 209-795-3303
Subway, 209-795-4966
Other Murphy's Restaurants:
Alchemy, 209-728-0700
Grounds, 209-728-8663 (considered by many to be the best restaurant in Murphy's!)