Prime rib and Friday night clam chowder Excellent!, cool atmosphere. Lovely customer service. Highly recommend. The bar opens at 3 PM and dining starts at 5 PM through 8 PM. Reservations have to be made over the phone, but they don't take recordings so call during business hours. read more

Monte Vista Inn - Bar opens 3p.m. dining 5-8 p.m. - American Near Me - Dutch Flat, California

What a blast from the past. Love the vibe... especially in the bar. You know it's a local hangout when they completely ignore tourists and continue with the current gossip of the day. LOL... no worries, I get it... we made our way into the reception area and got seated immediately: The food was great. Service in the dining room was excellent. Great time was had by all. read more

I am a big fan of this place. Each visit we make to Dutch Flat, we have to come here. The service is always so great and the food is awesome. We tried dessert this time and were not disappointed. I had the Bison short rib and boy was it terrific. The meat was tender and flavorful. The asparagus also was fork tender and so tasty. This was one of the days specials and I had to try it. I literally cleaned my plate, it was that good. Wife and 1 kiddo got the ribeye and they were huge. They each took almost a half steak home with them. I had to sample a few bites first of course. My other child ordered the pulled pork and a clam chowder. She didn't care too much for the sweet BBQ sauce on it. So we ordered a burger, which she absolutely loved. They graciously marked down the sandwich, which was very nice, as we planned to pay for it and take it home anyways. For dessert we split the key lime pie and Blackberry Honey Lavender cheesecake. Both of them were amazing. So tart and tangy for the key lime it was really refreshing. The cheesecake was fantastic and the honey taste really came through. We never got dessert before, but plan to do it again. If you're ever in the area you gotta try it. Just make sure to get reservations. They have short operating hours, but it's so worth it. The service is phenomenal and they really treat you right. It's really one of our family favorites when we come up. read more

Monte Vista Inn - Bison short rib, clam chowder, pulled pork sandwich, ribeye steaks. - American Near Me - Dutch Flat, California

See all

Bad waitress/customer service, again. Sometimes good, sometimes bad. Seems to get worse as the evening progresses. Expensive and got steaks wrong but waitress said it looks right, like I said bad customer service. Warm water no ice, for hubby and I but our guests got ice???. Had to ask for bread after a waitress said she'd bring us bread. Long wait to get anything, customers after us got served, well & first; who was our server anyway, 3 plus owner at times as I caught them walking by? Bad management I think, they dont see a problem happening, justify it. Been to Monty vista many times. Don't get why this happens and as I said, gets worse as the evening progresses. Sad, I wish it were different. read more

First time at MCI. Excellent dinner, we'll definitely return! Lots of choices, good service, cabin like feeling. Prime Rib dinners are Fri/Sat/Sun. Clam chowder is Friday only. Gorgeous petrified fireplace. read more

See all

So it might be because we visited this spot on NYE but first off they had a prix fixe menu so very limited and expensive. Not good for picky eaters which unfortunately we had one in our party. It was packed so service was slow but to be expected on a holiday night. What missed the mark for us....my husband asked to try a wine before committing which A-LOT of folks do since you want what you like right?? What left us bewildered and we felt rude was when he asked to try another one, the waitress brought back a sample and said her manager said no more tasting for him....wow. So he settled for what he knew for sure he liked, a beer. I stayed with water while the other folks in our party ordered soda. We ordered, again took about 45 min to get our food, and it was just subpar. My husband and son's chicken was warm but we didn't want to bother asking for anything at that point because honestly we were just left with a bad taste in our mouth from the manager telling the waitress to tell us no more previewing a wine after asking to try a second one. We found a menu at our airbnb and we couldn't believe the variety and reasonable pricing for their standard menu so again disappointed. Will we visit again? There's not a whole lot of options in the area and the inn's decor was really warm and cozy so probably but never again on a holiday.....rather stay in and cook. read more

See all

ALWAYS FIVE 's!!! I have been going to the Monte Vista inn for about 27 years and it remains my favorite place to celebrate special romantic occasions as well as bringing visiting family & friends to enjoy the delicious food & amazing ambiance The atmosphere, the food and the delightful staff never disappoint! read more

Monte Vista Inn - Valentines Day 2025 - American Near Me - Dutch Flat, California

This is a marvelous restaurant with delicious entrees and a marvelous "Tray of Temptation" with many desserts to choose from. I love to go there on Tuesday evenings starting at 5:30 with Live Music between the bar and the restaurant. read more

See all

Quaint old log cabin building, eklectic decor, very friendly service and the food was fantastic. A quit place to relax and enjoy a great meal. read more

The Monte Vista is a beloved gem in the charming community of Dutch Flat. The first time my husband brought me here was over 40 years ago, and it's been my favorite ever since. We've been fortunate to call this area home for the past 38 years, and the family who owns Monte Vista has always made guests feel like part of theirs. From their fabulous homemade dressings--the spicy blue cheese is my personal favorite!--to their decadent cheesecakes, pies, cakes, and specialty desserts, everything is made from scratch by some of their amazing staff and family, and absolutely out of this world. But what truly sets Monte Vista apart is the atmosphere. Nestled in an iconic old log cabin with a petrified wood fireplace (burning real wood in the winter), it's cozy, rustic, and undeniably memorable--a warm and welcoming dining experience you won't forget. The next time you want a special dining experience, make the easy, beautiful drive to Dutch Flat and be prepared to have a unique dining experience. read more

Monte Vista Inn - petrified wood fireplace in January - American Near Me - Dutch Flat, California

We absolutely love this quaint restaurant! Valentines Day is always so special there, we have gone for the past 10 years since moving to Colfax. The food is always great, good proportions, tasty, wonderful ambiance, never disappointed!! We often bring friends with us to enjoy this perfect place! I have always had the best service here as well! Come hungry, sit, and relax, with the warm, cozy decor, and "downhome" people! read more

There are not enough stars to rate our experience. Our dinner could not have been better and very reasonable considering we each had the file mignon with crab and bernaise sauce. Service and Ambience is over the top! read more

Best BLT around! Best Crab cakes anywhere! Great vibe! Great service. This place is always hopping- I've been here many times over the past 25 years and it never disappoints. Dutch Flat is full of history and this restaurant is worth a drive if you don't live locally. Easy on and off I-80. read more

Update: I was back in the area again and stopped in for another meal with friends. I had the crispy chicken salad, which was delicious and filling. We were there on a Tuesday night and they had some gentleman playing various instruments and singing by the fireplace. It was a lovely addition to our evening! Still a beautiful place to go! read more

See all

Great food, service and mountain ambiance. Casual live music, fireplaces, and seasonal decor.

First time at this restaurant Saturday night, very crowded! Thankfully we had reservations.. Service was top notch, everyone was friendly and attentive. Our waitress was informative about the menu. Good glass of Cabernet wine from Mettler winery in Lodi, CA. Unfortunately, we both ordered the special, NY pepper steak, and it was disappointing...the steak was dry with a lot gristle which made it chewy, not what I expected for the price. The meat had not much taste. The meals arrived with onion rings thrown about the plate. They were very dry like they had been sitting out all day. I tried one and that was enough for me....terrible idea! The clam chowder was excellent although a bit spicy. Even tho the restaurant was very crowded that atmosphere was friendly and pleasant. After dinner we sat in front of the giant fireplace which felt homie. We will definitely go back again and give the place another chance, but never again their pepper steak. read more

We ate here for a big family dinner and LOVED the cozy, small town local inn vibes. The entire restaurant was decked out with Halloween decorations too--even better! The food was delicious and the staff were attentive and friendly. This place had a real locals feel to it. If we're ever in the area again, we'll stop by once more! read more

Food is Amazing ,The bar and the huge fireplace is a major plus! Conviently located off of I-80E/DutchFlat exit. Must stop by to appreciate.

We just love this place! Best food around and excellent service every time! Highly Recommend read more

Monte Vista Inn - House Chili and Salad - American Near Me - Dutch Flat, California

See all

Our favorite place for dining! The authentic log cabin & quilts create a warm place to enjoy top quality meals (love those not-on-the-menu Specials!) and the attentive servers are wonderful! Easy to get to, also! read more

I've been coming here on and off for the past 7 years and have fond memories of coming with family and the food I've enjoyed. The past few times I've visited have unfortunately been lackluster in terms of food and price. I know since Covid food prices have surged, I am totally okay with that as it's very understandable, but the constant shrinking of the menu and the food not being as flavorful or of the same quality as it once was has become apparent to me. Going out to eat here just doesn't seem worth it anymore and I'd rather drive an hour towards Truckee or an hour towards Auburn for a good meal out of the house. I hope things change as this is such a great little place that's been around forever and has such a welcoming feeling when walking in, not to mention it's the only restaurant in an area with almost no others. Their desserts and pies will always be superior though and will keep me a customer just for those alone. read more

Great place! We love it here! Excellent food and wines, quaint building from the turn of the century so atmosphere is really cool, wait staff is great also! read more

We wanted to celebrate hubby's birthday someplace special without fighting the crowds of our usual dining spots. We hadn't been to Monte Vista Inn in several years but remembered how good it was so we decided to drive the half hour from our home to Dutch Flat to once again experience a good meal that was reasonably priced along with friendly and attentive service. We weren't disappointed. We experienced a great local band that plays on Tuesday nights from 5 until 7:30....background dinner music that wasn't at all loud and annoying and was provided by five fellows that have been playing together for some time. The songs they selected brought back nostalgic memories. Right away I noticed the warm and inviting atmosphere and lighted candles on each table with cloth napkins....that's something you don't see much anymore. After a nice meal, the desserts were brought to our table on a display tray and each one was explained to us as to what it was. The selection was huge with no less than ten different types. Our friendly waiter even offered to warm the chocolate peanut butter bundt cake which was the one we selected. All in all it was a fabulous and memorable dining experience finished off with sitting in a couple of comfy chairs to enjoy the last few songs offered by the band and having an after dinner drink. Don't forget to call ahead for reservations. read more

See all

Had the prime rib special and I must say ir did not disappoint. It was absolutely amazing. Had a ice cold beer to wash it down and a delicious piece of pie for dessert. I highly recommend this place read more

The Monte Vista Inn has a genuine friendly feel. It smells good when you walk in there... The people who are there to take care of you are considerate and when you sit down... The perfect amount of time comes before the food arrives. And the food is delicious. And then the dessert! Highly recommended read more

Had dinner at the Monte Vista Inn last night after being very impressed with our dinner there the month before. The food both times was excellent as was the service and pricing. They had so many desserts to choose from, they didn't all fit on the dessert tray. This is an "Old school" type restaurant for people who like a quiet dinner in a simple warm environment. We will be returning soon. read more

See all

Haven't been here since 2021...interior has changed and the interior wall has been removed to allow more sunlight and suggest a modern feeling...The Greeting Hostess was Polite and was welcomed with a smile and warmly welcomed me to my table....The service was ok and was visited 3 times to insure all was well.....The delicious Food has changed and not the same..The Wedge Salad presentation was ok,Grape tomatoes were soft and not firm....$32 Ribeye was standard and No flavor on the meat...Garlic Mashed Potatoes had somewhat of flavor (couldn't taste the butter or garlic) and broccoli was served cold....100% Difference of prior visits from before and disheartening that what was a great destination for a meal and drinks is mediocre and not worth the stop... Always Room For Improvement read more

Monte Vista Inn - Ribeye - American Near Me - Dutch Flat, California

See all

The good is always tasty and the staff is always friendly and efficient. We always arrive about a half hour before our reservation time and relax with a drink in the bar before dinner. read more

Coming up to Dutch Flats for a wedding and stoped here. On our way up we read yelp reviews and was shocked at some reviews but we decided to try. I am a very picky eater and Know my away around any kitchen, and they blew me away in a good way. 1st the service was top notice. We were attended to every moment. We was seated right by the Hostess every one said is grumpy WELL SHE WAS NOT. Waitress came up right away took our order for drinks and dinner. Clam Chowder was the soup for the evening and when they say a bowl of soup with your entree it's a big bowl be careful or you will fill up. Homemade white delish made everyday. I had the Bison ribs their special and My Man had the Pork ribs. Again blew me away. Bison ribs and pork ribs pulled off with a fork. Talk about slow cooked wow! Dinner was perfect. Dessert menu blew our minds which the choices. I am not a dessert person but this night everything looked so good we had to take a strawberry champagne cake to go. Through out dinner our waitress came up and we talked about the reviews on here and was laughing about some comment on white bread and another said she cooks better at home. Well homemade bread will turn out different each time. So the lady must never had homemade she gets hers out of a grocery store. To the one who said cooks better at home Please stay home. And to the one who posted about food chain well keep feeding your family at McDonald's and leave the delish food to those who has a palate for up scale but yet Home cooked food without spending hours in the kitchen. When it came to pay we found out our waitress Is the Owner. Wow what a treat and then we asked if the grumpy employee was here ( words from others) if we could talk to her and boy did the laughs come out. WE WILL VISIT AGAIN ON OUR NEXT ROAD TRIP NORTH. Thank you to all employees who worked in the heat to make a wonderful delicious dinner. read more

Monte Vista Inn - Slow cooked smoked pork ribs - American Near Me - Dutch Flat, California

See all

It always very nice to find a hidden ( unknown to me) gem. This place has excellent food and great service. Very charming place great ambiance. Make sure you leave room for their homemade dessert. So the next time you are heading up to Tahoe stop here and at least have dessert. read more

We have lived in the Nevada City/Grass Valley area for about 30 years but this Valentine's Day, we decided to try the Monte Vista Inn for the first time. It has a long history going back to 1842. Easy access right at the Dutch Flat interstate exit. Lots of parking but it was full for Valentine's Day. Didn't see any disabled parking spots but may have missed them. The interior is old time cabin with decorations from the 1970's. Nice fireplace seating to wait for a table. We ordered Prime Rib and were not disappointed. The service was friendly and fast. They really went out of their way to be friendly and welcoming. Our salads came right away and were just OK. Could have had a better dressing. I think we would have done better with the alternate Lobster Bisque soup. The bread was warm but soft white bread. The Prime Rib came with asparagus and scalloped potatoes. The asparagus was perfect and the scalloped potatoe flavor was right on but could have been cooked for perhaps another minute. Considering the huge crowd last night, that was understandable. The Prime Rib was 10/10 with only a tiny bit of fat on part of one edge. We ordered medium rare and it was right on and the best Prime Rib we have ever found in a restaurant. Just perfect! We split the last mocha flavored Creme Brulee they had left. A really good finish to our Valentine's Day dinner. Will make the Monte Vista a regular stop now. They had a special Valentine's Day menu but the regular menu looks good with assorted entrees and burgers. read more

I have been coming up to this area each summer since I was a baby and I never knew this place existed until my most recent trip. We decided to give it a shot since it was the closest restaurant to our destination. We were pleasantly surprised. We ordered the chicken Jerusalem and the crunchy chicken wrap with side salads. The salads were fresh and delicious. They also served fresh bread with the meal which was amazing. The chicken was cooked perfectly as was the pasta, the cream sauce was to die for, better than my own homemade cream sauce. My boyfriend's crunchy chicken wrap was fresh, crispy and delicious! The portions were perfect size and we had left overs. For dessert we had a slice of the lemon chiffon pie, probably the best piece of pie I've ever had. The meal was so amazing we came back and ate here 3x in a row and they did not disappoint! We ordered the weekend specials on Friday and had the halibut and the prime rib. The halibut was a huge portion, delicious, juicy and the rice was cooked to perfection. The prime rib was prime! Perfectly cooked and very tender with rich flavor. We ended the meal again with that amazing lemon chiffon pie and my boyfriend had the cookies and cream brownie trifle. Both amazing desserts! The last night we ended it with a burger and a pulled pork sandwich. Again, great meals! The pork was delicious and tender and not too saucy. The burger was cooked perfectly and hit the spot! The sweet potato fries and onion rings were great. Sadly they were all out of the amazing lemon chiffon pie so we went with the Jack Daniel's walnut chocolate pie. The service was great. Everyone greeted you with a friendly smile and made great recommendations for the meals. The atmosphere was relaxed and the decor made you feel like you were in a mountain cabin. It is rare that you can visit a place and have 3 excellent meals in a row all cooked perfectly. We will definitely be making another visit on our next trip back and highly recommend you eat here for a wonderfully cooked meal with great service! read more

Monte Vista Inn - The prime rib special and the halibut and rice. - American Near Me - Dutch Flat, California

See all

My husband and I finally got to take a break from renovations in EG to come down for dinner! I called for a reservation earlier in the day. We got there a little early and had an adult beverage by the well stoked fireplace, just lovely! We were so impressed with everything! Being past restaurant owners, we can be really critical but man, this place was great! The kind staff, atmosphere & the food were amazing! We can't wait to go back! Can't recommend enough!! read more

Absolutely love the food and atmosphere! We got the prime rib and the peppercorn steak! It was absolutely amazing!

Not like it once was sadly. Food is inferior, including desserts. Pecan pie with SO much clove in it, was inedible! Not all staff r as good as they used to be, especially to older female at reception/reservation stand. Takes forever at the bar too. I loved this place for many years. read more

I have lived in this area most of my life and this is the first time that I've been to this restaurant. I've always wanted to go but it wasn't until my mom went and said it was the best meal ever. I went back with my mom, my husband and my son and daughter-in-law and the restaurant is really cute, the service was fine, however our meal is not great. I ordered the steak and it looked and tasted like a steak I would get from a diner. My son ordered the hamburger and he was fine with that, because hey you can't really mess a burger up. Everyone else said their meal was okay. Probably the last time we'll go there. I can cook a better meal at home, which is a bit disappointing, because sometimes you just want someone else to make you a great meal. read more

Great food nice staff I would definitely recommend you try it . Comfort food with a German twist read more

Every time we eat there the food is amazing! The appetizers delicious. Last time the Prime rib was unforgettably delicious!

have eaten in the restaurant which was very nice, great, timely service. the bar however is a totally different experience. Very very Very slow service by the blonde bartender... like extremely!! also the regular fish and chips that were always super delicious (flaky, homemade batter, all different shapes and sizes) have been replaced with what I assume is frozen fish sticks (all uniform, exactly the same rectangle pieces of mush) Yuck! as a local, we will maybe try again in a couple months but Never the bar again. what a frustrating experience. read more

Hi ya! Just ate here with friends while trying to avoid the traffic up by Donner Pass--and so glad we did! This place is solid eatery. It's got a rustic feel, warming real fireplace, great customer service and best of all...the food is good (not to mention the prices are very affordable). We ordered the prime rib, clam chowder/salad sides, French dip, chicken pasta and mountain burger. All quality food...the servers were on it and peeps all personable. Not even trying to be overly nice about the place, but the environment, food, prices and people are a good combination...rare in lot's of eateries! read more

Monte Vista Inn - It's a restaurant! Stop in read this history and eat up! - American Near Me - Dutch Flat, California