When it comes to dining in Big Bear Lake, Thelma’s Family Restaurant is a spot that both locals and visitors frequently talk about. If you’re planning a visit and trying to decide where to enjoy your next meal, especially breakfast, this review is here to help.
We recently had the opportunity to experience Thelma’s firsthand, on a Saturday morning, around 9:30am, during a Holiday Weekend. There was no wait and we sat ourselves at the outside patio.
There have been times where there’s a few groups of people at the front door waiting to be seated so it can get busy. We were pleasantly surprised that there wasn’t any wait during this time.
Here’s our dining experience to give you a clearer picture of what to expect when you go out for breakfast when visiting Big Bear Lake.
- Address: 337 W Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear, CA 92314
- Phone: 909-585-7005
- Hours: Opens at 7am (hours subject to change)
overall rating:
AMBIANCE
First Impressions
Thelma’s Family Restaurant offers a standard diner feel the moment you walk in. It’s casual, with an inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
Decor
The decor is simple and unassuming, which is typical for a family diner. It’s not about flashy design, but rather a focus on comfort and familiarity.
Comfort
Seating is adequate and has both indoor and outdoor seating areas. The noise level is what you’d expect from a busy diner. The indoor lighting is bright enough to keep the atmosphere lively without being overwhelming.
The patio seating is also dog-friendly, so you’re welcome to bring your furry friend along to enjoy the meal with you.
SERVICE
Staff Friendliness
The staff were efficient and pleasant. They didn’t go out of their way, but they ensured that all our needs were met with a friendly demeanor.
Efficiency
The service was impressively fast, especially considering it was a Saturday morning. We were seated and served promptly, with no unnecessary delays.
Knowledge
The staff seemed knowledgeable about the menu, though our choices didn’t require much in the way of recommendations.
FOOD
Menu Variety
The menu is filled with classic diner options, covering all the bases from breakfast staples to hearty lunch choices. It’s a solid selection, though nothing particularly adventurous.
One member of our party wasn’t in the mood for breakfast, and they were able to order from the lunch menu with ease, no hassle at all.
Appetizers
We didn’t try any appetizers, so we focused on the main course.
Main Course
We sampled a variety of dishes during our visit, including the Waffle, Irish Benedict, and the Paul Bunyan’s Big Chicken Fried Steak.
Waffle
The waffle was cooked to a golden brown, with a crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy inside. It was served with a side of butter and syrup, providing a classic and comforting breakfast experience.
While the waffle was enjoyable, it didn’t stand out in terms of flavor and was fairly standard compared to other diners. It did not come with any sides.
Irish Benedict
The Irish Benedict offered a hearty twist on the traditional Eggs Benedict. Featuring perfectly poached eggs atop corned beef and English muffins, all smothered in a creamy hollandaise sauce, this dish was flavorful and satisfying.
The corned beef added a nice salty depth, and the eggs were cooked just right with runny yolks that complemented the sauce well. The accompanying hash browns were crispy on the outside and tender inside, rounding out the meal nicely. Presentation was straightforward, but appetizing.
Paul Bunyan’s Big Chicken Fried Steak
Living up to its name, this dish was generously portioned and could easily satisfy a big appetite.
The chicken fried steak was crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside. It was topped with a rich country gravy that added a comforting, savory flavor.
Served alongside were eggs over medium and a biscuit with gravy, making it a comprehensive and filling breakfast platter. While the steak was enjoyable, the seasoning was a bit underwhelming, and could have used more spices to elevate the taste.
Overall, the main courses provided a solid, home-style breakfast experience. The dishes were filling and prepared adequately, though they lacked a distinctive flair that would make them truly memorable. If you’re seeking classic breakfast staples done decently, Thelma’s offerings will meet your expectations.
Desserts / Baked Goods
We didn’t sample any baked goods on this visit so stay tuned as we will definitely try those in the future.
Beverages
The drink selection was standard—coffee, tea, juice, milk, and soft drinks. Nothing stood out. The coffee was refilled without having to look for the server.
VALUE FOR THE MONEY
Pricing
The pricing at Thelma’s is fair for what you get. It’s budget-friendly and in line with what you’d expect from a family diner.
Portion Sizes
Portion sizes were appropriate, leaving us satisfied without feeling overstuffed.
Overall Value
Overall, Thelma’s provides a good value for the cost. It’s not a place for gourmet dining, but it delivers on what you’d expect from a casual family restaurant.
OVERALL EXPERIENCE
Highlights
The standout elements were the quick service and the ample parking, which is always a bonus in a popular area like Big Bear Lake.
We went on a Saturday morning during a Holiday Weekend and was pleasantly surprised that we didn’t have to wait to get seated.
Room for Improvement
The women’s restroom could use some attention, as there was only a single stall, which could lead to wait times during busier hours.
Final Thoughts
Thelma’s Family Restaurant and Bakery offers a reliable and straightforward breakfast experience. It’s not going to blow you away with innovative cuisine, but it’s a solid choice for a hearty, home-cooked meal in a comfortable setting.
We also tried another breakfast restaurants in Big Bear, The Barnstorm Restaurant, so check out our honest review on that one.
And when you’re ready for lunch, check out our recommended restaurants for lunch in Big Bear (coming soon).
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