Lucky Buck Cafe

Hearty diner food and cold beer, a stop before or after Yosemite

(1,104)

$$$$Groveland, CA

About

Lucky Buck Cafe is a road-side diner in Groveland, right along the route into Yosemite's west entrance — the kind of place where you can get a full breakfast, a plate of ribs, or a burger and a beer without fuss. With a 4.5-star rating from over 1,100 reviews and an inexpensive price point, it's built a loyal following among people passing through on Highway 120, not just locals.

What to Order

Reviewers consistently point to a few standouts: the ribs, the Reuben and patty melt (on what several people single out as excellent rye bread), and the fried and sweet potato fries. Breakfast gets particular praise — fresh, generous portions, and quick enough to work before a day in the park. The meatloaf and fish and chips are described as solid, standard fare rather than showstoppers.

Good to Know

Hours: Open daily, 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Phone: (209) 962-5181
Located next to a lodge, making it a convenient dinner-and-breakfast stop for overnight guests heading into or out of Yosemite
Full bar with a solid beer selection, including take-away beer if you arrive close to closing
Service can slow down during busy periods, but reviewers describe staff as friendly

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Lucky Buck Cafe's hours?

It's open every day from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

What is Lucky Buck Cafe known for?

Reviewers most often highlight the ribs, the Reuben and patty melt sandwiches, and a hearty, fresh breakfast — plus a good beer selection with the bar.

Is Lucky Buck Cafe a good stop on the way to Yosemite?

Yes — it sits along Highway 120 near Yosemite's west entrance and is a popular breakfast or dinner stop for people staying at the lodge next door or passing through the park.

Is Lucky Buck Cafe expensive?

No, it's priced as an inexpensive, casual diner.

Reviews (1,104)

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4.5

1,104 reviews

Google Reviews

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J Barclay

in the last week

Lucky Bucks is a blast from the past in the middle of no where. We stopped there to have lunch. Waitress was awesome and the food was good with large portions. Highly recommend a stop if your way to Yosemite.

Phil Storch

in the last week

We stopped here for breakfast while staying nearby and going into Yosemite. Our kids, loved it. The staff were very nice and the portions were generous. It was a perfect home style stop for a casual meal. They don't have Wi-Fi which is fine as we have a no phones at meals policy anyway.

Marine Chaux

in the last week

Nous avons pris l'apéro et des frites de patates douces un soir et un petit dej le lendemain . Que dire c'était vraiment copieux ,bon et gourmand. Nous avons bien discuté avec une serveuse ( qui est allemande par sa maman il me semble ) d'une gentillesse incroyable et très professionnelle. Une belle expérience authentique

Michelle Bryan

in the last week

This place was hands down a favorite place to visit for us!! We ate all of our food!

Markus Scholtz

a week ago

Great place for a stop and dinner. Pleasant, typical American flair and super nice services.