Tucked into the pines of Big Bear Lake, Captain’s Anchorage has been part of the mountain’s story for nearly eight decades. What began in 1947 as a gathering place for pilots, locals, and Hollywood visitors has grown into one of Big Bear’s most enduring dining destinations.
The restaurant first opened as Andy Devine’s Sportsman’s Tavern, founded by Western film star Andy Devine. At the time, Big Bear was emerging as a year-round mountain retreat, drawing anglers, skiers, filmmakers, and adventurers from Southern California. Devine, who operated a flight school at the nearby airport, envisioned a place where his students and friends could enjoy a great meal, strong drinks, and good company after a long day in the mountains.
From the beginning, the tavern quickly became a favorite. Its log-cabin architecture, warm fireplaces, and welcoming bar made it a natural gathering spot in a town where fine dining options were rare. Hollywood actors, filmmakers, and visitors passing through the San Bernardino Mountains found their way inside, helping establish its reputation as a place where locals and out-of-towners mixed easily
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In 1966, the restaurant entered a new chapter when it was purchased by its next owners. In the late 1970s, it was renamed Captain’s Anchorage, a nod to its role as a trusted refuge after a day on the lake, the slopes, or the trails. While the name evolved, the spirit of the place remained the same.
Remarkably, Captain’s Anchorage has had only two owners since its founding. Today, it continues under family stewardship, preserving its character while maintaining the standards that have kept guests returning for generations.
Over the years, the restaurant has become known for what it does best. Classic steaks, fresh seafood, a full bar, and attentive service delivered in an atmosphere that feels timeless rather than trendy. It is a place chosen for anniversaries, proposals, birthdays, and reunions. Many guests return year after year, marking milestones in the same booths and by the same fireplaces where memories were first made.
Like many historic mountain lodges, Captain’s Anchorage carries its share of stories. Some are rooted in its early days as a lively tavern during a less regulated era. Others fall into the category of local lore, passed down by longtime staff and curious guests. These tales are part of the restaurant’s character, adding to its mystique without overshadowing what matters most: exceptional dining and a sense of place.
Nearly eighty years on, Captain’s Anchorage remains what it has always been. A destination. A celebration spot. A warm, welcoming refuge in the heart of Big Bear Lake, where history is not just remembered, but still very much alive.
