toulouse tahoe
Photo by Monique at Tahoe Wedding Photojournalism

Est c. 2021

Fresh, creative California cuisine blended with Orleans soul in South Lake Tahoe, California.

Discover Toulouse

A Taste of New Orleans in Tahoe

Tucked off the casino strip in South Lake Tahoe, Toulouse is a hidden gem where California freshness meets the soulful flavors of New Orleans. Executive Chef Wainwright has crafted a menu that blends local ingredients with bold, Southern-inspired dishes that warm the heart and excite the palate.

Guests rave that they’ve had the best shrimp of their lives here — especially in the signature Shrimp & Grits, where perfectly blackened shrimp meet creamy grits, Tasso ham, and a spicy kick. Other standouts include the Blackened Catfish Po’ Boy, hearty Jambalaya, and the Sausage & Crawfish Poutine smothered in smoky pimento cheese gravy. Starters like Crispy Brussel Sprout Bites with cranberry aioli and fresh oysters set the tone, while desserts such as the Pistachio Cheesecake and house-made Banana Bread Pudding leave a lasting impression.

The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined — a modern rustic setting with a lively bar, cozy dining room, and a dog-friendly patio that reviewers call “beautiful and inviting.” Service is consistently praised as warm, attentive, and personal, adding to the sense of welcome.

Toulouse offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with a daily Happy Hour featuring food and drink specials. Whether you’re seeking bold flavors, craft cocktails, or a vibrant dining experience, Toulouse promises a meal you’ll remember — and a reason to return.

How it Started – Origin story

Four people working in the hospitality industry met in a bar on Toulouse Street in The French Quarter of New Orleans. Over-time they became great friends and when the first one moved away he stated, “our paths will cross again.” Sure enough, over the next three decades, we worked together and apart in cities across the USA, including New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Telluride, Washington DC and of course The Big Easy – New Orleans, Louisiana.

In early 2021 an opportunity presented itself and Toulouse was born here in South Lake Tahoe, CA. Original founder, Chef Jon Wainwright is our executive chef serving fresh CA cuisine with a New Orleans soul and the rest of the founding team is here to make sure you are fed, happy and full.

Toulouse Restaurant origin story c. 2021

Good drinks taste better when they’re shared

Join us for Happy Hour food and drink specials

Happy Hour Food & Drink

A lively window into the bar and kitchen. We’re talking crispy Brussels sprouts, gumbo, sausage & crawfish poutine, and Cajun wings—plus cocktails, wine, and local Tahoe brews. Show up hungry. Leave happy. Happy Hour 4–6 daily.

Wednesdays Industry Night 20% Off

Wednesday Locals' Industry Night

Because you’re the heart of this town. 20% off for local hospitality pros, ski industry teams, and working locals. Every Wednesday, 5–9 PM. Come off shift, meet your crew, unwind over dinner and drinks, and let us take care of you. Midweek, your table is waiting.


Chef Jon's Special oven-roasted rack of lamb

Chef Jon's Specials

A rotating expression of the kitchen. Seasonal dishes—from fresh ahi and oysters to rack of lamb and shellfish—alongside slow-simmered classics like beef stew, goulash, lobster mac & cheese, and peppered beef tenderloin. Expect bold features like New Orleans-style jambalaya with Creole tomato sauce, chicken, shrimp, andouille sausage, or country-style thick-cut smoked bacon layered with whipped goat cheese, grilled peach, and balsamic reduction. Crafted with California vibrancy, French technique, and Creole soul. Offered in limited quantities.

Soirées & Private Affairs

Host your private party inside our elegant dining room or on our heated, dog-friendly deck. With seating for up to 100 guests—and more when collaborating with Station House Inn—your celebration fits perfectly, rain or shine.

Something about our little corner of Tahoe
Away from the noise–Close to the water
Where mornings linger and evenings settle

Toulouse Is The Perfect Date Spot, With A Warm, Easy Atmosphere And Attentive Service Without Being Over The Top