Black Bear Lodge/Tavern 2255 W Lake Blvd 4,512 SF Retail Building Tahoe City, CA 96145 $5,900,000 ($1,307.62/SF)

2255 West Lake Boulevard | An Iconic Tahoe Landmark with Endless Possibilities
A rare opportunity to own one of Lake Tahoe's most recognizable historic properties. Most recently operating as the Black Bear Tavern, 2255 West Lake Boulevard combines authentic Tahoe character, rich history, and exceptional commercial potential in an irreplaceable West Shore setting.
Originally constructed beginning in 1932, this iconic lodge-style building showcases massive local pine logs, hand-crafted stonework, and timeless mountain architecture. Over the decades, it has served as both a private residence and a beloved restaurant, making it a true piece of Tahoe history.
Today, the property offers remarkable flexibility for a variety of future uses. The former commercial kitchen remains in place and is ready for modernization should a restaurant, café, brewery, or hospitality concept be envisioned. An additional kitchenette serves the south wing of the building.
The spacious interior includes three impressive gathering rooms—formerly the bar and dining rooms—each centered around classic stone fireplaces. These spaces are currently used as comfortable living and work areas, while two additional rooms in the south wing are utilized as bedrooms. The property also features four bathrooms, abundant storage, and a private one-bedroom studio apartment with its own entrance and an active Short-Term Rental permit.
Outside, the setting is equally extraordinary. A large stone patio provides an inviting space for outdoor dining or entertaining, while a charming courtyard offers the potential for year-round use with future enclosure. The expansive, gently sloping grounds extend to the banks of scenic Ward Creek, creating a picturesque backdrop for guests, events, or private enjoyment. Over the years, the property has hosted weddings, celebrations, and large gatherings, with ample room for tents and outdoor entertainment.
Additional features include parking for approximately 45 vehicles, a private well installed in 1998 that has consistently tested at exceptional water quality, and a completed sewer pressure test that has passed.
Whether your vision is to revive a legendary Tahoe restaurant, create a boutique hospitality destination, establish a unique event venue, develop an exceptional live/work property, or transform the site into a one-of-a-kind mountain estate, the possibilities are truly exceptional. Buyers should investigate permitting requirements for their intended use. The property was previously permitted as a restaurant, and the studio apartment currently benefits from an active Short-Term Rental permit.
A Piece of Tahoe History
The property began as the summer retreat of the Faust family, who owned a successful restaurant in Palm Springs. After building their cabin on Ward Creek, they recognized the growing number of summer visitors to Tahoe's West Shore and began serving meals to vacationers. Construction began in 1932 after the land was cleared by horse-drawn plow. By 1935, the restaurant was under construction, opening its doors in 1937 as the renowned Forest Inn. It quickly became a celebrated gathering place for Tahoe's summer residents and notable visitors, including guests of the famed Kaiser Estate. Historic photographs documenting the property's construction and early years accompany this remarkable offering, preserving the legacy of one of Tahoe's enduring landmarks.