In the picturesque town of Mammoth Lakes, California, Toomey’s is a culinary gem that beckons both locals and visitors alike. But before I delve into the delectable dishes that graced our table, let me set the stage for our dining experience in this charming mountain enclave.
Mammoth Lakes, perched at an impressive elevation of 7,880 feet amidst the Sierra Nevada mountains, is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly during the winter months. This quaint town transforms into a winter wonderland, luring adventurers from far and wide with promises of exhilarating skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, sledding, and of course, the thrill of conquering the majestic slopes of Mammoth Mountain. But there’s more to this area than just snow and mountains; it serves as a gateway to natural wonders such as Devils Postpile National Monument, with its intriguing basalt columns, and the ethereal Rainbow Falls. To the north, the mesmerizing Mono Lake, adorned with limestone towers, provides a tranquil escape, while the iconic Yosemite National Park beckons with its granite cliffs and ancient sequoias, a short drive away.
Now, onto our culinary escapade at Toomey’s. Admittedly, the parking situation in the vicinity left much to be desired, particularly for those passing through. The scarcity of free parking spaces raised a few eyebrows, even during the off-season. Nevertheless, our determination to dine at this acclaimed establishment prevailed. We eventually secured a parking spot on the opposite side of the street after a bit of circling, and eagerly made our way inside.
A Warm Welcome
Upon entering Toomey’s, we were greeted by a warm and friendly server who promptly attended to our queries. Following his enthusiastic recommendations, I opted for the “California’s Greatest Burger with Fries,” while my wife chose the “Grilled Rack Pork Chop.” Interestingly, our server assured us that despite the menu’s claim that the burger was unavailable after 4 pm, they would still prepare it for us. The prices were a tad on the higher side, but we were more than willing to indulge, with the hope that the food would live up to our lofty expectations.
Exploring Toomey’s: A Baseball Fan’s Dream
While waiting for our meals, I took a delightful detour to explore the baseball collection displayed throughout Toomey’s various rooms. It quickly became evident that the owner was a devoted baseball enthusiast, as evidenced by the extensive memorabilia on display. Signed jerseys, posters, and even a photograph of Sandy Koufax on horseback adorned the walls. As someone who was once a fervent baseball fan in my youth, I couldn’t help but reminisce upon seeing names like Reggie Jackson and Bret Saberhagen. A baseball game played on the TVs behind the bar, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, perfect for any baseball enthusiast.
The Moment of Truth
Our food finally arrived, and with the first mouthwatering bite of my hamburger, I understood why Toomey’s had garnered such high ratings. The menu proudly touted the burger as the “2013 best burger in California,” and it did not disappoint. The burger boasted top-notch meat and ingredients, with a subtle hint of barbecue sauce that surprisingly complemented the other components perfectly. Cooked to perfection, it featured a delightful pink center and an explosion of flavor, further enhanced by grilled onions, tomato, and cheese, all nestled within a remarkably fresh bun. Despite being listed under the “small entrees” section of the menu, the portion size was impressively generous. However, the same cannot be said for the accompanying fries, which, in my opinion, failed to reach the same level of culinary excellence as the burger itself. As a result, I would rate the dish a commendable 8.5 out of 10.
Pork Chop Perfection?
My wife’s verdict was unequivocal: her Grilled Rack Pork Chop was the best she had ever tasted. The succulent, tender meat, coupled with the delightful berry glaze, created an exquisite flavor symphony that left her highly satisfied. The accompaniments of potatoes and vegetables were equally well-prepared and brimming with flavor. In fact, the portion size was so generous that my wife, despite her voracious appetite upon entering the restaurant, couldn’t finish her meal. She unequivocally awarded it a perfect 10 out of 10.
If I were to nitpick one aspect of our dining experience, it would be the rather petite glasses of water served, a minor detail that seemed somewhat out of place in such an otherwise exceptional restaurant.
Toomey’s – A Must-Visit in Mammoth Lakes
In conclusion, Toomey’s is undeniably a culinary treasure in Mammoth Lakes. While we may not be avid skiers, we can wholeheartedly say that a return visit is on the horizon for us. Whether you’re a baseball enthusiast exploring the memorabilia or a food lover in search of unforgettable dishes, Toomey’s welcomes all with open arms, and we can’t wait to return for another unforgettable meal in this charming mountain town.