The undisputed king of coffee shops in South Lake Tahoe is Ernie’s, which has been serving huge plates of good old American, cholesterol-laden grub to locals since the Nixon administration. The food is far from original (omelets, bacon and eggs, pancakes), so it must be the perpetually friendly service, low prices, and huge portions that attract the steady stream of customers. Another good reason to come here is that Ernie’s is located next to the cheapest gas station in town, so you can top off your appetite and your tank in one stop. The milkshakes are great, too. Main dishes $7–$11. No credit cards.