This place years back was a great hidden oasis. Â Then it got too popular. The prices rose. The Cul. inst. of Amer chef left to start his own place in Mammoth. Â The service sucks. (Agreed, it IS a pick up at the counter type of place, but at least clean a few of the tables). And the FLIES,!!!!!
The last 3 times I was there I spent most of my time waving off the flies.
Like Ancient Rome, it was great, then it collapsed. I'm back to being a Nicelys customer whenever in LeeVining
This is why I love Yelp and Yelpers. Â We have drive Highway 395 from Palm Springs to Reno many times, and have always driven right by this little town. Â We were hungry, and our favorite restaurant in Bishop had lines around the block, so we continued on to Lee Vining. Â I checked Yelp and this place sounded so good. Â
It is. Â It is wonderful. Â The fish tacos rock, and the lobster taquitos were fresh and flavorful. Â It is not an inexpensive place for order at a counter food, but it is worth it. Â When you consider how remote this little place is, and the quality and freshness of what they serve, it is quite remarkable. Â
We now have a new place to look forward to stopping on our journeys up and down the 395 corridor. Â Note, they are open only May - October.
Who knew the Tioga Gas Mart and Whoa Nellie Deli would be a highlight of our trip? Â Go figure. Â But it was really that good. Â It is the first restaurant and Mobil gas station you see after you turn off on highway 120 on the way to Yosemite.
This deli/gas mart is fairly famous  to those whose frequent the Eastern entrance to Yosemite.  There's a full selection of Yosemite gift shop paraphernalia, some last-minute back country sporting goods supplies, and some pretty tasty eats served up by the kitchen staff.
What other gas station serves up 1/2 lb handmade burgers. seared ahi plates, and the like? Â Â
There are restrooms, indoor and outdoor tables for dining, plus a decent selection of grocery items for sale in addition to the touristy t-shirts and posters.