| Black Bear Diner | |
| Type: | Private |
| Location City: | Redding, California |
| Locations: | 156 |
| Industry: | Restaurants |
Black Bear Diner is a restaurant chain in the Western United States which serves homestyle and "old-fashioned" comfort foods. The first restaurant was opened in Mount Shasta, California in 1995, founded by Bruce Dean and Bob & Laurie Manley. The company is based in Redding, California. As of May 2024, Black Bear Diner has 158 locations in 13 states.[1] The company's leadership announced plans to be a "coast to coast" brand in January 2024.[2]
Black Bear decor has a rustic motif with "over-the-top bear paraphernalia."[3] Every restaurant is decorated with a 12adj=midNaNadj=mid black bear carving by artist Ray Schulz. Additional murals and artwork are created for each restaurant by Steve and Gary Fitzgerald and Colleen Mitchell-Veyna.[4] The menu format mimics an old newspaper titled The Black Bear Gazette, with articles on the front page. The children's menu is similarly styled with the title The Beary Tale Times and features children's activities.[5] It offers family meals such as breakfast, burgers, salads, and shakes.[6] Baked goods prepared on site are offered, and some locations offer alcohol sales, provided the customer is at least 21.[7]