Black Bear Diner is working on its first North Las Vegas opening. The casual, family-friendly restaurant chain has already laid down roots at its new location. Black Bear Diner is expected to open at 4388 W Craig Rd.
The address 4388 W Craig Rd in North Las Vegas is part of a new retail development located at the intersection of W Craig Road and Valley Drive, near the larger North Mesa Plaza.
What Now Las Vegas briefly spoke with Black Bear Diner Chief Operating Officer Art Kilmer, who confirmed the corporate opening. Kilmer then connected us with his team.
Nicole Durham-Mallory, VP of Development for Black Bear Diner, shared that the plan is to open the new North Las Vegas location by the end of October this year.
“We want this diner to feel like a welcoming gathering place for the community, whether guests are joining us for breakfast with family, lunch with coworkers, or a comforting meal at the end of the day,” Mallory said.
“We’re grateful for the enthusiasm surrounding the opening and look forward to welcoming both longtime Black Bear Diner fans and guests who may be experiencing the brand for the first time.”
Black Bear Diner was founded in 1995 in Mount Shasta, California, by business partner Bruce Dean and artist/educator Bob Manley, along with Bob’s wife, Laurie Manley. The founders wanted to offer massive portions of home-style comfort food at reasonable prices inside a cozy, cabin-themed environment. Bob Manley drew inspiration from his background owning a wildlife gallery, merging rustic bear motifs, carvings, and whimsical artwork with classic diner hospitality.
“Black Bear Diner is a family dining concept known for generous portions, warm hospitality, and classic comfort food served in a fun, welcoming atmosphere inspired by the great outdoors,” Durham-Mallory said in an interview with What Now.
“Breakfast is a big part of who we are, with guest favorites including Bear’s Choice, The GRIZZ, and our classic breakfast combinations. Our menu also includes Angus burgers, sandwiches, salads, and comfort-food favorites like Chicken Fried Steak, homemade Meatloaf, and slow-roasted Pot Roast, along with seasonal offerings throughout the year.”
After operating successfully on their own, the company began offering franchise opportunities in 2002. By 2006, the chain reached 30 units, and it surpassed 100 locations by 2017, earning industry praise as a family-dining innovator. There are now at least 171 Black Bear Diner locations across 14 states in the United States, with eight locations in Nevada.
“We look for markets where we believe the Black Bear Diner experience will resonate with the community, along with locations that offer strong visibility, accessibility, and the right mix of residential, business, and visitor traffic. We are excited to bring another Black Bear Diner to the Las Vegas community,” Durham-Mallory said.
“With any opening, the biggest priority is making sure everything is ready to deliver the experience our guests expect and deserve from day one. That includes the diner itself, staffing, training, and all of the operational details that go into delivering our best every day. Black Bear Diner continues to evaluate opportunities for thoughtful growth in both existing and new markets.”
The new North Las Vegas eatery is expected to have a Sneak Peek ahead of the opening. Those interested in being considered for a seat at the Sneak Peek, as well as receiving opening updates, can subscribe to Black Bear Diner’s eClub.
Black Bear Diner is anticipated to open in North Las Vegas at 4388 W Craig Rd this fall.
