GOLD FEVER!   Thousands came from the east and west, north and south in 1849, to the young town of Bodie in search of fortune. One such gold seeker from Chicago was an enterprising jack-of-all-trades, part time preacher named Henry Angel.

Upon arriving to Bodie with only his pick axe and a gold pan he set his sights for gold and found it... and a lot more. In the beginning Henry was able to keep his gold vein a secret, but as time rolled on he knew the word would get out.

Just about this time many of the hardluck prospectors were getting ichy fingers for gold. They weren't just looking for gold in their own caves and claims, but under the other prospector's mattresses. Due to Henry's now famous wealth, the 'Badmen of Bodie" would soon be looking under his mattress, too.

Being a cultured man, and not reveling in the thought of spilled blood (especially his own) Henry came up with a plan to keep his gold and his life. He traded in his shovel for a frying pan and his mule for a rundown but well-placed piece of real estate. He invested his gold and his knack for cooking in a restaurant that kept everyone's finger off their triggers and on the table.

Little did Henry realize that his desire to stay alilve would lead to a busy, bustling, business bonanza. Soon people from every corner of Bodie were coming to Henry's to indulge in the varied menu, hearty portions , clean liquor, cold brew and friendly folks - all at a very fair price.

Never known for his good looks, Henry's charm, savvy and flair for making any day a holiday began to rub off. Angel's became the place to celebrate everything: a new-found claim, a new bride, a new pair of boots, the passing away of an enemy, a bath, trim and shave... virtually anything!

Gold-poaching gunslingers, prospectors, and wealthy claimholders were dining, sipping suds and singing songs alongside Chinese immigrants and Mexican cavaleros. Even the Ladies Temperance League held their weekly meetings at Angel's and would get so influenced by the celebrative ambiance of the place they decided to change their name to the Women's Suffrage League.

These same traditions started by Henry over 100 years ago continue today at Angel's re-established restaurant here in Mammoth Lakes. (Oh yes, and one suggestion: if a suspicious looking character sitting next to you begins staring at your gold, do what Henry would do... buy him a drink - QUICK!)

Thank you for dining at Angel's Restaurant. We hope that your dining experience has been an enjoyable one. We invite you to try our Take-out Terrace, located in the front of the restaurant. For meals on the go or at home, call (760) 934-RIBS for take-out orders.

We look forward to serving you again soon!