Food and Drink
American
The Purple Place, located in El Dorado Hills, is newly renovated and a place that everyone in the area must try. Don’t be afraid of the many Harleys parked outside. Those hog riders know good food when they taste it. I primarily visit for breakfast and ALWAYS get the Ooey Gooey Coffeecake. Their El Dorado Omelet is also quite tasty. After a filling meal, walk next-door to the bar and play some table shuffleboard ($5 per hour). It’s a great place for food and fun.
Within Old Folsom is a wonderful breakfast establishment called Sutter Street Grill. It’s located right on Sutter Street, hence the name. I would recommend getting a biscuit along with your mean because they are the biggest I’ve ever seen. It has a great small town feel and the locals flock there every morning. After a filling breakfast, you can walk off the calories along the streets of Old Folsom or along the river.
If you like French Toast, visit the Tower Cafe on 15th and Broadway. They have a variety of other items on their breakfast menu that I could also recommend, but I would definitely recommend the Seasonal French Toast if you’re there for breakfast. They’re famous for their French Toast. For lunch or dinner, they also have great Chili Rellanos, salads, and much more. Don’t forget to look at their desserts and perhaps catch a movie next door at the Tower Theatre after your meal.
Want some good food and/or beer? Visit Rubicon Brewing Company on Capitol near 20th St. in Midtown Sacramento. I highly recommend the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich. It’s excellent. The atmosphere is also nice and is a great outdoor dining location on a warm day.
Located in Folsom (E. Bidwell), Roseville (Douglas Blvd.) and Elk Grove (Laguna Blvd.), Macaroni Grill and has fabulous Italian food. Be sure to try their rosemary bread, which is part of your dining experience and replaced once you finish a loaf. You can also learn a bit of Italian as you use the restroom.
I absolutely love Mimi’s cafe. They’re located next to all the Macaroni Grill’s that I’ve seen. When dining at Mimi’s, you must have either a bowl of steaming hot, cheese-covered French Onion Soup with their tasty bread or a pot pie. Both are fabulous. They also have great muffins, especially Buttermilk Spice. If none of those sound appetizing, there is also a great selection of sandwiches and other dishes. I also enjoy the Cajun atmosphere.
If you’re familiar with La Bou, which is all over Sacramento, you will truly appreciate Panera Bread. It has a better selection of soups, sandwiches and panini than La Bou with a great, comfortable atmosphere. Plus, their bread has a cruchy crust, but is spongy inside. Yum! There is even a comfy leather couch in front of a fireplace to enjoy your morning java along with free Wi-Fi internet access. What could be better?
Jack’s Urban Eats is a great place to get a big salad. You can choose your lettuce and a variety of toppings for a decent price. They also serve sandwiches, meat dishes and much more. I highly recommend their urban fries, which are covered in bleu cheese and spicy chili oil. So tasty! They have four locations around the county including Folsom, Downtown, Loehmann’s Plaza near Sac State and in Natomas.
This is a good place for breakfast or for sandwiches, calzones and pizza. It has a neat atmosphere and you can see the chefs make your food in an open-air kitchen area. This is also a great place to dine outdoors during the summer.
An off-shoot of 33rd Street Bistro, Bistro 33 has multiple locations around the greater Sacramento area. However, each location has a slightly different menu. I recommend the sliders, paninis and flat breads. Ask for their bag of donuts as well. It’s like donut holes with dipping sauces. Soooo good! There are also locations in El Dorado Hills, Davis & Rocklin.
If you’re looking for a great salad, visit Cafe Bernardo. Yes, they have other items on the menu, but they have some pretty tasty greens. Cafe Bernardo has 3 locations: 28th & Capitol, 15th & R and in Davis on 3rd and D St.
Pluto’s is located at Arden Fair Mall, in the Roseville Galleria and in Davis. It has awesome big salads, but also has other meat and vegetable dishes.
The Elephant Bar is a fun place to dine. It has a fun African atmosphere and the food is tasty too. They have excellent appetizers that would also serve well as a meal.
This is another good place to go for good ‘ol American cuisine. It’s located on Folsom Blvd. in Rancho Cordova close to Sunrise Blvd.
Slocum House ($$$)
This is a fabulous place to have a romantic meal. It is on the expensive side, but worth it for a special night (there are coupons in Entertainment books). Located in Fair Oaks, the Slocum House is a renovated residence that has seating in the lovely interior or on the back patio, which is lit by tiny lights under a huge tree or beneath patio umbrellas. The staff are available at a moments notice…your water glass will never go empty and bread will always be on your plate. Chickens may wander the patio area as well, but they won’t bother you. It is important to make reservations in advance and you can request a certain seating area.
Crepeville is a great place for crepes, but they also serve sandwiches and other breakfast and lunch items. They’re open from 7 am to 11 pm and only take cash. I had a California Crepe there and highly recommend it. Crepeville also has a great atmosphere with copper-topped tables and tasty iced tea. There’s also a Crepeville in Davis on 3rd Street.
This is a fondue restaurant…all the fondue you can think of. I have yet to go here, but heard it’s good and a fun place to eat. However, you definitely want to go with a big group to save some $$. It’s located downtown near the corner of H and 15th St.
French
If you have some time on your hands and are looking for a quaint, French cafe/bistro, La Bonne is the place to be. La Bonne Soupe Cafe is run by one French chef, Daniel Pont, who makes everything from scratch each day. Once you place your order, he is hard at work to put it all together. Chef Pont is known for his French Onion Soup and the cafe has been rated positively by Zagat. I recommend ordering soup and a sandwich (brie and apple is good) and topping it off with Creme Brulee. Of course, as a one-man operation, be prepared to wait up to an hour to order. The line forms out the door since it’s a small cafe with about 6 bistro tables inside. If you are in any type of rush, don’t go. You’ll only be frustrated by the wait. Otherwise, you will be pleasantly surprised. Located on 8th St. between I and J St., La Bonne is open M-F from 10:30am-2:30pm.
British
Craving some authentic British cuisine? Check out the Fox & Goose Pub, located at 10th & R St. in Downtown Sacramento. Fox & Goose has a variety of dishes ranging from bangers and eggs to Cornish Pasties. You won’t be disappointed. There’s also a plethora of music Wednesday-Saturday nights, Open Mic night on Mondays and Pub Quiz nights on Tuesdays.
Burgers
If you want to try a burger with a different type of meat, check out Flaming Grill Cafe on El Camino between Fulton Ave. & Howe Ave. They offer regular burgers and vegetarian options, but also give you the choice of Yak, Elk, Ostrich, Buffalo, Alligator, Llama, and Wild Boar as well. The guys there are very friendly and helpful as you make your meat selection. Seating is outdoors under a covered patio, so make sure it’s not too much of a scorcher outside.
Looking for a big, greasy burger? Nationwide Freezer Meats is a hot spot. Nationwide has been serving the Sacramento community for over 40 years and once you taste their burgers, you’ll understand why. Come hungry and definitely have the fries. They’re made of an entire potato cut into pieces. You’ll see what I mean. The hours are a bit sporadic: Tuesday - Saturday
10:30 am - 7 pm; Mondays: 11:30 am -2:30 pm; Fridays: 10:30 am - 9:00 pm
Murder Burger, now known as Redrum Burger, is located in Davis and has some of the best burgers and garlic fries around. It’s worth the trip. They also serve ostrich burgers. Be prepared with a big appetite because you can order up to a pound of patty on your burger.
Willie’s is located both downtown at 2415 16th St and on the corner of Fair Oaks Blvd and Arden. They have awesome burgers (some with multiple patties and chili), onion rings and wonderful chili cheese fries. There is both inside and outdoor bench seating, which provides for a wonderful eating atmosphere. This is THE place to go.
This is a place for great burgers. They’re big, they’re juicy and they’re greasy. This is one of my favorite burger restaurants. Plus, it has jukebox music at each table for 5 cents per song, which the waiters should give you. Located in Arden Fair Mall and Downtown Plaza.
Located at 5301 PowerInn Road, The Squeeze Inn is known for their “Cheese Skirt” Burgers. Known as one of the Best Burger Places in Sacramento and featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives”, The Squeeze Inn is a popular place for a greasy burger. The Squeeze Inn also has a location in Galt and will soon be opening a 3rd location in Roseville.
Pizza & Italian
Chicago Fire offers authentic Chicago and New York style pizza. Located both on historic Sutter Street in Folsom and near 24th and J in Midtown Sacramento, the restaurant also offers a cool atmosphere. I’d highly recommend getting the deep dish Chicago-style pizzas. They’re really good. Don’t miss the dessert pizza. It’s fabulous!
One Speed is the newest hot spot in East Sacramento. Located on Folsom Blvd. near 48th St., One Speed is always busy and there’s a reason why. It’s their food. Known for their pizza, One Speed also serves excellent gnocchi, salads and burgers. They’re closed on Mondays, but are ready to serve you Tues-Fri: 11:30am-10pm; Sat & Sun: 9am-10pm (Sundays close @ 9pm) (Breakfast ’til 1pm).
If you’re looking for a fancy place to dine, Biba should definitely be considered. Not only do they have excellent gnocchi (one of my favorite Italian dishes), but their Ossobuco alla Milanese is also quite tasty. I’ve only visited once, but it was a wonderful experience. Plus, Biba herself tends to greet dining customers.
Although it’s a bit pricier for it’s pizza, Roma’s Pizzeria III serves some very tasty pizza and EXCELLENT cheesy bread. I highly recommend the cheesy bread. Roma’s is family owned and their staff is very friendly and helpful. They’re located in Folsom at 25004 Blue Ravine Rd. (in the shopping center on the corner of East Natoma St. and Green Valley Rd.) and Roma’s is closed on Mondays.
While not an absolutely authentic Italian restaurant, Lucca has a variety of menu items that fit within the Italian genre. The atmosphere can serve nicely for either a business meal or a nice date. I recommend the Zucchini Chips as an appetizer and the Roasted Chicken Risotto is also excellent. Lucca is located on J St. between 16th and 17th in Downtown Sacramento.
This is a good pizza place, but a GREAT place to go for cheesy, garlic breadsticks. For $4, you can get a big ‘ol plate of them. They serve as a meal and taste o-so-good. Steve’s is a hometown favorite in Sacramento and are located throughout the area.
Even though it’s a chain, BJ’s serves some really good pizza. Their menu includes pasta, burgers, salads, sandwiches and more, but I’ve only ever had their deep dish pizza. The crust is more like a soft french bread than a harder crust. I would also recommend saving room for a Pizookie, which is a dessert cookie. In the Sacramento area, they have locations in Folsom, Roseville, Elk Grove and Natomas.
Another good place for italian food. It’s located in downtown Sacramento near J and 20th St. Great atmosphere and even has a train caboos inside to dine in.
Mexican
Located in East Sacramento on Alhambra Blvd., La Fiesta Taqueria is an excellent place for authentic Mexican food. They provide a variety of tasty food choices (especially burritos), unlimited chips and salsa, and tasty horchata.
While Nopalitos serves Mexican/Southwest food for lunch, I have only visited for breakfast. However, I can say that they have wonderful food. I highly recommend the Little Cactus Special with green sauce (yes, it contains cactus) as well as their chocolate chip cookies (baked once lunch begins). The cookies are probably the best I’ve tasted, but make sure you get them warm. Nopalitos is always busy, so try to beat the rush. Breakfast is served from 6:30-10:45am and lunch from 11am-2:30pm. They close early and they only accept cash or check.
Cabos Restaurant is located in both Granite Bay (near the corner of Douglas & Auburn-Folsom-close to Folsom) and in Rocklin (on Lonetree Boulevard). Cabos has a variety of tasty Mexican food at reasonable prices. Definitely check it out if you’re searching for a tasty Mexican dish.
Another of my top recommendations for Mexican food is Sol Azteca in Folsom (409 Natoma Street near Coloma St.). Sol Azteca has a great selection of tasty treats and won’t break the bank. The restaurant can fit parties both large and small and the service is excellent.The restaurant is Aztecan themed with tasty tamales, tacos, chili rellano, beans, chips, etc. They also take all competitors coupons.
Voted “Best of Sacramento” in Sacramento Magazine, Ernesto’s offers a variety of Mexican dishes, at a reasonable price. Ernesto’s is a great place for outdoor summer dining, especially since it’s located downtown (16th & S).
After years without Luis’ Mexican Restaurant, a new (and smaller) location opened on 29th and J St. in Midtown Sacramento. Same great Luis’ food in a new home.
Good Mexican food at a great price. That’s what you’ll find at Midtown Taqueria on J St. and 37th. It’s a small location, but has both indoor and outdoor dining. The portion sizes are large, so be ready for leftovers.
Located on Arden Way, I think this is probably the best place to get authentic tacos. It’s a small building, but can boast that it serves wonderful food. I haven’t had everything on the menu, but I would assume that it all tastes fabulous. This is the place to go.
Located on Howe Ave. and has inexpensive and filling Mexican food.
Located in Downtown Sacramento near J St. and 20th St. Mexican food here is inexpensive and a bit more authentic than Chipotle.
Located on Arden Way in a pink building, Kico’s offers authentic Mexican food at good prices. I’d recommend buying a combo to get the most for your money.
Asian
If you’re looking for Thai food in East Sacramento/Midtown, this is the place to go. They serve a variety of dishes that are delectable if you’re a Thai food fan and their prices aren’t too expensive. Definitely try a Thai iced tea or iced coffee and don’t be afraid of their tapioca and corn dessert. It’s really good.
Wonderful Asian food for a good price. Usually located in mall food courts.
This is a wonderful place to get great sushi and sashimi. It is a bit pricey though. A good place for a nice date. The link is for the one in Roseville, but there’s also one in Sacramento at 1530 J St.
There are a few Taiko Sushi places in Sacramento County. On is downtown on 10th and K, one is on Sunrise Blvd. in Gold River, and the newest is in Folsom on Bidwell across from the Old Navy Shopping Center. Taiko has great, well-priced Japanese food. I’d recommend a Tiger roll along with a Bento Box. It’ll fill you up and you’ll leave happy.
Another good Japanese food and suchi eating establishment. This is one of the larger Japanese restaruants I’ve been to. There is a general dining area and a sushi bar, wherever you choose to sit. I would recommend the lunch box, which gives you the most food for your money in the middle of the day. This restaurant also has a variety of sushi and sashimi. For those who like sports, there are multiple large plasma screens adorning the building and they’re always tuned to some sporting event. It’s located off Hwy 50 by taking the Hazel exit. You can see it from the freeway.
If you’re ever in the El Dorado Hills area and craving some good Japanese food, head to Asahi. It’s a quaint restaurant with excellent food. Ask for some whole soy beans, which they give for free, and test them out by dipping them in soy sauce. I think they cleanse your palate or something of that nature. You can get there off Hwy 50, take the LaTrobe Exit and turn into the first shopping center on your left.
Misc.
Looking for a tasty ice cream treat? Try Leatherby’s on Arden Way. Family-owned since 1984, Leatherby’s will provide you with wonderful ice cream at a reasonable price. Some of the top items among my friends are the black and tan and the black and white (my favorite). Leatherby’s also serves food, such as burgers.
Located in the Land Park area, Freeport Bakery is THE PLACE to go for excellent cakes. The Blackout Cake is my choice. Mmmmm…
Open since 1940, Gunther’s is a Sacramento landmark. I have yet to visit, but am looking forward to some tasty ice cream soon.
Costco isn’t just a place to shop for things in bulk. If you have a Costco card, you can go into the warehouse and eat free food samples for hours. Otherwise, you can go to their food area and get a hotdog and soda for $1.50 or a tasty Chicken Bake for $2.69, among other items. Just make sure the food area is on the outside of the Costco. You’ll need a card otherwise.
Like anywhere else, Starbucks is everywhere. Avoid the drive-thru because you must experience the Starbucks ambience inside. I gravitate towards the Starbucks near J St. and 38th in Midtown Sacramento, H & 15th Downtown, one on Alhambra with the big coffee cup on the roof, one on Howe near Fair Oaks and 2 in Folsom. It all depends on my mood.
This coffee shop is located in Folsom. It has a nice outdoor atmosphere and is walking distance to Old Folsom and the walking trails along the river.
Even though this coffee shop is located in Folsom’s Bel Air/Brookstone shopping center, it still has a great atmosphere. This is the place to find leather and cloth comfy chairs as you gaze at modern art on the walls. It even has a fake fireplace you can sip your coffee by. Plus, it’s has a free wireless internet connection. Another draw for me is their “buy 10, get one free” stamp card. Plus, it’s not as busy as Starbucks on an Saturday morning.
A Merlino’s Freeze is similar to a slushy or icee. They’re very tasty and come in 4 different flavors. Orange is the original flavor. There are a few Merlino’s stands around the county, including within the Folsom Outlets and in the Roseville Galleria, but the original building is on Folsom Blvd. in Sacramento. It seems that original location is now a Mr. Pickles, but I’ve heard they still sell Merlino’s.
What can you say about Jamba Juice? They can be enjoyed as a meal and they’re very, very tasty. I would recommend either Kiwi Berry Burner or Mango-a-go-go. They’re all over the place and have a free Jamba day at all new openings.
Things to See
If you happen to be in Sacramento on the 2nd Saturday of a month, head to Midtown & Downtown Sacramento for a chance to see what some local Sacramento artists are creating. Many businesses transform into art galleries and there is also music and street performers to keep you entertained. Most galleries are in the vicinity of K & J St. and the mid-20th Street areas, but there are also some on the outskirts. Visit the above link for a map of all the locations.
Old Sacramento gives visitors the feeling that they’ve stepped into the old west. The buildings and shops are historical landmarks. This is a fun place to walk and window shop. You can walk along the river, go to the Train Museum and try on a multitude of hats in the hat shop.
The Crocker Art museum not only houses some beautiful art, but it’s all held in an old house that has a character of it’s own. It’s easy to spent hours here. It’s located in Downtown Sacramento near 2nd and 0 St.
This mall was ranked top in Sacramento by Sacramento Magazine. It’s clean, it’s large, it even has a merry-go-round on the 2nd floor. It’s a top place to shop.
This is an old Swiss Fort that is one of the oldest landmarks in Sacramento. It’s relatively inexpensive to visit and takes you back in time.
I think this is the most beautiful park in all of the Sacramento area. It’s located near H St. and 33rd St. It has a rose garden to sit and walk in, a pond with water foul, public swimming pool, tennis courts, large grassy areas for frisbee and other games and a wooden castle for children to climb on. Plus, the McKinley Libary is also on the grounds.
Located on 10th and L Streets, the State Capitol is one of our local treasures. Not enough locals take advantage of the free tours at the Capitol, where you can see wonderful pieces of art, sculptures, and ornate architecture. It’s a great way to spend a couple hours, especially if it’s gloomy outside. If you’re lucky, you may be able to see the Senate or House in session or may catch a glimpse of Arnold walking the halls.
This is located on the grounds of the State Capitol on L and 27th St. There are a few war memorials to visit here as well and you can always take a tour of the Capitol. While there, be sure to say hello to a squirrel.
This is one of Sacramento’s independent and foreign film houses. I’ve enjoyed seeing some great films here. It’s got a great atmosphere, has been renovated to it’s old glory and is a fun place to watch a flick.
The Tower Theatre is another great place to catch an independent film. Open since 1938, the interior of the Tower has been magnificently restored and is a wonderful place to watch films not shown in most theatres.
This drive-in is located off Hwy. 50 at the Bradshaw exit. It’s a great place to watch a double feature in the summer. Tuesday nights are family night and it only costs about $4 per person. Otherwise, it’s a little over $6 per person. There is always a double feature, even if the marquee doesn’t say there is.
Folsom Outlets
Just as good as a big mall, but with low prices, the Folsom Outlets will probably have everything you would ever need when it comes to clothes, housewares, shoes, and other items. It’s one of the best outlet centers around.
Great fun for the whole family, the Discovery Museum is a separated into 2 locations. The History Museum is way downtown at 101 I St. and the Science & Space Center is on Auburn Boulevard. The Science & Space Museum is dedicated to small children, has some animals, bugs, a NASA area and an ever-changing exhibit area. It also has a picnic area for lunch.
Sacramento River Cats Baseball
Enjoy a day out at the ball field. The Sacramento River Cats are a AAA team that plays in West Sacramento. Games are a fun way to spend time with friends and have some hotdogs. You can get cheap $5 tickets, which put you on a grassy hill above the outfield, so bring your chairs or blankets. Stadium seats are a little more expensive. The highest ticket price is $18.
The Mondavi Center
The Mondavi Center is located on the UC Davis campus. It’s a new facility that features well-known speakers, dance companies and musical groups. I have been there once to see a Bach symphony. It is an upscale event that you will want to dress up for.
Want to head out of Sacramento? Here are some places elsewhere.
Located in Tahoe, this is a great place for sandwiches and soup. It’s all very tasty and has a wide selection of bread to choose from. They also have a spread of wonderful desserts. All I can say is “Yum”.
Sunnyside Steakhouse & Lodge ($$)
If you’re looking for a great steak or just want a wonderful dining experience, visit Sunnyside on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe. The interior of the restaurant has a bit of a cabin feel, but can also serve as a romantic dining location. On a nice day, you can also sit outside by the Lake. It’s a beautiful view. Sunnyside is known for their Crispy Zucchini Sticks, so they are a MUST when visiting. All of the other food is excellent as well.
Located in Modesto on J St. near 12th, Deva’s is the best place to go for a big salad. I prefer a Caesar, but I bet they’re all good with big chunks of chicken, buttery croutons and a big hunk of bread at an affordable price.
The Cheesecake Kitchen
Anyone that knows me knows that I love cheesecake brownies and bring them to my friends whenever I visit Modesto. The Cheesecake Kitchen is the place to go for these $1.50 morsels of chocolate and cheesecake goodness.
El Rosal and Damian Restaurant
El Rosal is my absolute favorite place to go for Mexican food. There are 5 locations in Modesto & Riverbank, so you don’t have to travel far to find one. I love their salsa and chips, tacos, tamales, enchiladas…I love everything. Damian Restaurant is owned by the same family.
Any recommendations? Let me know.