Best restaurants in Sacramento

Localis

★ Michelin$$$$Californian, Contemporary

Together with his tight-knit team, Chef/owner Christopher Barnum-Dann brings unusual warmth to this intimate setting. His enthusiasm is instantly palpable as he happily explains his inspiration behind particular dishes and even solicits feedback. This is especially true for diners who sit at the spacious counter.The freewheeling tasting menu is thoroughly Californian in its commitment to carefully sourced ingredients, while also drawing upon global cuisines, reimagining flavors from the chef's travels with impressive imagination. Whimsy is a common thread throughout, as in a puffed pillow of c

The Kitchen

★ Michelin$$$$Contemporary, Californian

After more than 30 years of operation, The Kitchen has upgraded to a grander space, but its raucous party atmosphere, led by energetic emcee Chef Kelly McCown, is the same as ever. Diners are encouraged to get up and walk around, even to wander through the kitchen and rub elbows with the cooks. Really like that truffle dish? The chef, who frequently proclaims the menu’s caloric impact, nonetheless invites you to ask for seconds. The menu changes monthly and features far-reaching inspiration while highlighting the Central Valley’s treasure trove of ingredients. Expect dishes like sweet potato c

Canon

Bib Gourmand$$Contemporary

Find the convivial Canon tucked away from the downtown bustle. Contrasting deep tones with bright whites, this cool space is packed most evenings. Chef Brad Cecchi's menu leans into bold, globally inspired small plates designed for sharing. Arrive with a group and explore widely, from vibrant vegetable dishes like roasted carrots layered with preserved black bean and herbaceous chutney to smoky duck legs brushed with honey and paired with salsa verde and hearty beans. The kitchen balances richness with brightness, and there are plenty of options for vegan and gluten-free diners. Dessert may be

Pho Momma

Bib Gourmand$Vietnamese

It may not look like much from the outside, but there’s a reason that pho lovers flock to this unassuming strip-mall operation. The staff and ambience do offer an above-average level of charm, but it’s the cooking, made with apparent care and high-quality ingredients, that really sets it apart. Naturally, pho is the main event here, offered in a variety of sizes and featuring either chicken or beef broth, both long-simmered and deeply flavorful, to be decked out with accompaniments ranging from tender meats to house-made pork wontons. Fried crab and cream cheese wontons are also offered as app

Kin Thai

$$Thai

Sisters and co-owners Napis Lindley and Napak Kongsitthanakor have brought the vibrant, punchy flavors of Thai street food to this modern converted warehouse space in Midtown. The menu spans a wide array of regional specialties, running the gamut of flavors from sweet and sour to funky and hot—and diners seeking heat will get their wish with a request of “Thai spicy.” Approachable favorites like pad Thai (served wrapped in a thin egg crepe) and flaky potato-filled curry puffs share space with lesser-known delicacies like clay-pot shrimp and Isaan sausage. Sweets like mango sticky rice and roti

Zócalo

$$Mexican

Set right in Capitol Mall, this upscale spot (which also has outposts in University Village, Roseville and Folsom) greets guests with heavy wooden doors, dark metal chandeliers and plenty of lush greenery. The sprawling outdoor patio offers prime people-watching, while the menu draws inspiration from regional Mexican cooking.Freshness is a clear focus, whether in bright ceviches layered with avocado, cucumber and serrano or in a range of tacos served on house tortillas. Options run from crisp Baja-style fish to marinated steak and braised chicken, paired with lively salsas and classic garnishe

Ella

$$$Contemporary, American

This upscale beauty in downtown Sacramento is equal parts rustic and refined, with floor-to-ceiling curtains, thick linens and a colorful overhang comprised of antique wood. You're likely to be seated among regulars chatting with the attentive staff while exploring the thoughtful wine selections. The menu offers creative takes on globally influenced dishes, while perfectly crispy Southern fried chicken remains a staple and rightfully so. The bar is also a great place to linger — with an expertly prepared cocktail, like the house gin and tonic.

Grange

$$$American

The Citizen Hotel is primo for those with business on their minds, but that doesn’t mean it’s all just corporate here downtown. In fact, Grange, tucked inside the hotel, is proof positive that business and pleasure mix with fine results. High ceilings and an arched shelf stacked with liquor instantly draw the eye, while wood tables lined with orange leather banquettes balance style and comfort. If visiting midday, opt for the Power Lunch and enjoy three courses for a palatable price.The menu shares a farm-focused sensibility with rustic creations. Mojo pork loin spread with calabrese bomba on

Hawks

$$American, Contemporary

You’re likely to find a stable of regulars occupying the handsome zinc bar at this lively, new-school “public house.” Once you’ve settled in, it won’t take long to realize why. An array of carefully crafted spins on classic cocktails is sure to stimulate your taste buds, while the friendly staff sets the room’s casual mood. The straightforward menu reflects the seasons, offering a small selection of familiar plates heightened with a touch of oomph. Tomato soup, for instance, is augmented with tangy goat cheese sformato and a crisp, buttery slice of sourdough; just as a signature burger is deck

Majka

$$Italian, Pizza

Husband-and-wife team Alex Sherry and Chutharat Sae Tong are the driving force behind this charming neighborhood spot, which has risen to the forefront of the Sacramento pizza scene thanks to excellent ingredient-driven pies with naturally leavened crusts. The standout offering is an ever-changing daily creation highlighting seasonal toppings—as in the inspired combination of white asparagus, English peas, and ramps with peppery pecorino Calcagno. Better yet, Friday and Saturday evenings come with specials like lemony Ora king salmon crudo, crisp-skinned roast chicken, and skillfully made agno

Camden Spit & Larder

$$$Gastropub

Downtown Sacramento meets sexy uptown London at this foodie haven, where Chef Oliver Ridgeway applies his formidable British culinary know-how to farm-fresh Californian ingredients. Inside, the striking dining room features glossy floor-to-ceiling windows; a polished, forever-bustling bar; as well as a lovely outdoor dining area overlooking Capitol Mall.As the name informs, spit-roasted meats take center stage here. A decadent evening feast might begin with an airy popover before settling into more substantial dishes. Don’t miss the incredibly tender prime rib, paired with crispy golden potato

Allora

$$$$Italian, Seafood

Modern and convivial, Allora offers neighborhood charm with a sense of elevated style. The Cal-Italian kitchen focuses on sustainable seasonal ingredients, with West Coast seafood a particular highlight, seen in dishes like balsamic-glazed octopus with Calabrian chili and potato gnocchi. House-made pastas are a draw in their own right, as in silky tajarin with duck confit and porcini cream. The menu is offered in three, four, or five courses, with an impressive list of Italian-focused wines overseen by owner and beverage director Elizabeth-Rose Mandalou for pairings. Come dessert, a simple-but

Bacon & Butter

$breakfast, lunch

If the name doesn't have you salivating yet, the plates being ferried through the bustling dining room certainly will. Bacon & Butter draws a steady stream of diners — queues often stretch late into the morning — thanks to its promise of hearty American breakfast and brunch done with care.The menu covers the classics, from flapjacks and French toast to omelets and oversized breakfast burritos. Portions are generous and ingredients noticeably fresh, whether you're digging into a stack of pancakes or a simple plate of eggs. A bar adds to the fun with mimosas, cocktails and even playful shots for

🕐 We-Su 08:00-14:00

Yue Huang

$$Chinese, Cantonese

Located in a Natomas shopping center flanked by an assortment of standard-issue chain restaurants, this Cantonese favorite stands out from the pack. Weekend mornings are often populated by Chinese families sampling the wide variety of typical dim sum offerings of steamed, baked and fried fare, including barbecue pork buns, rice noodle rolls, and carefully pleated dumplings. Evenings focus more on the assortment of seafood, including crab, lobster, and flounder, from the impressive live tanks that line this restaurant’s back wall.