The 11 Best Restaurants in Sacramento

Ready to Indulge? Uncover Sacramento's Top 11 Dining Destinations!

Experience farm-to-fork dining in Sacramento! As the capital of Central California, it's surrounded by lush produce fields. At local farmers markets, chefs donning white coats carefully select the freshest veggies for their diverse ethnic dishes. Don't overlook Sacramento's thriving food scene when planning your trip. Here is a list of the best food places in Sacramento for fresh, inventive cuisine, ranging from Vietnamese to Mexican, which will leave you wanting more!

At Kru, elegance permeates every corner, from the lofty ceilings to the meticulously arranged chrysanthemums gracing sashimi plates. Treat your palate to the luxurious richness of dashi broth paired with sake-steamed mussels, and delve into the irresistible sushi rolls boasting creamy avocado and crunchy arare. And for seafood lovers, the meticulously crafted sashimi mixes, akin to precious gems, are an absolute must-try.

The name speaks for itself: Localis emphasizes locally sourced products without going overboard on them in a New American menu and is among one of the nice restaurants Sacramento has to offer. It serves elegantly arranged meals with a balanced mix of fat and acid, and its menu changes seasonally. Don't miss the vegetarian option, like the mushroom carbonara, which might just trick you into thinking it's meat.

Canon offers a distinctive take on Sacramento cuisine by utilizing locally sourced fruits and creating a refined yet cozy atmosphere. Their tapas-style servings encourage sampling a variety of flavors from around the globe. The stylish dining space, adorned with local artwork, makes it a top spot for foodies in Sacramento.

Ella Dining Room and Bar, owned by the Selland family, offers a delightful dining experience in Sacramento. Their creative dishes blend meat and fresh veggies sourced from local markets. The restaurant's elegant yet approachable ambiance, with white tablecloths, sets the stage for a memorable meal. Don't miss their signature drink, featuring gin and homemade quinine tonic called rainforest, adding a unique twist to your visit.

Escape the noise of exercise balls thumping next door and discover the hidden gem of Thai Farmhouse BBQ and Bistro in this cozy strip mall. Indulge in locally sourced Thai cuisine, where every bite tells a story of authentic flavors. Enjoy the Kao Soi, a tantalizing blend of crunchy egg noodles and succulent crab, immersed in a rich sweet-and-sour curry. And don't miss out on the fiery chicken wings, coated in a mouthwatering Chile oil sauce that leaves a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Quan Nem Ninh Hoa stands out among the Vietnamese eateries in Little Saigon, known for their famous nem nuong cuon spring rolls. These house specials feature crispy rolls filled with pickled carrots, mint, and charbroiled ground pork, wrapped in rice paper, and dipped in water. It's a must-try dish that elevates Quan Nem Ninh Hoa as one of the best places to eat in Sacramento bustling strip mall-heavy area.

Petey's Fried Chicken, it's the crispy, flavorful fried chicken that steals the show and keeps customers coming back to South for more. Hailing all the way from Mississippi to California, the secret recipe has been passed down through generations, resulting in juicy, crackly perfection that defies expectations. Enjoy savory dishes like andouille gumbo, tender rabbit, BBQ jumbo shrimp, and creamy three-cheese grits. With a menu packed with Southern delights, there's something to satisfy every craving at South.

At Pushkin's Kitchen, enjoy a nutritious breakfast featuring dishes like shakshuka, cured salmon and quinoa, vegan scrambles, sweet potato, and poached egg toast. Don't miss their gluten-free breads and pastries for a sweet treat!

Prepare for a delicious wait at this spot! Their standout breakfast dish is the biscuit sandwich, featuring bacon, gravy, and butter on a griddled starch base. For a plant-based option, avocado can replace the bacon. Other menu items blend Sacramento's love of fruit with classic diner fare, promising a return visit.

Prepare to be amazed by the homemade noodles at Yang's Noodles! Once you taste them, you'll wonder why anyone settles for packaged food. The beef noodle soup is a standout, featuring thick egg flour noodles that soak up the rich, flavorful broth. Yang's also offers a tantalizing array of Sichuan and Taiwanese delicacies, including Xiao long bao, Dan Dan mien, and green onion pancakes.

One of Sacramento best restaurants, Mezcalito Oaxacan Cuisine is located in Rocklin, just thirty minutes north of the city center, this charming eatery specializes in dishes from the region. Indulge in specialties like molotes, flavorful maize pastries, and empanadas de Amarillo, made with quesillo and mushrooms. Don't miss the exquisite mole rojo, perfect when paired with empanadas or Rocky's Chicken. And be sure to save room for dessert—the mezcal ice cream is a must-try!