Schmap Sacramento Dining & Drinking

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Sacramento - Dining & Drinking
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Sacramento Home
Schmap Sacramento guide and map

California's capital city still has essentially a hometown feel despite its phenomenal growth during the past decade. For most of its 150-year history, Sacramento's culinary scene has featured Middle American fare served in fine dining rooms, steakhouses and grills. Its growth has resulted in an explosion of culinary choices. Sacramento has seen a staggering influx of quality ethnic dining venues. Throughout the metropolitan area a variety of sleek, sophisticated and elegant restaurants have opened, while venerable institutions underwent renovation. On the breezy banks of the Sacramento and American Rivers, patio dining includes spectacular views. Under the leafy canopy of the Midtown district, the view from patio tables beside Victorian mansions is pleasantly intimate. Throughout the capital region are a variety of distinct districts with eclectic and exciting dining experiences to satisfy both the gourmet and the aficionado of traditional American favorites.

Old Sacramento

Along the banks of the Sacramento River, a few blocks west of the Capitol Building, is where it all began 150 years ago. Merchants who built their shops in the Gold Rush town to serve the 49ers got rich. Today, this neighborhood sports roofed plank sidewalks and fine examples of 19th-century architecture and is a state historic park with some excellent dining choices. You can stroll through the pedestrian tunnel beginning beside the Plaza and emerge on Second Street bustling with horse-drawn carriages, characters dressed in period costume and plenty of dining experiences. A few doors to your left is Fanny Anne's Saloon, a loud, funky four-story nightspot where a cross-section of society comes to have a good time.

Walk a block to the west and perched on pilings above the Sacramento River, the Rio City Cafe offers a spectacular view of the Tower Bridge and serves eclectic Southwest and seafood cuisine. Located across First Street from the historic Central Pacific Railroad depot, California Fats offers California cuisine and stir-fried dishes in a modern electric-green dining room. On board the Delta King riverboat, the Pilothouse Restaurant offers fresh seafood, its signature clam chowder and steaks. Along the brick streets are funky boutiques, a couple of jewelry stores, sports memorabilia shops, candy stores and a farmers market.

Downtown/Midtown

This neighborhood has two districts of more than 60-square-blocks, and features dozens of restaurants, bars and nightspots. After a brief stroll through "rabbit hole" (the pedestrian tunnel under Interstate 5), you arrive on the threshold of Downtown Plaza. This shopper's paradise is an open-air mall featuring a variety of department and specialty shops. At the far eastern entrance, the Hard Rock Cafe offers wall-to-wall rock memorabilia, a great sound system and American fare. One block south is the 4th Street Grille, a traditionally elegant dining room with heavy wooden furniture, white tablecloths, and a menu featuring steaks and seafood. If you are in the mood for Italian, try Il Fornaio on the Capitol Mall for pasta entrees, pizza and an interesting wine list.

On the L Street side of Downtown Plaza, Morton's of Chicago is the place to go for prime rib that melts in your mouth. Over the past two decades, the Mexican culture has enjoyed a spectacular renaissance in Sacramento. This means there is an incredible array of authentic Mexican dining experiences. Downtown/Midtown Sacramento is replete with Hispanic eateries from the typical mom-and-pop taqueria offering generous portions for a reasonable price, to the latest trend-setting interpretation of traditional recipes. Just down the block from the Hard Rock Cafe on the K Street mall is Emma's Taco House, which may look tacky inside and out, but serves generous portions of delicious tacos, burritos and enchiladas. Ernesto's, located in Midtown, offers al fresco dining, an Art Deco interior and authentic Mexican cuisine. The chefs of Aioli Bodega Espanola go to the source of Hispanic cuisine and interpret traditional Spanish cuisine creatively.

East of Downtown, among its tree-lined streets and solid Victorian houses, there is an abundance of unique dining treats. The Broiler Steakhouse on the K Street Mall is a time-honored restaurant that has been in business since 1950, and serves aged steaks, unique pasta dishes and fresh seafood. Harlow's offers modern Italian/California cuisine in a sumptuous setting, as well as a nightclub and cigar bar. Biba is arguably the best Italian restaurant in the city. The eatery is named for its chef, a native of Bologna, who extensively researches and constantly refines the Northern Italian dishes on her menu.

North Sacramento/Natomas

The sweeping river vistas along the aptly named Garden Highway, which borders the American River Parkway preserve, offer an intriguing mix of dining experiences. The quaintly ramshackle Rusty Duck, with its wide verandahs, has been a landmark on the American River for two decades and emphasizes fresh fish and steaks, prime rib and pastas. Enotria, in the heart of Uptown, offers award-winning California/Mediterranean cuisine complemented by an intriguing wine list.

Carmichael, Rancho Cordova, Folsom

While experiencing explosive growth, these suburbs to the east of the metro region somehow seem to maintain their rural small-town feel. In the heart of Folsom's quaint Old Town, Savoy 614 Bistro offers entrees featuring seasonal ingredients grown in the Valley. Zinfandell Grill, also in Folsom, features wood-fired ovens, a mesquite grill and the latest gourmet Southwest-style dishes. The Sheepherder Inn in Rancho Cordova offers steaks, chops and prime rib in a renovated rural mansion. For Vietnamese, try Andy Nguyen's located in a strip mall in Rancho Cordova. Its exterior is definitely not a representation of the quality of its Vietnamese cuisine.

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4th Street Grille

Traditional steakhouse with historic ambiance

400 L St
Sacramento, CA 95814
United States
+1 916 448 2847
http://www.4thstreetgrille.com

Even on the hottest afternoon, this is a cool oasis with creamy plaster walls set off with dark wood paneling and trim. The decor dates back to Sacramento of the 1940s, with unique photos including skyline panoramas and aerial shots. The friendly staff is quick and efficient. The menu features New American cuisine; entrees include 4th Street Pork Loin Chop and Grilled Colorado Lamb Chops. The seafood menu features Wild Salmon Filet and Tiger Prawn and Saffron Risotto. Select from many other seafood dishes offered, as well as pastas and a variety of salads.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: wcities

Andy Nguyen II

Popular Vietnamese Food 10145 Folsom Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95670
United States
+1 916 362 2270
http://www.andynguyenrestauran... The exterior of this restaurant does not portray the great taste of the food served. Inside, find the flavorful and authentic Vietnamese food, which has established Andy's as one of the best known and popular dining spots in Sacramento. Popular entrees include shrimp & beef over hot iron plates and five spice chicken, which feature Andy's signature good taste. All dishes can be made vegetarian. Beer and wine are also available. The first Andy Nguyen restaurant, located on Broadway near downtown Sacramento, now features an exclusively-vegetarian menu.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Andy Nguyen II photo by wcities
Photo: wcities

Biba

A taste of Italy in downtown Sacramento 2801 Capitol Ave
Sacramento, CA 95816
United States
+1 916 455 2422
http://www.biba-restaurant.com From the pages of her award-winning cookbooks, owner Biba Caggiano brings the delightful flavors and textures of her hometown of Bologna, Italy to Sacramento. The authentic Italian dishes are served in an elegant dining room complete with white tablecloths. For lunch, try the Linguine con Pesto e Pomodoro, a pasta dish topped with basil pesto. Dinner includes a cornucopia of fresh meat and seafood dishes. A fine selection of California and Italian wines is available as well. Reservations are strongly recommended.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Biba photo by wcities
Photo: wcities

Broiler Steakhouse

Delicious Steaks & Fine Dining 1201 K St
Sacramento, CA 95814
United States
+1 916 444 3444
http://www.thebroilersteakhous... This is a fine dining restaurant with delicious entrees. The menu features T-bone, Rib, New York Strip, and a huge 30-oz Porterhouse. Steaks are mesquite grilled to order, and can be topped with caramelized onions and mushrooms, sauteed red and green peppers with onions and cracked pepper, or Bernaise sauce. All entrees include soup or house salad and your choice of baked potato or creamy polenta. For dessert, try "The Godfather," which features cookie-crusted vanilla ice cream swimming in hot fudge. A full service bar is available.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Broiler Steakhouse photo by wcities
Photo: wcities

California Fat's

Captivating waterfall 1015 Front St
(Old Sacramento)
Sacramento, CA 95814
United States
+1 916 441 7966
http://www.fatsrestaurants.com... When you enter this dining spot you will see a 30-foot waterfall. The dining area is jade and fuchsia with a splash of royal blue. The walls are decorated with copper. The menu features Chef Lina Fat's creations, such as Honey Walnut Prawns, Spicy Orange Chicken, and Black Pepper Kobe Beef Stir Fry. Start your meal with appetizers, soups or salads. Mixed drinks, beer and wine are also available. Reservations are recommended and banquet rooms are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Richard Chu
Photo: Robert Luna

Downtown/Midtown

Sacramento
United States
The focal point of downtown is the Downtown Plaza, reached from Old Sacramento through a pedestrian tunnel. This open-air mall (cooled with suspended ¡°misters¡± during the summer) features a megaplex movie theater, department stores, a bookstore, specialty clothing stores and much more. Plaza shoppers are entertained by strolling musicians, jugglers, acrobats and mimes. The trees grab the attention of the first-time visitor to the Midtown district. Throughout the city, there are more than 250,000 varieties of fruit, flowering and palm trees. Many of the trees are huge elms and oaks planted by homesick settlers. In the summers, when temperatures average in the high 90s, the cool shade of the trees is welcome. Along the shaded streets are several cutting-edge theaters, a diversity of art galleries, fine and down-home dining establishments, as well as nightspots catering to every taste.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Ernesto's

Authentic Mexican cuisine 1901 16th St
Sacramento, CA 95814
United States
+1 916 441 5850
http://www.ernestosmexicanfood... Enjoy al fresco dining under the tall trees in a bustling Midtown neighborhood, or indoors, where the decor is cheerfully tropical with mariachi music in the background. The cuisine is Mexican with a definite flair for healthy and interesting interpretations of traditional fare: burritos, carnitas and more. You will not find greasy tortillas filled with lard-laden refried beans at this popular spot. This is a vegetarian-friendly place. Beer and Margaritas are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Ernesto's photo by wcities
Photo: wcities

Fanny Anne's Saloon

Get crazy 1023 Second Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
United States
This is an old-fashioned beer and burger joint. The saloon is three stories featuring an arcade on the top floor, booth-style seating on the second, and a full bar on the ground floor. There is no way to describe the memorabilia in the place (like the rhinoceros head). Besides beer, mixed drinks, and shots, the place makes a really good hamburger. The crowd is friendly and often pretty loud.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Fanny Anne's Saloon photo by wcities
Photo: wcities

Hard Rock Cafe

Theme restaurant with DJs in downtown 545 Downtown Plaza
Ste C #103
Sacramento, CA 95814
United States
+1 916 441 5591
http://www.hardrock.com By day, Hard Rock Cafe maintains a normal run-of-the-mill corporate ambiance. The walls are packed with rock star photos, vintage guitars, psychedelic posters, gold records, album covers and other music memorabilia. The menu features burgers, chicken, soups, and salads. A full bar is available, as well as nightly drink specials. This is a popular place to meet friends after work for a drink and appetizers. In the evening, the atmosphere changes to loud and noisy when local DJs play music in this museum-like space.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Harlow's

Exotic Cuisine, Jazz & Fine Cigars 2708 J St
Sacramento, CA 95816
United States
+1 916 441 4693
http://www.harlows.com This is a fine dining restaurant offering a romantic atmosphere, jazz music and plenty of opportunities to dance. The menu features California cuisine with Asian and Italian influences. Start your meal with a wide array of appetizer choices (called "Nibbles" on the menu). Entrees range from familiar choices like Grilled New York Steak to more unique fare, such as the House Made Chicken Curry Ravioli. After dinner, enjoy live music and dancing or venture upstairs to the MoMo Lounge for cool drinks in a classy setting.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Morton's The Steakhouse

Pricey But Terrific Steaks 521 L St
(at 6th St)
Sacramento, CA 95814
United States
+1 916 442 5091
http://www.mortons.com If you want to really impress a guest who likes plenty of red meat served in a clubby environment at wallet-busting prices, take them to Morton's. This elegant downtown spot features a wide variety of excellent meat dishes like filet mignon (with Bearnaise sauce and potatoes Lyonnaise with caramelized onions), or just a good old steak. A full service bar offers a variety of beverages including the special house Martini.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Morton's The Steakhouse photo by wcities
Photo: wcities

North Sacramento

Sacramento
United States
Across the American River, this old neighborhood centered on Del Paso Boulevard has more than a dozen galleries, including Michael Himovitz Gallery one of the largest galleries exhibiting nationally recognized artists. Today, spiffed up and known as Uptown, the area has also attracted interesting restaurants and cafes, and other businesses busily renovating the old neighborhood. To the east is Arden Fair Mall, with theaters, restaurants and a multitude of shopping opportunities.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Old Sacramento

Sacramento
United States
Since its humble beginnings as a tent city, Sacramento's fate has been intertwined with its namesake, the Sacramento River. Today, Old Sacramento is a 12-block restored neighborhood between the river and Interstate 5 and is a state historic district with interesting old stone and brick buildings. There is a world-class comedy club, a live theatre, elegant restaurants with sweeping views of the river, candy stores, costume shops, pubs and bookstores to be found along the canopied plank sidewalks.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Pilothouse Restaurant on the Delta King

Fine dining on a riverboat 1000 Front St
(Old Sacramento)
Sacramento, CA 95814
United States
+1 916 441 4440
http://www.deltaking.com/pilot... This is a popular restaurant located on the restored Delta King paddlewheel riverboat. The view of the Sacramento River is scenic and the dining is elegant. The interior has polished hardwood and brass, seafaring art and memorabilia. Seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta dishes are staples of the menu; start your meal with a fancy Caesar salad prepared at your table. Mixed drinks, beer and wine are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Tim Bodea

Rio City Cafe

Magnificent View: Sumptuous Cuisine on the River 1110 Front St
Sacramento, CA 95814
United States
+1 916 442 8226
http://www.riocitycafe.com Sunsets are especially picturesque from the outdoor patio at this dining spot. The interior features creamy plaster trimmed with blond wood, a long bar, white tablecloths and tall windows. In harmony with the natural beauty of the restaurant and its location, the menu features seafood entrees such as Roasted Salmon and Dungeness crab cakes as an appetizer. The beef lover will want to try the New York Steak or Prime Rib. The wine list is extensive and you can purchase wine by the glass or bottle.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Emma

Rusty Duck Restaurant & Saloon

Warm Cozy Dining 500 Bercut Dr
Sacramento, CA 95814
United States
+1 916 441 1191
http://www.rustyduckrestaurant... Rusty Duck Restaurant & Saloon specializes in seafood and steaks served in a warm, homey atmosphere that will appeal to the entire family. The building is a restored fishing lodge on the American River. Paintings of hunting and fishing scenes adorn the walls, and a rock fireplace adds to the rustic ambiance. All house specialties listed are of the seafood variety, but the menu also boasts an assortment of beef, ribs, and poultry dishes. Beer, mixed drinks and a variety of Pacific Coast wines are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Robert L. Calixto

Zinfandel Grille

Upscale dining and good food 705 Gold Lake Dr
Sacramento, CA 95630
United States
+1 916 985 6171
http://www.zinfandelgrille.com/ This restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with trendy decor. The menu consists of nicely-crafted seasonal dishes of pasta, calzone, pizza and meat entrees. Be sure to leave room for the house special tiramisu or one of the other decadent desserts. A full service bar is available; however, wine is available only by the glass.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Zinfandel Grille photo by wcities
Photo: wcities

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