25 Essential Sacramento Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Sacramento.
The Kitchen Restaurant
California
High-end eatery offering fixed-price New American dinners in a convivial open-kitchen setting.
MF Gyros & Burgers
California
an everyday essential table known for disciplined hamburger restaurant cooking, strong local gravity, and Beam Score momentum at 88.0.
Mezcal Grill
California
Unassuming locale serving Mexican standards such as fajitas, tacos, ceviches & molcajete specials.
Kru | Contemporary Japanese Cuisine
Sacramento, California
Enduring Japanese eatery & sushi bar infusing classic dishes with international flavors.
The Sandwich Spot
Sacramento, California
Regional chain known for original, cheekily named sandwiches, plus a build-your-own option & salads.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Sacramento, California
Outpost of upmarket steakhouse chain known for sizzling, butter-topped beef in an elegant setting.
Jamie's Broadway Grille
Sacramento, California
Lively, longtime meat-centric locale known for smoked prime rib, also offering daily specials.
Iron Horse Tavern - R St. Sacramento
Sacramento, California
Creative American fare dished up in a hip gastropub with outdoor seating & leather banquettes.
Midtown's Cantina Alley
Sacramento, California
Upbeat, modern destination for Mexican street food & cocktails served on a bustling patio.
Black Bear Diner Natomas
Sacramento, California
Easygoing chain serving familiar all-day comfort food & desserts in a woodsy setting.
Lalo's Restaurant
Sacramento, California
Unassuming, informal joint with many less common Mexican dishes & barbacoa specials on the weekend.
Masullo
Sacramento, California
Elevated eatery offering wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza & other Italian fare, plus beer & wine.
Wayback Burgers
Sacramento, California
Made-to-order burgers & milkshakes fill out the menu at this quick-serve chain with retro decor.
Oshima Sushi Sports Bar
Sacramento, California
Japanese outpost for sushi boats, classic dishes & cocktails in a swanky, lounge-style space.
Café Dantorels
Sacramento, California
Local counter-serve chain featuring sweet & savory crepes, plus sandwiches, pasta & omelettes.
Cacio
Sacramento, California
Identifies as women-owned. Service options: Outdoor seating, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Great dessert, Great wine list. Popular for: Lunch.
Monsoon Burger
Sacramento, California
Modern fast food joint serving gourmet & garden burgers & hot dogs with sides & a kids' menu.
The Old Spaghetti Factory
Sacramento, California
Family-friendly chain eatery featuring traditional Italian entrees amid turn-of-the-century decor.
Orphan
Sacramento, California
Casual local cafe offering an eclectic menu that integrates Latin flavors and updated old favorites.
Stagecoach Restaurant
Sacramento, California
Country-style eatery with Old West decor serving Southern comfort grub for breakfast & lunch.
La Fiesta Alteña Taquería | Sacramento
Sacramento, California
Casual Mexican restaurant with a selection of familiar eats, including burritos, enchiladas & tacos.
Il Fornaio
Sacramento, California
Upmarket chain for Italian dining, including freshly made pasta & bread from an in-house bakery.
Moxie Restaurant
Sacramento, California
Enduring option serving a rotating menu of elevated American cooking & wine in a convivial setting.
Shake Shack Ice Blocks
Sacramento, California
Hip, counter-serve chain for gourmet takes on fast-food classics like burgers & frozen custard.
Bánh Mì House
Sacramento, California
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot.