It’s always interesting to return to somewhere we’re familiar with to see how much it has changed. Many new delights can be found and that was the case for Real Food Traveler’s Hospitality Editor, Ron Stern, upon his return to Sacramento, California – especially when it came to the food scene.
Save this article about Sacramento California’s food scene to Pinterest. Photos by Ron Stern. Graphic by RealFoodTraveler.com.
Sacramento Revisited: 8 Unexpected Food Finds
Having lived in Sacramento years ago, returning revealed a city transformed into a vibrant culinary powerhouse. From its 15 Michelin-rated restaurants to the celebrated farm-to-table movement, California’s capital now boasts a diverse culinary tapestry. Whether it’s small neighborhood eateries, casual to upscale dining, or global cuisine, Sacramento will have your taste buds hopping from morning to night.
While exploring Sacramento’s food culture could easily take years, a short visit revealed enough to leave me wishing I had more time. Here are eight of my top finds.
1.Sacramento’s Sunday Certified Farmer’s Market – State Parking Lot – Under Hwy 50 at 8th & W Streets
While there are plenty of outdoor farmers’ markets, this one, located beneath the Highway 50 overpass, is among the largest in the state.
Surrounded by fertile farmland, locals enjoy year-round produce and other goods. Thanks to the region’s mild climate, visitors will find an abundance of just-picked fruits and vegetables. Vendors were selling everything from farm-raised beef and raw honey to microgreens, sweet dates, and tangy persimmons. I even spotted something that looked like yellow fingers, known as Buddha’s hand, a fragrant citron fruit with a zesty lemon taste.
Warm pastries, creamy cheeses, and aromatic coffee fill the air, creating a delightful and leisurely way to start the day. With a vibrant mix of ranchers, dairies, and bakeries, the market serves up something for everyone.
The market is quite popular and tends to attract large crowds, so I suggest getting there early. Held every Sunday, it’s open all year from 8am to noon.
Just some of the vibrant vegetables you can find at the Sunday Certified Farmers Market in Sacramento.
2. Grange Restaurant & Bar- Citizen Hotel – 926 J St.
Situated in the stately and historic Citizen Hotel, Grange Restaurant & Bar has been consistently recognized by the Michelin Guide for excellence in dining. Advancing Sacramento’s ethical farm-to-table movement, it prioritizes carefully sourced vegetables and premium provisions from nearby farms.
Set in the heart of downtown, Grange immediately impresses with a contemporary, sleek design. I found that the two-story interior strikes a splendid balance between elegance and warmth, creating a cozy vibe without pretense. With high ceilings, wooden floors, orange-leather banquettes, and arched alcoves displaying bottles of wine, it’s no wonder Grange is considered a culinary must-try eatery.
Arriving in time for brunch, the lox-and-everything bagel sounded perfect and came fully loaded with herbed cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, cucumbers, and a generous portion of smoked salmon. It was just the right early-afternoon pick-me-up—satisfying without being too heavy.
Elevated lox and bagels look like art at Grange Restaurant and Bar in the Citizen Hotel.
3. Bawk! By Urban Roots – 1409 R St. #102
Part of the Urban Roots restaurant group, this self-proclaimed “chicken shop” and bar specializes in fried chicken. I found it on the R Street Corridor surrounded by other busy eateries. The interior decor is eclectic, featuring large art murals adorning the walls and a kaleidoscope of color everywhere, including the floor, which is awash in playful graffiti.
Chicken and waffles is one of their most popular dishes, alongside a variety of sandwich options. You can choose your level of heat, from Country (no heat) all the way to Bawk’n (bold enough to set your taste buds on fire).
I played it safe with the Country version, which was deliciously crunchy on the outside, juicy and tender inside. Sides include red beans and rice, coleslaw, and cornbread, but I went with the mac-and-cheese. Rich, gooey, and irresistibly creamy, it was a comforting classic.
They also offer a variety of cocktails, affectionately called Bawktails, along with beer and wine options. Non-alcoholic beverages are available, and the sweet tea complemented my sandwich perfectly.
At Bawk by Urban Roots, I found the crispiest fried chicken sandwich surrounded by fun and colorful murals.
4. Estelle’s Bakery and Patisserie – 615 David J. Stern Walk #100
With three locations in and around the city, this one is in the Downtown Commons, just opposite the Golden 1 Sports Center, home of Sacramento Kings basketball.
Estelle’s brings a taste of French charm to the city’s food scene. One social media user summarized it well, calling it “Magnifique!”
The display case is filled with colorful and tantalizing pastries: macarons, lemon tarts, chocolate croissants, and island passion cake. One bite of their wild honey bonbons hooked me with its lively taste, and I vowed to return before leaving town to indulge again!
In addition, they have a nice selection of breakfast and brunch items, including vanilla bean French toast, croque monsieur, nicoise salad, and vegetable quiche. I tried a couple of their sweet and savory dishes, and they were as good as any I’ve had in Europe.
My sweet and colorful breakfast with macarons and a poached pear at Estelles Bakery and Patisserie in Sacramento.
5. Camden Spit & Larder – 555 Capitol Mall #100
Drawing on his British roots, acclaimed chef Oliver Ridgeway has crafted a cosmopolitan, gastronomic oasis at Camden Spit & Larder. The restaurant sits in the evolving Capitol Mall, where historical landmarks like the State Capitol Building blend with a dynamic mix of diverse dining options.
With clean lines, light wood tones, blue accents, and an open kitchen, this playful London-themed restaurant feels both modern and charming. The spacious room and adjoining patio provide a comfortable setting to savor cocktails, a pint, or a great meal.
A leader in the Farm-to-Fork movement, Ridgeway lets handpicked produce and specialty items inspire his dishes. Dinner options include entrées like King Salmon, steak tartare, and hearty English meat pie.
I came for lunch and couldn’t resist some classic British sausage rolls served with a mustard-and-horseradish kick—authentic, simple, and wonderful! The day’s special was a BBQ chicken sandwich with cranberry-barbecue sauce, coleslaw, and housemade chips. Accompanied by a non-alcoholic lemon spritzer, my meal brought back fond memories of England and their traditional pub fare.
Chef Oliver Ridgeway brings a taste of London to his Camden Spit and Larder Restaurant like these British sausage rolls.
6. Canon – 1719 34th Street
Winner of its sixth Michelin Bib Gourmand, Canon stands out for its chef-driven, sharable plates. Tucked away in east Sacramento, it seems like the perfect escape from the downtown hustle and bustle.
I found the atmosphere informal and welcoming, with an industrial-chic design that blends modern touches with rustic accents. The space feels cozy and intimate, just right for a date night or gathering with friends.
The menu changes throughout the year, showcasing quick bites, hearty plates, and decadent desserts. Whether you’re after a snack to share or a full meal, there’s a little something for everyone. They also have a carefully curated selection of craft-cocktails, wines, and regional beers that complement beautifully with their rotating menu.
In the mood for just a nibble, my server suggested the chicken drumstick starter. Watching from my table, I could see the chef working on it in the open kitchen. After applying the finishing touches, the dish arrived beautifully presented and served with a smile. Prepared with Urfa chili sauce, orange, garlic, and yogurt, it fell right off the bone. The combination of sweet and savory paired nicely with my ginger beer.
I had an early reservation, and by the time I left, the place was buzzing. My advice is to book ahead to secure your preferred time.
Hungry for more? Read Ron’s article about Temecula Valley, California.
7. Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates – 2413 J Street #120
While there may be “kings” and “queens” of cuisine, I would dub Ginger Elizabeth Hahn the master chocolatier of Sacramento. From her early days harvesting blackberries and apples in Northern California, she refined her craft in the kitchens of New York City. She then turned her love of the cocoa bean into an art form.
Now at her boutique in the vibrant Handle District, Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates has earned national acclaim, with media publications calling her one of America’s finest chocolatiers.
Using her established network of trusted purveyors, Hahn incorporates fruits at peak ripeness, specialty nuts, and rich cream into artisanal chocolates that are almost too pretty to eat. Just the sound of these made my mouth water: Eureka Lemon Raspberry Rose, Buttermilk Lime, and Wildflower Honey Yoghurt are just a few of her inspired cast of confections.
But that’s just for starters, Hahn is also known for having some of the best hot chocolate in the city. Her evocative macarons, including her “Frozen Macaron Sandwich” made with her proprietary ice creams, are customer favorites.
This delectable raspberry almond cake is just one of the many reasons to visit Ginger Elizabeth Chocolate Shop.
8. The 7th Street Standard – 1122 7th Street
The interior of the 7th Street Standard features a chic, stylish design that complements the hotel’s Art Deco decor. Inventive, bold dishes take center stage here, with meals reflecting Chef Ravin Patel’s vision for creative expression. The atmosphere combines bygone-era sophistication with modern city flair.
Staying at the hotel, I headed down in the morning for breakfast. The menu includes French toast and breakfast burritos, as well as steak and eggs, each with their own gourmet twist. I opted for their 7th Street Standard with sunny-side eggs, thick-cut, peppered bacon, and fingerling potatoes—an ideal start to my morning.
This city’s food scene has changed dramatically since I lived here years ago. With a medley of tastes, it has become a haven for dining adventures and a hub for Michelin recognition. Surrounded by agricultural land, chefs can craft dishes using the finest harvest from nearby farms. This visit gave me a taste of how Sacramento continues to reinvent itself—and a few happy memories to take home.
Hungry for more? Read Ron’s article about Oceanside, California.
If You Go:
The Visit Sacramento website is a clearinghouse for just about everything you need to know about this city—from things to do, places to eat, and accommodations.
The Visit California (Sacramento) website is another helpful resource from the state’s official tourism office.
Where to Stay in Sacramento, California:
Hyatt Centric Downtown Sacramento – 1122 7th Street
Centrally located downtown, the Hyatt Centric is close to the State Capitol, shopping areas, and nearby restaurants. The property is a jazz-themed boutique hotel with a rich musical heritage. Legends like Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, and Billie Holiday once performed here when it operated as The Clayton Hotel.
Today, reminders of its history can be seen in the vinyl records and sound speakers displayed behind the check-in counter. They also appear in art posters, and even on the room keys bearing photos of the performers. You can still enjoy great music in their Clayton Lounge on the sixth floor.
The hotel has a contemporary Art Deco vibe, with colorful and playful accents in the lobby. My room had a comfy bed with plush, stylish furnishings and all the modern amenities. The hotel’s signature restaurant, The 7th Street Standard, is located just off the main lobby.
Things to Do In Sacramento:
Here are just a few things to see and do in this city. You can find more on the Visit Sacramento and Visit California websites.
California State Railroad Museum – 111 I Street
This is one of the largest railroad museums in the country, featuring full-sized locomotives from different eras along with vintage passenger cars. With more than 50,000 artifacts, it’s a treat for any train enthusiast.
Old Sacramento was just a short walk from my hotel. I passed through the bustling Downtown Commons retail corridor, less than a block away. This outdoor mall is packed with restaurants, boutiques, shops, and entertainment venues such as the Golden 1 Center—home to the Sacramento Kings.
Downtown Commons in Sacramento is where half the fun is, with shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.
I continued under the K-Street Tunnel, which led me to Old Sacramento. Except for the retail shops and restaurants, it looked much as I remembered. Wood-planked walkways, brick streets, and ornate building facades are colorful and historic reminders of the past.
This district runs alongside the old railway stations and the Sacramento River. The adjacent boardwalk led me past historic river-related sites, including the Central Pacific Railroad Depot (a historical landmark) and the California Steam Navigation Company, once used to ferry passengers to San Francisco.
Looking off to my left, I could see the impressive Tower Bridge. Painted in a shade meant to evoke gold, it has the distinction of being the shortest highway in California. Designated State Route 275, the roadway is a mere 738 feet long and one of Sacramento’s most striking landmarks.
The city grew through the efforts of a number of individuals, among them pioneers, miners, engineers, industrialists, and politicians, to name a few. Notable moments in its evolution are commemorated on plaques and signs throughout the Old Town District.
Crocker Art Museum – 216 O Street
One of the oldest art museums in the United States, it presents European classical paintings as well as works from many other countries. The museum is housed in Victorian-era buildings that are combined with modern architecture.
-Story and photos by Ron Stern, Real Food Traveler Hospitality Editor
Please note, as is common practice in this industry, this was a hosted visit, however, all opinions are honest and based on the author’s opinion for the purpose of informing our readers.
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