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Welcome to Sacramento, a gem in California where cuisine becomes an unforgettable journey. Imagine walking down vibrant streets, each turn inviting you to experience something extraordinary. This guide is your treasure map to the city’s most unique dining locations. From rooftops with breathtaking views to cozy corners filled with history, Sacramento offers a feast for the senses.
Here, every meal tells a story, and each restaurant is a universe of its own. Whether you’re craving the comfort of a classic dish or the thrill of something new, you’ll discover a place that feels like it was made just for you. We’ve scoured the city to bring you a selection of dining experiences that stand out for their creativity, atmosphere, and, of course, delicious food.
These aren’t your typical eateries; they’re destinations that promise memorable moments and flavors that persist long after the meal is over. Join us on a journey through Sacramento’s dining scene, where every visit is an opportunity to discover something extraordinary.
1. Bottle and Barlow
Bottle and Barlow appears as a gem among unique restaurants in Sacramento. This innovative location merges the art of cocktails and barbering into one seamless experience. Created by Jayson Wilde and Anthony Giannotti, it’s a place where the buzz of clippers meets the clink of glasses, offering a distinct twist to your usual outing.
The interior, with its art deco flair, invites visitors to indulge in a drink while they wait for a cut or shave. The cocktail menu is a playful blend of flavors and clever names, from the refreshing “Passion of the Cross” to the smooth “Kiss & Tell.” At Bottle and Barlow, the objective is to make every visit memorable, blending the best of both worlds under one roof.
2. The Butterscotch Den
Bringing a slice of the past into the present with its ’70s-inspired atmosphere is The Butterscotch Den in Sacramento. This new spot on Broadway, once known as Arthur Henry’s Supper Club and Ruby Room, has endured a transformation. Now, it offers an intimate atmosphere with plush booths, patterned wallpaper, and a mirrored back bar, all under a warm, inviting glow.
As one of the coolest restaurants in Sacramento, The Butterscotch Den revives classic drinks with a modern twist and serves them alongside affordable, delectable dishes. Imagine sipping on a freezer martini for $8 or savoring an 8-ounce top sirloin for just $10.
3. Bawk!
Southern comfort meets Sacramento flare in Bawk! on R Street. This spot serves up vodka-battered fried chicken that’s crispy, flavorful, and simply delicious. The secret? A unique dry cure and a vodka-infused wet batter, ensuring every morsel is a crunchy delight. The chefs behind Bawk! have spent years refining this recipe, making it a standout in the city’s culinary scene.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is as bold as its flavors. With a decor that alludes to an abandoned Parisian train station, it’s a place where art meets appetite. Bawk! isn’t just about great poultry; it’s about creating an experience. From the mural of Muhammad Ali to the graffiti-adorned walls, every detail contributes to the ambiance.
4. Clayton Club Rooftop Lounge
Located atop the Hyatt Centric Downtown, Clayton Club Rooftop Lounge offers a unique combination of history and modern flair. With vinyl records lining the walls, the lounge pays tribute to jazz luminaries like Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday, offering a cozy location to enjoy the evening.
The lounge’s decor and ambiance transport visitors back to a vibrant era of music. The creative drink menu brings vintage cocktails into today with a twist, promising a flavor of the past in every sip. It’s more than a bar; it’s a journey through time.
5. Darling Aviary
Darling Aviary in downtown Sacramento offers a distinctive dining experience with a view. This rooftop site brings a touch of history to life, inspired by Victorian “flight cages.” It’s a place where the past meets the present, offering visitors a chance to dine among reminders of a bygone era.
The restaurant’s design features elements like mounted tree branches and a life-size birdcage, establishing a special and cool atmosphere right from the start. It’s not just about the ambiance; the cuisine and drinks are equally impressive, with a focus on quality and creativity.
6. Punch Bowl Social
In Midtown Sacramento, Punch Bowl Social is a hotspot for entertainment and games. Located in the Kimpton The Sawyer Hotel, this place is a blend of old-school and modern entertainment. Think bowling, arcade games, and gigantic board games, all under one roof. It’s a sprawling 25,000-square-foot venue where you can play, dine, and drink.
The atmosphere here is quirky and modern, with decor that catches the eye and large windows offering views of downtown. It’s ideal for date nights or hanging out with friends. Whether you visit by day or night, Punch Bowl Social has a distinct energy, transforming from a chill spot to a lively scene as the evening rolls in.
7. The Cabin
The Cabin in Midtown Sacramento introduces a slice of Tahoe’s cozy charm to the city. Eric Rushing and Bret Bair, known for their vibrant local venues, have created a space that feels like a mountain retreat. With its rustic ambiance, this establishment offers a unique escape.
Among unique Sacramento restaurants, The Cabin genuinely stands out. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by the scent of pine, a striking bear carving, and the warm glow of a digital fireplace. The decor, featuring nature murals by John Horton, transports you to a tranquil forest setting.
8. Dive Bar
Thanks to its distinct underwater theme, Dive Bar is a place where fantasy becomes reality. Here, visitors are treated to an extraordinary experience with live mermaid performances in a 40-foot saltwater aquarium. It’s a spectacle that combines modern elegance with a touch of magic.
As one of the most captivating themed restaurants in Sacramento, Dive Bar sets itself apart. The venue is alive with the enchantment of the sea, offering nightly performances that dazzle and entertain. Bartenders construct special drinks, adding to the aquatic adventure, while live DJs and stunning tank light-shows elevate the experience.
9. Star Lounge
Star Lounge just opened up in midtown Sacramento, and it’s shaking things up in a cool old building that’s been around for nearly a century. This place isn’t just about grabbing a drink; it’s like stepping back in time with a view of Sutter’s Fort directly out the window. Housed in the new Hyatt House, Star Lounge mixes the old with the new, preserving some of the original 1928 vibes alive.
Here, you can try dishes like flatbreads or hummus and dive into some seriously excellent eats like rib-eye dinners or smashburgers whipped up by Chef Graham Forbes. The alcohol scene? It’s on point. With a wine list that’s got a French twist and cocktails that change with the seasons, there’s always something new to sample.
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10. Edgewater Coastal Bar & Grill
For a unique dining experience that’s all about fire, smoke, and BBQ, travel to Edgewater Coastal Bar & Grill. Located within Velocity Island Resort in Woodland, California, this spot is a bit of a journey from Sacramento but worth the trek. They pride themselves on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients for their dishes, which range from American barbecue and wood-fired pizza to seafood.
As one of the unique restaurants in Sacramento and its environs, Edgewater stands out for its stunning waterfront views, casual vibe, and friendly service. The menu is a celebration of American culinary traditions, flawlessly complemented by a selection of 16 craft beers, wines, and cocktails.