Brian Nagele
Sacramento is one of the loveliest cities in all of California. This state capital sits right on the American and Sacramento Rivers and has a rich history dating back to the 1848 Gold Rush. Today, Sacramento is a bustling city packed with culture, arts, nature, and some of the best dining in the entire state. Sacramento is one of the most incredible places in California to see Gold Rush-era relics mingling with modern buildings and art.
So if you’re interested in having a truly unique experience or consider yourself an American history buff, Sacramento is a city you have to visit. Of course, after a full day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than sitting down to an excellent meal at one of Sacramento’s finest restaurants. So whether you’re in the mood for locally-sourced food or classic brunch fare, you’ll find it in Sacramento.
Roxy Restaurant & Bar
2381 Fair Oaks Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95825
Phone: 916-489-2000
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Just a few minutes away from Loehmann’s Plaza Shopping Center, you’ll find Roxy Restaurant & Bar, a Sacramento staple for the hungry brunch crowd. The ambiance at Roxy Restaurant & Bar is charming, welcoming, and strikes the right chord between casual and fine dining.
Their brunch menu is exceptional, too, with comfort food style breakfasts and lunches that really hit the spot. Roxy Restaurant & Bar really does the simple stuff right. I love their poached eggs on toast and their homestyle oatmeal. Their servers are accommodating too and can explain anything and everything on the menu.
The Porch Restaurant & Bar
1815 K St, Sacramento, CA 95811
Phone: 916-444-2423
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The Porch Restaurant & Bar is two blocks away from Sacramento’s St. John’s Lutheran Church, and it has one of the best boozy brunches in the city. This place tends to get really crowded, so it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance for the dinner and brunch rushes.
If you do have to wait, simply grab one of their signature drinks and relax at the bar while your table is prepared. Personally, I prefer more savory food at The Porch Restaurant & Bar. Their Skillet Mac & Cheese is absolutely heavenly, and you can get it with a bit of extra crispy bacon. Their burgers are top-notch as well. If you want a touch of sweet and savory, try out their Chicken & Waffles.
Tower Cafe
1518 Broadway, Sacramento, CA 95818
Phone: 916-441-0222
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Sacramento’s famous Tower Cafe is just a few blocks away from the Sacramento Historic City Cemetery. It is one of the hottest spots in Sacramento for locals and visitors in the know. The Tower Cafe has exceptional service.
Many of their staff members have been part of the team for several years, and they know the menu inside and out. Their signature drinks are lovely. Try the Blackberry-Basil Margarita for a fruity, summery twist on a classic drink. I like their Huevos Rancheros. It’s just spicy enough without being overpowering. Other local favorites include the Cornmeal Blueberry Pancakes and hearty French Toast.
Bacon & Butter
5913 Broadway, Sacramento, CA 95820
Phone: 916-346-4445
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With a name like Bacon & Butter, you know that you’re going to be getting some excellent comfort food. This restaurant definitely delivers on that promise. Bacon & Butter is one convenient block away from Tahoe Park and features a quaint but welcoming atmosphere, amazing pastries, and great signature and classic cocktails.
My personal favorite is the Cali Burrito. It comes packed with all the fixings and a side of perfectly prepared potatoes. The biscuits are flaky, delicious, and homemade as well.
Carol’s Restaurant
1201 W Capitol Ave, West Sacramento, CA 95691
Phone: 916-372-4631
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Carol’s Restaurant is right across the street from the City of West Sacramento City Hall. It serves wholesome breakfast favorites in a comfortable atmosphere that will definitely remind you of home. When you visit Carol’s Restaurant, you should absolutely get the classics. Any of their egg dishes are a great bet, and savvy visitors know that they should get extra bacon with their orders.
You’ll also find delicious hash browns at Carol’s Restaurant. Their version of hash browns is never greasy and just crunchy enough. It’s also a very cost-effective place to dine. You can get a great meal for under $10.
Orphan Breakfast House
3440 C St, Sacramento, CA 95816
Phone: 916-442-7370
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Right across the street from the Diagnostic Pathology Medical Group in Sacramento, you’ll find the Orphan Breakfast House. This local haunt serves exceptional Tamales with delicious avocado, beans, and a perfectly fried egg. If you have a sweet tooth, you can’t go wrong with their Cinnamon French Toast.
Brunch purists will like Orphan Breakfast House’s homemade pancakes and strong coffee. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a savory spin on your pancakes by opting for Orphan Breakfast House’s cheese, bacon, and jalapeno topping.
You will be hard-pressed to find something you don’t love at Orphan Breakfast House, from classic fare to unique spins on breakfast foods.
Zocalo
Multiple locations
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Visit any of Zocalo’s multiple locations in and around Sacramento, and you’re bound to have an excellent dining experience. These restaurants are a great place to stop for brunch or a fine way to wind down after a long day of sightseeing in Sacramento.
Zocalo’s portions are always generous, with giant burritos, huge salads, and massive servings of fresh tortillas. Some of my brunch favorites definitely include their Amaretto-Infused French Toast covered in fresh strawberries, almonds, maple syrup, and a heaping serving of whipped cream and their Huevos Rancheros with flavorful beans and perfectly prepared eggs. Of course, there are plenty of vegetarian options as well.
Cafeteria 15L
1116 15th St, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-492-1960
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Cafeteria 15L is right next to the California State Capitol Park, and it’s one of the city’s most popular places to grab brunch. As such, you should definitely make reservations, especially if you have a larger party. Cafeteria 15L does brunch right, with a bottomless mimosa menu and plenty of sweet and savory food that will hit the spot.
They do an excellent rendition of a cobb salad packed with fresh vegetables and a lovely dressing. Their signature Brioche French Toast is exceptional, and their Malt Waffles are an exciting twist on an old favorite.
Iron Horse Tavern
1800 15th St, Sacramento, CA 95811
Phone: 916-448-4488
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You will find Iron Horse Tavern just a few blocks away from John C. Fremont Park. This comfortable and welcoming Sacramento brunch spot serves your classic comfort food and a few signature dishes. Iron Horse Tavern is a great place to go if you like sandwiches. Try their Prime Rib Sandwich. It’s packed with perfectly cooked meat and served alongside homemade potato chips.
The Iron Horse Tavern also serves up some of the best beignets that you’ll find outside of Louisiana. Get them with vanilla, chocolate, and raspberry sauce for a special sweet treat. They also serve some Korean favorites like Bahn Mi if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous.
Crepeville
1730 L St, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-444-1100
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Crepeville is across the street from St. John’s Lutheran Church, and, as the name suggests, they serve exceptional crepes with inspired fillings. If you want a lighter and more cosmopolitan spin on brunch, check out Crepeville. I love their Cheese Crepes. They’re almost like a lighter version of an omelet without being too much food.
If you want to forgo the crepes for something a little bit more substantial, you really can’t go wrong with their Eggs Benedict. The hollandaise sauce is expertly prepared, has excellent consistency, and comes with just the right amount of citrusy tang.
Rio City Cafe
1110 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-442-8226
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If you want to have brunch overlooking the Sacramento River, Rio City Cafe is your best bet. This Sacramento hotspot is right in the heart of Old Sacramento and offers an unparalleled view and a great brunch. In addition, Rio City Cafe is a reasonably priced place to eat for Old Sacramento.
One thing that really stands out for me at Rio City Cafe is the service. Their staff knows everything about the menu and can give you recommendations based upon your dietary needs or preferences. Try the Rio Prime Rib Dip for a meaty, flavorful twist on a classic sandwich. Their Crab Benedict is lovely too. It’s light, delicious, and comes with perfectly poached eggs.
Public House Downtown
1132 16th St, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-446-0888
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A few blocks away from the State Capitol Park World Peace Rose Garden, you will find Public House Downtown. Locals know it as the place to get a great breakfast and brunch, as well as an exceptional spot to enjoy a cold beer. Public House Downtown has 60 beers on tap and a robust menu that’s certain to satisfy any palate.
It’s also a massive place with both indoor and outdoor seating. Try their Cinnamon Roll French Toast with a delicately-flavored cream cheese glaze. It’s topped with plenty of powdered sugar. I like their classic 2 Egg Breakfast with crispy bacon or gourmet sausage, potatoes, toast, and eggs prepared your way.
Dad’s Kitchen
2968 Freeport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95818
Phone: 916-447-3237
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Dad’s Kitchen is relatively close to McClatchy School Park, and it’s an excellent place to go if you want an unpretentious, delicious breakfast that won’t break your bank account. Their food is expertly balanced and always served with a smile. I like their Dirty Blonde Sandwich. It’s got a good kick and goes really well with a light amber ale.
Dad’s Kitchen also makes great bacon. It’s crunchy without being overdone and not overly greasy. If you’re a burger lover, Dad’s Kitchen is the spot for you. Their portions tend to be pretty huge, so be prepared to share your meal or even take some home for later.
Old Soul Co.
Multiple locations
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Old Soul Co. has multiple locations in and around Sacramento, so there’s a good chance that no matter where you’re staying, there’s one near you. One thing that you can expect at any Old Soul Co. is terrific service. Their team certainly knows how to make you feel welcome, and they can make any adjustments to the menu that you need.
Try their homemade pastries, exceptionally fresh coffee, or omelets. Personally, I like their veggie omelet, which comes with just the right amount of cheese. Their scones are good too, and you can get them in both savory and sweet varieties.
Hook and Ladder Manufacturing Company
1630 S St, Sacramento, CA 95811
Phone: 916-442-4885
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A few minutes away from Truitt Bark Park you will find Hook and Ladder Manufacturing Company. This particular Sacramento favorite specializes in farm-to-table food, and really makes the most of seasonal and local ingredients. Their food tends to be fairly simple, but made with love and the flavors shine through.
If you go, try some of their more off-the-beaten-path menu items. I’ve found that even if the flavor combinations seem strange, the end product is generally exceptional. Their Impossible Reuben with vegan dressing is a must-try, and any of their fish dishes are usually right on point.
