The best bites in Sacramento: Where to eat in America’s farm-to-fork capital
Discover local favorites, hidden gems, and culinary experiences in Sacramento’s top neighborhoods for food lovers.
Edited by Taylor Cahan | November 6, 2025
Widely recognized for their commitment to a farm-to-fork philosophy, Sacramento restaurants celebrate the region's seasonal bounty with menus that often change weekly or even daily. Whether you're drawn to Midtown Sacramento restaurants with inventive brunches, riverside classics in Old Sacramento, or hidden gems in Natomas, each neighborhood invites you to dig in and discover something new.
Explore the Sacramento food scene
Midtown Sacramento
Midtown is known for its vibrant creative energy, where walkable streets are lined with chef-driven restaurants, vegan cafes, and global eateries that showcase Sacramento's farm-to-fork spirit. Many menus highlight the freshest local ingredients and change frequently, reflecting the city's seasonal bounty. Start off with a quick coffee and pastry from Old Soul Co. or opt for a heartier brunch at Sibling by Pushkin's or The Morning Fork. For lunch, vegan favorites like Veg Café & Bar draw crowds with inventive takes on classic dishes. For dinner, you can’t go wrong with the tasting at Localis or the ever-changing options at Mulvaney's B&L. After your meal, explore vibrant galleries, colorful street art, or catch live music in cozy venues. Settle in at The Fort Sutter Hotel Sacramento, Tapestry Collection by Hilton right in Midtown, where you’ll enjoy light-filled guest rooms, a lobby art gallery featuring works by local artists, and a farm-to-fork cafe and buzzworthy bar.
Downtown Sacramento
Downtown is the city's culinary crossroads, where innovative restaurants, lively bars, and farm-to-fork dining converge. From the historic Chinese American institution Frank Fat's near the State Capitol to modern farm-to-table gems like Ella Dining Room & Bar near the Golden 1 Center, downtown Sacramento's culinary identity echoes the city-wide commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The area buzzes at night, with locals and visitors mingling over small plates and seasonal specialties before and after catching a show or film at the neighborhood’s historic theaters and performing arts centers. For a boutique stay in the heart of downtown, The Exchange Sacramento, Curio Collection by Hilton offers stylish rooms, its own restaurant featuring flavors from Southern Italy and the Mediterranean, and easy access to Downtown’s top dining destinations.
Old Sacramento
The historic Old Sacramento neighborhood invites you to step back in time along cobblestone streets lined with Gold Rush-era buildings and riverfront patios. Classic American fare, casual bites, and sweet shops like Candy Heaven make it a favorite for families and anyone craving comfort food with a view. Enjoy fine dining at The Firehouse Restaurant, a casual meal at Railroad Fish & Chips followed by a stroll along the river, a visit to the California State Railroad Museum or Crocker Art Museum, or a scenic cruise on the Sacramento River. Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade is ideally located right at the water's edge, with spacious suites, free made-to-order breakfast, convenient in-suite dining, and views of the iconic Tower Bridge.
Natomas
Natomas is an emerging neighborhood where global eats and local favorites come together. From international cuisine at spots like Himalaya MoMo and Chef Frank Japanese Cuisine to classic diners and local craft breweries, Natomas is home to some of Sacramento's hidden gems. The area is easily accessible from downtown and the airport via Interstate 5, making it ideal for sampling a diverse range of flavors. Stay close to the neighborhood’s evolving food scene at Hilton Garden Inn Sacramento Airport Natomas. Enjoy convenient amenities like on-site dining and drinks, a free airport shuttle, and a sparkling outdoor pool and fire pit.
East Sacramento
East Sacramento is known for its tree-lined streets, cozy cafes, and beloved bakeries. Brunch culture thrives here, with local favorites like Orphan Breakfast House, Mimosa House, and Casa East Sac creating a welcoming atmosphere with robust offerings. After a leisurely meal, take a stroll through the McKinley Park Farmers Market or browse neighborhood boutiques. Hampton Inn and Suites Sacramento at CSUS is a short drive away on the eastern edge of the neighborhood, offering comfortable rooms and suites, free hot breakfast, and plenty of East Sacramento's laid-back charm.
Arden-Arcade
Arden-Arcade offers a blend of shopping, international cuisine, and family-friendly dining. Arden Fair Mall anchors the neighborhood, surrounded by a diverse array of restaurants serving everything from sushi to Mediterranean fare. Try Urban Plates for healthy, chef-driven fast-casual dishes near Arden Fair Mall or explore the neighborhood's international favorites like The Kabob House and Kind Bean Café and Ethiopian Cuisine. It's an excellent area for combining a meal with retail therapy or a visit to local parks. Across the street from Arden Fair Mall is DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sacramento, offering its own assortment of all-day dining options, including a to-go coffee counter, café, and happy hour club.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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