Food & Drink
Where the Chefs Eat
Who’s hungry? We are! Which got us thinking: “Who better to ask for great restaurant recommendations than a bunch of the region’s top chefs?” We’re talking Michelin-rated chefs, as well as chefs who have cooked for U.S. presidents, one who has won a James Beard Award, and more. In all, we asked 15 local culinary leaders where they like to go after they’ve hung up their aprons.
Dinner and a Showstopper
All the culinary world’s a stage at the ambitious new omakase restaurant Okesutora. After honing his skills at the celebrated sushi chain Nobu, chef Hieu Phan returns to his native Sacramento to deliver sea-worthy flavors with a dash of storytelling and a splash of spectacle in midtown.
The Unofficial Ted Lasso Cookbook
Our favorite fish-and-chips-out-of-water “football” coach—Ted Lasso—might’ve left his team for good, but thanks to a new cookbook by two local food bloggers, we can relive some of the tastiest TV moments (yes, even those biscuits!) from the glorious eponymous series that made us all believers. We dare you not to ... binge.
Mother of Reinvention
Talk about many happy returns: The team behind Mother—which closed in 2020—relaunches the celebrated vegetarian restaurant with an "evolved, grown-up version" in a bigger, splashier space, while bringing back fan favorites like its signature chile verde and nostalgic carrot nut burger.
Michelin Mash-Up
Two local Michelin-rated chefs join forces to open an authentic yet innovative Mexican cantina in Folsom. Could Michelin come calling again?
Ramen Revival
Shoki devotees, rejoice: Two years after closing their last beloved noodle nook, husband-wife owners Yasushi and Kathy Ueyama relaunch with a smaller menu but bigger flavors. Can we get a ramen amen?
Aero México
Head south of the border this summer with a taco flight that’ll take you on a high-flying culinary adventure
Eastern Eden
Head east for a delicious oasis without leaving town. The Slough House Kitchen offers a haven from the hustle of city life with desert-island-worthy dishes and an escapist patio made for watching summer sunsets while sipping a glass of Amador zin.
The 2026 Courtland Pear Fair
In the tiny Delta town of Courtland, the last Sunday of July is known as the “Big Day”—a celebration in honor of its primary crop, the pear.
Best New Global Chocolate Emporium
Downtown Sacramento’s Cafe Xocolatl, a “chocolate, tea & elixir communal cafe,” offers 200 varieties of chocolates from around the world.
Eat Eco
Greener eggs and ham ... and chicken and carrots. Restaurants around town, from Mulvaney’s in midtown to Almighty in El Dorado Hills, are dishing out planet-wise plates and raising their sustainability game.
Love Shack
The Urban Roots team brings new life to a beloved East Sacramento hangout, retaining its unique flavor while reimagining it with a Mexican comfort menu. Cervecería at The Shack, welcome to the neighborhood.
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