Sam's Hof Brau
Essential Information
There’s no getting around it: Sam’s Hof Brau (which reverted to its original name in 2009) is old school. At this 58-year-old place with the can’t-miss-it neon sign, you’ll be happy to line up and do a slow cafeteria shuffle for perfect pastrami, prime rib, roast turkey and other meats, skillfully sliced by the carvers behind the counter. Try the Reuben (get it toasted), the French dip or the Germanic daily specials (bratwurst, Bavarian roast chicken), and marvel at the décor in the dark, expansive interior, from historic Sacramento photos to pink-shaded chandeliers to a stained-glass panel that accurately reads, “Drink for the thirsty, food for the hungry.” It’s all a nostalgic, yummy trip back in time.