This upscale beaut in downtown Sacramento is equal parts rustic and refined, with floor-to-ceiling curtains, thick linens and a colorful overhang comprised of antique wood. You’re likely to be seated among regulars, who can be found chatting with the attentive staff and sampling their wine pairing suggestions (there are plenty of half-glass options for the lunchtime Capitol crowd). The menu offers creative takes on global dishes, including a salad of vine-ripened, handpicked, heirloom tomatoes with shaved radish, avocado purée, and a dill dressing enriched with ricotta salata. Perfectly crispy Southern fried chicken is a staple and rightfully so.
The bar is a great place to linger—with an expertly prepared cocktail, like the house gin and tonic.