Al fresco dining has become a trending activity in the restaurant industry due to its appeal to customers seeking outdoor experiences amid the pandemic. Sacramento, California's capital city, offers several options for al fresco dining that cater to various tastes and preferences. From downtown restaurants with rooftop patios to riverfront eateries with picturesque views, there is no shortage of pleasant settings for diners looking to savor their meals outdoors.
The increasing demand for outdoor dining spaces has compelled many Sacramento restaurants to remodel their existing outdoor areas or create new ones. The result is an abundance of venues offering everything from casual breakfast spots and coffee shops to upscale fine-dining establishments suitable for romantic dates or special occasions.
Midtown: The Porch
Outdoor seating is a significant feature of any restaurant in Sacramento, especially during the summer months. The Porch, located in Midtown, offers an enjoyable al fresco dining experience with its charming outdoor patio that seats up to 50 guests. The ambiance is warm and inviting as it boasts beautiful string lights and rustic decor elements.
Apart from its cozy atmosphere, what sets The Porch apart is its Southern-inspired cuisine. Their menu features appetizing dishes such as shrimp and grits served with roasted red pepper sauce, smoked chicken wings dipped in Alabama white BBQ sauce, and crispy fried catfish accompanied by jalapeno hush puppies. With a wide selection of gluten-free options available on the menu, this establishment caters to diners with dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor or quality.
East Sacramento: Canon
Moving eastward from Midtown, we find ourselves in the charming neighborhood of East Sacramento. This area is known for its tree-lined streets and beautiful homes, making it a picturesque location for outdoor dining. One restaurant that stands out among the rest is Canon.
As soon as you step into Canon's outdoor seating area, you'll feel transported to another world. The cozy space is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene ambiance perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family. In addition to the stunning decor, Canon also offers an impressive menu selection featuring dishes such as their famous burger topped with bacon jam and caramelized onions, grilled octopus served on top of black garlic puree, and charred broccolini paired with romesco sauce. With options like these, there's something for everyone at Canon.
The outdoor ambiance at Canon sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. As patrons take in the surroundings while savoring each bite of their meal, they're sure to leave feeling satisfied both physically and mentally. And with so many delicious items on the menu to choose from, guests will undoubtedly be eager to return time and time to explore all that Canon has to offer.
Downtown: Empress Tavern
Empress Tavern is a well-known restaurant located in downtown Sacramento. The establishment offers an exceptional dining experience with its impeccable food, remarkable outdoor seating ambiance, and affordable happy hour specials.
The outdoor seating area of Empress Tavern boasts a cozy atmosphere perfect for al fresco dining. With string lights delicately hanging above the tables and comfortable cushioned seats, this section provides customers with an enjoyable space to relax while indulging in their meals. Moreover, patrons can enjoy delicious cocktails from the bar while taking in the beautiful surroundings. Additionally, the happy hour specials at Empress Tavern are quite enticing as they offer discounted prices on various drinks and dishes during specific hours of the day. Overall, Empress Tavern's dedication to providing its customers with excellent service coupled with a serene environment makes it one of the best places to dine outdoors in Downtown Sacramento.
If you are looking for a great spot to eat outside in Downtown Sacramento that also offers amazing deals on food and drink prices, look no further than Empress Tavern! Its charming exterior will draw you inside where you'll find yourself surrounded by warm lighting and friendly staff who make sure your stay is nothing short of fantastic. It is a place where a top motorcycle accident lawyer in Sacramento meets with their clients to discuss certain things with a good ambiance. Whether you want to grab a quick bite or spend some quality time with friends over dinner and drinks - this place has something for everyone!
Land Park: Freeport Bakery
Having explored the downtown area, it's time to move on to another neighborhood for some al fresco dining. Land Park is a charming residential area located just south of Midtown Sacramento. It boasts tree-lined streets and beautiful homes that are perfect for an afternoon stroll or bike ride. One must-visit establishment in this neighborhood is Freeport Bakery.
Freeport Bakery has been a staple in Land Park since 1987 and has become famous for its delicious pastries and cakes. What sets this bakery apart from others is its outdoor seating area which provides customers with the opportunity to enjoy their treats while taking in the peaceful surroundings of the neighborhood. Their pastry selection includes everything from classic chocolate croissants to unique creations like lavender scones and matcha cream puffs. With a focus on using high-quality ingredients, each item is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
West Sacramento: The Eatery
The Eatery is a great place to enjoy modern American cuisine in West Sacramento. This restaurant prides itself on its outdoor seating, which allows diners to savor their meals while enjoying the beautiful California weather. The atmosphere of this establishment is laid-back and welcoming, making it an excellent choice for families or groups of friends looking for a casual dining experience.
With a menu that features dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, The Eatery offers something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for classic favorites like burgers or sandwiches or want to try something new, such as grilled octopus or duck confit tacos, there's sure to be a dish that will satisfy your cravings. And if you're feeling adventurous, don't hesitate to ask your server for recommendations – they are always happy to help you find the perfect meal.
Overall, The Eatery is one of West Sacramento's top destinations for al fresco dining. With its delicious food and inviting ambiance, it's easy to see why so many people choose this restaurant when looking for an outdoor eating experience. So next time you're in the area, make sure to stop by and enjoy all that The Eatery has to offer!
Arden-Arcade: Cafe Rolle
As we move on from West Sacramento's The Eatery, let us take a gastronomical journey to another part of the city. Arden-Arcade is well-known for its diverse culinary scene, and one restaurant that stands out is Cafe Rolle. This quaint French bistro nestled in Fair Oaks Boulevard has been serving authentic French cuisine since 2001.
Cafe Rolle boasts of an extensive menu showcasing classic dishes like Salade Lyonnaise, Escargot de Bourgogne, Quiche Lorraine, Croque Monsieur, Beef Bourguignon and so much more. Prepared with quality ingredients sourced both locally and abroad, each dish brings a sense of tradition and history to the table. What makes dining at Cafe Rolle even better is their outdoor seating area where guests can enjoy their meals al fresco-style while taking in the vibrant surroundings. Whether it be for brunch or dinner, Cafe Rolle offers an exceptional dining experience that will surely satisfy any discerning palate.
Natomas: The Waffle Experience
Natomas is home to one of the most popular breakfast and brunch spots in Sacramento: The Waffle Experience. This restaurant has quickly gained a reputation for being a great place to enjoy delicious waffles with unique flavors that are hard to find elsewhere. They offer an extensive menu of sweet and savory options, which include mouthwatering selections such as churro waffles, chicken and waffles, and bacon-wrapped eggs.
The Waffle Experience's popularity stems from its commitment to creating innovative dishes using high-quality ingredients. Their chefs pride themselves on infusing classic recipes with new twists, resulting in truly unique flavor combinations that keep customers coming back for more. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast or a light snack, this spot serves up some of the best brunch options around Sacramento. So if you want to indulge in some delectable waffles while enjoying the beautiful outdoor scenery Natomas has to offer, make sure to check out The Waffle Experience!
Carmichael: La Trattoria Bohemia
Continuing our exploration of Sacramento's best outdoor restaurants, we head to Carmichael where La Trattoria Bohemia awaits. This cozy and charming restaurant boasts a beautiful garden patio, perfect for al fresco dining in the warm California weather. The outdoor seating area is adorned with lush greenery, creating an intimate atmosphere that complements the restaurant's rustic decor.
But what sets La Trattoria Bohemia apart from other outdoor restaurants in Sacramento is its unique take on Czech cuisine. From traditional goulash to schnitzel to homemade dumplings, Chef Miroslav Pupik has crafted a menu that celebrates his heritage while also incorporating local ingredients. Guests can enjoy hearty meals full of flavor while basking in the sunshine and fresh air. For those looking for something lighter, the restaurant also offers salads made with organic produce and gluten-free options upon request. Institutions like Kreeger Law Firm recommends this place if you want to feel a unique dining experience. With friendly service and delicious food, La Trattoria Bohemia is sure to impress anyone seeking a memorable culinary experience outdoors.
Folsom: The Cellar Wine Bar
The Cellar Wine Bar in Folsom, Sacramento is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts who enjoy pairing their wines with small plates. The establishment offers an extensive selection of wines from various regions around the world, as well as local favorites. They even offer wine-tasting events that allow customers to sample different varieties and learn more about the winemaking process.
Aside from its impressive wine list, The Cellar also features a menu of delicious small plates that are perfect for sharing amongst friends. From cheese boards to charcuterie platters, there's something on the menu for everyone. Customers can enjoy their food and drinks inside the cozy interior or outside on the patio during warmer weather. Overall, The Cellar Wine Bar provides a relaxing atmosphere where guests can unwind and indulge in some tasty bites and quality drinks.
A visit to The Cellar Wine Bar in Folsom is sure to be a memorable experience for any wine lover or foodie looking for a great night out. With its excellent selection of wines and delectable small plates, it's no wonder why this establishment has become one of Sacramento's go-to destinations for al fresco dining. Whether you're looking to sip on some vino while enjoying good company or want to dive deeper into the world of winemaking through tastings, The Cellar has got you covered.
Sacramento's Hidden Gems For Food Aficionados
Al fresco dining is a delightful and enchanting experience for food lovers. The outdoor ambiance, coupled with the delicious cuisine, creates an atmosphere that captivates the senses and stimulates the soul. Just like nature itself, al fresco restaurants offer a unique blend of flavors that tantalize our taste buds and nourish our bodies.
As we have explored some of Sacramento's best outdoor restaurants across different neighborhoods, we cannot help but marvel at how each eatery has its character and charm. Each restaurant offers something distinctively unique to its guests, from the mouth-watering dishes to the breathtaking views. It is like walking through a garden filled with beautiful flowers; every flower has its beauty yet contributes to creating an overall stunning landscape. In much the same way, these exquisite al fresco dining establishments are part of what makes Sacramento such a remarkable place in culinary terms.
In conclusion, Sacramento boasts numerous fine-dining options for those seeking a memorable mealtime experience under the sun or stars. Whether you're looking for traditional American fare or international cuisine, there is no shortage of fantastic choices available throughout this city's various districts. Al fresco restaurants provide more than just exceptional food; they create unforgettable memories that will last forever. So go ahead - indulge your senses and enjoy everything that Sacramento's finest outdoor eateries have to offer.
