Capital Bites
Inside Downtown Sacramento’s Finest Dining Destinations
Downtown Sacramento is no longer just the seat of California’s political power—it’s the beating heart of one of the West Coast’s most dynamic culinary scenes. From Michelin-starred experiences to historic institutions and family-run gems, the city offers a diverse mix of flavors, stories, and chefs who’ve built their restaurants into cornerstones of the community.
Michelin Moments: Where Art Meets Appetite
Leading Sacramento’s fine dining revolution is The Kitchen, the city’s first Michelin-starred restaurant. Known for its theatrical open-kitchen experience, this beloved destination offers more than a meal—it offers a show. Executive Chef Kelly McCown and his team highlight seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients through an ever-evolving multi-course menu. Every visit feels personal, every dish a masterpiece.
Equally impressive is Localis, a sleek and intimate spot led by Chef Chris Barnum-Dann and his wife Jessica Shelton-Dann. The couple has turned this New American restaurant into a creative powerhouse, earning a Michelin star by blending innovation with heart. Their tasting menu reflects the seasons, the region, and their deep love for Sacramento’s culinary identity.
Legacy on a Plate: Frank Fat’s and the Flavors of Tradition
Since 1939, Frank Fat’s has been a cornerstone of Sacramento’s downtown scene. This Chinese-American institution is as well-known for its political clientele as it is for its legendary honey-walnut prawns and banana cream pie. Awarded a James Beard Foundation “America’s Classics” honor and a Michelin Bib Gourmand, Frank Fat’s is where tradition and timeless flavor converge.
The Heart of Family: The Story of Adamo’s Kitchen
Few restaurants carry as much soul as Adamo’s Kitchen. Born from the dreams of John and Rosalia Adamo, Italian immigrants who passed down their culinary passion, Adamo’s is a heartfelt tribute to family, food, and resilience.
Their youngest son, John Adamo, opened the doors to Adamo’s Kitchen in 2014 alongside his daughter Chiara. In 2016, their son Polo—fresh off his experience at San Francisco’s renowned Gary Danko—joined the team. The result? A warm, welcoming eatery on P Street where Italian-American classics meet elevated craftsmanship. From handmade pastas to comfort-filled entrées, every dish tells the story of the Adamo family and their love for Sacramento.
Modern Marvels: The New Guard of Sacramento Cuisine
Contemporary elegance shines at Ella Dining Room & Bar, a staple of downtown’s high-end scene. With its modern American menu, lush interiors, and vibrant bar program, Ella has earned its reputation as a go-to for business dining, special occasions, and those simply seeking a refined culinary escape.
Nearby, Camden Spit & Larder adds a bold, British twist to the California palate. Chef Oliver Ridgeway, formerly of London’s famed restaurants, brings worldly flavors to a sleek space just steps from the Capitol. Known for its bone marrow, spit-roasted meats, and stunning plating, Camden delivers both flair and substance.
A City Worth Tasting
Downtown Sacramento is a feast not only for the senses, but for the soul. It’s where century-old institutions share the block with experimental chefs. Where politics meet pasta. Where family stories turn into full dining rooms. Whether you're booking a coveted seat at a Michelin-starred table or wandering into a cozy kitchen where the owner knows your name, one thing’s certain—this city has become a destination for dining that rivals the best of the Bay or L.A.
