Situated in Northern California, along the Sacramento River, Sacramento is a city in California that is all it’s own. Unlike it’s Southern California counterparts, this city doesn’t have a beach in sight and the glimmer of Hollywood couldn’t be further from the culture of this city. Sacramento is a city that has learned to take its time, slow down, and enjoy all that Northern California has to offer. Around 2 and half hours from the mountains to the North and the Bay Area to the South, you will find a local scene that has a feel that is all it’s own.
Equipped with my yelp app, a car, and a few hours, I found my time in Sacramento to be incredible and one that will become routine. Next time you find yourself in Sacramento check out my favorite picks!
1. Tower Bridge (pictured above): Located near Sacramento’s historic Old Town, this yellow bridge is still operational and was the first vertical lift bridge in the California Highway system. The bridge style represents a rare use of Streamline Moderne architectural styling. Currently the bridge is painted a golden yellow, but it’s colors have changed throughout the years and caused some controversy among locals.
2. Temple Coffee Roasters: Situated in midtown, Temple Coffee is one of the top coffee roasters in the nation. Highly awarded, this coffee supplier is also one that boasts of a farm-to-cup relationship. Upon entering their storefront on S street, this coffee shop is one that focuses on the beauty of the bean and roast, with a modern and clean California interior and styled with deliberate simplicity. I enjoyed a Mexican mocha out on the covered patio. If you are staying in the area for a while, you may be interested in one of the classes they offer, provided by their award-winning baristas.
3. Magpie Cafe: Situated in the Downtown Corridor, this charming cafe offers seasonal menus inspired by the fresh, local ingredients inspired by the culture of Northern California. While there I tried both the Winter BLT and a Grilled Turkey Sandwich. Both sandwiches offered deliberate simplicity of showcasing ingredients and their flavors, while simultaneously delivering a moment of the unexpected in flavors such as caper aioli and taro featured in a potato salad.
4. Rio City Cafe: If you’re looking for a moderately-priced place to dine along the Sacramento River, look no further than the Rio City Cafe. This restaurant has been a local favorite for years. As you walk into the dining room you realize that this dining experience is going to be different. With hardwood floors, white walls, colonial trimmings, and a large fireplace, this restaurant is a gem among the tourist shops in Old Town. While there make sure you order the San Francisco Sourdough Cheese Loaf. You’ll thank me later.
Next time, you’re on the West Coast or on a road trip make sure you stop and explore this great city.