Inspired by old Mexican town squares and gathering places, Sacramento's Zocalo restaurant is housed within a renovated 1920s car dealership. Diners descend upon the eatery to enjoy traditional Mexican favorites like empanadas, nachos and quesadillas as small plate starters. Entrées include enchilada varieties and tacos, as well as house specials like arrachera los altos, a steak dish with mushroom and chimichurri. Every meal can be paired with a soup or salad, and Zocalo guests can always complement entrées with tequila or cocktails. The restaurant additionally features lunch and children's menus, and breakfast menu options on weekends. Zocalo patrons can enjoy events hosted by the restaurant, including a tequila tasting on the first Monday of each month and Mariachi Fridays.
Zocalo
1801 Capitol Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95811
916-441-0303
zocalosacramento.com
Voted the best Mexican restaurant by "Sacramento Magazine," Ernesto's Mexican Food is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy margaritas and fresh guacamole in Sacramento's midtown district. Guests are treated to salsa music, Latin jazz and even the occasional live music performance as they dine at the bar, a booth or outdoors. Carnitas, ceviche tostadas and quesadillas are only a few of the restaurant's appetizer options, in addition to a range of soup and salad choices. Ernesto's dinner entrées include tacos, burritos, carnitas and chimichangas, as well as an expansive selection of vegetarian menu items. Diners can also enjoy breakfast and lunch at the eatery and complete any meal with desserts like flan and traditional Mexican cake.
Ernesto's Mexican Food
1901 16th St.
Sacramento, CA 95811
916-441-5850
ernestosmexicanfood.com
Since 1998, Los Patios Restaurant & Catering has specialized in Texas-style Mexican cuisine. Open only for breakfast and lunch, Los Patios features more entrée options for catered events. Early morning patrons can choose from the restaurant's several breakfast burrito options, which includes a potato and egg burrito, as well as a sausage burrito. Lunchtime guests can select from a menu that includes chicken fajitas, enchiladas or tostadas or blend favorites in a combination plate. Los Patios also features lunch specials throughout the week.
Los Patios Restaurant & Catering
1500 7th St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
916-442-7426
lospatioscatering.com