Aura Restaurant and Bar
2724 J Street
Sacramento, CA
(916) 447-1000
auramidtown.com
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editorial profile:
Squeezed quietly into a row of popular restaurants on J Street, Aura is a magnet for the young midtown crowd seeking cocktail conviviality. And while the establishment proudly touts itself as a lounge, a large component of the space is a beautifully appointed dining room, which feels, once you’re seated within it, like an afterthought. The heartbeat of the establishment appears to be the chatty, bright bar area, and if I were to have a meal again at Aura, it would most likely be in that section of the restaurant. Tables in the quiet dining room are draped in white, adorned with curious plastic runners that look like fancy shelf-liners, concrete floors are a soft, mottled copper color, and the far wall, painted fresco-style, depicts a looming, male face which stares out dispassionately at patrons as they sit at their tables. The menu, focused on sturdy comfort foods, is especially appealing on a chilly Sacramento evening. Come hungry—this is rib-sticking fare, from the tasty marinated flank steak with “smashed” potatoes; to the 10-layer “Lena’s Lasagna” and the kitchen’s pizzas. One notable entrée is the savory chicken piccata—a large chicken breast smothered with a tangy, lemony mixture of sautéed mushrooms and capers—served atop a bed of fettuccini noodles, this is a generously sized dish you could easily share with a dining companion. Appetizers include a trio of hamburger “sliders” and a creamy polenta with caramelized mushrooms, and we enjoyed the sweetish chicken “wings and drumettes” appetizer, a flavorful (and messy) nosh that would go well with a mug of cold beer. The dessert list changes frequently; the night we visited, the standout sweet was a perfectly executed crème brulee with a nice crackly top. Despite the upscale ambience, the restaurant does offer a kids’ menu, including cheese pizza, a quesadilla, and pasta for your hungry little ones. — Kira O'Donnell
Insider tip: If you’re in the mood to graze, try Aura’s “Anti-Pasta” appetizer—a selection of imported and domestic cured meats, cheeses, olives and peppers.
Reservations: Suggested
Payment methods: AmEx, Discover Card, MasterCard, Visa
Alcohol: Full bar
Corkage fee: $8
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