Zocalo
1801 Capitol Ave
Sacramento, CA
(916) 441-0303
zocalosacramento.com
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editorial profile:
When friends of mine from out of state come to visit, I almost always take them to Zócalo. There are several reasons for this. The restaurant is visually stunning; the cuisine is complex and surprising; and it’s nestled in one of the prettiest, most walkable sections of midtown Sacramento. A showcase of Mexican craftsmanship, the restaurant is decorated with a number of items imported from Mexico. The hand-carved wood and copper bar, which serves as the focal point of the large space, is absolutely gorgeous, as is the huge mirror hanging on the back wall, the oversized ceramic pots – some of which have palm trees growing out of them—and the ornate, handcrafted light fixtures which loom attractively above the booth seating. There’s even a large, rustic cistern of water scattered with rose petals at the entrance of the restaurant – a lovely, beguiling touch that helps to transport patrons to another latitude. I love the soaringly high ceilings, which lend the space a giddy airiness, and the tall windows through which patrons can observe the comings and goings of midtowners. If you’re not from California (or the southwest), it’s likely your only experience with Mexican food may be the random frozen burrito, plate of cheesy nachos, or a Taco Bell chalupa. Zócalo’s intricate, regional Mexican cuisine can be quite an education for the uninitiated —wait until your friends from Connecticut sample the tart, bright tomatillo sauce atop the kitchen’s chicken guanajuato enchiladas; or the intense, deeply roasted flavors of the housemade tomato salsa, which bears no relation to the salty, unidimensional variety found in the grocery store. Urge them to try the citrusy, refreshing ceviche de guaymas, topped with avocado; or the simple, yet powerfully flavorful chile Colorado tacos, filled with shredded beef that’s been simmered in a red enchilada sauce, then topped with crumbled queso fresco. The restaurant also offers a fun selection of tequila flights, and some interesting margaritas (try the beautifully-colored blackberry margarita). With or without your out-of-town guests, this is a wonderful, engage-all-your-senses dining experience. - Kira O'Donnell
Insider tip: On warm days, sit outside on Zócalo’s pretty patio. It’s a great place to people-watch while devouring your verduras de la olla.
Reservations: Only accepted at lunch, for 6 people or more. Not accepted for dinner or brunch.
Payment methods: AmEx, MasterCard, Visa
Alcohol: Full bar
Corkage fee: $15
reader reviews:
Zocalo's Rocks!! posted on 2008-03-26 16:18:20
taste |
9 |
décor |
9 |
service |
9 |
atmosphere |
9 |
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" If you are looking for a fun, upscale, Mexican atmosphere, check out Zocalo's on Sundays. Lots of good looking Sacramentians, music, and tons of great food. "
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