25 Best Restaurants in Carmichael, CA
Whether you're a local foodie or a tourist seeking to experience the city's flavor, prepare to be blown away by the some of best restaurants in Carmichael, California.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Carmichael that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Aromas Cafe
There's a little-known secret in our city that I've got to share.
On the face of it, Aromas Cafe might seem like an unlikely gem.
After all, it's situated right on a hospital campus.
But let me tell you, it's a culinary oasis that far outweighs its unlikely location.
The first time I visited, I was blown away by the quality of the food.
It was a pleasant surprise, to say the least.
The flavors were rich and authentic, something I hadn't expected from a cafe nestled in such an unconventional setting.
I've since been back multiple times, and each visit reaffirms my initial impression.
The food is always delivered quickly and tastes nothing short of excellent.
Ariana/Oasis Mediterranean Restaurant
I've always said if you want the best hookah in the city, you have to stop by Ariana/Oasis Mediterranean Restaurant.
With top-notch food quality and affordable prices, it is a true gift for taste buds.
My first experience with their Afghan Qabuli was unforgettable.
The restaurant was spotless, with an exceptionally attractive seating area.
The elegance of the place added to the dining experience, making the food taste even better.
The Qabuli was delicious - flavorful, rich, and an absolute treat to the palate.
I couldn't resist further exploring their menu, so I ordered the qabuli rice, beef kabob, and a hummus plate on my next visit.
Each dish was amazing, but the beef kabob stood out.
It was tender and perfectly seasoned, complementing the hummus and rice flawlessly.
The pistachio coffee was a delightful addition and a perfect way to end the meal.
The service was impeccable.
And let's not forget the hookah - it was the cherry on top!
The ambiance, the food, the hookah, everything made it a place to visit again and again.
Food for Fitness
I've always been quite health-conscious, so I was thrilled to find Food for Fitness, a service that's been my answer to a balanced diet and achieving my fitness goals.
With a busy lifestyle, making smart choices for meals was always a struggle.
But Food for Fitness has truly changed the game for me.
I opted for their 4-week plan, and it's been fantastic so far.
Every meal is meticulously planned, providing me with a good balance of high protein, low fat, and average carbs, all within 1800 calories.
However, what I appreciate most is that the food is not just your run-of-the-mill healthy stuff.
It's delicious and varied, making it easier for me to stick to the plan without feeling tempted to cheat with a quick fast food fix.
I've been on this plan for about a month, and it's really helped me stay on track with my goal to lose 20 pounds over three months.
In just three weeks, I've lost 8 pounds, and I must say, the meals have been incredible.
They are quite filling, and I don't find myself feeling hungry at all during the day.
It's actually quite liberating to not have to plan, shop, cook, or even think about what I'll eat next.
Tugboat Fish & Chips
I've been a frequent visitor of Tugboat Fish & Chips for decades now, and let me tell you - it never disappoints.
Recently, I found myself returning here after a long gap of seven years and was delighted to see that they're still open and as incredible as ever.
On my last visit, I ordered a two strip of fish & chips and a fish & clams basket.
The weather was absolutely beautiful that day, and I relished my meal outside in the small ocean-themed cabana, which was an experience in itself.
The onion rings that were served were the lightest, crispiest, and most perfect ones I've ever tasted.
The oil wasn't overused, nothing was too dark, and the fish was perfect - as always.
The place, true to its name, has a unique tugboat charm.
I remember spending around $28 for the two baskets and a soda, and it was worth every cent.
The restaurant's atmosphere is so refreshing that the moment you step in, you feel like you've been transported to a coastal area.
The fish & chips here are perfect, and what I appreciate the most is their prompt and friendly service.
I once ordered a takeaway, and the total wait time was just 15-20 minutes.
I usually order the 3-piece fish, which is served with perfectly cooked onion rings and fries.
I also tried the oysters and mushrooms on my last visit and loved them.
The fish here is cooked to absolute perfection - it's crispy yet moist, and the chips are simply delicious.
Skip's Kitchen
Just the other day, I found myself at Skip's Kitchen, a cozy, family-friendly diner in our city.
I've been there quite a few times before, and what keeps pulling me back is the place's warm, welcoming ambiance and of course, their gourmet sandwiches and burgers.
One of my go-to orders is the triple cheeseburger with added mushrooms.
It's a delightful mix of flavors that hits just the right spot, and the criss-cross fries that come with it are always a treat.
The burgers here aren't your average fast-food fare - they're truly gourmet, juicy, and well-seasoned.
The price is reasonable too, considering how high-quality the food is.
It's such a homely touch, makes you feel like you're part of the family.
For those who don't eat meat, they serve some amazing Garlic Parm fries.
And if you're dining with kids, they've got a kid menu with lots of good choices, plus a drink.
Burger Shack
Just the other day, I decided to finally give BURGER SHACK a try.
It's in a slightly hidden spot, tucked behind the main road.
You could easily miss it if you're not paying attention, but thankfully, parking is quite accommodating, although the spaces aren't clearly marked.
The place used to be a Dairy Heaven, which, unfortunately, I never got to experience before it closed.
I was, however, pleasantly surprised by the spacious interior, with enough seating to accommodate roughly 30-40 people.
The establishment itself could use a little love, especially the restroom.
It's a bit outdated and does need some remodeling - a new sink, new floors, a toilet, and a fresh coat of paint would do wonders.
But let's talk about the heart of any burger place - the food.
The burgers are a real show-stopper - big, juicy, and incredibly tasty.
The fries complemented them perfectly, crispy and well-seasoned.
They also boast a good selection of milkshakes to wash down your meal.
But I think the cherry on top was the service.
One more thing I'd love to share is this cool deal they have: if you order a combo, you get a free ice cream cone!
I mean, who doesn't love a good dessert after a hearty meal?
Tokyo Express
Visiting Tokyo Express is an absolute treat.
Tucked away in my city, this place is my little secret spot for all things Japanese cuisine.
I'm there at least once a week, sometimes more.
The food is just the right blend of tradition and innovation.
The cucumber salad is a refreshing start, with a cool crunch that gives way to a subtle sweetness.
The teriyaki chicken is a taste of home, hearty, and flavorful with just a hint of sweetness.
For a twist, I highly recommend garlic fried rice.
It's a fragrant, savory delight that makes the taste buds sing.
There's also the Aloha roll, a sushi roll that seems to capture the essence of summer in every bite.
And if you're one for a fiery kick, don't miss out on their spicy Korean ramen!
This dish is a flavor bomb that leaves a lasting impression.
While I can't say I've tried everything on the menu, I have my favorites.
The spicy gyoza is a must.
It's the perfect balance of spicy and savory that keeps me coming back.
Another dish I can't get enough of is the Thai chicken.
It's a rich, full-bodied dish that's truly satisfying.
And then there's the Carmichael and tempura roll, a unique combination of flavors and textures that I swear by.
Von's Chicken Carmichael
When you live in a place for a long time, you get to know the ins and outs, the hidden gems, and the local favorites.
In my hometown, a place that has quickly become a must-try for both locals and visitors is Von's Chicken Carmichael.
They walked me through the menu, explaining each dish with such enthusiasm that I couldn't help but be drawn in.
I tried the boneless chicken with garlic and a side of their unique kimchi fried rice – an extra treat for just $1.
For anyone new to Korean cuisine, I'd recommend starting here.
Von's offers incredible value deals with plenty of food in each box.
I've also tried the roasted chicken with Von's special sauce, one of their signature dishes, and it quickly became one of my all-time favorites.
But the real surprise was the Yangnyum fried chicken - it's a unique flavor that you won't find anywhere else.
And let's not forget about the sides.
Whether it's coleslaw, French fries, or the unexpected delight of their pickled radish, Von's sides perfectly complement their main offerings.
I'm also looking forward to trying their rice cake – I've been told it's similar to mochi, which is a favorite treat of mine.
The best part?
Even though Von's doesn't offer dine-in service currently, the takeaway experience doesn't disappoint.
The food is still piping hot by the time I get home, and the taste is just as incredible as eating in the restaurant.
Yerevan Bar and Restaurant
My friends and I decided to go out for a meal last Friday, and we chose Yerevan Bar and Restaurant.
And let me tell you, it was an absolute joy.
The cozy atmosphere instantly put us at ease, and their excellent wine selection added to our comfort.
What stood out were their snacks, a perfect blend of taste and authenticity, making us desire to visit again - a feeling that doesn't often come after just one visit to a restaurant.
I remember when we hosted a family celebration at Yerevan.
We were a large group, but the service was spot-on.
We ordered almost everything from their menu, and guess what!
We left with our stomachs full and four boxes of leftovers.
The prices were very reasonable considering the amount and quality of food we got, leaving us pleasantly surprised.
A stylish and clean place, Yerevan is definitely a diner's delight, as long as you don't mind a bit of noise.
Volkswaffle International
Oh, the joy of living close to Volkswaffle International!
It’s like having a little piece of waffle heaven right by my doorstep.
The waffles at Volkswaffle are a dream.
Freshly made, warm, and incredibly fluffy.
The first time I tried their Belgian Chocolate Purist, I was sold.
The smooth flavor of the chocolate, coupled with the crunchy yet melt-in-your-mouth waffles, was a taste sensation!
The strawberries added were a perfect contrast, not overpowering, just subtly enhancing the flavors, unlike at many other places I've tried.
Next up was the waffle with ice cream and blueberries.
Sweet, but not overwhelmingly so, and the waffle remained crispy and fresh.
Even after devouring these sweet treats, I didn’t feel overly stuffed or heavy, which was a pleasant surprise.
And then there was the Belgian Kiss coffee.
Oh, the Belgian Kiss coffee!
It was just right, not too sweet, not too bitter.
It was like it was designed to hit that sweet spot on my tongue.
One of the things that sets Volkswaffle apart for me is that it's a drive-thru.
In our fast-paced lives, being able to enjoy this decadent snack without even stepping out of the car is a blessing.
The smell of the waffles cooking is something to look forward to; it reminds me of the fun times at the fair.
Lido Café and Bakery
One of my favorite go-to spots in the neighborhood has to be Lido Café and Bakery.
Truth be told, you might have to wait a little on busy days, but don't let that deter you - the wait time for food is always reasonable and absolutely worth it.
Now, let's talk about the food at Lido.
The servings are generous and delicious, neither over-seasoned nor overloaded with carbs, which is something I really appreciate.
On my last visit, I indulged in the California omelet, a hearty dish loaded with ham, bacon, mushrooms, and onions.
It was delightfully large and took up half my plate, leaving plenty of room for the accompanying country potatoes and toast.
And the fluffy pancake I ordered on the side for $3.95?
Simply scrumptious!
The ambiance is welcoming and comfortable.
It's never too loud, even when it's busy, and the cleanliness is at a level that always impresses me.
Plus, they have a self-seating arrangement and a patio area that is not only pet-friendly but also a great spot for enjoying a quiet meal in the warmer weather.
Shogun Sushi
One of my go-to spots in the city has to be Shogun Sushi.
The sashimi and maki there are cleverly crafted, and the Japanese kitchen entrees are delicious.
The contemporary digs and sushi bar seating add a cool vibe to the whole experience.
Admittedly, the service can sometimes be slow.
I've had occasions where it took a little longer than one would hope to get served, but it's always worth the wait.
The sushi, consistently good, is a testament to the restaurant's dedication to quality.
The atmosphere inside is inviting, and there's always a seat available.
Yes, we had to wait a bit, but the taste and presentation of the sushi more than made up for it.
It was some of the best Sushi I've had in Sacramento and even compared favorably to some I've had in San Francisco.
Matteo's Pizza & Bistro
Every city has a gem, a special place that embodies the spirit of the community, and for us, it's Matteo's Pizza & Bistro.
Situated conveniently next to the local bike shop, I first wandered into Matteo's on a whim.
I've always been a sucker for a good wine selection, and boy does Matteo's deliver on that front!
Of course, a wine-centric visit quickly turned into a food one.
How could I resist, especially after hearing Peter describe their pizzas in such tantalizing detail?
Instead of pizza, I found myself ordering a Mendecino sandwich – an amazing decision that I've never regretted since.
Eating outside on their lush patio, I found the atmosphere incredibly soothing and enjoyable.
But it's not just the food or the wine that makes Matteo's special.
I once had a casual conversation with her about a plant (kangaroo paw) on their patio.
It was a surprisingly pleasant interaction that made me feel even more connected to this place.
Even if you're not into pizza or wine, Matteo's offers a variety of burgers, wings, and a full bar.
It's a place where everyone can find something they love.
Noroc Restaurant
There's no place like home, and for me, that home is Noroc Restaurant.
Nestled in the heart of our city, Noroc has been my go-to for authentic Eastern European cuisine for quite a while now.
I must admit that I've lost count of the number of times I've dined there, each time with an anticipation that is never disappointed.
Stepping into Noroc is like stepping into another world.
The decor is a perfect reflection of the rich Eastern European traditions, transporting you into a space that is so true to its roots that it feels almost like a cultural journey right in the middle of our bustling city.
The food, oh, the food at Noroc!
Each dish is a symphony of flavors that speak volumes about the depth of Eastern European cuisine.
I've tried a variety of dishes, from Solyanka to botstch and everything in between.
Hagen's Orange Freeze
In our city, nothing beats the summer heat quite like a refreshing treat from Hagen's Orange Freeze.
I remember the first time I tried their famed orange freeze drink - an absolute delight that manages to hit the sweet spot between tangy and creamy.
It's the perfect remedy for those sizzling hot days, but heed my warning, it can cause quite the brain freeze if you're not careful!
But there's more to Hagen's than just the iconic orange freeze.
I recently discovered that you can mix and match multiple flavors.
I was surprised at how tasty the non-fruit flavors were, especially when blended with vanilla.
One weekend, I decided to try something different and ordered their hamburger.
Messy, hot, and absolutely delicious, it was just how I like my burgers.
With outdoor seating available, it's become a favorite spot for a casual dinner with my family.
The last time I visited Hagen's, the Kings had lost game 7 - a day to drown my sorrows indeed.
I ordered a large mint n-chip ice cream to comfort myself, but they ran out and had to add cookie dough.
To my surprise, the large size contained a generous amount of ice cream that was more than enough to lift my spirits.
Taiko Sushi
I live for the moments when I can tuck into a sumptuous spread of fresh sushi, and that's why Taiko Sushi has become my ultimate sushi sanctuary.
The first time I walked into this place, I was captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and shared spaces that exuded a sense of camaraderie.
My partner and I usually perch ourselves at the sushi bar, where we love indulging in the fishing boat.
Trust me, for $50, it offers an unbeatable deal of 3 different sashimi and 3 specialty rolls.
The Lion King and Red Dragon are some of our favorites.
I still have to explore the other specialty roll, the Don San.
The taste of the fresh fish in each roll is remarkable - it's never frozen, always fresh.
I must admit, the miso soup did throw me off a bit once because the tofu tasted a bit odd, but that hasn't deterred me from coming back for more.
No matter what we ask for, it's always brought without any issues.
Rey Azteca
For as long as I can remember, Rey Azteca has been my go-to neighborhood kitchen.
This cheerful, laid-back spot offers the most authentic Mexican food outside of Mexico, and the cocktails are equally as impressive.
Over the years, I've brought friends, family, and colleagues here, and each time, the food and atmosphere have not disappointed me.
I remember when they first opened their doors, we had just moved into the neighborhood.
Rey Azteca quickly became our place of solace.
Over time, I've tried nearly everything on the menu, but I find myself continuously drawn to the Chili Colorado Mega Wet and the Carnita plate.
The flavors are simply unbeatable.
And don't get me started on the guacamole and sour cream - simply out of this world!
What adds to the charm of Rey Azteca is the familiar faces you see each time you visit.
Yes, the place is small, but it adds to its homely charm.
And while the neighborhood might have seen better days, stepping into Rey Azteca always feels like coming home.
There's a small bar with seating both inside and outside.
I've spent countless evenings there, savoring the food, enjoying their diverse selection of cocktails, and soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Other Restaurants Nearby
Little Mermaid Inn and Restaurant
One of my absolute favorite spots in the city is the Little Mermaid Inn and Restaurant.
As someone who frequents this spot, I can assure you it's one of those places that makes you proud to be part of this community.
Little Mermaid's menu offers an extensive range of dishes that cater to all taste buds, and their servings are generous enough to make you feel truly satisfied.
Trust me, you haven't lived until you've tasted their sumptuous seafood specials.
And their desserts?
Pure decadence!
But it's not just the food that makes this place stand out.
The restaurant's cozy and warm atmosphere gives off a homely vibe that always invites me to linger a bit more.
The interior is tastefully done, with a subtle nod to the nautical theme, which is both charming and whimsical.
Taqueria Mi Familia
Every now and then, you stumble upon a place that instantly feels like home.
For me, that place is Taqueria Mi Familia.
It's a cozy little spot tucked away in Sacramento, a place that serves mouthwatering Mexican cuisine that leaves you craving for more.
The first time I sampled their food, I tried the Machete Super Burrito con carne asada.
It was an explosion of flavors, with gooey cheese, grilled bell peppers, and succulent carne asada, creating a heavenly blend.
I could instantly tell that this burrito was prepared with love and care, and it was served sizzling hot, adding to the overall delightful experience.
But that’s not all!
The Carnitas quesadillas, packed with delicious meat and cheese, and the salsa and chips, with their tantalizing flavor, turned an ordinary meal into a fiesta of flavors.
The veggie and shrimp burritos were just as delectable, with fresh tortillas adding a unique touch.
What really sets Taqueria Mi Familia apart, though, is their clever use of spices.
From their burritos loaded with avocados and fresh cilantro, to their torta bread that boasted a crispy crust and a delicate inside, every bite was a treat.
And then there was the shredded meat, perfectly browned on the outside, and the lengua (tongue) that was cooked to perfection.
The Oak Café
I finally had the chance to check out The Oak Café after hearing so much about it.
Located on the American River College campus, The Oak Café is more than just a restaurant - it's a place where culinary students hone their skills and create mouthwatering dishes.
This unique setup makes dining here feel like a culinary adventure.
The café is open only on Wednesdays and Thursdays, which makes getting a reservation somewhat of a challenge.
But trust me when I say that the food here is worth the effort.
The chefs are well versed in the three pillars of culinary arts - presentation, taste, and originality.
The best part is, as a patron, you get to rate each dish on these parameters!
I had the pleasure of dining here during finals week, so each dish I tasted was a representation of a student's hard-learned skills, making the experience even more interesting.
The first dish I tried was pasta with clams and white sauce - it was flavorful, albeit a bit rich for my liking.
The second course was a perfectly cooked chicken, accompanied by prosciutto-wrapped asparagus and risotto.
The risotto had a pleasant bite to it, and the asparagus was cooked just right, not too limp.
But the star of the day was the banana bread pudding with ice cream for dessert - the combination was simply irresistible!
The café's ambiance adds to its charm.
The interior is small, but there are plans to expand.
The L-shaped dining room bathed in natural sunlight is a sight to behold.
There's also an outdoor seating area that I can imagine would be perfect in the spring or fall.
And just when you think it can’t get any better, you realize you can enjoy a three-course meal with a beverage for just $15.
Essy’s Kabob
I’ve always had a penchant for trying out interesting restaurants in my neighborhood, and Essy's Kabob was a delightful find.
Tucked away in an unassuming strip mall, this homey Persian cafe has become a frequent spot for my cuisine adventures.
The first dish that I tried at Essy's was their rack of lamb.
I have to say, it was cooked to perfection, easily one of the best lamb dishes I have ever tasted.
The meat was tender and juicy, and the flavors were spot on.
The cafe also boasts an excellent chicken and beef plate.
The meat, both chicken and beef, were seasoned impeccably and were mouthwateringly juicy.
Essy's Kabob knows how to keep its customers coming back by maintaining a clean and inviting ambiance.
I must also share my appreciation for the music they play, which never fails to enhance the dining experience.
The tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen bring me back here time and again.
Another thing I love about Essy's Kabob is their catering and takeaway services.
It's a great option for when I want to enjoy their delicious food at home.
Their offerings are not limited to meats alone.
The hummus and pita bread, along with the roasted vegetables, are equally delightful.
They serve the BEST chicken that's so moist, delicious, and perfectly marinated.
Everything is fresh and so good that it's impossible to stop at just one serving.
Tony Baloney's
I can't help but take a nostalgic trip every time I step into Tony Baloney's.
It's like being transported back in time, back to the 80s when my aunt was a student at ARC, and I was just a young lad working across the street at the Kinko's.
Tony's has been a part of my life, as well as a part of the Sacramento community, for 60 incredible years.
It's the kind of place that just feels like home.
The aroma, the taste, and the distinct crunch of the toasted roll are exactly as I remember them, serving as a delightful reminder of the good old times.
The variety of subs they offer never fails to impress.
The pastrami is certainly the best in the area, and the pepper steak sub is not to be missed.
And it's not just about the food, but also about the people.
Tony's wife and daughter work hard to keep the legacy of this Sacramento staple alive and kicking.
Their passion for their work is evident in every bite as they continue to churn out delicious subs that would make Tony proud.
And let's not forget about the pizza - my wife gets it each time we visit and swears it's the best in the area.
Their meatball sub, too, is a delight to the taste buds.
We even tried the cannolis on our last visit, and they were absolutely scrumptious.
I can't wait to try more of their sandwich lineup.
But it's not just the food that makes Tony's special.
The atmosphere is unlike any other - it's an old-school place that takes you back in time.
Thai Hut
When it comes to relishing an authentic Thai meal, Thai Hut is a gem in our neighborhood.
It's a modest, family-run eatery that serves classic Thai cuisine, and they also cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
I love how they are mindful of different dietary needs and preferences.
Being a regular at Thai Hut, I can vouch for their freshly prepared food.
I remember one instance when I visited this spot upon my friend's recommendation for lunch.
The food was remarkably fresh, and the flavors were spot on.
One of my favorite dishes at Thai Hut is their mixed veggies.
It's seasoned perfectly, tastes fresh, and is always a delight.
The drunken noodles and fried Thai rolls are also a must-try.
Although I wish the drunken noodles had more veggies, the overall taste and quality compensate for it.
The food may take some time to arrive, but it's worth the wait.
The Thai tea served here is a delightful accompaniment to the flavorful dishes.
Cricket Country Kitchen
One of the perks of living in the neighborhood is having Cricket Country Kitchen just around the corner.
This quaint cafe has been my go-to spot for a heartwarming breakfast and a comforting lunch.
The interior of the place is like stepping into a different era, filled with Americana and curios, creating an atmosphere that's unique and comforting.
But what stands out about this place is the food.
It's fresh, homemade, and amazingly delicious.
Nothing here tastes processed, everything is cooked with love and care, and it always leaves me feeling as if I've just had a meal at home.
They serve a variety of dishes, but my personal favorite is their biscuit and gravy options.
I've tried most of them, and each has its own unique flavor that keeps me coming back for more.
Final Thoughts
Having lived in Carmichael for many years, I can truly say that the culinary scene here is vibrant and diverse.
Each restaurant has its own unique flavor and style that contribute to the vibrant and diverse food scene in our beloved city.
So whether you're craving Mexican, Mediterranean, Asian, or American cuisine, you're sure to find a restaurant in Carmichael that will satisfy your taste buds.
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