23 Best Restaurants in Folsom, CA
From cozy, comforting diners to sophisticated, avant-garde eateries, the best restaurants in Folsom, California, are waiting to delight your senses!
So, fasten your seat belts as we embark on this gourmet adventure together.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Folsom 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.
The SUSHI BAR
I must admit, my experience at the SUSHI BAR was one I didn't see coming.
With no prominent signage or website, my curiosity peaked.
It shares the same space with the Mexican restaurant Limon y Sal, but don't let that confuse you.
Once I stepped in, I received a warm welcome and was immediately seated.
The customer service was nothing short of excellent.
I was pleasantly surprised to find that their sushi rolls were out of this world.
Packed with meat and fresh ingredients, each bite was a blissful experience.
I also appreciate the cleanliness of the place - it's something that I find very important in any dining establishment.
The SUSHI BAR didn't disappoint in this regard.
Another highlight was their appetizers, particularly the pepper fin and the fireball appetizers.
The freshness of the fish was incomparable, full of flavor, and absolutely delicious.
Naan Tikka
The marvel that is Naan Tikka, a gem hidden in our city, never ceases to amaze me.
Every time I step into this enchanting place, it feels like a flavorful journey to the very heart of traditional Indian cuisine.
Naan Tikka is nestled in a corner, but its vibrant flavors and warm ambiance certainly make it stand out.
I'm still not over the very first time I tasted their signature butter chicken.
The succulent pieces of chicken, drowning in the rich, creamy gravy, were a match made in heaven with the hot, fluffy naan bread.
The pop of flavors in every bite was an experience of its own.
The vibrant spices, mingled with the soft, tender chicken, were nothing short of a culinary masterpiece.
And let's not forget the biryani, a melange of fragrant rice and succulent pieces of meat, each grain bursting with the right blend of spices.
It is accompanied by a side of cooling raita, a yogurt-based condiment, which perfectly balances out the heat from the biryani.
And the restaurant itself, with its warm lights and traditional Indian decor, provides an inviting atmosphere.
The perfect place to indulge in a culinary adventure right in the heart of our city.
Kombi Pizza Company
When it comes to pizza, there's no place in the city that does it better than Kombi Pizza Company.
Their pizzas are a delicious fusion of crispy crusts, generous cheese, and fresh toppings that make me savor every bite.
From the first time I tasted it, I was hooked, and it has become a regular part of my weekly routine ever since.
There's something about the way they make their pizza that sets them apart from any other place I've tried.
The crust has a unique texture that is just the right amount of crunchy and chewy.
But the real magic happens with the toppings.
They don't skimp on the cheese, and the toppings are always fresh and bursting with flavor.
And to top it all off, they serve beer from Red Bus Brewing, a local brewery, which pairs perfectly with their pizzas.
They are always friendly and attentive and make me feel right at home.
There's a particular warmth and community feel there that I've not found anywhere else.
Represa Grill
As a Folsom resident, I've discovered a few hidden gems in terms of food joints.
One of them is the Represa Grill.
It's a bustling place, but the team makes sure that you don't feel neglected.
The food at the Represa is a delight to the palate.
But if you ask me, the true star of the show is his Folsom burger.
It's got such a unique and delectable taste to it that you'll be left craving for more.
And if you're a fan of wings, well, let's just say that the ones at the Represa Grill are the epitome of perfection.
What's even better is that the Folsom Dam Bar is located in the same building.
It's a great place to grab a drink after your meal.
The bartender is friendly, and the drinks are pretty strong, which I love.
Plus, the entire place has a clean, inviting ambiance, with a Johnny Cash theme that adds a touch of Folsom charm.
You can find Represa Grill conveniently located on Natoma and Stafford St.
It's perfect for an outing with your partner, friends, or family.
Aappakadai Folsom
There is nothing quite like indulging in authentic, flavorful Indian food right in the heart of our city.
I remember my recent visit to Aappakadai Folsom, a newly opened restaurant that specializes in Chettinad cuisine.
Our Friday evening kicked off with an order of the Chicken 65.
Freshly cooked and tender, it was a great start, albeit it could have used a bit more spice.
We also opted for a side of Paratha chicken and goat curry.
The Paratha was surprisingly big in size, beautifully crisp yet fluffy.
The curry, however, was a bit underwhelming due to a lack of spice.
Among the highlights of the night were the garlic spicy prawns , chicken lollipops, kohli soup, appam, and mutton chettinadu.
The mutton chettinadu was excellent, bursting with authentic Chettinad flavors that still linger in my memory.
Aside from the food, the ambiance at Aappakadai Folsom was bright and welcoming, thanks to their brightly lit interiors.
But it was the service that truly stood out - attentive, quick, and incredibly pleasant.
Tong Thai Bistro
Ah, the joy of finding authentic Thai cuisine right in my backyard!
My weekly routine now includes a visit to Tong Thai Bistro.
It's a delightful little eatery nestled in the heart of Folsom, and let me tell you, their offerings are a treat for the taste buds.
I'm particularly fond of their Thai eggplant, and the Drunken Noodles are an absolute must-try.
They've nailed the spice level, which is just where I like it - a solid 3.
It's what I would consider a medium at most Thai restaurants.
And for just $14, their lunch deal includes a side salad.
Of course, I haven't come to dinner yet, but I'm eagerly looking forward to it.
The warm and friendly service here deserves a special mention.
It does add to the overall dining experience, and it's one of the reasons I keep coming back.
Venturing beyond my usual order, I tried their duck fried rice, garlic beef, fried calamari, and fish cakes on one of my visits.
What a feast it was!
The calamari and fish cakes served with incredibly tasty dipping sauces, were simply heavenly.
The duck fried rice was great value for money, and the garlic beef was unexpectedly delightful.
The atmosphere is as authentic as the food.
With cool photos of Thailand adorning the walls, the restaurant gives off a very Thai vibe.
Tonno's Bar & Grill
I've always loved trying out new places in the city, and my latest discovery is Tonno's Bar & Grill, which has recently opened a new spot on Bidwell.
I casually strolled in, expecting to chill with a beer and maybe grab a bite.
I must say, I was absolutely blown away!
The drinks are top-notch, the service is fantastic, and the food is simply incredible.
The atmosphere at Tonno's is relaxed yet attentive, providing a perfect balance that's not always easy to find.
The location is a gem, tucked away yet conveniently close to Sutter Street.
The décor is gorgeous, and it's clear that the employees take pride in their work - they're always friendly and welcoming.
A highlight for me was the exciting and delectable taco selection.
I would especially recommend the birria - it's just divine.
More than that, the laid-back atmosphere is an absolute winner.
The bar is manned by great bartenders, and there's always a fun crowd to chat with.
Quick Dish
If you're like me, you're always on the hunt for a great place to eat.
Well, I've found it.
The Quick Dish, a cozy little gem tucked away in our city, serving some of the most delicious food I've had in a while.
She introduced me to their mouthwatering menu, clearly prepared with love and a passion for good food.
I have a bit of an adventurous palate, so I decided to try their Picanha BBQ Plate.
And let me tell you, it was a feast!
The steak was cooked to perfection, and the mashed potatoes were like a little cloud of deliciousness on my plate.
The plate was piled high with food, and each bite was better than the last.
You can check out their menu and see for yourself at Quick Dish.
The Quick Dish is not just a restaurant but an experience.
They're the kind of people who remember your name and your favorite dish, which adds a personal touch that's hard to come by these days.
Another time I went there, I had the BBQ plate with four sides, and everything was superb.
The grilled veggies were tender and flavorful, and the fried bananas were something else entirely.
They're a must-try.
And it's not just me who thinks so – every time I've been there, the place has been buzzing with happy customers.
And if you're a fan of Brazilian food, you're in for a treat.
I'm not Brazilian, but after eating at Quick Dish, I might as well be.
Their Brazilian delicacies like picanha, cheese bread, and a variety of juices are to die for.
And don't even get me started on the strawberry Nutella pizza – it's a dessert you'll dream about.
Umami Ramen
Any local foodie would agree that the best ramen spot in the city is Umami Ramen.
This Japanese fast-food style restaurant gives you a unique experience where you take a number stick before ordering your food at the front counter.
After that, you find your own seat and place your number on the table.
The ambiance on a Sunday afternoon is perfect.
The place is bright, clean, and not too crowded.
You can enjoy your lunch without too much noise.
The menu mainly consists of Japanese-style ramen and curry rice, along with a variety of appetizers.
I remember my last visit, I ordered ramen while my friend got the curry rice.
Both dishes were flavorful and served in generous portions.
However, the highlight of the meal was the egg in the ramen - perfectly done and adds a whole new level of umami to the dish.
The restaurant is located in a small shopping center on Blue Ravine.
Manderes
My visits to Manderes have become something of a routine.
Nestled in a cozy corner of a strip mall, this upbeat bar and restaurant has a charisma that pulls you in.
It's far from fancy, but the casual ambiance is inviting, making you feel like part of a community.
Manderes is known for its wide selection of craft beers on tap.
But that's not all, its wine list is equally impressive.
It's always a treat to try something new from their extensive menu of beverages.
But the scene-stealer here is undoubtedly the food.
I remember being blown away by their Chicken Lettuce Wraps and Bulgogi Hoagie.
The dishes had such a nice flavor that the memory of it lingers on.
One of the best things about this place would have to be their garlic mashed potatoes.
The stuffed mushrooms are equally delicious.
These appetizers have become a staple for me on each of my visits.
Another dish that you shouldn't miss out on is the Jambalaya with pasta.
The seafood is always fresh, and the tomato broth is spicy, making it a rich and sumptuous delight.
Mystique Dining
Everyone in the city knows that if you're looking for a unique dining experience, Mystique Dining is the place to go.
I've been there a couple of times, and each visit was uniquely memorable.
I remember the last visit in particular.
I took my kids and my mother-in-law, who was visiting from out of state.
The crimson-hued eatery was just as plush as I recalled, setting a mood of refined mystery for the evening.
The whole place has a sort of medieval meets Houdini vibe that my mother-in-law found delightful.
The evening started with a multi-course dinner.
The food was, as always, exceptional.
I can still taste the succulent prime rib and refreshing cucumber canapes we had.
The taste of her meal was in no way compromised due to her dietary restrictions, much to her delight.
After dinner, it was time for the magic show.
It wasn't just a show, it was an interactive experience that had all of us laughing and gasping in wonder.
Vegan Asian Cuisine
I recently discovered Vegan Asian Cuisine, a spot that serves up an all-vegan menu that doesn't skimp on flavor or authenticity.
My first visit to this gem was nothing short of a revelation.
The service was top-notch, making me feel welcome and excited to try their offerings.
I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and flavor of the food - who knew vegan could taste so good?
My favorite, hands down, are the spicy noodle and Korean noodles.
A word to the wary, though - the spicy noodle lives up to its name!
Apart from the noodles, their spring rolls are a must-try.
The light, crisp rolls, coupled with their tangy dipping sauce, is a burst of flavor that never fails to impress.
And if you're in the mood for a refreshing drink, their taro boba tea is a sweet, creamy delight that rounds off the meal perfectly.
Bakemono Sushi
I have seen restaurants come and go, but a recent visit to Bakemono Sushi, formerly known as Blue Nami, was a pleasant surprise.
The restaurant's website Bakemono Sushi intrigued me, and I decided to give it a try.
Upon entering, I was impressed by the cleanliness of the place.
I decided to start with the combination tempura, which turned out to be one of the best I've had around here.
My main course comprised two sushi selections - the Mucho Caliente and Orange Blossom.
The Mucho Caliente, a spicy mix of tuna, cucumber, cilantro, spicy mayo, jalapeno, sriracha, and masago, was a treat for my spice-loving palate.
The Orange Blossom, which included tuna, avocado, salmon, house 2 sauce, green onion, and masago, had an interesting blend of flavors.
Sutter Street Steakhouse
It was a typical evening in our idyllic city, and we decided to head over to the Sutter Street Steakhouse.
As our regular haunt, it's become a kind of tradition, a warm and welcoming place where we can let our hair down and enjoy a fantastic meal.
The intimate and comfortable atmosphere of this classy American steakhouse is undeniably captivating.
The extensive menu, brimming with tantalizing options, kept us hooked, and the fantastic cocktails kept us merry.
An Apricot Sidecar, tart and refreshing, was an unexpected delight!
Skipping the appetizer, we dove straight into the main course.
The Cobb salad is a must-try, and the chopped and tossed version from Sutter Street is truly scrumptious.
The balance between the various ingredients and the generous amount of blue cheese crumbles made it an instant hit.
The timing of the service was impeccable!
Just as we finished our salads, our main course was served.
I relished the petit filet, rare and cooked to perfection, while my friend savored the fish special.
Our partners, on the other hand, indulged in the New York strip with mouth-watering garlic mashed potatoes.
Despite the satiating meal, we couldn't resist the dessert.
The crème brûlée was a dream, and the surprise chocolate mini-cake for my partner's birthday was the cherry on top.
It was a perfect evening at our favorite spot, Sutter Street Steakhouse.
Salsa's Taqueria
I'm lucky enough to have Salsa's Taqueria right in my neighborhood.
This Mexican joint has become a go-to for my family and me when we're in the mood for some delicious, authentic cuisine.
I've never been disappointed with the quality of the food here.
It's always served hot, and the taste is just exquisite.
Whenever we visit, we're always welcomed with fantastic customer service.
Their carne asada fries are a must-try.
They are absolutely fantastic, always fresh and full of flavor.
One of the things I like most about Salsa's Taqueria is their amazing assortment of salsas and their wide selection of drinks.
From Mexican bottled sodas to fountain drinks, wines, alcohol, and beers, you're really spoilt for choice.
And if you're into sports or music, they've got you covered too.
Lolita's Mexican Cuisine
One of my favorite spots for a delightful Mexican dish in the city is Lolita's Authentic Cuisine.
I've found myself heading there almost religiously, I've lost count, but it's more than a handful of visits for sure.
Every time, the food never ceases to impress.
The Shredded Beef Crispy Taco is an absolute delight, and don't get me started on the green sauce chicken enchiladas - it's a taste that makes your palate dance with joy!
Being a small, family-owned and run establishment, the atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and quite homey.
Their speed is commendable given the circumstances, and it never affects the quality of the food.
It's not just about the food and service, the prices are also more than reasonable.
This makes Lolita's a regular spot for my family's weekday dinners.
After a long day, nothing beats the convenience of hopping onto our golf cart and being minutes away from a delicious, fresh meal.
Nara Sushi
A delightful evening at Nara Sushi, an exquisite sushi spot I discovered, is one well spent.
Nestled in the heart of our city, it's a gem that brings an authentic taste of Japan right to Folsom.
The restaurant's ambiance is a blend of sophistication and warmth.
The attention to detail is astounding – it's a perfect setting for a casual dinner or an exceptional anniversary celebration.
One thing that truly stands out at Nara Sushi is the food presentation.
It's like they've turned the art of sushi making into a visual feast.
From the moment the dishes start arriving at your table, you'll be in awe of the beautiful plates, each designed with a unique touch.
But the real star of the show is, of course, the sushi.
Every roll I've tasted has been nothing short of amazing.
The Hawaiian Volcano roll is a definite must-try, served flaming for that added touch of excitement.
The Rainbow roll, with its freshness, is an absolute delight.
And let's not forget the King roll and the Baked Lobster, which were just as scrumptious.
If you're up for an appetizer, the spicy garlic edamame is a win.
But the real surprise was the honey mango roll, a sweet and savory combo that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
The service at Nara Sushi is just as commendable.
Folsom Pizza and Kabob
My regular hangout spot is none other than the family-operated gem, Folsom Pizza and Kabob, located in the heart of the beautiful city of Folsom.
The parking spaces are ample, which is always a plus for me.
But what keeps me coming back is not just the convenience, it's the food and the atmosphere.
It's evident from the moment you meet her that she's dedicated to making sure all her guests feel like they're part of her family.
On to the food, Folsom Pizza and Kabob knocked it out of the park with their lunch specials.
I savored the most delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Everything from the juicy meat to the fresh salad, perfectly cooked rice, and mouthwatering hummus screams quality.
One of my personal favorites is their unique cilantro hummus.
Believe it or not, this place is a Pizza and Kabob joint, and they've mastered both.
The kabob plates are to die for, and I've heard only good things about the pizza too.
And don't get me started on the wraps!
I once ordered 45 wraps and 25 fries for a party, and it was a hit.
I should also mention their hot sauce.
It's a game-changer and enhances the flavor of the meals so much that everyone at my party was asking about it.
Visconti's Ristorante
There's a little gem in our city that I've frequented on numerous occasions, it's called Visconti's Ristorante.
This family-run place offers a warm, traditional dining experience complete with patio seating for those gorgeous summer evenings.
My last visit was a spontaneous dinner outing with friends on a Saturday night.
The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and comfortable, never overwhelming despite the restaurant being busy.
Visconti's Ristorante offers an extensive menu filled with Southern Italian favorites and a variety of drinks to choose from.
I remember our orders being served in less than fifteen minutes, all dishes fresh, hot, and utterly delicious.
From Chicken Marsala, Chicken Fettuccine to Linguini Alla Sorrentina, each dish was a delight for our palates, and the love for Italian food was evident in every bite.
Thai Cali
Just the other day, I found myself at Thai Cali trying something different for lunch.
I've traveled all over Thailand and have sampled a multitude of Thai food options, both in California and further afield.
Each of the five dishes that I ordered were fantastic!
The taste was so flavorful; that I've vowed to return.
On another occasion, I stopped by Thai Cali for an early lunch as I was running late for delivery down the road.
I ordered the Yellow Curry with chicken for my protein, along with a hot green tea.
The food was excellent, and I appreciated the great service.
The River Thai Cuisine
If you're in the mood for some authentic Thai food, you don't have to travel halfway across the globe.
Right here in our neighborhood, we have this gem of a restaurant - The River Thai Cuisine.
You can find them here.
Just last Sunday, I decided to treat myself to a nice lunch at The River.
It took only about 10 minutes from placing my order to the moment my food arrived.
I had ordered their Pad Thai with chicken.
The noodles were firm yet chewy - just the way I like them.
And let's not forget about the generous amount of chicken pieces.
Although I would've loved a stronger tamarind and fish sauce aroma, it was still a delightful dish.
Then came the Panang curry with tofu.
The curry was flavorful, and the creamy and delicious taste was a treat to my palette.
I did find it a bit too watery, but the generous chunks of tofu more than made up for it.
But what stood out to me was their takeout service.
I ordered some takeout - Chicken Pad Thai, Yellow Curry, and Pineapple Fried Rice.
Each dish packed a good amount of food and the medium spice level was just right for me, spicy but not overwhelming.
Whether you're dining in or ordering takeout, The River Thai Cuisine is a good stop for some authentic Thai food.
And for those with a low spice tolerance, the mild/basic level offers the perfect amount of spice.
I'll definitely be coming back to try more of their dishes.
Folsom Thai Cuisine
Oh, the joy of discovering a culinary treasure right in your neighborhood!
Nestled in the heart of Folsom is a wonderful Thai restaurant that I simply must rave about - Folsom Thai Cuisine.
The food?
Exquisite.
On more than one occasion, I've dove into multiple dishes, savoring every morsel from the starters through to the entrees.
Each dish is a symphony of flavors.
The avocado spring rolls are a personal favorite.
Fresh, crunchy, and accompanied by a peanut sauce that adds just the right touch of sweetness – a harmony with every bite.
But let's not forget about the entrees.
The Curry and Pad Se Ew drunken noodles are nothing short of culinary masterpieces.
With each bite, the taste buds are greeted with a medley of veggies and perfect spiciness, making the dish feel wholesome and satisfying.
Another standout dish that I couldn't get enough of is eggplant delight.
It's a must-try, trust me.
This isn’t your average restaurant where you leave feeling hungry.
Fourk Kitchen Folsom
When you're searching for a unique and satisfying food experience in Folsom, Fourk Kitchen is the place to go.
The exciting part about dining at Fourk is their monthly changing menu, which always keeps me eagerly anticipating their next culinary offerings.
Their fine dining experience is admirably affordable, and the one seating time per day policy adds a touch of exclusivity to the whole experience.
Starting the evening off with their happy hour before dinner, I've realized this is the best way to extend your time at Fourk and try out some of their mouthwatering appetizers.
And when it comes to the actual dinner, each course is a gastronomic journey.
Every dish is cooked to perfection, and the flavors are simply exquisite.
The wine pairing is a cherry on top, further enhancing the taste of the food.
Final Thoughts
Folsom is a gourmet heaven for food enthusiasts like me.
The myriad flavors of Folsom make every dining experience unique and memorable.
This list doesn't cover all the culinary gems in Folsom, but it's a good place to start.
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