25 Best Restaurants in Rocklin, CA
This article was written by local contributor Cath Wilson & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Rocklin, California, a quaint city nestled in the heart of Placer County, has always been a place close to my heart.
Over the years, I've had the pleasure of witnessing its growth and transformation into a culinary paradise that it is today.
From warm and cozy cafes to elegant fine-dining establishments, this city has something delightful to offer for every palate.
In this article, we'll be exploring some of the best restaurants in Rocklin, California, that you simply can't miss during your visit.
So, join me as we embark on a mouth-watering journey through the city's hidden gems and unique dining experiences.
Pottery World
One of my favorite spots to dine in town is the Pottery World Cafe.
It's truly a hidden gem within a beautiful home and garden store.
The cafe offers an incredible dining experience with delicious entrees, soups to die for, and heavenly desserts.
It's no wonder that families in the area have made dining here a tradition shared among friends and many generations.
I remember the first time I discovered that Pottery World had a restaurant, I knew I needed to try it.
The food was not only delicious and filling but also beautifully presented, leaving me with leftovers to enjoy later.
The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was just amazing.
Sitting outside, you can hear the fountains and feel like you're in a serene oasis, making it a wonderful spot for breakfast or lunch.
The Clam Chowder, in particular, is absolutely divine! It quickly became my go-to dish every time I visit.
It's no wonder that people rave about the cafe and keep coming back for more.
If you haven't visited Pottery World Cafe yet, you're truly missing out on an amazing all-around experience.
Wally's Cafe
I had the pleasure of dining at Wally's Cafe in Rocklin recently, and I must say, it was an experience I won't soon forget.
As soon as I walked in, I was greeted warmly by Wally himself, which immediately made me feel at home.
The atmosphere was convivial, and I couldn't wait to try the Mediterranean and Lebanese dishes they had on offer.
I started with the lentil soup that they served as a complimentary appetizer - a delightful and unexpected treat!
For my main course, I decided to go with the pomegranate chicken, which turned out to be an outstanding choice.
The flavors were rich and perfectly balanced, making it one of the best chicken dishes I've ever had.
I also had the opportunity to taste their lamb kabobs, which were tender and full of flavor.
The hummus that accompanied them was creamy and delicious, too.
And let's not forget about the complimentary baklava dessert - it was the perfect way to end the meal with its flaky, sweet goodness.
Though the prices may be on the higher end, the portion sizes and quality of the food make it absolutely worth it.
Granite Rock Grill
Let me tell you about one of my go-to spots for breakfast and brunch – Granite Rock Grill.
This place has it all: classic American diner-style fare, generous portions, and top-notch service.
I've taken my family here on numerous occasions, and we're never disappointed!
The menu offers a wide variety of options, including some gluten-free choices like waffles and pancakes.
One of my personal favorites is the country-fried steak and eggs – it's cooked to perfection every time.
My partner loves the crab cake benedict, which was one of the specials during our last visit.
And don't even get me started on their massive, mouth-watering biscuits!
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and absolutely heavenly when topped with melted butter and honey.
But what really sets Granite Rock Grill apart is their exceptional service.
And if you're in the mood for a drink, you must try their bloody mary – it's a game changer!
Via Roma Pizzeria con Cucina
As someone who's always on the lookout for authentic Italian cuisine, Via Roma Pizzeria con Cucina has become my go-to spot for a cozy and delightful dining experience.
I've tried several items on their menu, and believe me when I say that everything tastes just like homemade Italian food.
The pizzas, pasta, and meats are all delightful, and the wine list is impressive too.
One thing that sets Via Roma apart from other restaurants is the warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with exceptional customer service.
Apart from the mouth-watering main courses, their desserts are also worth mentioning.
I've tried the cannoli, and it's absolutely delicious with a hint of lemon flavor.
Their tiramisu is a must-try as well!
The Chef's Table
I finally had the chance to visit The Chef's Table last week, and I must say, it was quite the experience.
I couldn't help but notice the lively atmosphere, which seemed more like a bar with a few tables along the sides.
I decided to try their famous peanut butter and jelly hamburger off the secret menu (I know, it sounds odd, but it was absolutely delicious), and I couldn't resist getting a side of their pesto fries.
A friend of mine had previously raved about their Hawaiian Mule, so I gave that a try as well, and I wasn't disappointed.
The flavors were vivid and completely blew me away.
The service was impeccable throughout the evening.
Zest Kitchen
One of my favorite spots to eat in town is definitely Zest Kitchen.
As someone who loves vegan food, it's been a challenge finding a place that not only offers delicious plant-based meals but also has a relaxing atmosphere.
From the earth tones and windows, Zest Kitchen is the perfect hangout that specializes in vegan fare and hand-blended teas.
I've tried a variety of dishes from their menu, and I must say, the Zest Burger never disappoints.
My partner enjoys the soup of the day and the Tiger Burger, which also comes highly recommended.
It's great to see that they offer an oil-free and light oil menu for health-conscious patrons.
Their Loin Burger is another popular choice among customers, and their "nuggets" are a hit with kids too!
The moment I walk in, I feel a sense of calm and happiness wash over me.
Mezcalito
Mezcalito Oaxacan Cuisine has become one of my go-to spots for authentic Mexican food.
I've visited the place countless times, and I'm always impressed by the beautiful presentation of their dishes and the variety of Oaxacan flavors they offer.
One of my favorite dishes at Mezcalito is the Tlayuda, which has a crispy tostada, creamy beans, avocado, tangy cherry tomatoes, and the meat of your choice.
I also enjoy their ceviche, which could use a bit more variety in terms of seafood, but it's still delicious.
The chips and salsa they serve are also amazing, and I can't get enough of them.
I appreciate that they have a vegetarian section on their menu, which makes it easier for my friends with dietary restrictions to enjoy a meal with me.
I also love that the restaurant takes pride in its decoration and overall atmosphere, which adds to the overall experience.
Prime Wok Express
One of my go-to spots for Chinese food in the area is Prime Wok Express.
This family-run counter serve offers a wide variety of familiar Chinese dishes, either as combo plates or à la carte options.
I usually end up ordering their Pineapple Chicken with fried rice, even though I'm not a huge fan of pineapple, the flavor combination is simply delicious.
They also have a Pepper Chicken dish that I've tried but found to not be very spicy, so if you're looking for heat, you might want to ask for extra spice.
The portions at Prime Wok Express are seriously huge.
One combination plate can easily last me for three meals, so it's definitely a bang for your buck.
Phở Vegan Asian Cuisine
One of my go-to spots for a delicious and healthy meal is Phở Vegan Asian Cuisine.
This vegan restaurant has an incredible variety of meat-free Vietnamese noodle soups, fried rice, and other Asian classics served over the counter.
The extensive menu offers a wide array of dishes from various Far East and Southeast Asian cuisines, including some from the Philippines.
What I love most about this place is that the food is made to order, and you can tell the difference in taste and quality.
As a vegan and a lover of Asian food, this place is a must-visit for me.
The menu includes tons of options with veggies, tofu, and mock meats – not just restricted to beyond meat.
The flavors are simple, authentic, and healthy enough to cater to most dietary restrictions, and there's even an entire oil-free menu!
One of my favorite things about Phở Vegan Asian Cuisine is their drink options, which include boba tea and an amazing Vietnamese coffee.
I tried it at the Rocklin location, and it's one of the best ones I've had.
Some of my favorite dishes here are Mapo tofu, yellow noodle soup, Chowmein with tofu and veggies, green bean tofu, and Singapore noodles.
I visit this place often to try out different dishes, and I'm never disappointed.
Sully's Bar & Grill
I've always enjoyed spending time at Sully's Bar & Grill whenever I want a low-key night out.
The place offers a great selection of food and drinks.
I particularly love their "street tacos," Sully's sampler platter, and potstickers – they're absolutely delicious! Plus, the establishment is always clean, which is a big deal for me.
The atmosphere and ambiance at Sully's are amazing.
They have music, pool, darts, and karaoke to keep you entertained throughout the night.
Speaking of karaoke, their microphone and sound system can be a bit too loud at times.
But I guess that's part of the fun when listening to off-key singers while trying to have a conversation with your friends.
I must admit that the drink prices can be a tad high, but I think they're still within reason, considering the overall experience you get at Sully's.
Mario's Early Toast
Every weekend, my partner and I make it a point to visit one of our favorite breakfast spots in town - Mario's Early Toast.
The moment we walk in, we're greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes us feel right at home.
We've tried pretty much everything on their extensive menu, and each dish has always been nothing short of outstanding.
One of the highlights for us has to be their selection of mimosas.
They have so many options to choose from, which makes our weekend breakfast feel like a special occasion.
And don't even get me started on their biscuits and gravy – you can really taste that the gravy is made from scratch!
Not only is the food incredible, but the customer service at Mario's Early Toast is top-notch as well.
Plus, the prices are more than fair for the generous portions they serve.
Milo's Greek Food
Just the other day, I finally decided to try out Milo's Greek Food in my neighborhood. I've never had Greek food before, so I was both excited and a bit nervous about trying something new.
They took the time to explain their menu and recommend some dishes for me to try, which I really appreciated.
I decided to go for the beef and lamb gyro, and let me tell you, it was mind-blowing!
The meat was savory and tender, and the whole dish was bursting with flavor.
I also got to try their traditional Philly cheesesteak, which was delicious as well. The bread was fresh, and the meat was full of flavor.
I enjoyed their crispy fries too.
One thing I liked about Milo's was the fact that it's a family-owned business, and they really take pride in their work.
It's clear that their passion for serving delicious Greek cuisine is reflected in the quality of their food and the warm atmosphere of the restaurant.
Venita Rhea's
One of my favorite spots in town for a hearty brunch has got to be Venita Rhea's.
It's a quirky little place with a French countryside motif that gives off a warm, cozy vibe.
They serve American classics for both breakfast and lunch, and the food is simply outstanding.
I was first introduced to Venita Rhea's by some friends who have been loyal patrons for years.
And after my first visit, I completely understood their love for it. I had the "two, two, two breakfast," which consists of 2 eggs, 2 bacon or sausage, and 2 huge pancakes or French toast - needless to say, I was stuffed!
My partner, on the other hand, went for the seafood cobbler salad and couldn't stop raving about it.
Not only is the food delicious, but the service at Venita Rhea's is top-notch.
The place is also well-maintained and clean, including the restrooms.
I've been back several times since that first visit and have had the chance to try other dishes like the breakfast quesadilla and the blackened ribeye steak with loaded fries, both of which were absolutely flavorful and filling.
Kathrin's Biergarten
I absolutely love spending my weekends at Kathrin's Biergarten, a casual German restaurant right here in our local Rocklin shopping center.
The atmosphere is so laid back and inviting, especially with their outdoor patio that offers plenty of shade and seating options. It's the perfect spot to relax with friends and family while enjoying authentic German-style dishes and an impressive variety of brews.
The food at Kathrin's Biergarten never disappoints. From their crispy schnitzel to their creamy spätzle, every bite is packed with delicious flavors.
And you can't visit without trying their mouthwatering pretzels and sauerkraut balls as appetizers!
The beer and cider selection is fantastic, too, so there's always something new to try each time I go.
Even on hotter days, the Biergarten remains a comfortable place to hang out.
The fans and shade provided make it a pleasant spot for outdoor dining.
I'm so glad to have this hidden gem in our community, and I can't wait to try everything on their menu!
Other Restaurants Nearby
Local Kitchens (Roseville)
I recently got the chance to visit Local Kitchens, a free-standing food court in the area with five diverse food options in one location.
At first, I was a bit skeptical about the concept of five restaurants sharing one kitchen but decided to give it a try anyway.
My partner and I decided to order the Tikka Masala Burrito and the Kulcha Naan, along with Cheddar Bacon Fries.
Once we got our food, we were pleasantly surprised by the delicious taste and aroma of the Tikka Masala Burrito.
The Naan was also quite delicious and shareable, as the portion was more substantial than it appeared to be in the picture.
The Cheddar Bacon Fries were cheesy and had a decent amount of bacon, making them a satisfying side dish.
The Grand Indian Cuisine
I recently had the pleasure of dining at The Grand Indian Cuisine, and I have to say, it was an incredible experience.
As a vegetarian, it's not always easy to find a restaurant that caters to my dietary needs, but this place gave me confidence in their offerings.
Not only do they manage to keep the place tidy and clean, but the service is also very friendly and genuinely interested in customer feedback to improve the experience for everyone.
The food at The Grand Indian Cuisine was absolutely amazing. I started with the Samosas, which were served with mint chutney and coconut chutney, and I couldn't get enough of them.
The Meduvada (dal donut) was a delicious surprise, with a soft lentil interior and a crispy exterior, accompanied by incredible sauces.
I also tried the Mysore Masala Dosa, which was both huge and flavorful, as well as the Chettinad veg biryani, which was packed with spice and vegetables.
The Ghee porotta was another great addition to the meal, resembling a flatbread croissant.
The service at the restaurant was also top-notch.
Q1227 Restaurant
I recently dined at Q1227 Restaurant, and it was an unforgettable experience!
The understated venue offers a cozy atmosphere and a comfortable patio seating area.
The menu has a great variety of sandwiches, seafood, and meat dishes, as well as delicious desserts and wine selections.
I must say, their garlic bread is not to be missed!
The food was incredibly tasty, and it's evident that they use high-quality ingredients. I had the hanger steak, and it was cooked to perfection.
The shrimp and grits were also a delightful choice.
Although the portions were not huge, they were just enough for me to enjoy a satisfying meal without feeling too full.
They made sure that we were taken care of and had everything we needed.
I was also impressed by Chef Q, who made it a point to visit each table and personally interact with the guests.
One more thing that definitely stood out was the dessert.
I had the bread pudding, and it was absolutely phenomenal – a must-try for any bread pudding lover! I can't wait to return to Q1227 Restaurant and try other dishes on their menu.
Four Sisters Cafe
Four Sisters Cafe has become my go-to place for breakfast and brunch.
The restaurant offers classic American breakfast and lunch options in a contemporary booth and counter/bar setup, making it a cozy and inviting spot to dine.
Every time I visit, there's usually a decent wait, which speaks to the popularity of the place and the quality of the food.
Although I've tried various dishes on their menu, I must say that the French toast is by far my favorite - it's simply amazing!
The Feta Omelette is also a great choice, especially when paired with their potatoes and a plain biscuit with their homemade jam.
The food is consistently fresh and delicious, which keeps me coming back for more.
Old Town Pizza
Last weekend, my friends and I decided to check out Old Town Pizza since we've heard great things about it. We managed to get a table for our group of 12.
When we arrived, the place was packed, but our pizzas came out pretty quickly.
The crust was doughy, which reminded me of Pizza Hut rather than a thin-crust pizza like Blaze. The toppings were fresh, and the unique pizza recipes were fun and tasted good.
What I particularly enjoyed about Old Town Pizza was its extensive selection of hard seltzers and beers.
I'm sure anyone would find something they like on their menu.
Mikuni Roseville
I've been to Mikuni Roseville quite a few times, and it's always a delight to dine there.
This local Japanese chain serves delicious sushi, along with small plates and hot entrees, in a stylish space.
I particularly enjoy their sesame chicken and illegal asparagus, which is packed with flavor, especially with their special sauce. I once ordered a custom avocado and tempura sweet potato roll – it was absolutely perfect and so delicious!
One of the things I love about Mikuni is that they are very flexible and accommodating with their menu.
This is a huge plus for me since I have some food restrictions.
Their prices are also quite similar to other sushi places in the area, so I never feel like I'm breaking the bank when dining there.
During one visit, I went after the lunch rush, around 1:30 - 2:00 pm, and it was a perfect time to pop in as it was less crowded and the service was even more attentive.
FUKUMI Ramen (Roseville)
FUKUMI Ramen in Roseville has quickly become one of my go-to spots for a delicious and satisfying meal.
As a huge fan of ramen, I can confidently say that this place serves some of the best ramen I have ever tasted.
The moment you step into the restaurant, you are immediately captivated by the cool atmosphere and eye-catching decor.
Their website boasts a nice preview of what to expect once you're there.
What really stands out for me is the magnificent broth in their ramen.
It's so rich in flavor yet perfectly balanced, allowing the other ingredients to shine as well.
The meat they use is so tender and juicy that it just melts in your mouth.
And let me tell you about their freshly made karrage - dipping it in the broth and taking a bite is an experience like no other!
It's no wonder I keep coming back here with my family; we've tried almost every ramen offering and rice bowl on the menu, and each one is just as delicious as the last.
RANGE kitchen & tap
Just the other day, I decided to try out RANGE kitchen & tap, a new American restaurant in town, and I was thoroughly impressed!
The spacious monochrome dining room was a lovely and comfortable space to enjoy a meal
I had a tough time deciding what to order, as their menu was filled with innovative takes on familiar international dishes.
Eventually, I settled on the Mac and Cheese, Bison Sliders, and Jalapeño Popper pizza.
While the Mac was a tad dry, it was still tasty. The sliders, on the other hand, were cooked to perfection, and the pizza was an absolute delight, albeit spicy.
The heirloom tomato salad caught my eye, too, and I can't wait to go back and give it a try!
The food, service, and ambiance were top-notch, and I am excited to see what else RANGE kitchen & tap has in store for my taste buds.
As a dog owner, I was also happy to discover that they have a nice patio with ample space, making it a dog-friendly dining option.
I can't wait to bring my pups along next time and share this gem with more friends and family.
Timbers At the Lodge
One day, after a long walk with my son, we found ourselves hungry and thirsty, with no stores or food places nearby.
That's when we stumbled upon this hidden gem - Timbers At the Lodge.
Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to be a resident to enjoy this amazing American restaurant.
As soon as we walked in, we were welcomed by the fantastic Rock n roll music playing in the background.
The views from the restaurant were absolutely gorgeous, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.
The menu was classic, with not too many items, but everything we tasted was delicious.
What stood out to me, though, was their clam chowder, which I heard was a five-star dish.
To my delight, it was served on the day we visited, and it absolutely lived up to the hype!
The portion sizes were generous, and the prices were decent, making it an excellent option for a family meal.
I've also been told that the drinks from the bar are awesome, so I'm looking forward to trying them on my next visit.
Kitchen747
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Kitchen747, a fabulous restaurant with a variety of burgers, unique plates, cocktails, and other food options.
The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, with friendly faces and super clean amenities.
When I arrived, I found easy parking at the nearby outdoor mall and noticed several coffee shops and other stores in the area.
The restaurant was busy but not overly crowded, making for a pleasant dining experience.
I highly recommend making a reservation to ensure a table, especially if you wish to enjoy their 21+ rooftop patio in the evening.
The drink selection at Kitchen747 was abundant, and the menu had something for everyone.
Being a vegetarian, I did wish they had more vegetarian/vegan main options, but the finger foods and drinks more than made up for it.
During a separate visit, I tried their French toast and was thoroughly impressed – it's easily one of the best I've had in the area.
Their burgers are also quite popular, especially when paired with sweet potato fries.
La Huaca
Just last week, I decided to give La Huaca a try and let me tell you, it was one of the best dining experiences I've had in a while.
While waiting for my meal, I enjoyed some fresh hot bread bites that were absolutely scrumptious.
I decided to order the Pachamanca Tres Carnes, which was not only a generous serving but also incredibly delicious!
I couldn't help but overhear some nearby diners raving about their salmon dish and the flavorful mushroom sauce that accompanied it.
One of my friends who joined me for dinner did mention that her meal was a bit too salty for her taste, but the rest of our group had nothing but positive things to say about their dishes.
The service was attentive and efficient, and I heard that they are even working on adding a lunch buffet to their offerings soon.
Final Thoughts
I am fortunate enough to call Rocklin my home, and it has truly been a delight to explore and taste the incredible variety of culinary experiences that this town has to offer.
My personal favorite, however, has to be Wally's Cafe on Sunset Blvd, where I've enjoyed countless meals with my friends and family over the years.
So, if you ever find yourself in this charming town, be sure to treat yourself to some of these fantastic dining options.
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