The Delta King
After lying on the bottom of the San Francisco Bay for 18 months, the Delta King paddle-wheel steamboat was recovered, refurbished and reconceived as a hotel, restaurant and nightspot. Local lamb, fresh seafood, grass-fed beef and free-range chicken drizzled with dazzling sauces are served in the elegant Pilot House, where the service is excellent and the bill is expensive. More affordable and informal is the Delta Bar & Grill, which serves salads, sandwiches and such entrees as salmon, meatloaf and steak. You can dress casually and bring the kids to either restaurant, but get them a sitter before enjoying a nightcap with the rollicking band playing in the bar at the bow of the boat.
The Delta King
1000 Front St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 444-5464
deltaking.com
Fanny Ann's Saloon
Here's the legend: The Fanny Ann steamboat, built in 1842, carried supplies up and down local waters to Sutter's Fort. The Union Army commissioned the boat for service during the Civil War, and Pinkerton's later transported it from Louisiana back home to Sacramento. Local madam Big Annie Fannie acquired the steamboat, docked it next to her saloon and changed her name to Fanny Ann. Fire broke out aboard the craft during a rowdy party in 1869, and what could be salvaged remains on the display in the period-decorated saloon, whose proprietors since 1972 have served decent burgers, killer wings and "the coldest beer in town." Nine varieties of hamburgers, five different chicken dishes, four types of sandwiches and four varieties of hot dogs are served. It's a fine place to take the family for a fun and funky lunch--the kids will love the "Hot Dawg with curly fries"--but when night falls Fanny Ann's becomes a rootin' tootin' saloon. Drink specials, burger deals and much suds-soaked karaoke ensue.
Fanny Ann's Saloon
1023 2nd St.
Old Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 441-0505
fannyannsaloon.com
Fat City Bar & Cafe
Frank Fat's in downtown Sacramento is the flagship of Fat's Asian Dining empire throughout the city, Central Valley and beyond (there are locations in San Diego and Northern California Indian reservations). But none in the chain beat Fat City Bar & Cafe in Old Sacramento for atmosphere. Imagine gnawing on delicious chicken chow mein on the set of "The Wild, Wild West" and you get the idea. But the chain that serves the best Chinese food in Sacramento at its other locations leans heavily toward American fare in Old Town. Other than the aforementioned chow mein, as well as potstickers and crispy green beans on the appetizer menu, it's all Yankee. Garlic fries, onion rings, mac and cheese, burgers, tri tip and pulled-pork sandwiches, pasta dishes, chicken, seafood, chops, steaks and ribs are among what's served for lunch and dinner. Though many mosey up to the long, beautiful, dark-wood Pioneer Bar for a stiff one, the adjacent dining area is always family friendly.
Fat City Bar & Cafe
1001 Front St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 446-6768
fatsrestaurants.com/fatcity
