Growing up, I was incredibly lucky to be so close to the city of Sacramento, California. While it is famous for being the state's capital and for playing a huge role during the Gold Rush Era, Sacramento has become a sort of "foodie" destination for locals and tourists alike. During my time spent in Sacramento and its surrounding cities, I managed to try quite a few of the restaurants--several of which quickly became personal favorites. The region has quickly become known as America's "farm to fork" capital, due to the variety of farms in the area and local restaurants that support these farms. If I've learned anything from the Sacramento food scene, it's that the food is fresh, creative, and guaranteed to satisfy!

Here are some of my favorite Sacramento-area restaurants, divided by type. Happy eating!

Breakfast/Brunch

The Tower Cafe, 1518 Broadway -- Sacramento

Despite always having a massive wait (but surely a sign of its goodness), the Tower Cafe quickly became a favorite of mine. As far as breakfast food goes, it's best known for the french toast. Smothered in a melody of fruit sauces, whipped cream, butter, and god-knows-what-else, this creation is simply to die for. Tower Cafe also makes amazing omelettes, scrambles, and pretty much anything else you can think of. Plus, the portions are huge for a reasonable price. It's always a win-win.

Cafeteria 15L, 1116 15th Street -- Sacramento

This place is the epitome of instagrammable. The drinks are served in cute little mason jars, and everything is so photogenic you'll want to cry. The Cafeteria offers weekend brunch, with amazing eats and a perfect atmosphere to get together with friends. Most importantly, their food is farm-to-fork and amazingly fresh! A must-try is their eggs Benedict and truffle tater tots, if you're feeling adventurous.

Mexican

Tres Hermanas -- 2416 K Street -- Sacramento

I might be partial here because Mexican food is my absolute favorite, and just thinking about this place brings a tear to my eye because I haven't been home in months to go to this gem of a restaurant. It's located in the heart of Midtown, and offers that perfect filling Mexican food that you know you're craving deep down. The portions are enormous and you really can't go wrong. My favorite are the combination plates, which come with a heaping plate of homemade rice and beans, with your choice of combination item. SO. GOOD. And very authentic. Vamos!

Zocalo -- 1801 Capitol Ave -- Sacramento

While not as "authentic" as Tres Hermanas, Zocalo offers a bit more of a "dining experience." It's located near the capital building inside of an old car dealership - so the interior is amazing. At any given day, it'll be packed with important politicians and Midtowners alike. Zocalo specializes in what I like to call "fancy Mexican." It's not greasy (although I love greasy), but still delicious nonetheless. The dishes are creative and flavors blend perfectly. My go-to here are the Baja Fish Tacos, which are perfectly crisped and paired with yummy chipotle aioli.

Italian

Paesanos -- 1806 Capitol Ave -- Sacramento

Thought the address looked familiar? Well, Paesanos is conveniently located right across the street from Zocalo! It's a local little Italian joint serving delicious pastas and pizzas. It's a pretty casual place, but is great for families or casual gatherings. Plus, the complimentary bread is grilled, and AMAZING. If you're feeling extra bread-y, order the "Bocce Balls," which are basically just giant hunks of dough fried and served in a heart-attack inducing sauce.

Sushi

Mikuni -- 1530 J Street, Sacramento

This one is a no-brainer. Google "best restaurant in Sacramento" and this place will come up first. Mikuni Sushi has built quite a reputation for itself in the Sacramento area, expanding with several different locations around the region, each with a different vibe. However, the downtown location is my favorite. It's trendy and makes for a great place to catch up with friends. The sushi is to die for and is always a go-to when I'm at home.

Dessert

The Parlor -- 2620 Fair Oaks Blvd -- Sacramento

I'm also very biased because dessert is my favorite food group. Opened recently in East Sacramento (near my old high school, TGOD it opened after I left because I probably would've been there every day) is the Parlor Ice Cream Puffs. What is an ice cream puff, you ask? The Parlor creates delicious and creative ice cream flavors to be paired with a doughnut. The result is a doughnut ice cream sandwich, with a hot, flaky crust, and cool inside. I can't express how delicious it is, and is a must-try if you're ever in the area. Also, prime Insta material.

Rick's Dessert Diner -- 2401 J Street -- Sacramento

Located in the heart of downtown is this retro little dessert shop. It's open late, offers a gigantic selection of cakes, pies, ice cream, and retro treats. Eating there feels like a blast from the past, and the desserts are delicious. Growing up, it was a must-do after a high school dance or a play downtown.

Next time you visit Sacramento, it's worth making a stop at any of these delicious places. Sacramento is truly a city that has amazing food that caters to whatever you're feeling that day. Most of all, the food is creative and fresh! For now, happy eating!