Sacramento Food Zine

From the editor…

Hello! First, thank you so much for picking up our zine and we are so happy you’re here. Our goal for this publication is that it informs you on all of the wonderful culinary experiences Sacramento has to offer.

We also hope that you are filled with pride and love for our city, so much so that you feel compelled to invite your friends to explore the food culture of Sacramento.

With your support, we aspire to transform Sacramento into not just any destination but a culinary haven that beckons exploration. Your enthusiasm has the power to turn each page into a testament of the vibrant flavors waiting to be discovered. Thank you for being a part of this delicious journey, and we can’t wait for you to spread the word, inviting others to savor the unique taste of Sacramento. Cheers to a future filled with shared culinary adventures and the warmth of our city’s foodie community!

Life’s short boring

too to eat food ;)

COMMUNITY GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT:

SACRAMENTO. IT’S MORE THAN JUST THE FARM-TO-FORK CAPITAL

BY: AARON BILLECI

FOOD, CULTURE & COMMUNITY

It’s no secret that the food in Sacramento is great but what makes the food culture come alive is the people who participate in it. The experience of eating food in Sacramento is enriched when paired with social activities, as demonstrated through farmer’s markets, the Farm to Fork Festival, and Second Saturday events.

SACRAMENTO’S FOOD SCENE

The food scene in Sacramento is a call back to a bygone era, where chefs utilize the freshest ingredients from farmer’s markets and know exactly who they came from—subsequently, designing their menus based on what’s in season.

Most of California sources their food from the northern part of the state, the main difference is NorCal is Sacramentos back yard! As the proclaimed Farm to Fork Capital of America, it’s only right for the food scene to be rich and ever-expanding. The capital city of Sacramento prides itself on its relatively newfound attention from the rest of California as a desirable city to live in. With the city on the rise, people from all over are seeking a new lifestyle in the capital city and a part of that appeal is the food.

The farmers markets in Sacramento offer some of the highest-grade produce in California, but it goes beyond the quality of food. The farmer’s markets increase the quality of life for Sacramento residents. Through rain or shine, twice a week, the people of Sacramento gather in the Lavender Heights District to shop, mingle, and most importantly eat food. It’s in this space where you can see the food scene is alive and thriving. Farmers, bakers, vendors, artisans, and the Sacramento community at large all come together under the umbrella of food culture. Whether conscious or not, people are seeking the two main ingredients for a good life: a great community and great food.

Another food culture staple in Sacramento that combines community, culture, and food is the Second Saturday events put on by the Midtown Association. These events are all day, once a month, with fiestas highlighting art installations, art markets, live music, food and drink specials at nearby restaurants, and nightlife. Second Saturdays act as a hub for culture, creativity, and vibrancy. While food plays a central role in the farmer’s markets, you could say it’s more of a supporting character at Second Saturday. That being said, the relationship between food and

ENHANCE GREAT SOCIAL AND “

art, in this context shows exactly how food can be the glue that holds everything together.  To top it all off is the annual two-week-long Farm to Fork Festival. This event climaxes at the two-day street festival that highlights the farmers and growers who make the food scene what it is. Additionally, it mixes in an impressive live music lineup, live cooking demos, and a plethora of food and drink. With the Capitol building as the backdrop, this event feels uniquely Sacramento. Similarly, there is a great sense of community and culture brought together by food.

MAIN TAKE AWAYS

The common theme among these three Sacramento food events is the desire to enhance great food with enriched social and cultural experiences. There are throughlines found in this city, of a close-knit community, loving art, and trying their best to live the good life. Sacramentans know their city’s food is delicious, but what’s more important is they know their people are what truly make the food scene experience unforgettable.

GREAT FOOD WITH ENRICHED CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. ”

THE COFFEE’S NEXT BIG

THE THIRD WAVE. BIG STEP.

SIPPING THE FUTURE

THE THIRD WAVE REDEFINES THE ART OF COFFEE IN SACRAMENTO

BY: DARLYN CRISTOBAL

Recently, coffee has transformed beyond simple morning fuel or a quick caffeine fix. The captivating world of “Third Wave Coffee” is sweeping through the global coffee culture like a fragrant gust of fresh-brewed inspiration. Third Wave Coffee embodies an appreciation for the coffee journey, from the beans’ origin to the barista’s craft. The wave coffee movement is not merely about caffeine consumption; it’s a passionate quest for the perfect cup, a celebration of coffee as a fine artisanal product, and an exploration of each bean’s unique flavors and stories.

In the world of third-wave coffee, farmers take center stage. This movement strongly emphasizes establishing direct relationships with coffee growers, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their hard work. Coffee roasters collaborate closely with farmers, offering education, support, and resources to improve farming practices, promote sustainability, and ensure fairness. Transparency is a core principle, with detailed information about coffee origin and processing methods shared with consumers. By celebrating the unique flavors of different coffee beans, supporting environmentally friendly practices, and sharing the stories of the farmers, third-wave coffee creates a more equitable and sustainable coffee industry, benefitting both growers and enthusiasts and deepening the connection between the two.

Unique for its unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability. It treats each coffee bean as a work of art, with a strong emphasis on the distinct flavors and origins of the beans. At the same time, small-batch

roasting and the artisanal craftsmanship of baristas result in perfectly roasted, freshly brewed cups of coffee. This movement also encourages environmentally friendly practices, promoting organic farming and shade-grown coffee. With its educational approach, emphasis on storytelling, and a focus on the nuances of coffee, third-wave coffee transforms enjoying a cup of joe into a rich, sensory experience that connects consumers to the people and places behind their coffee.

SACRAMENTO’S THIRD WAVE JAVA JOLT

Sacramento, California, has already seen a substantial impact from the third-wave coffee movement, thanks to coffee shops at the forefront of these changes. These establishments have been pioneering direct relationships with coffee farmers for years, ensuring fairness and transparency. They’ve been committed to serving high-quality, single-origin beans, showcasing meticulous roasting and precise brewing techniques. Sustainability and ethical practices have been part of their mission, from promoting organic and shade-grown coffee to environmentally friendly operations.

The dedication to transparency and education in these coffee shops has been educating consumers for quite some time, offering insights into the origins and intricacies of coffee. One local coffee shop, Scorpio Coffee, has remained true to itself and hasn’t done anything to fit into the culture.

SCORPIO COFFEE’S AUTHENTICITY AMID TRENDS

In an interview with Samuel Balean, who opened Scorpio Coffee in August of 2020, Samuel’s passion for Scorpio Coffee’s meticulous approach to sourcing coffee beans and supporting local produce farms is nothing short of infectious. Sam’s candid responses provided a deeper understanding of their journey and unique insights. Sam’s perspective on third-wave coffee was a refreshing departure from the prevailing notions in the industry.

In our discussion, Sam emphasized that third-wave coffee is not merely about aesthetics or trends but rather a profound commitment to the essence of coffee itself. They underscored the importance of quality, sustainability, and a deep connection to the coffee supply chain. Sam’s viewpoint was a reminder that the third wave of coffee is fundamentally rooted in the appreciation of the coffee bean’s journey from the farm to the cup. It is a celebration of its unique flavors and cultural significance.

Q: What are your opinions on the Third Wave Coffee Culture?

A: Third-wave coffee culture empowers baristas to enhance their skills, deepen consumers’ appreciation for coffee, and actively participate in a movement that prioritizes quality, ethics, and sustainability in the coffee industry. Overall, third-wave coffee culture benefits coffee producers and consumers, rewarding them with better-tasting coffees.

Q: What makes Scorpio different from other coffee shops?

A: Our support for coffee and local produce farms, such as Hazel Farms and Lady Hawke Farms, sets Scorpio Coffee apart. Just as coffee beans originate from fruit and, like all fruits, reach their peak flavor at different times of the year, we apply the same seasonal approach to our coffee and kitchen offerings, ensuring a dynamic and ever-changing menu. We maintain a close relationship with our kitchen and bar, ensuring the use of the freshest ingredients prepared with expertise and presented beautifully. In a coffee/restaurant scene where not all establishments fully embrace the values of third-wave culture, Scorpio Coffee upholds unparalleled coffee and culinary excellence standards.

Q: Do you source your coffee beans locally? If so, where?

A: Our approach to selecting coffee beans is meticulous. We collaborate with coffee roasters who source beans from Africa and South and Central America. We rigorously assess coffee samples, prioritizing the highest quality affordable for our community. Factors like terroir, altitude, processing methods, and overall flavor profiles influence our choices.

Currently, we partner with roasters such as Sey (NY), Obadiah (UK), and Apollons Gold (JP), intentionally seeking diversity beyond local options to introduce exciting new varieties to our community. This curated selection process aligns with our commitment to the values of the third-wave coffee culture, from responsible green coffee sourcing to exceptional quality standards.

Q: Have you done anything different to try to “fit in”?

A: As a coffee shop, our primary goal is to serve the best coffee possible and honor the hard work of coffee farmers. Baristas like us undergo extensive training in various brewing methods and beverage preparation techniques, including latte art. This dedication helps consumers develop a deeper appreciation for the unique characteristics and complexities of the coffees we proudly serve.

THE ULTIMATE STUDY CAFÉ

In the vibrant city of Sacramento, the hunt for the ideal coffee shop to study in is a pursuit that combines the love of learning with the allure of a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. Sacramento’s coffee scene is thriving, offering diverse establishments, each with its unique ambiance and character. These coffee shops provide students and professionals with a haven for concentration, collaboration, and creative thinking. In this exploration, we journey through Sacramento’s coffee culture to discover the prime coffee shops where one can immerse oneself in a world of study and productivity while savoring the perfect brew’s rich flavors. Join us as we unveil the gems of the coffee shop study scene in the heart of California’s capital city.

TUPELO

5700 Elvas Ave, Sacramento

THE MILL

6423 Elvas Ave, Sacramento

CHOCOLATE FISH

2940 Freeport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95818

Tupelo, The Mill, and Chocolate Fish make for an ideal study spot trifecta. Located in the heart of a vibrant city, Sacramento, these venues offer a unique blend of atmospheres and amenities. Tupelo provides a cozy, coffee-infused setting perfect for quiet contemplation. At the same time, The Mill provides a more communal and social vibe, ideal for group study sessions. Chocolate Fish, with its serene outdoor setting and artisanal brews, provides a natural oasis for those who prefer to study in the fresh air. These spots cater to various study preferences and moods, ensuring that students and professionals can find the perfect environment to focus and excel in their work.

TUPELO COFFEE IN EAST SACRAMENTO

These establishments, each with a unique character, provide a haven where students, professionals, and curious minds can immerse themselves in their work and projects. The perfect blend of aromatic brews and inviting atmospheres makes these coffee shops the ideal backdrop for focused study sessions. As we conclude our journey through the coffee culture of Sacramento, it’s evident that these places are not just venues for caffeine consumption; they are the heart of a thriving intellectual community, fostering the pursuit of knowledge, creativity, and personal growth. Whether you seek solitude or collaboration, a comforting nook, or a bustling hub, Sacramento’s coffee shops have it all. So, as you embark on your quest for the ideal study spot, remember that in this city, your perfect coffee shop oasis is waiting to fuel your mind and ignite your passions.

JOIN US IN BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF SACRAMENTO’S CREATIVE THINKERS.

BE WITH YOUR

BOLD YOUR TASTE BUDS

BREWING UP A COMMUNITY

BY: LILY AUYEUNG

In the heart of California’s capital city, Sacramento, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee is more than just a morning delight; it’s the essence of a vibrant tapestry. This tapestry tells the story of history, community, and culture, and it’s being woven with great care by dedicated educators and passionate coffee enthusiasts. Sacramento’s coffee educational classes have become not just places of learning but sanctuaries where community bonds are created and the legacy of the city’s rich coffee history is passed down to future generations.

INSIGHT COFFEE ROASTERS: WHERE COFFEE BECOMES ART

Stepping into the world of Sacramento’s renowned coffee educational hubs is akin to entering a haven of warmth and camaraderie. At these institutions, coffee isn’t merely a drink; it’s a shared passion that has the remarkable ability to unite people from all walks of life.

Insight Coffee Roasters, a place where the appreciation of coffee is elevated to an art form, embodies this spirit. From the moment you walk through the door, the rich, inviting scent of freshly roasted beans wraps around you like a comforting embrace. At Insight Coffee, classes and workshops aren’t just about mastering skills; they are opportunities for kindred spirits to gather and share in the magic of coffee’s journey from farm to cup.

These educational classes offer more than just the joy of coffee; they make profound contributions to Sacramento’s rich coffee culture, a story woven into the city’s fabric, a tale of growth and cultural evolution. They serve as a bridge to the past, ensuring that the legacy of Sacramento’s coffee culture is passed down for generations to come.

A BLEND OF CULTURES AT CHOCOLATE FISH COFFEE ROASTERS

As you drive down the stretch of Folsom Boulevard, you will find a local coffee shop covered with overarching shrubbery: Chocolate Fish Coffee Roasters. Here, the owners Andy and Edie Baker, have brought their love for coffee and New Zealand’s unique coffee culture, coupled with beans sourced from all over the world from Guatemala to Costa Rica to bring back home to the city of Sacramento. This diverse background and knowledge contribute value that helps keep our community thriving and enrich Sacramento’s rich culture, all the way to the baristas crafting your cup at Chocolate Fish Coffee Roasters.

Interested in unraveling the nuances of the coffee bean? Chocolate Fish invites you to explore their educational classes, offering a unique approach to accentuating the innate sweetness and fruit acidity of coffee beans — a reminder that coffee, at its core, is a fruit. Whether you are new to the coffee world or a coffee addict, Chocolate Fish is committed to sharing their expertise, making the world of coffee approachable for everyone.

“

With every pour, every conversation, and every shared cup the legacy of Sacramento’s coffee—

FROM ONE CUP TO ANOTHER, BUILDING SACRAMENTO’S RICH COFFEE HISTORY

These educational classes are more than just a present-day education; they are gifts to the generations that follow. By fostering a sense of community and intertwining Sacramento’s coffee history into their teachings, these institutions ensure that the love for coffee and its cultural significance continues to burn brightly.  Those who partake in these classes emerge not only as more informed coffee connoisseurs but also as stewards of Sacramento’s coffee culture. They carry forward the knowledge and passion they acquire, sharing it with friends, family, and future coffee lovers. In this way, the rich coffee history of Sacramento is not consigned to the archives; it’s a living, breathing part of the city’s ever-evolving coffee community.  With every pour, every conversation, and every shared cup, the legacy of Sacramento’s coffee culture is lovingly preserved. These educational classes are more than just institutions of learning; they are the threads that weave the past, present, and future of Sacramento’s coffee culture into an enduring tapestry of community and tradition.

” culture is preserved.lovingly

DARE TO TASTE?

Sacramento, more than just farm-to-fork

By: Melanie Martinez

Sacramento, nestled in the heart of California’s Central Valley, has long been overshadowed by its more glamorous neighbors in the culinary world. But scratch beneath the surface, and you’ll uncover a vibrant food scene that’s as diverse and exciting as any major metropolis. From hole-in-the-wall gems to Michelin-starred establishments, Sacramento’s food landscape is a testament to its rising status as an up-and-coming food city.

Step into the streets of Sacramento, and you’ll find yourself on a culinary journey like no other. The city’s diverse population, rich agricultural heritage, and proximity to fresh ingredients from the surrounding farmland have laid the foundation for a culinary tapestry that’s as rich and varied as the Sacramento River Delta itself.

Venture off the beaten path, and you’ll discover Sacramento’s hidden treasures – the hole-in-thewall spots that locals whisper about in hushed tones. These unassuming eateries may lack the glitz and glamour of their upscale counterparts, but what they lack in ambiance, they more than make up for in flavor.

Take, for example, the humble taquerias scattered throughout the city, where the scent of sizzling carne asada wafts through the air, and handmade tortillas are piled high with fresh ingredients. Places like Chando’s Tacos and Taqueria Jalisco are not just restaurants; they’re institutions, serving up

authentic Mexican flavors that transport diners straight to the streets of Mexico City.

But Sacramento’s culinary scene isn’t just about street food and hole-in-the-wall joints. The city is also home to a growing number of fine dining establishments that rival those found in any major city. These are the places where chefs push the boundaries of culinary creativity, crafting dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

One such establishment is The Kitchen, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a unique dining experience unlike any other. Here, guests are treated to an interactive culinary journey as they watch the chefs work their magic in an open kitchen. Each dish is a work of art, meticulously plated and bursting with flavor, showcasing the best of Sacramento’s seasonal ingredients.

But it’s not just about the high-end restaurants; it’s about the entire ecosystem that supports Sacramento’s burgeoning food scene. It’s about the farmers’ markets that dot the city, where farmers and artisans come together to showcase the bounty of the region. It’s about the food trucks that line the streets, serving up innovative dishes that push the boundaries of traditional cuisine. It’s about the community of chefs, farmers, and food lovers who are passionate about showcasing Sacramento’s culinary heritage to the world.

In Sacramento, food isn’t just something you eat; it’s an experience – a celebration of culture, creativity, and community. And as the city continues to grow and evolve, so too will its food scene, cementing Sacramento’s status as one of California’s premier food destinations.

So the next time you find yourself in Sacramento, don’t just stick to the touristy spots. Venture off the beaten path, explore the hole-in-thewall joints, and savor the flavors of this vibrant and dynamic city. Because in Sacramento, every meal is a celebration of the city’s rich culinary heritage and its bright future as an up-andcoming food city.

“every meal is a celebration of the city’s rich culinary heritage and its bright future”

DELICIOUS? YES.

MIX, MINGLE, AND MARVEL

Sacramento’s Captivating Mixology Scene

BY: MELANIE MARTINEZ

Following the global pandemic that left so many holed up in their homes, people across the country have clung to the fun and freedom of themed cocktail lounges and speakeasies. Traditionally, nightlife is considered an overcrowded dark club or a dingy dive bar where regulars might look at you the wrong way for sauntering into their territory. But in recent years, nightlife everywhere has become a classy and creative spectacle where the drinks are the art. Locations around Sacramento have done an exceptional job at setting the stage.

THEMED LOUNGES AND BARS

Residents of Sacramento can find themselves in several unique lounges that serve great drinks and food. Take The Butterscotch Den, for example; located in North Oak Park off of Broadway, visitors are delighted with the 70s-inspired lounge with a self-serve steak grill in the middle of the restaurant. The drinks on this menu are carefully crafted; their freezer martini can even have a dollop of caviar on top. This lounge opened after the pandemic and brought back old classics and live music for Sacramento Residents to enjoy! A place like The Butterscotch Den is an example of mixing fantastic food with a creative atmosphere to transport guests out of their regular lives and into something magical.

Another themed bar is, ironically, named Dive Bar, but not for the reasons you might expect. This place serves oceanic-themed cocktails while mermaids entertain guests as they swim above the bar. This type of themed bar offers a more theatrical approach to mixology, something you might expect to see in Vegas or New York. This place is great for hosting events where you want to bring some magic to your party. Many establishments like this are offered in Sacramento; you just need to know where to look!

SPEAKEASIES

A hundred years after prohibition, speakeasies are making a comeback. Old habits die hard, right? During this modern era of smartphones and everything being published on the internet, something is exciting about scoping out a classy lounge tucked behind a bookcase or a secret door. Residents of Sacramento have plenty to choose from, for example, The Roost. This speakeasy can be found behind a supply closet in the popular chicken shop BAWK! It hosts some of the rarest spirits that guests can enjoy. Drinks can also be made based on the guests’ preferences that they write down on a coaster (very 1922).

Another secret lounge located in Sacramento is called the Trophy Club; this speakeasy is a members-only club that occasionally announces a password on social media that outsiders can use to experience this exclusive club. Inside this secret spot, guests can experience something straight out of The Great Gatsby and live out their bookish fantasies while enjoying old-fashioned cocktails! The mixologists here pride themselves on getting to know their customers and their palettes enough to discern what their perfect cocktail would be!

Besides rare drinks and fantastic ambiance, these speakeasies of Sacramento offer something beyond taste buds. They provide an all-encompassing experience that people can experience together, from discovering to walking through a secret door to drinking a hand-crafted cocktail made with rare spirits! The speakeasies of Sacramento have brought another level of excitement to nightlife in the city and show no signs of slowing down! Where will the next one pop up?

NIGHTLIFE EVERYWHERE HAS BECOME A CLASSY AND CREATIVE SPECTACLE WHERE THE DRINKS ARE THE ART

INSPIRED?

SACRAMENTO, CA

SACRAMENTO REGIONAL TRANSIT DISTRICT— WE’LL GET YOU WHERE YOU NEED TO GO