CHEAP EATS in Sacramento
Ford's Real Hamburgers
1948 Sutterville Road,
Sacramento
(916) 452-6979
Doesn't its name say it all? Ford's is the perfect hamburger joint. Across from William Land Park, and hot as hell during the summer, Ford's is a classic American burger joint, complete with homemade French fries, real meat burgers and the red baskets (what's with the red baskets anyway?). Just go. The milkshakes rock, you can sit outside, and you'll eat until you can't move.
Megami
1010 10th St
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 448-4512
Not exactly "cheap," but vastly less expensive than most sushi places. I can't really explain its charm (other than fabulous food). There are no frills - no really, none - and you may have to wait a bit to get served. But it's owned by the friendliest couple who have been together for like a million years and just know what they're doing. The place is spilling locals, and I sometimes wonder if some people ever leave. This place is an all-around well-kept secret, and it's right downtown.
Los Jarritos Mexican Food
2509 Broadway
Sacramento, CA 95818-2658
(916) 455-7911
Quite possibly the best carnitas burrito in the world. The tacos are rather fabulous as well. I always get a couple and load them up with salsa. I eat them, then I get about seven more to eat later that evening, when I wish I had more. The food is simple, fresh and delicious. I hear it is about the most authentic Mexican food around. Check it out. By the way, tacos are a dollar and the simple burritos (my favorite) are a tad more.
Whitey's Jolly Kone
1300 Jefferson Blvd
West Sacramento, CA 95691-3306
(916) 371-3605
Okay fine, maybe I'm way into red meat. Whatever, I'm putting in another burger joing because this place flippin' rocks. Just go there and get a milkshake and a burger. They make the most amazing peach or strawberry milkshake. You're going to have to wait (this place is famous with locals, but get in a pleasant zen state and stick it out)...it's worth it! During the summer, they also have old car shows; call them and ask for details.
Cafe Bernardo
2726 Capitol Ave
Sacramento, CA 95816
(916) 443-1180
Really pleasant café. Right in midtown, I think Bernardo has just about the best breakfasts in Sacramento. Well-priced. Good coffee and a laid-back atmosphere. Fresh ingredients and it's always packed on a Saturday or Sunday morning. Nice outside seating as well. Highly recommended for breakfast/brunch.
Vientiane Restaurant
2480 W. Capitol Ave.,
West Sacramento
(916) 373-1556
A simple and inviting restaurant, highly regarded by local chefs, and remarkably cheap. Vientiane serves food derived from Thai and Laotian cuisine. I love the veggie and tofu entrées, and the coconut curries. I think I'm going there now. Writing about makes me want it. This place is a really special little find, and if you're into this kind of food, I think you'll be delighted.
