Sometimes, it's well worth a long wait or months of trying to get your name on the list for that perfect meal. Whether it is a small cafe crowded with locals or a high end dining experience that you've been dying to get a reservation for, Northern Californian foodies know that we have the best chefs, the freshest ingredients, and food that is well worth the wait.
1. Allez, Diamond Springs
Imagine eating fine French fare in a rural little Gold Country town! This small restaurant offers unparalleled courses that will make you feel like you are overseas. The reason they made the list is that they don't take reservations, so we advise trying to visit on a day when you know the wait won't be too terrible. 4242 Fowler Ln
Ste 101
Diamond Springs, CA 95619
2. The Kitchen Restaurant, Sacramento
The Kitchen is one of the best of Northern California when it comes to fine dining. There's only one seating a night, which starts at 6:30 PM and lasts about 4 hours. The dinner experience starts off with a casual tour of the kitchen where you can taste test anything you see. You can also relax in their little garden that was very beautiful and serene with a waterfall. Then you'll be asked to sit and the chef walks you through your courses. If this fine dining experience sounds like it's for you, you better plan in advance because usually reservations are made up to 3 months in advance. 2225 Hurley Way
Ste 101
Sacramento, CA 95825
3. Trillium Cafe and Inn, Mendocino
Located in a quaint little house right near the water, this place is popular for its service and the quality of the meals. You'll be happy with anything on the menu, but the fresh caught seafood is incredible. Reservations are a must or you will be standing in line on the street. 10390 Kasten St Mendocino, CA 95460
4. Poppa Joe’s, Ferndale
This unassuming, small-town place is hands down the best breakfast joint in Humboldt County. This means it's often packed for brunch on weekends, but it's so worth the wait. 409 Main St Ferndale, CA 95536
5. Cafe Beaujolais, Mendocino
Home baked bread, sophisticated European flavors, and a charming atmosphere all make this restaurant well worth the stop. The classy waitstaff make up for the long wait and hard to come by reservations. 961 Ukiah St Mendocino, CA 95460
6. South Pine Cafe, Nevada City
This place is delightfully cozy inside but there's no place to wait until they are ready to seat you, which is a bummer on a cold, drizzly day. You put your name on a piece of paper and they call it when they are ready for you as there is no hostess on duty. Despite this, the waitstaff is attentive and the food is delicious. 110 S Pine St, Nevada City, CA 95959
7. Moonstone Bistro, Redding
Reservations are a must at this upscale restaurant. Sit at the bar to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the experts in the kitchen at work. They are known for fresh and local ingredients and fabulous cocktails. 3425 Placer St
Ste 110 Redding, CA 96001
8. Yak’s on the 5, Dunsmuir
Known for serving the best burgers you will ever eat, this casual place offers up a lot of creativity for standard American fare. 4917 Dunsmuir Ave Dunsmuir, CA 96025
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Where are the mouthwatering places would you be willing to wait for a meal? Share them with us on Facebook today, you might see them featured in our coming articles!
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