Bistro Michel, Sacramento

Although his menus showcase elevated French cuisine, Bistro Michel's Chef Scott strives to retain the classic neighborhood appeal of traditional French bistros. Whether he's crafting crab-cake benedict, the risotto of the day, or his simple grab-and-go sandwiches, he prepares fresh local ingredients with French techniques. Paired with a wide selection of wines, these simple dishes fill the dining room's white-clothed tables alongside plates of fresh oysters and mussels from the raw bar. One writer from Norcal magazine heralds the friendly staff's willingness to educate guests about each dish on the menu and praises the artisan cheese plate as "out of this world."

Bistro Michel is so dedicated to French culture that it often hosts French language lessons, allowing patrons to finally speak to soup spoons in their native tongue. The restaurant also sometimes moonlights as an art gallery, featuring local artists' sketches and paintings.