Not All Heroes Wear Capes. Some Just Want a Bloody Mary and Steak.
Let’s be real. Most dads don’t want glittery Father’s Day cards or another mug that says “#1 Dad.” What they really want is to eat. Preferably something that requires a nap afterward and a belt loosened at least one notch.
So this year, skip the tie section at Target. Skip the panic-purchase off Amazon that may or may not arrive on time. Feed the man. Feed him well.
This guide rounds up the best spots to take Dad out for Father’s Day 2025 in Sacramento, whether he’s a brunch guy, a BBQ master, a craft beer enthusiast, or a steakhouse loyalist. We’ve even thrown in a few extras for the more adventurous dads—and a full-day plan if you want to go all out.
Brunch Spots for Dads Who Deserve a Leisurely Start
1. Tower Café
📍 1518 Broadway | 🌐 towercafe.com
Known for its banana-stuffed French toast and global flavor mashups, Tower Café has long been a Sacramento brunch favorite. The garden patio is a standout, and the line out front? That’s just proof it’s worth it.
2. Echo & Rig
📍 500 J St | 🌐 echoandrig.com
Steak for breakfast? Echo & Rig makes it happen. Pair it with their classic bloody mary (or two), and brunch suddenly becomes Dad’s favorite meal of the week.
3. Bacon & Butter
📍 5913 Broadway | 🌐 baconandbuttersac.com
It’s not Father’s Day without bacon, and this place delivers in spades. Their flapjacks? Legendary. Their biscuit sandwiches? Bigger than your face. Dad will need a nap by 1 p.m., and he’ll be proud of it.
4. The Morning Fork
📍 1111 21st St | 🌐 themorningfork.com
Classic diner vibes, elevated flavors, and “Dad jokes” on the chalkboard wall. Get the corned beef hash or croissant breakfast sandwich—it’s hearty, humble, and exactly what the day calls for.
BBQ for Dads Who Think Smoke is a Seasoning
5. Tank House BBQ & Bar
📍 1925 J St | 🌐 tankhousebbq.com
Relaxed patio, pulled pork, and local beer. The brisket is tender, the ribs are legit, and the atmosphere screams Sunday afternoon done right.
6. Sauced BBQ & Spirits
📍 1028 7th St | 🌐 saucedbbqandspirits.com
If Dad is part meat-lover, part bourbon enthusiast, this is the spot. Massive platters to share, sauces to sample, and a vibe that’s part saloon, part BBQ temple.
7. JP’s Southern BBQ
📍 5738 Watt Ave | 🌐 jpssoulfoodbbq.com
Family-run and packed with flavor, JP’s is where you go when Dad craves the real thing: smoky ribs, juicy chicken, and cornbread that tastes like grandma made it.
Steakhouses for Dads Who “Worked Hard for This Meal”
8. The Firehouse
📍 1112 2nd St | 🌐 firehouseoldsac.com
Old Sacramento charm meets fine dining. If you want to celebrate Dad with style (and an excellent glass of red), this is your move. Ask for patio seating under the string lights for full effect.
9. Dawson’s Steakhouse
📍 1209 L St | 🌐 dawsonssteakhouse.com
A classic steakhouse with proper cocktails, generous pours, and filet mignon done right. Ideal for the suit-and-tie dad or just the “I’m not splitting this steak” dad.
Breweries for Dads Who “Work Remotely” from the Patio
10. Device Brewing Co.
📍 1610 R St | 🌐 devicebrewing.com
Craft beer flights, smash burgers, and an outdoor patio that says, “let’s stay a while.” Dad will love the low-key vibe and bold IPA lineup.
11. Oak Park Brewing Co.
📍 3514 Broadway | 🌐 opbrewco.com
This local gem delivers more than beer. Think food trucks, live music, and an inclusive, community-first vibe that’s good for the soul (and the stomach).
For the Adventurous Foodie Dad
Does your dad think “spicy” means “bring it on”? Does he order the weirdest thing on the menu just to say he did? We got you.
12. Kru Contemporary Japanese Cuisine
📍 3135 Folsom Blvd | 🌐 krurestaurant.com
Sushi, cocktails, and artful plating that’ll make Dad feel fancy. The omakase experience is a splurge—but one he won’t forget.
13. Localis
📍 2031 S St | 🌐 localissacramento.com
A tasting-menu spot with rotating dishes and chef-driven creativity. If your dad’s Instagramming his plate, you know you picked the right place.
Dessert & Drink Pairings
Because Father’s Day doesn’t end with dinner.
- Freeport Bakery – Fruit tarts, blackout cake, and Sac’s favorite carrot cake
🌐 freeportbakery.com - Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates – Craft chocolate bars, truffles, and ice cream sandwiches
🌐 gingerelizabeth.com - Devil May Care Ice Cream – Small-batch flavors like Thai tea + lemon poppyseed
🌐 devilmaycareicecream.com
Drink Tip:
Gift Dad a bottle from The Good Bottle Shop or take him on a guided whiskey tasting at Darling Aviary (rooftop bonus).
Make It a Full Day
Why stop at one meal? Here’s a Father’s Day itinerary if you want to go the extra mile.
- Morning: Brunch at Bacon & Butter
- Late morning: Walk through McKinley Park Rose Garden or stroll Old Sac
- Afternoon: Chill at Device Brewing Co. or catch a River Cats game
- Dinner: Steak at Dawson’s or BBQ at Sauced
- Dessert: Chocolate + whiskey nightcap at Darling Aviary or Ginger Elizabeth
Pro Tips for a Smooth Father’s Day Meal:
- Reserve early. Especially for brunch or steakhouse spots. They fill up fast.
- Ask about Father’s Day specials. Some places have custom menus or discounts.
- Go with the flow. If it’s crowded or there’s a wait, lean in. It’s about the time, not the timeline.
- Let Dad choose dessert. Even if it means going to three places to “try a little of everything.”
Looking for fathers day experience gifts, check out our list here!
