As pastry chef at San Francisco's Ritz-Carlton Hotel, proprietor May Lou Hedriana loved her work but could not deny the urge to experiment and explore. Now at the "dessert cafe" she indulges these urges and you can taste the results. From truffles to passion-fruit mousse cake she has created, a dessert menu designed to tickle your sweet tooth. Ciocolat has a full line of breakfast pastries. Chocolate is Hedriana's true passion, and you will find its rich taste in a variety of items on the menu.

This place is a meat lover's paradise. The dining room has a western feel with shiny watering troughs, refurbished "hog scalding" kettles and cowboy equipment such as ropes. Although the decor is interesting the focus is on food. If it is cooked on a barbecue, it is on the menu. Barbecue chicken, pork ribs, beef ribs, baby back ribs and house beans are the specialty. The barbecue sauce is a carefully guarded secret. Outside to the rear is an interesting patio dining area complete with a wooden bridge.

Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast or lunch here. Breakfast dishes include omelets and buttermilk pancakes. The lunch menu has a variety of items from sandwiches and pasta salad to quesadillas or quiche. In the evenings, with the additions of beer and wine to the menu, fans of local bands turn out in droves.

The name is pronounced so-chee-mill-co which is the floating gardens in Mexico City. This eatery serves tasty traditional Mexican dishes in a friendly family atmosphere. For a tasty break from enchiladas and fajitas, try the flaky fish tacos, zesty chili verde or shrimp ranchero. Burgers and fries are also offered for the less adventurous. The building and decor are nothing special, but the place has developed a loyal clientele of very satisfied diners.

You will find only fresh, healthy produce and meats combined in a wide array of dishes at this popular downtown restaurant-deli-grocery. Delightful deli soups and salads, black bean chili, pasta dishes and a all-you-can-eat vegetarian buffet highlights the daily menu. Try the polenta torta (three layers of cornbread, tomato and basil) or the vegetable calzones. The sandwiches are large and made to order. For dessert, try the natural oatmeal or peanut butter cookies. In addition, this shop has a selection of organic produce, vitamins, herbs, seafood, and poultry.

Lots of folks just like to walk or drive by this bakery for the alluring fragrance, but few can resist the temptation to go in and sample. Fresh-baked breads, cookies, donuts, cakes and pastries are sure to tempt. Sandwiches and pizzas are also offered in this famed midtown bakery and deli that opened in 1934. The shop is also famed for its wedding cakes and will be happy to help you design the perfect treat.

This eatery has a reputation for offering the finest in American-Mediterranean cooking served up in a classy, upscale decor. Comfortable indoor or outdoor seating is available. The menu includes pasta and meat dishes along with a variety of excellent wood-fired pizzas. Start with a mixed green salad with red wine vinaigrette. Next, try a nice plate of ravioli filled with braised greens, ricotta and garlic, sauteed asparagus and Parmesan cheese. Formal dress is recommended, as are dinner reservations.

This bistro features a Martini bar. The setting is very dark, with lots of wood and brass creating an Old World atmosphere. The menu presents a nice selection of bistro sandwiches and the salads are pure California cuisine. Try the grilled swordfish with cranberries and sugar pecans, or the massive Cobb salad that is a meal in itself. The macaroni and cheese made with cheddar and goat cheese, roasted tomato and onions is also very popular. The piano player contributes to the atmosphere with soothing background tunes.

One of several dining options in the Hyatt Regency (across L Street from the State Capitol); this restaurant provides a dining experience unique in Sacramento. The breakfasts are traditional eggs and bacon type of fare. For lunch, the all-you-can-eat salad and soup bar is probably the best deal, and includes such exotic ingredients, such as sun-dried tomatoes and marinated mushrooms. The dinner menu features steaks, pasta dishes as well as soups and salads.

Even on the hottest afternoon, this is a cool oasis with creamy plaster walls set off with dark wood paneling and trim. The decor dates back to Sacramento of the 1940s, with unique photos including skyline panoramas and aerial shots. The friendly staff is quick and efficient. The menu features New American cuisine; entrees include 4th Street Pork Loin Chop and Grilled Colorado Lamb Chops. The seafood menu features Wild Salmon Filet, and Tiger Prawn and Saffron Risotto. Select from many other seafood dishes offered, as well as pastas and a variety of salads.