Magpie Cafe

Magpie is the crown jewel of Sacramento's farm to fork restaurant scene. Top to bottom, their menu is really second to none. The highest quality of ingredients executed to perfection every single time. Over the years, have probably tried just about everything on their menu and can honestly say that I've never once been disappointed. In the post COVID world of restaurants, they have found a way to maintain their high quality without skimping on portions or inflating their prices. The place is a gem and our go to a nice meal out in Midtown.

OMG! Must try restaurant 💜. First....the cocktails. Incredibly creative and refreshing. Our table tried their Blueberry Mojito, Elderberry Spritz and a craft IPA - all excellent. Appetizers: Anchovy Toastette, Polpette, homemade chips [chef's kiss] - soooooo good. Dinner: Rigatoni and New York Steaks. Absolutely perfect! Seriously, this was the best dinner out in a while! Magpie's menu had so many unique and truly original ideas-I am very impressed. They should have a Michelin star!!! The entire staff was amazing-you can definitely feel their team spirit and friendly vibe. I can not say enough great things except GET THIS PLACE ON YOUR LIST. Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Cocktails ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Originality ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Quality ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Staff ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Vibe ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Look, it was all really good, but I just don't know if it was worth the price. The portions were pretty tiny. Also, I'm a fan of simple food, but everything we ordered didn't really seem that elevated, making me think I probably could have made it at home for much less money. I fo realize that food is crazy expensive these days in general, and in their defense, it could be that I ordered some of the simpler things on the menu. Also, the ingredients were clearly good quality, which might explain a higher price. Also, we got everything to go, which means we missed out on the serving, plating, and ambiance, so maybe those things would have justified the money a bit more. Especially since the staff were so friendly, I have no doubt their service is probably excellent. So I'd recommend if money is not a factor, or if the dining experience is very important to you. Otherwise, I think there are a few more elevated places in midtown that are a bit better value.

Excellent restaurant. I've delivered kegs here once or twice when I worked for a local alcohol company, and their kitchen area and food storage area is probably the cleanest I've seen. The menu rotates because they use a lot of local seasonal ingredients. They have struck a perfect balance between "nice" and "casual". You can dress up and take someone on a date, or you can grab lunch in your dirty cutoff shorts and stained t shirt (usually me). Pricing is slightly higher than average, but there are always several items on the menu in the $15 ballpark, which if you ask me is perfectly reasonable for any decent restaurant these days. The servers are always very friendly without being too pushy or annoying. They also seem to retain their employees for a long time, which to me is a sign of great management. I've been going to Magpie Cafe for about 6 years now, and I recognize quite a few people who've been working there for that entire time. The owners are kind and humble people who always greet you with a smile. I see a lot of reviews complaining about the price and the portion sizes, and the bread being too "hard". To those people, I'd direct them to Sizzler or Applebee's, or maybe just get some hot dogs and wonder bread and cry yourself to sleep while you watch Dr. Phil reruns. Magpie Cafe is a fantastic spot that has never ever let me down, and I highly recommend this place to anyone who likes a casual dining experience but above average food. Oh did I mention the nice outdoor seating? And the men's restroom has a changing table for all my fellow dads out there! I can't say enough nice things about this place.