A Midtown institution since 1996, The Waterboy focuses on French and Italian rustic cooking with Central Valley ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons and the owner's mood — there is a satisfying unpredictability to what you will find on any given night. The room is comfortable rather than flashy, the kind of place where couples go for anniversaries and regulars sit at the bar.
The braised rabbit, when available, is among the best things to eat in Sacramento. The wine list emphasises Northern California and French producers. Reservations recommended for dinner; the bar seats are good for walk-ins.