Sacramento International Airport (SMF), located about 10.5 miles northwest of downtown, is not just where you catch flights. It’s also where you start your adventure to see some of the best places in Northern and Central California. Think of hitting the slopes at Heavenly Mountain Resort, relaxing by Lake Tahoe, or walking through Old Sacramento where you can almost hear stories from the Gold Rush days.
And before you head off to see the stunning views at Yosemite National Park, taste some wine in Wine Country, or learn about history at Sutter’s Mill, why not grab something tasty to eat?
Right in Sacramento County and run by the Sacramento County Airport System, SMF has lots of great places to eat, whether you’re looking for a big breakfast to start your day, a quick snack near the airport, or a nice meal right inside the airport.
Sacramento Airport is the place to eat. Let’s check out the best restaurants near Sacramento Airport. Each bite is the beginning of your trip through California’s amazing scenery and history.
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Breakfast in and Near Sacramento Airport
1. Freshii’s
Located in Sacramento International Airport
Address: 6850 Airport Blvd #5, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
Enter Freshii – your breakfast superhero. It’s the ideal place to get a breakfast that’s as nourishing for you as it is delicious. You don’t have to give anything up. Freshii’s menu is a game-changer, especially for those wanting to eat healthily or follow special diets like celiac or keto.
Here’s the best part – their menu is made with health as a priority, but it still tastes amazing. It’s as if a nutritionist is ensuring that you’re not missing out on anything tasty whether you need gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, or vegan food. Whether you love eating only plants or are trying to eat less gluten, Freshii is here.
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2. Cafeteria 15L
Located in Sacramento International Airport
Address: 6860 Earhart Dr, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
Cafeteria 15L, located within Sacramento International Airport, emerges as the best place to have breakfast for travelers seeking a delightful start to their day. Known for its inviting ambiance and a menu that harmonizes classic breakfast favorites with a modern twist, it’s the go-to spot for early birds and brunch enthusiasts alike.
You get breakfast options such as – scrambled eggs alongside your choice of bacon or sausage, complemented by red peppers, onions, and breakfast potatoes, Egg & Cheese Bagel Sandwich, etc.
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3. Starbucks
Located in Sacramento International Airport
Address: 6942 Airport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
Starbucks isn’t just about coffee; they’ve got a whole range of breakfast options that’ll suit everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet like a pastry or something more filling like a breakfast sandwich, they’ve got plenty of choices. And let’s not forget about their coffee and specialty drinks – perfect for giving you that energy boost you need.
But here’s the real deal – Starbucks knows what’s up when it comes to catering to different diets and preferences. Gluten-free? They’ve got options for you. Watching your calories? No problem. Just want a good old cup of joe and a bagel? They’ve got that, too.
So, when you’re at the Sacramento International Airport and need a quick, tasty, and reliable breakfast spot, Starbucks is the place to hit. It’s easy, and fast, and you know you’ll get something good. No fuss, no muss, just a satisfying start to your day.
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4. Bacon and Butter
Located in Sacramento International Airport
Address: 5913 Broadway, Sacramento, CA 95820, United States
Bacon and Butter is your go-to spot for breakfast when you’re near the Sacramento International Airport, especially with a menu that’s got your taste buds covered from all angles.
The B&B burger – this isn’t your average burger. It’s a breakfast game-changer, perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. Then there’s the bee pollen oatmeal, which might sound fancy, but it’s just really good, healthy oatmeal with a sweet twist, making your first meal of the day both tasty and nutritious.
Flapjacks? Oh, you bet. These aren’t just any pancakes; they’re like a fluffy cloud of breakfast joy on your plate. And the biscuit sandwich – imagine soft, buttery biscuits filled with all your breakfast favorites. It’s comfort food at its best.
Can’t forget about the breakfast burrito, a real hunger-buster packed with all the good stuff to kickstart your day. It’s like a whole breakfast rolled up in one convenient, delicious package.
So, why is Bacon and Butter the best for breakfast? Simple. Their menu has something for everyone, whether you’re into big, bold flavors or looking for something light and healthy.
5. The Morning Fork
Address: 1111 21st Street, Sacramento, CA 95811, USA
How far it is from the Sacramento International Airport: 12.5 mi. (15-17 minutes)
The Morning Fork is a cozy, family-owned diner located in the lively Lavender District of Midtown Sacramento. This place is special because it adds a creative twist to your favorite breakfast and lunch meals. They make sure every dish is made with the freshest and most seasonal ingredients, so everything tastes great.
This diner has kept the feel-good vibe of the old diner that people loved but added its own fun and unique touch. It doesn’t matter if you live in Sacramento or are just visiting, The Morning Fork welcomes everyone into a place where old-school favorites meet new, exciting flavors, all in a friendly and comfortable setting.
Here, eating breakfast or lunch is about enjoying delicious food that makes you feel good. Whether it’s their fluffy pancakes or tasty sandwiches, every meal is made with care. The Morning Fork is more than a diner. It’s a spot where old traditions and new ideas mix, making it a must-visit place in Midtown Sacramento’s Lavender District.
Restaurants Inside Sacramento Airport
6. Iron Horse Tavern
Address: 6900 Airport Blvd E, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
Location: Terminal A – Upper Level | Post-Security
Iron Horse Tavern is a cool place to eat inside the Sacramento International Airport, created by three people named Mason, Curtis, and Alan Wong. Now, it’s known for being a stylish restaurant and bar. The design of Iron Horse mixes old train vibes with a modern, classy look.
Inside, you’ll find floors made of old wood and special tiles, and the bar is made of steel and copper with fancy lights and a toy train under an old-fashioned ceiling.
There are comfy booths to sit in, one even has a fireplace. Plus, there’s a nice outdoor area where you can eat and hang out. It’s a neat spot that feels both old and new at the same time.
7. Squeeze Burger
Located in Sacramento International Airport
Address: 6900 Airport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
Squeeze Inn is a legendary greasy spoon diner in Sacramento Airport. The diner is renowned for its Squeezeburger, a juicy 1/3 lb. burger topped with all the classics, plus an extra treat—a hefty, crispy cheese skirt, making it a unique dining experience for just $4.80, with cheese adding an extra dollar.
Be prepared for a wait, especially at lunchtime, when the line can last up to 45 minutes.
Beyond the Squeezeburger, the menu includes a variety of other tasty options like tacos, pigs in a blanket, turkey breast sandwiches, and even veggie burgers for those looking for something different. Their fries are a simple yet delicious side, made from unpeeled potatoes and available in two sizes.
For fans wanting to take a piece of the diner home, Squeeze Inn sells tank tops with the claim “Best Burger in Town” for $15, available in light blue or pink and in large or extra-large sizes.
8. Vino Volo
Located in Sacramento International Airport
Address: Sacramento International Airport, Terminal A, 6900 Airport Blvd #6850, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
At Vino Volo, wine is more than just a passion—it’s a means of forging connections with guests. This mix of international and local offerings enables Vino Volo to narrate intriguing stories and foster genuine connections through the medium of wine.
However, the scope of Vino Volo goes beyond wine. Understanding that not all patrons are wine enthusiasts, the venue has expanded its beverage menu to include craft beers and cocktails, engaging with the local brewing and distilling scene. This broader selection not only enriches the variety available but also accentuates the distinct flavors of the regions it operates in, transforming its airport locations into portals to the local culture.
Furthermore, Vino Volo is dedicated to ensuring that each drink is accompanied by the ideal meal, with a menu accommodating a range of dietary needs, including Vegetarian, Vegan, and gluten-free options. Available from breakfast through dinner, the culinary offerings are meticulously curated to complement the extensive beverage list. For anyone visiting Vino Volo, whether they’re wine aficionados, beer fans, or cocktail lovers, each visit presents a new chance for exploration and enjoyment.
9. Dippin’ Dots
Location: Terminal A – Lower Level | Pre-Security
Address: Sacramento International Airport, 6900 Airport Blvd.Sacramento, CA 95837
Dippin’ Dots is a super cool ice cream treat that was invented by a guy named Curt Jones back in 1988. Instead of being scooped like regular ice cream, Dippin’ Dots are tiny, colorful beads of ice cream.
The secret behind these little dots is a process called flash freezing, where they use cold liquid nitrogen to freeze the ice cream mix super fast. This special method is what gives Dippin’ Dots their unique shape and keeps them super cold.
You can find Dippin’ Dots in 14 different countries, including places as far away as Honduras and Luxembourg. Whether you’re enjoying them at a theme park, a sports game, or just as a treat, Dippin’ Dots brings a fun and futuristic twist to eating ice cream.
10. Esquire Grill
Located at: Sacramento International Airport
Address: 7330 Earhart Dr, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
Esquire Grill has a huge selection of wines for travelers, with lots of different red, white, and sparkling wines you can order by the glass, half bottle, or full bottle. Whether you like Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Chardonnay, or Shiraz, Esquire has a great wine to go with any meal, making your time at the Sacramento International Airport a bit more special.
If you’re traveling and feeling hungry, Esquire Grill has lots of tasty small dishes to try, like crispy salmon cakes with spicy avocado sauce, grilled artichokes with lemon sauce, and mushrooms stuffed with leeks and goat cheese, plus a warm roasted butternut squash soup.
And if you’re looking for something bigger to eat, there’s plenty on the menu, including pan-roasted chicken breast and grilled skirt steak, as well as big salads with Dungeness crab or seared ahi tuna.
11. Famous Famiglia
Located in Sacramento International Airport
Address: 6900 Airport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
Famous Famiglia at Sacramento International Airport is a place where travelers can enjoy Italian-American food, especially pizza. You can find it in Terminal B, open from early morning at 4:30 AM until late night at 10:30 PM every day. They serve all kinds of meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and have options for different eating habits.
The menu includes Italian dishes, mainly pizza by the slice, making it easy to grab a tasty bite before flying. People have liked many items, including strombolis with eggs and bacon, chicken parmesan calzones, and garlic knots. They appreciate how good the food is, even for an airport spot.
The feel of the place, based on what customers say, is all about serving food quickly without losing flavor. It’s what you’d expect from an airport food spot, aimed at giving travelers a good meal amid the busy Terminal B environment.
So, if you’re at Sacramento International Airport’s Terminal B and craving Italian food like pizza, Famous Famiglia is a great choice for a fast and tasty meal before your flight.
12. Farm to Fork to Sky Kiosk
Located in: Sacramento International Airport
Address: Post-Security, 6900 Airport Blvd Terminal B Arrivals, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
The selection of Farm to Fork to Sky Kiosk likely includes a variety of snacks, light meals, and possibly magazines or travel essentials, catering to those last-minute travel needs.
In addition to its convenient food options, the Farm to Fork to Sky Kiosk is part of the broader Farm to Fork to Sky Market, which also features gifts and a lounge environment, although it’s noted to be located pre-security and operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
This expansion indicates a commitment to providing a comfortable and convenient space for travelers, whether they’re grabbing something on the go or having a bit more time to relax before their flight.
13. Mango Taco
Located in: Sacramento International Airport
Address: 6900 Airport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
Mango Taco at Sacramento International Airport is a vibrant spot for travelers craving Mexican cuisine. Located in Terminal B, this eatery has become known for its wide selection of traditional Mexican dishes, including burritos, tacos, nachos, and bowls, promising a flavorful experience for those passing through.
The ambiance of Mango Taco is tailored to the airport setting, offering a convenient and quick dining option without compromising on taste or quality. This setup is perfect for travelers looking for a swift bite before their flight, ensuring they don’t have to sacrifice flavor for speed.
14. Chocolate Fish Coffee Roasters
Address: Sacramento International Airport, 6900 Airport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
Located in Terminal B Sacramento International Airport.
Chocolate Fish Coffee Roasters at Sacramento International Airport offers a curated selection of coffees, emphasizing high-quality, single-origin beans. They are known for their dedication to crafting the perfect cup, from espresso to pour-over, focusing on highlighting the unique flavors of each bean.
The ambiance is designed to provide a peaceful respite for travelers, with a cozy and inviting atmosphere that reflects their passion for coffee and community. This location upholds its tradition of excellence, serving as a gateway to Sacramento’s rich coffee culture for visitors and locals alike.
Wrap It UP!
Sacramento International Airport (SMF) serves as a gateway to Northern and Central California’s most captivating destinations.
Before embarking on adventures to places like Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, or Wine Country, consider starting with a taste adventure right at the airport. SMF boasts a variety of dining options, ranging from quick snacks to upscale meals, reflecting Sacramento County’s rich food landscape.
Each restaurant near the airport offers a taste of the local flavor, making your dining experience an integral part of your Californian adventure.