Fresh Pours & Farmers' Picks

Overview

Spend the perfect Saturday in Elk Grove, where farm-fresh flavors, local wines, and community spirit come together for a full day of discovering our agricultural roots.

This vibrant city pairs fresh culinary dishes with sustainable farming in perfect harmony. With deep agricultural heritage, family-owned farms, and a blossoming wine scene, Elk Grove offers a feast for all the senses—one that’s best enjoyed at a slower pace, one bite (and sip) at a time.

Morning Bites & Market Finds

Saturday mornings start at the Elk Grove Farmers Market—a weekly ritual and a true celebration of community and flavor. Located at the Laguna Gateway Center, the market comes to life with fresh produce, artisan bread, farm eggs, and handcrafted jams.

Many vendors use sustainable practices and highlight what’s in season, making it the perfect place to plan your weekend meals or grab snacks for the road.

Pairing Tip: Pick up some fresh goat cheese at the Farmers Market and fruit preserves from the pick-your-own Yumm Strawberry Farm. They’ll come in handy for a perfect wine pairing later in the day.

Midday Tastings & Vineyard Views

As the afternoon sunshine appears, make your way to a local winery or tasting room. Elk Grove’s warmer, more fertile climate—distinct from Napa’s cooler, more restrained conditions—nurtures bold, fruit-forward wines with exceptional body and richness. This ideal growing environment supports unique varietals like Albariño, Tempranillo, and Barbera, offering a distinctive tasting experience.

Recommended Stops:

Adkins Family Vineyards – Intimate setting, bold reds, and small-batch charm.
Christopher Cellars – Boutique wines with a community-first approach.
McConnell Estates Winery – Family-owned, sustainable vineyard with flights and seasonal events

Enjoy a midday wine tasting with a seasonal cheese board or picnic. Many wineries feature local food trucks and special events like Barn Nights and Summer Concert Series, turning every tasting into a full sensory experience.

Credit >> McConnell Estates Winery

Evening Farm-To-Fork Flavor

After a day of vineyard visits and wine tasting, settle in for a delicious dinner that highlights Elk Grove’s rich agricultural roots. As the sun sets, the city’s farm-to-fork dining scene comes alive with restaurants that emphasize local, seasonal ingredients and strong ties to regional growers.

Farm-Fresh Favorites:

Boulevard Bistro – Upscale, seasonal fare in a charming historic home.
Sheldon Inn Restaurant & Bar – Elevated American classics in a warm, countryside setting with historic charm.
Todo Un Poco – Eclectic fusion of Italian and Latin flavors in a cozy, art-filled setting.

Ask your server for wine pairing suggestions to match your meal with local varietals—many chefs work directly with area vintners to curate the perfect flavor experience.