Magpie Cafe’s Farm-Driven Menu Lets Seasonal Produce Shine
Sacramento is the self-proclaimed farm-to-table capital of the world. In a town where locally grown produce and goods are featured as the norm, Magpie Cafe still sets itself apart, transforming farm-fresh ingredients into something unforgettable.
Janel Inouye, co-owner of Magpie, describes Magpie as an honest restaurant for people who like to eat. She proudly states, “I don’t think there is any place that elevates the food in a casual atmosphere quite like Magpie. At the end of the meal, it’s usually a pretty good deal also!”
Partnering with local farmers for the best produce
Magpie restaurant was born out of Janel and her partner Ed Roehr’s love for all things California, especially the people and the produce. Since 2005, they have been showcasing California’s agricultural abundance. They celebrate the Golden State’s bounty by working with and sourcing from many small, sustainable farms.
Inspired by what’s in season, fabulous farmers market finds, and even surprise deliveries from some of her favorite farmers, Magpie’s menu is ever-changing.
Janel elaborates, “ There are a few different ways that we work with small farmers. With Azolla Farm, we have worked with them for several years, so we have a very active relationship. They are constantly trying new things and sending them our way, and then we will give them feedback on what’s working and what isn’t. Sometimes, we might ask them to dedicate some space for a particular green or heirloom tomato and they’ll provide that for us for the season. They also go to the Sunday farmers market, and if they don’t sell out, they know we will buy that from them. With Twin Peaks Orchards, we buy through a distributor because they’re a little bit far away. But again, we are in direct contact with them to request certain things sometimes, or we might make a trip up to their farm to buy directly.”
Farmers – and relationships with farmers – are at the heart of what Magpie does. “It’s great to know our growers because we know that they have the same ethos as Magpie and take pride in their work,” Janel explains.
California wines and creative cocktails
“California wines always take center stage on Magpie wine,” says Janel, noting that Magpie proudly chooses California wines to complement their farm-to-table fare. She goes on to explain, “Our house wine is made by Craig Haarmeyer in West Sacramento with fruit from the Delta and foothills. Also, the wines that come from the foothills to the coast are some of the best, so it also makes sense for us to keep those on our menus.”
Even the cocktail menu is full of Golden State goodness. Janel shares a few of her favorites: “The Farmer’s Friend showcases a housemade shrub. We keep this cocktail on our menu year-round with different fruit shrubs throughout the year. We also offer a fizz made with Root 64 strawberry syrup.”
Central Valley-inspired decor
Even the restaurant’s name and decor are reflective of Janel’s commitment to showcasing local farmers, goods, and artists. She elaborates, “Magpies are found around the world, our Magpie here in California Central Valley has a bright yellow bill. We thought the yellow-billed Magpie was a great representation of our commitment to sourcing local and we just love the name.”
The theme is echoed throughout the restaurant, with bright yellow pillars and striking murals and canvases painted by numerous local artists. “The mural in the front of the restaurant was painted by Christopher Garcia. We asked him to do something representational of the Central Valley’s flora and fauna! It’s such a lively piece of work – it really brings joy to our space.”
What to order at Magpie
Because Magpie’s menu is ever-changing, we can’t promise that some of our favorite dishes will be in rotation. We can, however, promise that whatever you order will be an absolute delight! Some of our favorites from our visit include the Fifth Crow Farm Bean Salad topped with a Ricotta and Corn-Filled Squash Blossom – from Twin Peaks Orchards. We also loved the Azolla Farm Carrots with Sumac Yogurt. Obviously, you’ll need a drink to complement your dinner. The Farmer’s Friend is a perfectly balanced mocktail, while the White Sangria is an absolute revelation.
Reserve a table!
1601 16th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
916-452-7594
Make it a weekend!
Why not just head to Sacramento for the weekend? Obviously, you’ll want to enjoy a meal at Magpie Café, but there’s so much more to do and see in California’s capital! We asked Janel for some of her favorite recommendations. She eagerly offers the following suggestions , “Our Sunday farmers market under the freeway is truly great, but the Chinese farmers market down the street on Broadway should not be missed. We also have two beautiful theaters, The Crest and Tower Theater, for people who like movies. The Crocker Art Museum has an impressive collection of Wayne Thiebaud and Funk Art to enjoy. And on a nice day, the gardens around the state capital make for a lovely walk.”
We’ve got an ideas, too! Here’s why Sacramento should be on every produce-lover’s bucket list, along with a few other favorite, wineries restaurants and must-see spots!
Article and photography by Hilary Rance.