01
Best overall pick
Restaurant Josephine
Downtown Auburn • Seasonal French And Mediterranean Restaurant • Special-Occasion Standout
An intimate, chef-driven dining room where refined French-inspired plates meet small-town warmth.
Restaurant Josephine brings a polished, European-leaning sensibility to Auburn with seasonal menus that often weave in French and Mediterranean flavors. The room is cozy but sophisticated, making it an easy choice for anniversaries, long-overdue date nights, or a splurge-worthy solo dinner at the bar. Expect thoughtful wine pairings, precise execution, and the sort of pacing that lets you linger over every course.
02
Top pick for steak
Oakhouse
Old Town Auburn • California Steakhouse And Cocktail Bar • Best For Date Night
A handsome Old Town steakhouse that pairs well-sourced meats with elevated sides and classic cocktails.
Set in a restored historic building, Oakhouse leans into Auburn’s past while serving a very current menu of steaks, chops, and seasonal small plates. The dining room feels polished but not stuffy, with enough buzz to make it fun without shouting over your drink. It’s a strong bet when you want a perfectly cooked ribeye, a serious whiskey list, and a night that feels a little dressed up.
03
Best for drinks and bites
The Hillmont Auburn
Downtown Core • Inventive Small-Plates Bar • Best For Creative Cocktails
A vintage-inspired spot where clever cocktails share the spotlight with shareable, flavor-packed small plates.
The Hillmont Auburn feels like the stylish living room locals wish they had at home, with vinyl nights, tiki evenings, and a tight menu of thoughtful bar food. Small plates are built for sharing—think snacky, seasonal dishes that pair naturally with what’s in your glass. Come here when you care as much about the atmosphere and drinks program as you do about dinner itself.
04
Most versatile choice
Monkey Cat Restaurant
Central Auburn • Upscale Eclectic American Restaurant • Reliable All-Rounder
An upscale-casual standby with a broad American menu, full bar, and patio that works for almost any occasion.
Monkey Cat has long been one of Auburn’s go-to spots when a group wants something a little nicer without getting overly formal. The menu roams comfortably from seafood and steaks to salads and pastas, so even picky eaters usually find a favorite. Between the welcoming service, solid cocktails, and flexible indoor–outdoor seating, it’s as useful for business lunches as it is for a relaxed Friday night out.
05
Local breakfast favorite
Katrina's Cafe
East Auburn • Hearty Daytime Cafe • Best For Breakfast And Brunch
A cozy, always-busy cafe known for generous breakfast plates, homey baked goods, and friendly, small-town service.
Katrina’s Cafe is the kind of place where weekend lines are part of the ritual, thanks to fluffy pancakes, savory scrambles, and daily specials that hit the spot after a morning on the trails. Portions are substantial without feeling over the top, and the coffee keeps coming. It’s a natural stop before exploring the canyon or after showing out-of-town guests why locals rave about Auburn breakfasts.