01
Best overall pick
Vermicelli
Martell Shopping District • Casual Vietnamese Noodle Shop • Go-To For Comforting Bowls
A cozy Vietnamese spot known for its deeply flavored pho and fresh, herb-packed plates just off the main Martell shopping strip.
Vermicelli is the place locals mention first when you ask where to eat near Martell, thanks to its fragrant broths and generous portions. The menu leans on pho and vermicelli bowls, with plenty of bright herbs, crisp vegetables, and customizable toppings. It is a relaxed, family-friendly stop that works as well for a quick solo lunch as it does for a low-key dinner after a day on Highway 49.
02
Best quick bite
Krispy Krunchy Chicken
Martell Highway Corridor • Counter-Service Fried Chicken Spot • Best For Grab-And-Go Comfort Food
A no-frills counter turning out surprisingly crisp, well-seasoned fried chicken that hits the spot when you need something fast.
Tucked into a convenience setting near Martell’s main highway junction, Krispy Krunchy Chicken is all about hot, crunchy comfort food. The chicken comes out with a shattering crust and juicy interior, and the sides—think wedges and biscuits—are built for road-trip snacking. It is not a sit-down destination, but for an inexpensive, satisfying bite between errands or wine-tasting stops, it delivers.
03
Best for takeout
Golden Dragon
Near Martell Retail Center • Casual Chinese Restaurant • Neighborhood Standby
A straightforward Chinese spot serving familiar, shareable favorites that are ideal for takeout back to your cabin or hotel.
Golden Dragon keeps things classic with a full lineup of American-Chinese comfort dishes—orange chicken, chow mein, fried rice, and plenty of appetizers. Portions are hearty and travel well, which makes this a popular choice for picking up dinner on the way back from Jackson Rancheria or the wineries. Inside is simple and unfussy, but the friendly service and reliable flavors make it a useful regular in the local rotation.
04
Best sit-down dinner
Teresa's Place
Jackson Gate, Jackson • Classic Italian Steakhouse • Historic Special-Occasion Pick
A century-old Italian restaurant in nearby Jackson known for hearty pastas, steaks, and old-school hospitality.
Just a short drive from Martell, Teresa's Place has been feeding Amador County since the 1920s, and it feels like a local institution the moment you walk in. The menu focuses on traditional Italian-American fare—think steak with pasta, rich sauces, and generous portions—served in a warm, wood-paneled dining room. It is the spot locals book for birthdays, family gatherings, and post-winery dinners when they want something comforting and a little nostalgic.
05
Best for families
Strings Italian Café
Main Commercial Strip, Jackson • Casual Italian Restaurant • Crowd-Pleaser For Groups
A relaxed Italian café in Jackson with a broad menu of pastas, pizzas, and kid-friendly favorites at easygoing prices.
Strings Italian Café is a reliable choice when you are feeding a mixed group after a day exploring Martell and Jackson. The menu runs the gamut from creamy pastas and loaded salads to personal pizzas, with plenty of options for picky eaters and larger appetites alike. Service is upbeat, the dining room is comfortable rather than fussy, and it works just as well for a weeknight meal as for a casual celebration.