01
Best overall pick
Unwined Kitchen & Bar
Mangrove Avenue, Chico • New American Kitchen And Wine Bar • Polished Date-Night Spot
Seasonal New American cooking, a serious wine list, and a relaxed-but-refined room make Unwined an easy first choice for Nord locals heading into town.
Unwined leans into Chico’s agricultural roots with seasonal menus, thoughtful small plates, and mains that feel upscale without being stuffy. The wine list is deep enough for serious enthusiasts but still friendly if you just want a good glass with dinner. It’s an ideal pick when you want a night out that feels special yet still comfortable.
02
Best for groups
The Pour House
East Avenue Corridor, Chico • Lively American Restaurant And Taphouse • Group-Friendly Hangout
A long tap list, hearty American comfort food, and plenty of seating make The Pour House a go-to for casual get-togethers after the drive down from Nord.
This is the kind of place where burgers, wings, and big salads share space with rotating taps and game-day energy. The room is spacious, the bar is lively, and the menu is broad enough that everyone in the group can land on something they like. It’s a natural meet-up spot when friends are coming from both Nord and Chico.
03
Best for beer lovers
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Taproom & Restaurant
South Chico • Craft Brewery Taproom And Restaurant • Destination Brewery Experience
A flagship of the craft beer world, this sprawling taproom pairs fresh Sierra Nevada brews with surprisingly refined, locally minded pub fare.
Even if you’re not a hop-head, the taproom is worth the short drive for its garden-like setting, wood-and-copper dining room, and from-scratch menu. Expect wood-fired pizzas, elevated pub classics, and plenty of dishes that showcase local produce alongside one-off beers you won’t find in grocery stores. It’s the spot to bring out-of-town guests when you want to show off a taste of Chico’s beer culture.
04
Best casual night out
Momona
Downtown Chico • Ramen And Bao Bar • Laid-Back Urban-Feel Option
Bold broths, pillowy bao, and a buzzy downtown setting give Momona a big-city edge just a quick drive from Nord.
Momona is where Chico does ramen, with rich, carefully built broths and noodles that hold their bite. The menu rounds out with shareable small plates and bao buns, making it easy to build a meal for the table. With its soundtrack, bar seats, and street-facing windows, it’s especially fun for an easygoing night out or a pre-show dinner downtown.
05
Best for a special occasion
Crush
Downtown Chico • Contemporary Italian-Inspired Restaurant • Upscale Evening Pick
Crush brings a polished, city-style dining room, Italian-inspired plates, and a strong cocktail game to the heart of downtown Chico.
Think house-made pastas, thoughtfully composed mains, and starters that are as appealing to share at the bar as they are at a white-tablecloth table. The space feels warm and lively, with big windows over downtown and service that strikes the right balance between professional and relaxed. It’s an easy choice for anniversaries, visiting family, or any night when you want dinner near Nord to feel like an event.