The Waterboy Restaurant, Sacramento

There is nothing bad that I can say about this restaurant. My husband and I went here for our 3-year anniversary because it's the only place in town that makes Steak Tar-Tar, my husband's favorite. Although it's a bit pricey, the service was the best I've had in a very long time, especially in Sacramento, where service is usually way below expectations. The waiter could tell us in detail exactly what was in each dish and how they were all prepared, he was extremely knowledgeable, you could tell he had actually tried all the dishes. I had the fish special, rare Ahi Tuna, and they let me substitute in the potatoes gratin, which were delicious. The beet and baked goat cheese salad was amazing, and the tuna cooked to perfection. My husband equally enjoyed his pork belly with sweet bread followed by the steak tar-tar. The portions weren't too big as we usually get in Sacramento, meaning that we had room for desert without feeling ridiculously full. All in all it was the best dinner out that we've had in a long time. Just makes sure to make reservations ahead of time like we did and you shouldn't have any wait!

beautiful room: light and airy, funky, inspired art. first courses and appetizers were the winners - the fresh asparagus omlette was superb and the gnocchi with prosciutto and fresh peas was a delight. the white achovies, yummy. The pork shoulder contined globs of fat and the duck was a bit tough and the flavor of the meat dull. The apple crostada is a must - amazing crust. Service was WAY too slow and not very attentive.

Waterboy is my favorite place to eat at. Its a nice yet casual place to eat at and the food is WONDERFUL!!

Often lauded for their creativity and ever changing regional menu, Waterboy is a hit-or-miss in my book. The restaurant prides itself on fresh regional ingredients and it obviously reflects. However, the execution of the dishes fail to impress. The appetizers were delicious as it was simply cheeses and breads. Unfortunately the duck special was too fatty and extra heavy on the balsamic vinegar. Our experience was further diminished by the slow service and lack of attention from the waiters. Disappointing.

Probably the best value meal I have ever enjoyed. Cuisine was truly world class; the best sort of well-crafted, seasonal, California-ethos driven food, served by expert and warm waitstaff. The price was what I would expect from a lmuch esser establishment. I had time for only one great meal in Sacramento. I chose Waterboy, and am truly grateful I did.

The best restaurant in Sacramento hands down. The service was excellent, everything on the menu was perfectly cooked and perfectly seasoned. The sweetbreads were the best I have ever had. If you are looking for a special night out or just a relaxing dinner where everything is taken care of for you then definately go to the Waterboy.

Our favorite spot in Sacramento....the menu is always creative but also straightforward...the chef really knows how to put flavors together, excellent winelist and always good wines by the glass...

My favorite resturaunt in town based on consistently excellent food with good prices and service.

Gulf Shrimp-Flavors were super, remoulade went well with calamari though shrimp was overcooked resulting in rubbery texture. Beet salad-Flavors and textures all came together nicely, but salmon was distracting and dish went from complex to busy. Cioppino-Server said it had sea bass, but none when it arrived. Had fish bones and fins, and was over seasoned. Cheese Plate-How can you go wrong with a cheese plate? Put cheddar on it, that's how.

Rick Mahan cuisine is 2nd to none in Sacramento!!