The Kitchen

After more than 30 years of operation, The Kitchen has upgraded to a grander space, but its raucous party atmosphere, led by energetic emcee Chef Kelly McCown, is the same as ever. Diners are encouraged to get up and walk around, even to wander through the kitchen and rub elbows with the cooks. Really like that truffle dish? The chef, who frequently proclaims the menu’s caloric impact, nonetheless invites you to ask for seconds. The menu changes monthly and features far-reaching inspiration while highlighting the Central Valley’s treasure trove of ingredients. Expect dishes like sweet potato cannelloni with brown butter sabayon, or perfectly seared scallops paired with cauliflower, blood orange, and lime leaf—and remember that the central premise is to have fun.