It’s 2022 and that means it’s time to kick-off our annual list of food and drink establishments opening up this year in the greater Sacramento area. But really quickly, if you want to catch up on our maps and lists from years past then get caught up on our lists from 2021, 2020 and even 2019. For 2022, there continues to be an acceleration towards QSR, fast casual and ghost kitchens due to takeout and delivery preferences brought on by the pandemic. As restaurateurs look for ways to stand out, more emphasis might eventually be placed on innovative dining experiences depending on the direction of the pandemic and the tolerance for risk. With the industry prognostications now out of the way, let’s take a look at some unique concepts opening up in 2022 that we’re excited about.

Algo Bueno: At the former Los Gallos spot on Northgate Blvd, Algo Bueno has been planning something good, a tacos and michelada bar. The restaurant opened up with limited hours in mid-January and the michelada bar is in the works. It’s always exciting to see the transition from a mobile/catering operation into a traditional brick and mortar space. Can’t help but root for this hard working and service oriented family run business to be successful here. They’ve paid their dues and proved they can not only do the classics but also keep-up with evolving tastes by perfecting quesabirria tacos and birria pho. Latest details on the official Algo Bueno instagram profile.

Chay Corner: A true plant based experience with purpose from chef Brandon Dinh serving favorites like vegan banh mi. Chay Corner started out as a pop-up shop inside Lazi Cow in Davis. Now they’re bringing their vegan Vietnamese cuisine to their own location in Arden-Arcade. Convenient, healthy and delicious. A solid addition to the area and nice to see the progression into a permanent space. Visit Chay Corner’s website.

Local Kitchens – Roseville: A micro food for the suburbs wrapped up into a single kitchen offering menu items from some of your favorite local and bay area eateries. The brands they are planning to launch with include Señor Sisig, Curry Up Now, Nash and Proper, Garden of Eat’n and The Melt. A sign of the times, Local Kitchen is takeout and delivery only. There are two levels of convenience being offered here. Number one, you can mix and match menu items from multiple eateries within a single order. Two, which is what really sets Local Kitchen apart, is proximity. Most of the vendor/brands within their line-up generally aren’t available nearby so this is where Local Kitchen comes into play. Really, they aren’t a food hall for the suburbs, they’re a food hall offering known brands that you otherwise can’t get nearby. They could set-up shop in midtown and still thrive because the only way to otherwise get your hands on this menu is to take a trip to the bay. Stay up-to-date with Local Kitchens on Instagram.

Two Hands Seoul Fresh Corn Dogs: First entry into the Sacramento market by this up and coming national chain which started in 2019 and has quickly grown to nearly 50 locations in operation or in the works. Love the name and if you haven’t figured it out by now, Two Hands offers a Korean take on classic American corn dogs with offerings such as the spicy dog, potato dog, crispy rice dog and injeolmi dog. Have a look at the hype by visiting the Two Hands website.

Fire Taproom: In 2020, we added this unique concept to our site and the wait is finally over now that Fire Taproom is opening its doors. Much of the industry is shifting towards ghost kitchens, smaller spaces and more emphasis on takeout and delivery operations. Fire Taproom, however, is taking a more ambitious route by opening up a self-pour brew house along with a full bar and restaurant at Delta Shores. Apparently, their 50-tap wall will also offer wine and kombucha in addition to a wide selection of beer. Fire Taproom facilitates comfort and convenience mixed with the selection and social atmosphere of a full scale restaurant and bar. Sometimes it pays off to think differently. Visit their website for details.

Map of 2022 Food & Drink Openings

2022 Food & Drink Openings List