Stockton, California offers a delicious and diverse food scene. From farm-to-fork establishments to ethnic eateries, Stockton has many excellent restaurants to explore. The city’s multiculturalism and agriculture roots influence many restaurant offerings.

Restaurant Name	Cuisine	Highlight Features
Lincoln Center Kitchen	New American	Seasonal cuisine, upscale setting, brunch menu
Midtown Creperie	French-inspired	Savory and sweet crepes, cozy cafe vibe
Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar	Mediterranean	Greek flavors, rustic elegance
Midori Sushi	Japanese	Sushi rolls, contemporary setting
Chez Shari	California cuisine	Fine dining, romantic atmosphere
La Cocina International Mexican Grill	Mexican	Authentic dishes, vibrant interior
Valley Brewing Company	Microbrewery	Pub grub, house-brewed beers
Ecuador Del Plate	Ecuadorian	Traditional dishes, family recipes
Whirlow’s Tossed and Grilled	Farm-to-fork	Fresh, sustainable ingredients
Emile’s Restaurant	American	Classic comfort food, family-friendly
El Novillo #2	Mexican	Authentic Mexican food, casual setting
Rosemarino’s Sicilian Cuisine	Italian	Homemade pasta, Sicilian flavors
Cast Iron Trading Co.	Farm-to-table	Locally-sourced ingredients, industrial chic

Whether you’re craving creative cuisine, classic comfort food, or authentic international flavors, Stockton has you covered. Here are 12 of the top, must-try restaurants in Stockton.

Lincoln Center Kitchen

Name and Location: Lincoln Center Kitchen, located in the Lincoln Center complex in New York City.

History and Significance: Opened in 2014, Lincoln Center Kitchen serves American cuisine in a casual setting right in the heart of Lincoln Center. It’s a convenient dining option for people attending events at the iconic performing arts complex.

What to Expect: Classic American dishes like burgers, salads, and entrees in a laidback atmosphere. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide nice views of Lincoln Center Plaza.

Visitor Information: Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations not required but recommended.

Lincoln Center Kitchen provides upscale, seasonal New American cuisine in a modern downtown setting. The restaurant is known for its creative cocktails and local, high-quality ingredients. Menu highlights include dishes like pan-seared scallops, braised short ribs, fresh seafood cioppino, and bone-in ribeye. The restaurant has an adventurous menu while maintaining approachable flavors. Lincoln Center Kitchen also offers a popular weekend brunch. The ambiance is sleek and modern with outdoor patio seating available.

Midtown Creperie

Name and Location: Midtown Creperie, located on 55th St in Midtown Manhattan, New York City.

History and Significance: Opened in 2011, Midtown Creperie serves French-style crepes and galettes in Midtown near many office buildings and tourist attractions. It’s a popular lunch spot.

What to Expect: Savory and sweet crepes, salads, soups in a cozy Parisian-inspired setting. Large menu with many crepe options from simple to more gourmet ingredients.

Visitor Information: Open weekdays for breakfast and lunch. No reservations.

For delicious French-inspired crepes, Midtown Creperie is a top choice. This casual eatery offers both savory and sweet crepes freshly prepared with ingredients like artisan cheeses, seasonal vegetables, smoked salmon, Nutella, and fresh fruit. They also serve paninis, salads, and French cafe classics like croque monsieurs. The setting provides a cozy European cafe vibe with indoor and patio seating. It’s a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner. Don’t miss their coffee drinks like cappuccinos and lattes.

Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar

Name and Location: Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar, located in downtown San Jose, California.

History and Significance: Family-owned Greek and Mediterranean restaurant that opened in 1985. Known for its authentic Greek dishes and lively atmosphere.

What to Expect: Menu features classics like moussaka, dolmades, spanakopita. Also has great selection of Greek wines. Warm, welcoming vibe with quick service.

Visitor Information: Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended, especially on weekends.

Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar brings delicious Mediterranean cuisine to downtown Stockton. Inspired by Greek flavors, the menu features items like spanakopita, moussaka, pastitsio, Greek salad, grilled lamb chops, and more. They also offer specialty cocktails and an extensive wine list. The atmosphere provides rustic elegance with exposed brick walls and romantic lighting. Papapavlo’s is known for its friendly hospitality, cozy ambiance and flavorful dishes showcasing Mediterranean cuisine.

Midori Sushi

Name and Location: Midori Sushi, located in Scottsdale, Arizona.

History and Significance: Opened in 2008, Midori Sushi is a local favorite sushi restaurant known for innovative rolls and high-quality fresh fish. Very popular dinner spot.

What to Expect: Creative specialty rolls, nigiri, sashimi, Japanese appetizers in a modern setting. Energetic ambience and friendly service.

Visitor Information: Open daily for dinner. Reservations recommended.

For excellent sushi in Stockton, Midori Sushi is a favored local spot. Midori creates artful sushi rolls along with authentic Japanese entrees like teriyaki, tempura, and noodle bowls. The extensive sushi menu offers both traditional and innovative rolls including vegetarian options. The vibe is contemporary and casual with an open kitchen and bar seating. Midori is acclaimed for fresh sushi, specialty rolls, and excellent service in a modern setting. It’s a great place to experience superb sushi in Stockton.

Chez Shari

Name and Location: Chez Shari, located in the Soho neighborhood of New York City.

History and Significance: Opened in 1992 by chef Shari Fitzpatrick, Chez Shari is a beloved, Michelin-rated French bistro known for its classic French cuisine. Zagat rated.

What to Expect: Refined French dishes like onion soup, foie gras, coq au vin. Elegant ambiance with attentive service.Extensive French wine list.

Visitor Information: Open 6 days a week for dinner. Closed Sundays. Reservations strongly recommended. Jacket recommended.

Chez Shari offers fine dining in a romantic atmosphere using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. Their California cuisine menu features dishes like oak grilled filet mignon, wild mushroom risotto, herb-crusted rack of lamb, and seared ahi tuna. There is also an award-winning wine list. The classy interior has white tablecloths, chandeliers, fresh flowers and intimate booth seating. Chez Shari provides a special dining experience perfect for date nights, celebrations and culinary indulgence.

La Cocina International Mexican Grill & Cantina

Name and Location: La Cocina International Mexican Grill & Cantina, located in Austin, Texas.

History and Significance: Hip, modern Mexican restaurant opened in 2010 featuring cuisine from all regions of Mexico. Known for its festive vibe.

What to Expect: Tacos, enchiladas, fajitas and more. Full bar with specialty margaritas. Fun, energetic atmosphere with colorful, folk art decor.

Visitor Information: Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended for dinner.

For delicious authentic Mexican food, La Cocina International is a local favorite. They prepare classic Mexican dishes alongside creative signature plates and cocktails. Guest favorites include items like ceviche, tacos al pastor, chile relleno, enchiladas suizas, and carne asada fries. La Cocina uses quality ingredients and has an extensive tequila selection. The vibrant interior has Day of the Dead artwork and Mexican touches. It’s a lively spot with great food, drinks, and friendly service.

Valley Brewing Company

Name and Location: Valley Brewing Company, located in Beaver Creek, Colorado.

History and Significance: Established in 1995, Valley Brewing Company is Beaver Creek’s original brewpub. Known for its handcrafted beers and pub fare.

What to Expect: House-brewed beers, burgers, wings, salads. Laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. Outdoor patio seating available.

Visitor Information: Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Valley Brewing Company is Stockton’s original microbrewery restaurant, crafting quality handmade ales and lagers on-site. They pair delicious pub grub with their house-brewed beers. Menu highlights include wings, pizzas, burgers, fish and chips, and specialty sandwiches. There is an extensive beer menu to choose from with seasonal offerings and tasting flights available. The brewpub has a laid-back vibe with plenty of TVs for watching sports. Valley Brewing Company is a stellar place for beers, bites, and brewery fun.

Ecuador Del Plate

Name and Location: Ecuador Del Plate, located in Queens, New York.

History and Significance: Authentic Ecuadorian restaurant opened in 2008. Known for its traditional Ecuadorian dishes in a casual setting.

What to Expect: Signature dishes like llapingachos, seco de pollo. Cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Spanish-speaking staff. Cash only.

Visitor Information: Open daily for lunch and dinner. Cash only payments.

For authentic Ecuadorian cuisine, Ecuador Del Plate is a local gem. Traditional Ecuadorian dishes are prepared from family recipes with care. Recommended items include llapingacho, seco de pollo, churrasco, locro de papas, and empanadas. There are also tasty appetizers, soups, and sides to enjoy. The little restaurant has a casual setting with friendly service. It’s a wonderful place to expand your culinary horizons with delicious Ecuadorian food made from scratch.

Whirlow’s Tossed and Grilled

Name and Location: Whirlow’s Tossed and Grilled, located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

History and Significance: Popular local restaurant opened in 1985 featuring salads and sandwiches with signature dressings. Known for fresh ingredients.

What to Expect: Custom salads, sandwiches, wraps, soups. Relaxed, casual vibe for lunch or dinner.

Visitor Information: Open daily for lunch and dinner. No reservations.

Whirlow’s Tossed and Grilled is a popular local spot for fresh, farm-to-fork cuisine. Their menu focuses on grilled, tossed and plated dishes using seasonal, sustainably-sourced ingredients. Menu highlights include salads, bowls, tacos, sandwiches, burgers, and side dishes with global flavor influences. Dine-in or order at the counter before enjoying patio seating. Whirlow’s provides high-quality comfort food in a laid-back setting. It’s a great option for lunch, dinner, or take-out.

Emile’s Restaurant

Name and Location: Emile’s Restaurant, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

History and Significance: Classic French bistro opened in 1989 near Harvard Square. Zagat rated fine dining institution.

What to Expect: Refined French cuisine, white tablecloths, formal service. Extensive wine list. Popular spot for special occasions.

Visitor Information: Open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Jacket required. Reservations recommended.

For classic American dining, Emile’s Restaurant is a beloved local staple since 1986. The restaurant offers traditional favorites like steaks, chops, seafood, pasta, salads, and sandwiches in a casual, family-friendly setting. Breakfast is also served all day with options like omelets, pancakes, and corned beef hash. Emile’s is acclaimed for its quality comfort food, all made from scratch. Portions are generous and prices reasonable at this Stockton classic.

El Novillo #2

Name and Location: El Novillo #2, located in Miami, Florida.

History and Significance: Popular family-owned Cuban restaurant chain known for traditional Cuban dishes since 1962. Signature garlic sauce.

What to Expect: Cuban classics like ropa vieja, vaca frita, garlic shrimp. Lively atmosphere with large portions. Extensive menu.

Visitor Information: Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations not accepted.

El Novillo #2 serves outstanding authentic Mexican food in a casual setting since 1970. There’s always a wait at this popular family-owned spot but it’s worth it. El Novillo is acclaimed for their carnitas, chicharrones, tamales, tacos and other classics. Portions are large and prices are very reasonable. The service and vibe are no-frills but the food speaks for itself. It’s one of the best places in Stockton for tasty, traditional Mexican dishes.

Rosemarino’s Sicilian Cuisine

Name and Location: Rosemarino’s Sicilian Cuisine, located in Boston’s North End neighborhood.

History and Significance: Authentic family-owned Sicilian restaurant operating since 1959 in Boston’s Little Italy. Zagat rated.

What to Expect: Classic Sicilian dishes like pasta with marinara, eggplant parmesan, cannoli. Cozy, rustic ambience. Cash only.

Visitor Information: Open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner. Closed Mondays. Reservations recommended. Cash only.

Rosemarino’s brings authentic Sicilian flavors to Stockton in a cozy, family-owned setting. Their specialty is homemade pasta dishes alongside other Italian classics like chicken piccata, marsala, parmesan and seafood cioppino. Traditional Sicilian menu highlights include pasta alla Norma, Caprese salad and cannoli cake. Quality ingredients and family recipes make the food special. Rosemarino’s provides an inviting setting to enjoy comforting, authentic Italian cuisine.

Cast Iron Trading Co.

Name and Location: Cast Iron Trading Co., located in Dallas, Texas.

History and Significance: Opened in 2011, Cast Iron Trading Co. is a modern American restaurant known for its creative takes on comfort food in an industrial chic setting.

What to Expect: Seasonal new American cuisine, craft cocktails. Relaxed vibe with counter service and communal tables.

Visitor Information: Open daily for dinner, late night on weekends. Reservations recommended.

For farm-to-table fare, Cast Iron Trading Co. focuses on simplicity and quality using locally-sourced ingredients. Located in Stockton’s historic Firehouse No. 2, the industrial chic restaurant serves brunch, lunch and dinner. Items like avocado toast, burgers, flatbreads, salads and skillet meals have a seasonal California flair. There are also craft cocktails and local beers to enjoy. The historic atmosphere coupled with the delicious, sustainable food makes Cast Iron Trading Co. a stand-out.

Conclusion

With its diversity of cultures and surrounding farmlands, Stockton has developed a vibrant, delicious dining scene. The city offers a variety of restaurants to suit any palate and occasion. From fine dining to food trucks, patrons can find flavorful, high-quality meals showcasing everything from regional American fare to authentic global cuisines. The restaurants highlighted here represent the best of Stockton, using locally-sourced ingredients in creative dishes served in unique settings by passionate chefs and owners. Foodies visiting Stockton are sure to be impressed by the culinary offerings.