Darling Aviary

Love me a rooftop outdoor spot with a DJ who plays good music. Wish I remembered their name. Food was good and drinks were BOMB. Everything was received promptly and it was such a fun evening.

Perfect Bourbon hot toddy, not too sweet, and slightly spicy. Loaded with clove And a touch of honey. My friends each had three espresso martinis in an hour so I guess those rocked too! 😆🥂😵‍💫

My daughter & I had a quite enjoyable lunch date here. The atmosphere is very cool with really fun decor. We ate on the rooftop area which offered some nice views. Our server Jamie was exceptional. The host person was also super sweet. We thoroughly enjoyed their version of the Hugo Spritz ( Lady Bird) which was recommended by Jamie. A bit too much ice which means we finished the drinks quickly. We found the tater tots and Brussels sprouts delicious! The Cole slaw was disappointing with literally zero flavor. The door person/bouncer could use some assistance with being more friendly. All in all a fantastic experience and I’d probably return for a fun happy hour!

I went here for brunch. I've been here a bunch of times but usually at night. Usually its nothing to write home about. But this time, Megan was super helpful and checked on us multiple times. Food was better than good, not great. But she gave witty convo and felt like a friend adding some fun to the day during my brunch.

Caesar and Harvey for the win! Thank you guys for being personable, that’s always a plus when we are sitting at the bar. This bar is nice because of the rooftop, so the DOCO vibes are definitely felt here. Go enjoy and hopefully with a Sacramento Kings win, you’ll be able to see them “light the beam” from there! Try the food, it’s delish!

Good experience soured by the bartender. The drinks were tasty and the food was decent, nothing to write home about. The girl serving the food was super sweet. The bartender Jimmy was fine until something fishy happened at the end. We noticed that there was an automatic 20% charge on our bill, and the total after everything was $99 and change. We asked about what this 20% was, and he explained to us about their policy that any bill that reaches around $99-$100 will be automatically applied the 20% auto-grat. We understood UNTIL we realized that our actual bill BEFORE the auto 20% was only around $83….meaning, he applied the 20% on the $83 so that it would reach $99 so that he could explain it to us in the way he did. This is really dishonest, and frankly very offputting. In what world would you say hey, 83 is close enough to 99, let me apply this rule? We were going to tip anyway. Why would you take advantage of us like that? I was disgusted. Unfortunately I would be wary of going here again. EDIT: a little after I posted this review, they reached out to me personally and fully refunded us. I appreciate their customer service and correcting the mistake, so I’m raising my rating.

First-time experience. This is a two story bar. The 1st floor is a bar which is open at night. The second story is the rooftop with tables and full bar with happy hour and plenty of cocktails. The margarita was good. The chicken wings were tasty. The Brussel sprouts with spread was my absolute favorite! The pelican burger was good, too. Definitely recommend coming earlier to get seating. There isn't a lot of seating if you have a bigger party if you're 2 or 4 there's plenty of room.

If you're looking for a rooftop bar in downtown Sacramento then I'd highly suggest this location. It is also near the DOCO area if you happen to be there. We came here in the day and went straight to the roof because it was a nice day. When we were there (Sunday afternoon), there was a DJ playing music. If you're here to just hang out and have drinks then this would be a spot for you. Since it was loud, it may be kind of hard to have a conversation but isn't impossible. The service was pretty fast, but like any bar, you'd have to squeeze your way in to put your order in with the bartender. Other then that, this is a pretty cool rooftop bar. I haven't been here at night but I'd assume the downstairs section would be more lively as well as the rooftop section.

Service and vibes were amazing! Cesar took care of us the whole time and he was so lively and nice! Would definitely come again.

Mari is the BEST bartender. So thoughtful and accommodating. The fish tacos are SOOO GOOD, and the wine selection is surprisingly elevated. 10/10 recommend

Start by saying great drinks!! This place is really nice! Had a great vibe and lighting, the seats were pretty plentiful. They do offer a rooftop bar but it was raining so will be returning for that when it opens. Was told that's the main attraction of the place. Bartenders were great! Had a couple questions about the menu a they were very friendly and helpful in finding a good drink. Full bar so they can make whatever you'd like not necessarily on the menu But their menu drinks are pretty unique so recommend trying one or two for yourself This bar all has a full menu for food Surprisingly great food! Forgot to take a picture because it got devoured immediately but that's a good problem to have. Lots of options for everyone to enjoy The portions are bigger so good for groups to share like the fries. As you'd expect for bar food But had great presentation Went on a Friday night and it gets pretty lively in there the later it gets. Also they have a DJ that comes in to play music, which is nice. All in all Great food Great service Great drinks Will absolutely be returning!

We strolled in from Old Sacramento through DOCO to check out Darling Aviary on a Sunday evening around 6PM. We were ID'd outside and able to walk right in with no wait, which was a great start. As soon as we walked through the front doors, there was a strong smell that honestly reminded me of a bathroom. It was pretty gross. Luckily, we weren't planning to hang out down there and headed straight up the elevator to the rooftop bar. Once we got upstairs, everything changed. Fresh air, big vibes, and music blasting. The DJs were on point, playing house and more up-tempo tracks that fit perfectly. The atmosphere up there is really well done. Plenty of space to sit or stand, and even though it was a cold night, the heaters kept us comfortable. Getting drinks was easy. We walked right up to the bar and were served immediately. A couple of us had cocktails and I had a beer. Drinks were solid and well made. Pricing felt average, not overpriced and not cheap, which felt fair for the experience. I'm honestly not sure why I haven't been here before, but I'll definitely be back. The rooftop alone makes it worth it.

First time visit and I wanted to love this place... but it was honestly just a hot mess. The ambience is nice, I love that there is a rooftop bar moment. But that's probably about it. The food was bland. The quality of meat was questionable for the chicken sliders. The drinks just tasted like mixer, no alcohol. But the worst part about it was that we waited SUPER long just to get our first round of drinks --and this was when the place wasn't even crowded. It's bad when you have to order your next round the moment the first one hits the table just to keep things moving. And the wait time just continued to get worse as we had our other items ordered. They also served my vegan friend a burger that was not vegan even though we specifically ordered it that way. They did correct it, but that lack of attention to detail is not great and could potentially be dangerous if someone has allergies. The cherry on top was the mandatory gratuity. Look, I'm not here to harp on it. They are transparent and have it posted everywhere that certain bill amounts will have a 20% gratuity. But it just really stings to have that kind of tip on top of such shitty service and subpar food. There was absolutely nothing "darling" about this visit. I hope they can make this place better, rooftop bars are nice to have in this city.

My friend and I decided to go get something to eat after a protest we had attended earlier in the day. We saw this place and decided to give it a try. They have outside seating upstairs and it was a vibe. Lots of different types of people moving to this place which made it feel great. The food was delicious although we only ordered fries and Brussels sprouts. The Brussels sprouts were so damn good. I could not stop eating them and I am a fries kind of guy. They had really great delicious drink options as well. It gets very busy here for sure. Luckily we got here early on but after a while, there were long lines to ge to the bar. Do yourself a favor and try this place!

Came out to Darling Avery with a few friends and their service was amazing ! Renee was attentive & the vibes were immaculate! 10/10 will come again !

The upstairs area was nice, the guy in the downstairs bar told us happy hour was over, but when we went upstairs it was still going on. I also lost my car keys, I went back as they were closing and no one would look to see if they were found and wouldn't allow me to run in and check. I'm a single female and it was 1:50 am. I live an hour away and they didn't care one bit.

What a fabulous time my daughter and I enjoyed while having lunch & cocktails here! The vibe is quite chill with a very cool interior and exterior. Our server Jamie could not have been any nicer. She has an adorable personality with plenty of smiles and made some great cocktail recommendations for us. Their "Lady Bird" aka a Hugo Spritz was divine. A little too much ice so finished quickly but quite good. The Brussels sprouts were delicious as were the Tater Tots (perfectly crispy). The Cole slaw fell short with absolutely zero flavor- the most bland I've ever tried. The rooftop bar/cade offers beautiful views. The bouncer should aim to be a little less serious- no eye contact and robotic greeting (room for improvement). That being said, if you crave a swell time at a hip location with superb service & cocktail, this is the place to try!

EDIT: a little after I posted this review, they reached out to me personally and fully refunded us. I appreciate their customer service and correcting the mistake, so I'm raising my rating.

Been a few times. Each time thwy over charge my card. I ONLY go for jack and cokes. Yesterday, each charge is a jack and coke. Why the charge differs each timw is beyond me. We tipped cash each time. This place is just greedy. We paid $20 cover Each drink purchase, im assuming should've been $21.75 One bartender was honest, one was not. They DEFINITELY didn't deserve any tips lmao they didn't even greet my partner and I. So no we dodnt tip 20% each time. We also paid $6 TWICE so $12 for the photo machine that didn't give us our photos . Just a digital copy. I dont have the energy to go in and complain so im just calling my bank. That said, pay cash here and ask for an itemized reciept EVERYTIME.

We recently visited Darling Aviary for brunch, and while the menu didn't offer an extensive variety, the options they did have were appealing. FYI the burger pictured below did not come with fries and had to order a side. I personally ordered the French toast, and while the apple purée topping was delectable, I was disappointed to find a piece of lint in my food. On top of that, there was a hair on the lemon slice in my drink, which was definitely off-putting especially after the first incident. That said, the vibe of the place was fantastic. Good music played throughout, and later, a DJ took over, creating a fun atmosphere with people even dancing. The drinks and service, apart from the mentioned incident, were solid, and the staff was friendly. Since the downstairs area was closed during the day, seating was upstairs, but the view was lovely. Despite visiting on a chilly day, the heaters made it cozy and comfortable. The only other downsides were that there's gratuity included depending on your group size even at the bar when ordering drinks/shots which i find a bit ridiculous and dealing with the elevator situation . Security didn't allow guests to wait nearby, as only five people were allowed at a time, which felt a bit inconvenient. Despite the food mishaps, I enjoyed the experience and would maybe consider coming back --especially to check out the nighttime vibe. Hopefully, the cleanliness issues were a one-time occurrence.

Darling aviary- the patio I want to love... but I just can't. I've been here a few times and quite honestly I remain disappointed! Number one- on the weekends they charge cover-- and the thing is you have to go inside and wait to go to the rooftop. Which is complete BS! So you are paying to come inside and wait! When I was most recently here the DJ was good awful and the music wasn't loud. I've tried the food before and it came out not hot and tasted blan. My other complaint with this place is the staff just isn't nice. Again- I want to love this spot cuz we have no rooftop bars here.. but damn this place is way over hyped.. over priced and a buzz kill!

The vibes here are great! I loved all the decor and how nice everything was. We sat at the rooftop bar and the view was so cool. It's pretty small up there though, so I'd imagine it gets pretty packed. We went for happy hour. The pelican fries were massive and tasty, but needed more sauce. The pigeon burger was okay, it had a very strong mustard flavor. The happy hour wings came with 3 pieces, but the wings themselves were massive so it felt like a pretty good deal.

Arrived at 5:30 on a Friday evening. Happy hour runs 3-7p. Sam was good! She gave us recommendations and treated us with care. The food was tasty, that cowbird burger only thing I wish I would have done differently is adding avocado! Lol Good music, warm outdoor space, beautiful view of the BEAM (go kings) - WOULD RECOMMEND & will return!

All around great spot to go to. Very unassuming from the outside. While I was in Sacramento I was looking for a rooftop spot with good vibes and I found it! This is a great spot for brunch, with a good rooftop view and a DJ set up for Sunday. The downstairs indoor bar wasn't open when I was there but I'm sure it's a vibe. Aviary themed on the inside and out. The upstairs/patio bar area has enough room to walk around and find some solid seating. While I was there the bartenders were attentive and hooked me up with the booze that I needed. I didn't have a chance to try the menu food but I hear it's pretty great as well. I just ordered an avocado and eggs over easy to nurse the hangover and they both came out super solid. I'll be back next time I'm in town. Thanks Darling Aviary.

Stopped by Darling Aviary on a Sunday afternoon and it wasn't so busy inside. The interior is beautifully designed and super aesthetically pleasing with a trendy, modern feel. They also have a rooftop area, which looked great, but we chose to sit inside since it was a hot day. Customer service was solid. We both ordered the Sunrise Margaritas. They were decent, but at $18 each, they didn't quite live up to the price tag. Felt like I was just drinking juice. One fun touch is the photobooth inside, great for snapping a quick pic to remember your visit. We didn't try the food this time, but it's a cool spot to check out if you're in the area.

Great vibes and great drinks. I've heard so many good things so I had to come check it out. I got the Tucana Margarita. It's very tasty and balanced. Flavors shine through and the alcohol taste is not in my face. I wanna try more drinks but not in one day haha. It is quite strong. I'll be back to try more~ Staff is very friendly and helpful. The rooftop bar has great vibes. During late afternoon time, it's such a nice place to hangout cuz the crowd is not too much~

The service is unbelievably amazing! I come here because of not only how wonderfully kind and welcoming the staff are, but because Cesar is truly the most sweet and knowledgeable bartender around! He can whip up the most tasty drinks that you've ever thought of! If it's slow enough, tell him what your favorite spirit is, and give him a flavor, and he is certain to not let you down! The rooftop bar is always fun and lively, and the food is surprisingly good! Definitely worth a visit!

This was my first time coming out to Darling Aviary! What a way to spend a Sunday Sunday that was not planned my friend picked this place and it was on point. The energy was amazing! The people were full of positive vibes. The music was on 10+ and then some! What a way to spend a Sunday and I'll definitely be back because I know Summer is just around the corner. The food was yummy and the drinks were poured to perfection.

Super fun rooftop bar! Excellent atmosphere! Love the art and the bird/nature theme. The outdoor swamp misters were very nice on a hot day. Chill DJ, playing low key beats. Still able to have a conversation, lots of seating. Bartenders are a little slow but the cocktails are awesome! Food is limited but very fresh and well presented. Great place for a date or with your out of town friends!

Ok, I had NO intention of coming in here. Newly relocated from SF to Sacramento and on a rainy day walk craving a burger. THIS IS THE PLACE FOR A BURGER!!! I got the Happy Hour burger for $10 and one of the best I've EVER had. The fries were also fantastic! Besides the rant about the food, the staff was INCREDIBLE! Mari, the bartender was a ball of positive energy, personable, attentive, and just a seasoned freaking professional and it shows. And behind the scenes, the entire crew was washing, cleaning, replacing, sanitizing and just very guest focused on the details of service. They are known for their Rooftop, but it was raining and didn't even get to experience that, but will be back! They have a special BOH situation going on, and as a former restaurant owner, that is what you like to see in a successful business.

I'm keeping this review short and not so sweet - I'll spare the details that could cost someone their job. I had been wanting to check out Darling Aviary for a long time and was excited to stop in on Saturday for a birthday. Right away, the bouncer at the door gave off weird vibes and it felt off. While we were waiting for the elevator to get up to the rooftop bar, the bouncer came to help assist with everyone and when the last of us got on -- we forgot to push the button and I made a joke to the bouncer about it...what he replied back left me feeling really weird and bummed out to put it lightly. It ruined the rest of the vibe there and I refused to give them my business. Plus I heard they were serving up 8oz drinks that were costing people $15 - so not worth it. I was not impressed with Darling Aviary in the least bit -- I didn't even take any photos! I know people rave about this place, but I experienced the polar opposite. Everyone who was in the elevator with me, agreed that what had transpired was super weird and inappropriate. I don't think I will come back here which is sad because it was on my list for a long time to check out. I'm giving them 2 stars which I think is generous.

Checked out Darling Aviary on a Sunday and it was exactly what we were looking for. The weather was perfect for the rooftop, and there were two DJs keeping the music going and the energy up. Great vibe without feeling too crowded, and people were actually dancing which made it fun. I had the Darling Old Fashioned and it was really well done. It was smooth with a nice balance of sweet and citrus. Definitely a solid spot for drinks and music on a nice weekend in Sacramento.

My mom and I wound up checking out the Darling Aviary on a Sunday afternoon before going to an art exhibit in West Sac. We wanted to grab a drink nearby with a good vibe and easy parking and we found a gem! When we first walked in, there was no one inside, we didn't realize we needed to go up. It was like a little mystery... then once we got upstairs we sat at the bar and enjoyed the great music and wonderful service, weather and views. I didnr get the bartenders name but she had dark hair and was so nice and friendly! We enjoyed everything about The Darling Aviary and have never been to a rooftop bar in Sacramento. Just this past summer we were in San Miguel de Allende in Mexico and the rooftop restaurants and bars are all over the city. It gave us great memories! Hoping to come back for brunch!!

If you're looking for a rooftop bar in downtown Sacramento then I'd highly suggest this location. It is also near the DOCO area if you happen to be there. We came here in the day and went straight to the roof because it was a nice day. When we were there (Sunday afternoon), there was a DJ playing music. If you're here to just hang out and have drinks then this would be a spot for you. Since it was loud, it may be kind of hard to have a conversation but isn't impossible. The service was pretty fast, but like any bar, you'd have to squeeze your way in to put your order in with the bartender. Other then that, this is a pretty cool rooftop bar. I haven't been here at night but I'd assume the downstairs section would be more lively as well as the rooftop section.

Rene was awesome! The food was great, service was even better. Our drinks were so cute! Definitely will be back!

First time at Aviary on Saturday night. Arrived around 10:45 and no line at the door. Staff and security were great at the front which is always a good indicator that we will have a good experience. The bar downstairs was nice and warm and multiple bartenders slanging drinks. We had a group of about 12 and there was plenty of room for everyone to hang out. Music was neutral and worries for the vibe. The upstairs roof deck is the coolest part by far. There's a full bar up there, room to dance or sit, and bathrooms so you don't have to go back downstairs. They had heaters on also so pretty enjoyable even with the cold temp and winds The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is the drink prices. I feel like $17 for the mixed drinks we were ordering was a bit much but it's ok here and there. Will 100 percent be back next time in downtown sac.

Went Saturday night after the Shane Gillis show and this place was great! Rock and Russ made for a good time even while they were super busy. The music was a vibe, we'll be coming back!

This place is a vibe! First come first serve basis. We visited on a Saturday evening, and luckily it wasn't too busy. Food was okay, but their drinks were good. Dj had really good mixes and even for a hot summer day the misters came in clutch. We enjoyed our time here. We'll definitely be back.

Great place to grab drinks and hangout with friends. Love the rooftop area! Giving it 4 stars because sometimes the music can be hit or miss. But overall this is a solid choice for a night out.

Came for drinks and music and it was LIT !! The vibes as soon as you step in are so unique and beautiful, plus the rooftop bar was amazing - even had heater everywhere so it was barely chilly! Music was had us dancing and the drink were not only delicious and pretty but strong too!! Super nice security and bar staff also. Love it here!

Good vibe... atmosphere was cool on the rooftop lounge. Food is mediocre and drinks were so strong almost undrinkable. Never thought I'd say that!

Mari and Luke were insanely great. Will continue to keep coming back to hang and be served by them. great drinks and great conversation!

Mari is the freaking best bartender ever! love coming here for her! will be back every time.

the rooftop is definitely the selling point, but the downstairs is just as great! the staff really takes care of your experience with the amazing drinks, cleanliness, and organization. the food sounded really good, but i didn't try any on this visit.

Came here last night. It was nice weather and view. Friendly staff. Nice vibes. Nothing bad to say. We had buffalo wings and peacock fries. Pretty standard appetizers. Nice place to relax. Worth checking out.

It's been a while since going to Darling Aviary Chris Harvey was our bartender and he made sure we were taken care of by making super creative drinks. Alfonso the manager is always super welcoming and just as kind as ever. Recommend!

Was definitely looking forward to visiting this hyped up rooftop restaurant. Unfortunately was very disappointed, but the ambiance and workers were great. The food however was not up to par, while pricey the chicken sliders had no flavor and the chicken was chewy to the point in which it couldn't be eaten or disassembled in parts, we believed it was fake chicken. The fries had little to no flavor definitely ruined the appetite for the whole night. But the photo booth was great, had some technical difficulties with payment and it not working but the number below for customer service was quick and efficient, definitely recommended using that to capture the night.

This is a nice place, especially if you're looking for a drink, and they have a lot of variety of drinks. We went on a hot day and were thankful that they had water mists over us. The music is great too. Portions are generous and service is great. If you are looking to hangout or relax, especially on a hot day, this is the place. Parking may be difficult but we were lucky enough to find metered parking nearby.

Super fun vibes and cool decor. I had a great time here in the evening. Go here for the summer for some drinks and snacks. 10/10

The vibes at Darling Avery are on point! We went before a concert in the area and they were playing the artist on their speaker system! The food was flavorful, fresh and tasty! 10/10 recommend!

Came in on a Sunday Funday to be greeted and welcomed to the rooftop. I absolutely love the security upon entry to check for identification. The guy was so nice he even held motorcycle helmets while we enjoyed ourselves inside. We walked through to the back and took the elevator to the rooftop. The wonderful folks behind the bar quickly helped us, and we were able to place our drink order and get our drinks in a timely manner. Jamie took care of us, checking in if we wanted to leave our tab open or closed. We grabbed an open seating area and enjoyed the ambiance of the tropics and good vibes music. Paige checked in on us multiple occasions and because of this excellent customer service, my family and I will definitely be coming back. We did not order food this time around but will be back because the burgers are calling our names!

His place is awesome! Really lively staff and they were able to answer any questions we had. Came here to relax and the ambiance was great. Our server Megan was great!! She was very sweet, highly recommend!!

This is a great spot downtown if you want to have a few drinks and enjoy the evening. It has an upscale, yet relaxed vibe and the rooftop bar on the upper level is really nice even when it is chilly out. They have heaters going and you will feel toasty and comfy, I promise. I like the colorful decor and all the staff I have encountered have always been really great. I don't love the parking situation in the area but the times I have been here, I have been able to find street parking not too far away and the two hour limit is still enough to enjoy your time here. This makes a great date spot or and definitely works for a cocktail night out with the girls. I highly recommend stopping by!

Fun atmosphere, good food and drinks! The roof top was great, and the mister made it so nice when it was so hot! The tacos were great, and the drink menu was fantastic! Great pit stop on the way to a concert at Golden 1!

We went here tonight and the lady by the elevator who works there was extremely rude!! She was very disrespectful. She had crusty twists in and dollar tree glasses. She kept yelling at us to not be on the wall and shout at us when she didn't have to do any of that. We were not pushy or saying anything. All she had to do was tell us nicely we would've done it. Instead we got treated like trash. We only went here because the best bar TIGER bar was full. They definitely need to get rid of her or they will continue to loose business. You don't treat customers who PAY to get in that way. It's one thing if we were being disrespectful and doing too much then I get it. But we never approached her side ways. She was shouting at us and being VERY disrespectful....Bartenders were very friendly. She could learn some class from them. Bartenders were awesome customer service!

This is the place to go before heading to a game during happy hour! If you want good service , ask for the bartender, Mari because she is serving drinks and laughs. K streeet row comes with a variety of good happy hour places to hit up. I made the mistake of going closer to the arena once with subpar drinks and more $$$. Do yourself a favor and come to this local gem instead! Happy hour is actually 4-7 on weekdays, instead of the listed hours on their website .

Stumbled on the Gem while walking downtown. I'm from the Bay so we love a little cute rooftop vibe. There was a$5 cover to get in which isn't bad for a Saturday. Walked in and went up the elevator to the rooftop. That's why we were there. Rooftop was soooo cute and ascetically appeasing. Bartender had the drinks strong and got them quickly we love that. DJ was just okay but the crowed loved it as everyone was dancing upstairs. We enjoyed our drink and just caught the views and people watched. 10/10 Highly recommend. Will def be back.