Lainika Johnson
Google
Willow Restaurant and Bar – A Bougie Brunchers Review
Bougiebrunchers.com
Located inside The Exchange Hotel, Willow Restaurant and Bar brings an upscale yet relaxed dining experience to downtown Sacramento.
Ambiance & Service
The restaurant boasts a chic, modern atmosphere with large glass windows that make for a bright and airy dining experience. I requested a window seat, and they delivered—offering a front-row view of the city’s happenings. However, the initial service was slow. It took about 10 minutes before anyone even offered water, which was a bit frustrating. When my server, Tyler, finally arrived, he was friendly and efficient, so I decided to order my entire meal at once.
The Food
French Toast – This was a standout dish. Golden brown, crispy on the outside, and perfectly fluffy inside. I could taste the butter and vanilla, making it rich but not overpowering. The syrup had a balanced sweetness—none of that overly fancy, "trying too hard" gourmet syrup.
Avocado Bowl – A dream for avocado lovers. It came with beautifully toasted golden wheat bread sourced from Bella Rue. The toast was pan-fried, not from a toaster, which made all the difference. I deconstructed the bowl and used the ingredients to craft my own version of avocado toast perfection.
Overall Experience
For two people, the bill was around $65, making it a great mid-range brunch option. While the slow start in service was a downside, the food made up for it. If you're in Sacramento and looking for a delicious brunch spot with thoughtfully prepared dishes, Willow Restaurant and Bar is worth a visit.
Would I go back? Yes—but I’d be prepared for a wait. Who knows. Maybe they were short staffed. The wait was worth it in the end.