one

Best Restaurants in Penn Valley, CA: A Guide for Guests 

Waitress brings dinner to three hungry friends out for dinner at one of the best restaurants in Penn Valley
Author - Heidi Keefer
April 9, 2025
If you’re coming to visit or celebrate a wedding at Rough & Ready Vineyards in Penn Valley, CA, you may be wondering where to eat during your stay. Located in a more rural area, Penn Valley offers a charming and peaceful retreat, but that also means dining options might not be as immediately obvious to visitors unfamiliar with the region. This guide to the top restaurants in Penn Valley will assist you in navigating the local dining options. 
 

Why Knowing Where to Eat Matters  

When attending a wedding in a destination like Penn Valley, planning your meals ahead of time can make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable. Since our venue, Rough & Ready Vineyards, is situated in a tranquil countryside setting, nearby restaurants may have different hours or limited seating compared to city dining.
 
Whether you need a hearty breakfast to start your day, a casual lunch before wedding festivities, or a celebratory dinner with family and friends, having a list of go-to dining spots will help you make the most of your time in town.  
 
Penn Valley is home to some wonderful hidden gems, offering everything from fresh farm-to-table dishes to comforting homestyle meals. Since many of our guests come from out of town, we want to ensure you have the best experience possible while you’re here. This guide to the best restaurants in Penn Valley, CA will help you navigate the local dining scene with ease. Here are some of our favorite local restaurants offering both dine-in and takeout options.  
 

Our Favorite Restaurants in Penn Valley, CA  

Exterior of Twelve 28 restaurant in Penn Valley. Photo by Laurie SternerTwelve 28 Kitchen 
Warm & Comfortable | Dine-In 
10118 Commercial Avenue
(530) 446-6534 
Twelve 28 Kitchen offers a cozy atmosphere where the focus is on heartfelt food and community. They source local ingredients whenever possible and provide a selection of local craft beers and wines. It’s an excellent spot for a memorable dinner with friends and family and reservations are recommended.  
 
Tuscany Gardens Pizzeria and Cafe
Italian Cuisine & Pizzeria | Dine-In & Takeout
11370 Pleasant Valley Road
(530) 432-2498  
Tuscany Gardens brings authentic Italian flavors to Penn Valley. With over 30 years of family-owned operation, they offer a menu that includes pizzas, pastas, and more. Guests can dine in their welcoming atmosphere or opt for takeout. If you’re looking for an Italian-style rehearsal dinner, this is a great choice for a warm and intimate meal. 
 
Tack Room Restaurant & Bar  
Steakhouse & Bar | Dine-In
17356 Penn Valley Drive
(530) 432-1126
For those seeking a hearty meal, Tack Room Restaurant & Bar specializes in choice New York or rib-eye steaks, barbecue beef ribs, and more. It’s a meat-lover’s paradise and a great place to unwind after a day of wedding prep.
 
This is another excellent option for a rehearsal dinner, offering a relaxed setting with delicious entrees for your wedding party and close family.  
 
Blue Cow Deli in Penn Valley, CABlue Cow Deli  
Gourmet Sandwiches & Salads | Dine-In & Takeout 
17500 Penn Valley Dr, Suite A
(530) 432-5500
A local favorite, Blue Cow Deli serves hot and cold sandwiches, paninis, soups, salads, coffee, and desserts. Guests can enjoy their meals on the patio or opt for takeout. It’s an ideal choice for a casual lunch or a quick bite on the go.  
 
Players Pizza, Pasta & More
Family-Friendly & Fun | Dine-In & Takeout  
10161 Commercial Avenue
(530) 432-1222
Looking for a relaxed place to grab pizza and watch a game? Player’s Pizza offers a great selection of pizzas, wings, and classic bar favorites in a fun atmosphere. This is a great casual option if you’re looking for a low-key rehearsal dinner or an informal gathering before or after wedding events.  
 
Northridge Restaurant 
Diverse Menu & Community Vibe | Dine-In & Takeout  
17464 Penn Valley Drive #101
(530) 432-0700
Northridge Restaurant boasts a wide variety of dishes, from burgers and sandwiches to pizza and pasta. Their commitment to exceptional service and delicious cuisine makes it a must-visit spot during your stay.
 
They also accommodate larger groups, making them a great option for a rehearsal dinner if you’re looking for a casual yet delicious meal.  After your rehearsal dinner, the Northridge Arcade offers a fun and lively atmosphere where you can enjoy games and friendly competition, making for a perfect way to unwind and continue the celebration with friends and family.
 
Moi’s Thai Cafe
Fresh, Authentic Thai | Dine-In & Takeout  
11332 Pleasant Valley Road
(530) 432-9470
Moi’s is a hidden gem, offering homemade Thai food to order. Offering traditional Thai dishes, they also have unique creations like their very popular pineapple fried rice.  
 
Daybreak Cafe in Penn Valley, CADay Break Cafe  
Classic American Diner | Dine-In & Takeout  
17438 Penn Valley Dr #107
(530) 432-1216
A terrific place for hot coffee, great breakfast, and wonderful down-to-earth staff eager to make you feel at home.  
 
Java Dream  
Coffee & Local Treats | Dine-In & Takeout  
11434 Pleasant Valley Road
(530) 615-4900
For coffee lovers, Java Dream is the perfect place to grab a fresh-brewed cup of coffee, lattes, and specialty drinks. Pair it with one of their delicious pastries or breakfast sandwiches to start your day right. Their welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a quiet morning before the wedding festivities begin.  
 

Quick Bites & Grab-and-Go Options  

Sometimes, you just need a quick meal between activities or a late-night snack after the reception. Luckily, Penn Valley also has convenient grab-and-go spots for a fast and familiar bite.  

  • Subway – If you need a quick and fresh sandwich to take on the go, Subway is a great option.  
  • Taco Bell – A reliable choice for late-night cravings or a quick bite before heading to the venue.  

Tips for Dining in Penn Valley  

  • Check restaurant hours in advance – Since Penn Valley is a smaller town, some restaurants may have limited hours, especially on Sundays or Mondays.  
  • Make reservations when possible – While many spots are casual, places like Twelve 28 Kitchen and Tack Room Restaurant can get busy, and reserving ahead ensures you get a table.  
  • Consider takeout for a private rehearsal dinner – If you’d like a more intimate setting, order takeout from one of these great restaurants and host a rehearsal dinner after your rehearsal in our onsite guesthouse. 
  •  

  • Support local businesses – Many of these restaurants are family-owned, and dining at them helps support the local economy and community.  

Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely dinner, a quick lunch, or a delicious breakfast, Penn Valley has plenty of great options to make your stay even more enjoyable. This guide to the best restaurants in Penn Valley, CA ensures that you can focus on celebrating love and making unforgettable memories with family and friends—without worrying about where to eat.  
 
By planning ahead and knowing where to go, you can relax and savor your time in our beautiful town. We hope you love these local gems as much as we do! 

Kasey and Maddy's head table. Photo by Dream Capture Studios
We take great pride in being a locally owned and operated business and believe in the importance of supporting other local wedding vendors and venues. Choosing a locally owned venue often means experiencing a higher level of hospitality, personalized communication, and a genuine commitment to making your wedding day truly special.

We love celebrating and uplifting fellow venue owners across the country by giving them a weekly spotlight on our blog. Here are a few of our faves:  
Dream Bay Resort  
Pleasant Pastures Events  
Island View Waterfront  
Palafax Wharf Waterfront 
La Joya Dulce 

Written by Heidi Keefer

Heidi Keefer is a seasoned content creator with nearly 20 years of experience in professional writing. Specializing in wedding planning and lifestyle topics, Heidi combines industry expertise with a passion for storytelling to inspire and guide couples on their journey to the big day. When not crafting articles about wedding trends, budgeting tips, or romantic inspirations, Heidi enjoys exploring new venues, collaborating with vendors, and sharing insider advice to help every couple create the celebration of their dreams.

You may also like…

Get the latest wedding news and tips straight to your inbox!

Loading
How to Plan an Outdoor Wedding: What No One Tells You (But We Will)

How to Plan an Outdoor Wedding: What No One Tells You (But We Will)

Planning an outdoor wedding? This guide walks you through exactly what happens behind the scenes — from your first venue tour to the final dance — so you can plan your outdoor celebration with confidence. Planning an outdoor wedding is one of the most rewarding...

Bridal Party Roles: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Your Crew

Bridal Party Roles: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Your Crew

So you just got engaged...congratulations! Your engagement can be one of the most fun and exciting seasons of your life. You can't wait to call your family and friends and tell them the great news. Who you choose to call first may be a great indicator of who you may...

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *