4 Best Restaurants in The Central Valley, California

It seems as if everybody in Lodi loves bright and chipper Guantonio's, and, after tasting the family-style restaurant's wood-fired pizzas, it's easy to see why. Placing the area's pristine seasonal produce atop naturally leavened dough from "organic non-GMO flour," the chefs turn out cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper), pesto and sausage, and a dozen more tour de force pies.

The same family has operated this popular restaurant, bar, and delicatessen at the same site since 1910. Feast on generous portions of pastas and sauces made from old family recipes. The extensive menu also includes sandwiches, steaks, salads, and daily specials such as prime rib and lasagna. Plates are served family style in several casual rooms, reminiscent of a Tuscan trattoria and decorated with local sports photos. Luigi's isn't open for dinner, but you can order to-go items, or pick up meal fixings at the adjacent deli.

Established in 1966, this is one of the best restaurants in the Central Valley. The California–continental cuisine includes dishes such as French escargot with a white-wine sauce and filet mignon with a cognac-mustard sauce.

Special-occasion dinners often take place in the distinguished rooms of this former residence behind, and part of, the Wine & Roses hotel. Painted in rich, textured hues offset by wide white molding, the rooms exude a subtle sophistication matched by seasonal dishes that might include halibut, lamb or pork chops, or a house-made pasta plate.