703 Sutter Street, Folsom, 530-220-8787,
represagrill.com  |  represagrill.folsom

Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. (Sunday); 11 a.m.-8 p.m. (Tuesday-Saturday); closed Monday

TRY THIS: Fried Brussels, Crabby Fries, Rodeo Nachos, Black Goat Salad, Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich, Old Folsom Burger, Barbacoa Mac & Cheese, Brownie & Vanilla Ice Cream

DRINKS: Full bar; beer, wine, and cocktails

TAB: $$

HEADS-UP: Located inside the Folsom Hotel; kids’ menu; weekend brunch; catering and private events; large, two-story back patio; multiple TVs; burgers (over 10 to pick from) are made from certified Angus beef; occasional live music; dog-friendly

Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich

Sutter Street never ceases to charm. With an undeniable “Gold Country chic” vibe, it stands as a true cornerstone of our region and is a go-to for everything—from a leisurely riverside stroll to boutique shopping, an evening cocktail, or highly satisfying meal. But did you realize one of the district’s core restaurants is tucked inside one of Folsom’s most recognizable and historical buildings: the Folsom Hotel?

Represa Grill has been around for almost three years, but the Folsom Hotel goes all the way back to 1885. The restaurant has wisely preserved the historical ambiance of the space, keeping the hardwood paneling, tree trunk barstools, and rustic tabletops that seem to have come straight from the logging era. These vintage details have been lovingly maintained, giving the space an authentic feel of timelessness, weathered beautifully by decades of memories (and libations).

After a bit of a wait, our server finally appeared to take our drink orders; beverage options included classic cocktails, local craft brews, and a small wine list.

Initially, I wasn’t sure what to expect, given the delay and menu full of tasty but typical fare: fried chicken sandwiches, burgers, mac and cheese, and sweet potato fries. 

Crabby Fries

My family started with the “crabby” fries, and they were a major surprise—in a good way! Beer-battered fries topped with warm-buttered crab, rich remoulade, scallions, and a fresh squeeze of lemon, the sensation was like tasting the beach from your uncle’s log cabin. The flavors popped, the accoutrements were substantial, and the textures melded beautifully. Highly recommended. 

Barbacoa Mac & Cheese

The barbacoa mac & cheese was exactly what I was hoping for (maybe more): served in a hot skillet with spiral noodles, oozing cheese, and a spoon to scoop up all the goodness—classic comfort food at its finest.

Black Goat Salad with Shrimp

To keep the surf and turf feel going, we ordered the black goat salad with shrimp, featuring mixed greens, goat cheese, bell peppers, toasted almonds, red onions, and the house balsamic dressing. It proved to be the perfect counterpart to the decadent mac & cheese and a great option for those looking to stay on track with their new year’s resolutions. 

Finally, the spicy fried chicken sandwich. I kid you not that I craved this the day after eating it. All I wanted was another one, and I’m not even a big fried chicken fan. The soft, sweet bun, modest but palpable level of spice, smothering of homemade pickles (nice touch, chef!), and savory sauce make this a serious contender for my new go-to chicken sando.

Brownie and Vanilla Ice Cream

If you’re looking for yet another excuse to visit Sutter Street (though, there’s certainly no shortage of them!), Represa Grill is a fantastic choice for a casual brunch, lunch, or dinner before or after exploring the local scene.  

by Ryan Martinez  |  photos by JYO BHAMIDIPATI

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