Forget the mayo-based, processed potato salads of your childhood, and say hello to the Kartoffelsalat (German-style potato salad) at Kathrin’s Biergarten. Served either cold or warm (both are amazing), each forkful features tender tots, onions, crumbled bacon, and house-made pickles, all cooked in a savory beef broth and tossed in a tangy vinegar-based dressing. Pair it with a pint or giant Bavarian pretzel (or both) and prepare to be impressed. 4810 Granite Drive, Suite A1, Rocklin, 916-251-7502, kathrinsbiergarten.com

Bawarchi Indian Cuisine is renowned for its diverse, flavorful menu, offering both North and South Indian plus Indo-Chinese cuisine, tandoor and biryani creations included. Potato lovers will especially delight in the Aloo Gobi—a comforting, crave-worthy vegan curry made with potatoes and cauliflower, infused with aromatic Indian spices, fresh cilantro, and onions. 2085 Vine Street, Suite 102, El Dorado Hills, 916-222-8222, edhbawarchi.com

Discover Amore Mio Italian Bistro, where authentic Italian cuisine comes to life with passion, precision, and ingredients imported directly from Italy. Don’t miss their Gnocchi Del Norcino—a delightful combination of mashed potato gnocchi bathed in cream sauce alongside mushrooms, gorgonzola cheese, and crumbled sausage. With outdoor seating and a cozy, intimate ambiance, it’s no wonder Amore Mio is a fan favorite among both locals and passersby. 451 Main Street, Suite 8, Placerville, 530-303-3148, amoremioitalianbistro.com

The Fat Rabbit Public House—a European-style tavern in the heart of Folsom—offers a diverse selection of brews and classic British-style dishes. Guests often describe the atmosphere as “warm,” “homey,” and “historic,” and the food as being “hot,” “hearty,” and “delicious.” Their Shepherd’s Pie is a pub favorite, featuring layers of seasoned ground beef and veggies (peas, carrots, and onions) with creamy mashed potatoes on top. Add a pint of Guinness or Old Speckled Hen and you have a complete, and completely comforting, meal. 825 Sutter Street, Folsom, 916-985-3289, thefatrabbitpublichouse.site

Land Ocean combines the best of land and sea, offering exceptional cuisine in upscale, inviting environs. When it comes to their potato accompaniments, you can’t go wrong (fun fact: all of them are made in-house, even the potato chips!), but our favorite is the irresistible Twice-Baked Potato. Served hot in a skillet with creamy cheddar cheese, chives, and crispy bacon, it’s a must-try indulgence you won’t soon forget! 2720 East Bidwell Street, Folsom, 916-983-7000; 1151 Galleria Boulevard, Suite 241, Roseville, 916-407-5640, landoceanrestaurants.com

Who knew potatoes and Mexican food were such a perfect, mouthwatering match? If you’re wondering where to savor the to-die-for flavors, head to Dos Coyotes. Their Loaded Potato Tacos include griddled potatoes, cheese, green chiles, guacamole, sour cream, cilantro ranch cabbage slaw, and green onions stuffed inside flour tortillas. So many exciting ingredients and flavors all rolled into one! 13385 Folsom Boulevard, Suite 100, Folsom, 916-351-9750; 2030 Douglas Boulevard, Suite 4, Roseville, 916-772-0775, doscoyotes.com

Experience gourmet dining at Sutter Street Steakhouse, the perfect spot for a celebratory occasion or romantic evening. Savor the finest USDA prime cuts of beef and fresh seafood as you sip a classic cocktail (dirty martini, anyone?) or fine wine at the elegant bar. For a standout side that could easily take center stage, try the irresistible Cheddar Potato Cakes. Crispy on the outside with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth center, they’re the ultimate indulgence. 604 Sutter Street, Folsom, 916-351-9100, sutterstreetsteakhouse.com

Placerville Public House, affectionately known as “The Pub,” is a beloved fixture on Placerville’s Main Street. But don’t expect the typical pub grub; here, you’ll find well-executed, scratch-made meals crafted using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. To start, try the Loaded Potato Wedges: perfectly seasoned salt-and-pepper wedges topped with homemade beer cheese, crispy bacon, green onions, and ranch. Pure deliciousness (and decadence!) in every bite. 305 Main Street, Placerville, 530-303-3792, placervillepublichouse.com

Junior Restaurant and Lounge is a hip, happening spot known for their playful take on classic dishes. Guests flock to the multi-story space to enjoy lunch, dinner, and creative cocktails. But on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., you’ll find a killer good brunch. In addition to what may be the best home fries in town, they also serve a Loco Moco that’s loco good: a hearty plate packed with white rice, two ground beef patties, fried eggs, and red wine demi-glace over steamed white rice, with a side of mac salad and savory home fries. 390 North Sunrise Avenue, Roseville, 916-886-8092, jrlounge.com

by Shawna Nenni 

Kathrin’s Biergarten photo by Jerry Sena. Bawarchi Indian Cuisine photo courtesy of Bawarchi Indian Cuisine. Amore Mio Italian Bistro photo by Jyo Bhamidipati ©stylereadersmeida. The Fat Rabbit Public House photo by Don Huddleston. Land Ocean photo courtesy of Land Ocean. Placerville Public House and Junior Restaurant and Lounge photos by Jyo Bhamidipati ©stylereadersmedia. Other photos courtesy of their respective companies or organizations.