2010 Best of Sacramento Winner - Best Sides

Rocklinites love Lucille’s, a roadhouse-style restaurant serving up some of the most flavorful, succulent ‘cue in Placer County. This enormous establishment (part of a West Coast chain) has been absolutely packed every time I have visited. Offering a charming porch dining area with checkered floors and 1960s-style Formica tables, as well as a wonderful inside dining room with old-fangled wooden style booth seating, Lucille’s has an infectious, energetic energy that keeps its customers happy. Drinks are served up in big mason jars and portions are eye-poppingly large—make sure to arrive nice and hungry. Though the menu selection is huge, make sure that at least one member of your group orders the fantastic barbecued meats—you can choose from three styles of barbecued ribs (pork baby back, St. Louis pork spareribs and barbecued beef ribs), as well as items like the popular smoked barbecued half chicken; beef brisket (with a savory “wet mop” sauce) and smoked Angus tri-tip. The ribs I tried glistened a deep mahogany and were irresistibly smoky and tender. The half chicken I sampled was equally smoky, and packed with delicious flavor. Other fabulous choices include the blackened catfish (served with dense, finger-licking mashed potatoes and sweet, earthy greens) and the spicy, complex jambalaya, filled with hunks of smoked chicken, hot link sausage and black tiger shrimp. All entrees come with crusty, warm housemade biscuits (your kids will devour them in seconds), served with a sweetly appealing apple butter; and diners have 12 “sides” from which to choose (don’t miss the barbecue baked beans and the Southern sweet potatoes). This is a great place to come with your family—they’ll love the fun, boisterous atmosphere. – Kira O'Donnell

Insider tip: The restaurant offers (take out only) family dinner packages that serve 10 to 12 people—perfect for an impromptu dinner party

Reservations: Recommended

Payment methods: AmEx, Discover Card, MasterCard, Visa

Alcohol: Full bar

Corkage fee: $10

Hours:
Sunday–Thursday: Lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; Dinner 4–10 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: Lunch 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; Dinner 4–11 p.m.