Like a TGIFriday’s that didn’t sell out

A foggy night in downtown Sacramento

A few of my aunts and uncles lived in Sacramento back in their youth and, when I asked for suggestions of places to go at night in Sacramento, one of them answered immediately with what turned out to be a great place to get a little local flavor, cheap booze, and some pretty tasty burgers. Fanny Ann’s Saloon is in Old Sac and is a 4-level building that was originally, you guessed it, a saloon. There’s kitsch everywhere and license plates nailed to the wall from all over. One Yelper wrote this apt description: “Imagine a universe where a TGI Friday's was actually cool and not a gimmick.”

A few interesting things before you go:

• The place has four levels and the atmosphere on each is different, so check them all. The bar/food counter is on one, an arcade area on another, karaoke on another, and a level with more secluded booth dining.
• The bartenders make STIFF drinks, so make sure you know how you’re getting back to the hotel safely. They also don’t keep tabs, so pay in cash or you can charge $5 to your credit card and get wooden coins to use as payment.
• Be wary of the restrooms; choose your door wisely.
• Good food and drink specials are listed on their website

[ official site ] – [ Yelp ]