Sophisticated eateries can be found in the most curious places, and Plan B restaurant in the quirky Arden Town Center is a great example of this. Sleek and beautifully appointed, this lovely establishment is well worth the drive from downtown Sacramento. The interior features dark wood paneling and interesting, rustic brick walls from which tiny, grassy plants comically erupt. The chocolate brown ceiling and elegant white drapes framing the door made me feel as if I was sitting in a glamorous cave—not an ambience one would expect in restaurant buried in a non-descript retail complex. The menu is also a wonderful surprise, offering an array of friendly, French-inspired dishes—many of which are small plates—great for folks who enjoy trying several items. Menu categories include the kitchen’s “stix,” which are cute mini-skewers (try the popular tiger prawn and pancetta “stix; or the rib-eye version, served with a spicy pepper relish); and a nice selection of salads. We recently devoured a butter lettuce salad, which arrived at the table arranged on the plate like a ruffly green rose. Drizzled with a pungent Dijon dressing and speckled with roasted walnuts, chunks of robust Roquefort cheese and tart sun-dried cherries, it was bold and flavorful. Mussels are a house specialty, and patrons can choose from six different preparations. Our “Nantaise” mussels came submerged in a warm pool of butter, shallots and crème fraiche – an indulgent, rich dish that was worth every calorie. Meat lovers will relish Plan B’s succulent burger. Served on a fabulous, crisp bun, and topped with wild mushrooms, ham and béarnaise sauce, this is a burger to be paired with a fine red Cabernet. Other customer favorites include a grilled filet of salmon with Provençal butter; and a roasted half chicken accompanied by rosemary au jus. I just hope local residents are aware of this exciting dining gem hidden in their very own neighborhood. - Kira O'Donnell

Insider tip: Plan B also serves brunch on Sunday. Popular menu items include rack of lamb and eggs (really!); and a salmon scramble.

Reservations: Recommended

Payment methods: AmEx, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Alcohol: Full bar

Corkage fee: $17

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday: Lunch 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; Dinner 5–9 p.m.
Friday: Lunch 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; Dinner 5–10 p.m.
Saturday: Dinner only 5–10 p.m.
Sunday: Brunch 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; Dinner 5–9 p.m.
Closed Monday