Randy Paragary’s namesake restaurant has been a cornerstone in Sacramento since 1983, but tomorrow marks a new beginning. With a closure of nearly a year and a million dollar revamp, the team is ready to re-open its doors with a new attitude and aesthetic. I was thrilled to get a sneak peek last week.

I must start by saying what this place means to me. I grew up dining at Paragary’s. When I was younger, it actually used to be a reward type of dinner for doing well in school or if me and my mom were having a girl’s night. Over the years there have been a rise in farm-to-fork restaurants serving California cuisine and hey, I believe Paragary’s felt they needed the revamp to keep the restaurant going strong (the restaurant group has several successful eateries under its belt). Well, I don’t think they’re going to have a problem.

The new Paragary’s is breathtaking. No joke. I just stood and looked around for a few moments because it is not only gorgeous, but so different from what it used to be. To start, I couldn’t believe the amount of natural light that permeated through the space. For those who have been long time patrons of Paragary’s, one thing that was undeniable was that there were rich, dark tones throughout the restaurant. Not anymore. Wife and partner Stacy Paragary played an integral role in the design of the restaurant, citing her travels in Europe as inspiration. Tables are french bistro-esque and the tile flooring is elegant. With lighter wood tones, crisp white walls, and many mirrors, the restaurant is unpretentious and inviting.

Not only have the aesthetics changed, but the food and bar program have as well.  Scott Ostrander and Brad Peters (both previously affiliated with Paragary Restaurant Group) have worked their magic to provide affordable yet decadent menu with moderately priced entrees and craft cocktails, staying true to their farm-to-fork roots.

ICYMI: The patio hasn’t lost its splendor, but it has updated seating. 🙂 

I have no doubt in my mind that Paragary’s 2.0 will be successful. Below are some snaps I took while I enjoyed the preview event with other Sacramento creatives and media:

 

New friends at the Paragary’s Preview

You call it!

Accents.

These little Chicken Liver Mousse bites were delectible.

I want a gold tabletop now. Delicious spiked punch with a touch of jalapeno.

Maine Diver Scallops, being sprinkled with popped sorghum by Chef Ostrander.

My friend Ali holding the Berries and Cream as well as Mary’s Chicken Ballotine.

Ali‘s gotta get the money shot.

Berries & Cream.

Me and my Unseen Heroes peeps choppin it up

Wood-Fired Oven Mussels.

Paragary’s Midtown opens to the public TOMORROW, June 12th for dinner. Over the next week or so, they will begin lunch and brunch service, respectively. Connect with them on Facebook, Instagram and their website. Bon Appetit!

Paragary’s Midtown

1401 28th Street, Sacramento

(916) 457-5737

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Disclaimer: I was invited to a preview of the new Paragary’s Midtown but was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own. Thank you to the Paragary’s team for having me.