The Kitchen at Stonebrier

14 Stockton Restaurants You Need to Try for 2025

By Mei Chen | Feb. 15, 2025

For years, Stockton was just a blur of highway on my drives between Los Angeles and Sacramento, a necessary pit stop only for In-n-Out. But lately, I've been making a point to slow down and actually see what this city has to offer, and let me tell you, the food scene is a revelation. Forget those quickie burger runs; Stockton's serving up dishes that are worth pulling off the freeway for, and I'm regularly finding new gems, like the two spots I'm adding to this list. So, buckle up, because Stockton's about to become more than just a place you pass through. It’s a food destination in its own right.

1. The Kitchen at Stonebrier

Stockton’s culinary scene gets an upscale twist at The Kitchen at Stonebrier, where you can enjoy a refined menu without any of the stuffiness. This place blends fresh California ingredients with global influences, making it a go-to for date nights or a well-deserved splurge. Try the lobster mac ‘n’ cheese—it’s as decadent as it sounds.

2. Market Tavern

Market Tavern is the place to be for anyone craving farm-fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a modern California twist. The wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes make it one of the most talked-about spots in Stockton. It’s casual, comfortable, and always delivers on flavor.

3. The Black Rabbit

If you’re looking for a place that feels more like a secret, The Black Rabbit is the speakeasy of Stockton. Hidden in plain sight, this cozy spot offers a modern twist on American comfort food with seasonal ingredients. The braised short rib is practically its own food group here. Plus, they mix cocktails that’ll make you forget what decade it is.

4. Prime Table

For those who appreciate a good steak, Prime Table delivers a no-nonsense, high-quality experience. The steaks are aged in-house and cooked to perfection, making this a carnivore’s dream. It’s classy but not pretentious, which is a fine line that Stockton seems to walk well.

5. Cast Iron Trading Co.

For those who like their meals with a side of live music and craft beer, Cast Iron Trading Co. is where Stockton hipsters and foodies collide. The fried chicken sandwich has a cult following, and the rotating menu ensures there’s always something new to try.

6. Tepa Taqueria

In South Stockton, Tepa Taqueria is where the tostada mixta are so good they’ll ruin you for anywhere else. On top of a couple crispy tortillas are fresh shrimp and octopus, along with avocado and some of the best pico de gallo in town. Bonus: the horchata is sweet without being cloying, a rare and glorious feat.

University Plaza Waterfront Hotel Bistro & Lounge

7. The Delta Bistro

If you're looking for an evening that feels a little more special without the stuffiness, The Delta Bistro is your spot. Within the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel, the menu includes braised short ribs are so tender they practically fall apart. But it’s the pasta that always gets me. It’s that perfect combination of comforting and upscale without making you feel like you need to change into something fancier than your favorite pair of jeans.

8. Cocoro Bistro Sushi Bar

If you're in the mood for sushi that doesn't come from a conveyor belt, Cocoro Bistro is your spot. This intimate Japanese restaurant on Pacific Avenue serves up sushi rolls so fresh, you'd think the San Joaquin River was secretly an inlet to Tokyo Bay. But it's not just about raw fish here – their ramen and teriyaki dishes hold their own. The cocktail game is strong too, making it a solid choice for both lunch meetings and dinner dates where you want to impress without looking like you're trying too hard

9. Papapavlo’s Bistro and Bar

Mediterranean food doesn’t get enough love in Stockton, and Papapavlo’s is here to change that. The lamb souvlaki is grilled to perfection, and the grilled octopus feels like a dish straight out of Santorini. The patio, with its string lights and breezy vibes, might just convince you that Stockton has its own kind of romance.

10. Michael’s New York Style Pizza

Michael’s is Stockton’s answer to New York pizza, and honestly, it’s a good one. The crust is a perfect contradiction—chewy and crispy, like it’s been practicing yoga. The white pizza, with its garlicky ricotta goodness, is the kind of thing you’ll want to write home about (or at least text your friends about). Casual, family-friendly, and unapologetically good.

11. The Bowl Café

For a quick but satisfying bite, The Bowl Café specializes in Hawaiian-inspired dishes with a California twist. It’s a laid-back spot with a focus on fresh, healthy ingredients—think poke bowls, teriyaki chicken, and even a killer spam musubi. Perfect for when you need a quick lunch that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

12. Thai Me Up

The name might make you cringe, but the food will make you stay. Thai Me Up is unassuming, tucked into a strip mall, but the green curry is a revelation. It’s got heat, but not so much that you’re crying into your jasmine rice. The drunken noodles are another solid pick, perfect for a quick dinner that doesn’t taste rushed.

13. IBIZA Lounge & Tapas

Tucked away on Pacific Avenue, IBIZA is the kind of place that makes you feel like you've stumbled upon a secret. This industrial-chic spot serves up small plates that pack a big punch, alongside an impressive wine list that'll make even the most jaded oenophile sit up and take notice. The live music on weekends transforms this tapas bar into Stockton's unexpected nightlife hub. It's the perfect spot for a date night or when you're trying to convince your out-of-town friends that Stockton's got some real culinary chops.

14. Shirasoni Japanese Restaurant

For an entertaining meal that comes with a show, head over to Shirasoni Japanese Restaurant. It’s the kind of place where the chefs cook teppanyaki right in front of you—think flames, flying shrimp, and lots of laughter. Add in a fresh sushi selection, and you’ve got a perfect spot for families or groups looking for a fun night out.