Rick's Dessert Diner | Sacramento, CA

An old college friend of mine used to practice a rather peculiar habit whenever we went out to eat. It didn't matter whether it was for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, but what he did was place an order for dessert and ask our server to bring it to him before the entree. It happened every time, all the time. To the casual observer, it may not have been such a big deal, but it was his approach that fascinated me ... His "je ne sais quoi" so to speak.

His scrutiny did not involve the main course. He didn't care much about its taste or appearance, meaning that it could have been the messiest, ugliest, and most mediocre. He would still eat it. When it came to the dessert, however, it was like watching Sally Albright in "When Harry Met Sally." For example, his apple pie had to be slightly heated with ice cream to the side. A double-chocolate milkshake was required to be extra thick with a dollop of whipped cream and not one, but two cherries on top. And again, no matter the dessert, it had to be on the table before all else.

So, one day, I had to ask him about this. I certainly understood about wanting one's dessert just right, but why have it before the main meal? His answer was simple: "I see no reason to have the best part of the meal last. Who said it had to be that way? Besides, by eating my dessert first, I will always have room. If I wait, not so much." Makes perfect sense, and it is with this thought in mind that my old friend would have loved Rick's Dessert Diner.

Located along Sacramento's downtown grid, Rick's Dessert Diner has been delighting its legions of fans and customers ever since it opened in 1986. By their estimate, they boast over 285 European inspired menu items that include a wide range of tastes from award-winning cakes, cheesecakes, and tortes to flavorful tarts, pies, cookies, and pastries. Everything is made daily from scratch on the premises, and they only use the freshest ingredients available to ensure quality. So, whatever your preference may be, Rick's is a place for you.

What are among our favorites? Tough question, but if we're talking cake, my wife and daughter never pass on a slice of their Red Velvet Cake or their Lemon Coconut Cake. My son and I, however, are more pie guys. He prefers their Fudge Sundae Pie, but I usually steer towards their fruit-filled varieties such as the Apple Blueberry, Peach, or Pear Praline pies. Now, do keep in mind, it's not that we don't enjoy their tortes, cheesecakes, or pastries, we just haven't gotten around to sampling them. There's just so many different items that dazzle the eyes and tempt the taste buds.

Rick's is open everyday and late on Fridays and Saturdays, which is perfect for night owls who crave something sweet and sugary. The late hours, however, are also quite conducive for those experiencing a night on the town and just don't want it to end. Whether your coming from a movie, stage show, or concert, the lights are still on, the doors are still unlocked, and Rick's friendly staff is ready to serve.

So, stop on in and treat yourself to something special, and if you're anything like my old college friend, no need to worry about putting the dessert before the main course ... At Rick's Dessert Diner, the dessert IS the main course!

Rick's Dessert Diner

2322 K Street

Sacramento, CA 95816