Swabbies Restaurant and Bar

This old-school restaurant on the Sacramento River has atmosphere with a capital "A." There's no mistaking it for Cabo or the Caribbean, although the pirate statues that serve as props contribute a rakish air. The sea of tables set about a shaded dirt courtyard fill up on summer afternoons and evenings as folks (some with dog curled at their feet) gather to enjoy fish tacos (the house specialty), cheap beer and live music on an outdoor stage.

Swabbies attracts a lot of boaters and bikers (the restaurant has its own marina), but families and suburban types also are part of the crowd. It's a fun, casual place, but be forewarned that getting here is something of a counter-intuitive adventure.