Twelve 28 Kitchen - Penn Valley, California

Brian M.

It all started with the phone call. We called the day of about 3 or 4 hours before the restaurant opened.

The call was politely answered, I asked if they had any reservations available for 6 people that Saturday. The representative had a few options, and we opted for the 5 PM slot. Then he asked if we were celebrating any special events. I informed him that we were celebrating two birthdays, and he asked for the names and their spelling.

We show up a few minutes early before they open their doors. Promptly at 5 they opened up the dining room, and we were seated at our table. The menus were already at each setting, and they had the names printed at the top for both of our birthday celebrates. Additionally, there were two cards on the table for both, each signed by every staff member.

It was at this moment that I was reminded that we actually had a 3rd birthday to celebrate as well, and the staff came out with a 3rd card. We compared the cards and while it appeared like the signatures were nearly identical and in the same locations, they were not. This type of service takes time, and more importantly, care.

Our wait staff were confident, friendly, prompt, and did not rush us. Water was refilled frequently and we didn't even have to ask or wait.

The dishes were well done, complex, and balanced. The wines were complimentary. We enjoyed the desserts as well. Despite the price of the meal it is well worth it.

Finding a dining establishment of this caliber up in the hills is not easy. Expect to pay $50+ per person depending on how much you order. We will be back for future special events, and I can not recommend this restaurant highly enough.

Bob H.

What a wonderful place. Took my wife there for her birthday and a little surprise with some of our adult children joining us a little bit later. The weight staff was wonderful and didn’t seem to be in a rush while we took up space waiting. We were pampered and Had a wonderful time. Loved the dinner, the food was exceptional, and can’t wait to go again. The menu was personalized with happy birthday to my wife, there was a birthday card on the table, signed by all the staff that made her feel great. And I showed this to a friend and They can’t wait to go there now. It’s a bit of a hike from Sacramento to Penn Valley, but well worth the trip. Great atmosphere, great service, exceptional food! I highly recommend it. Bob Hilton.

Lydia T.

We got fried chicken on Super Bowl Sunday! Not a regular menu item, but certainly a treat. As always Chef Zach delivers. Pre-orders sell out in minutes, this is no joke. Highly encourage following them on social media as this is how they announce when pre orders begin! I was able to gloat with other patrons that made the cut and secured their order in time.

It was gone almost as quickly as it hit the table. Slaw and pasta salad for sides, crème fraîche biscuits with whipped honey butter - SO good! Also! Shout out for the rad packaging and the hard working team behind the scenes. Very well done Chef and team. Thank you!♥️

Praneeth W.

Presentation of the food and the service from the staff and owners was excellent. The sourdough bread, OG dirty smashed fries were highlights. The pork in the pork belly pancake was crispier than I expected but the presentation was perfect and the pancake itself was delicious and not too sweet. The chocolate creme desert was a good way to end the night. When we left our box behind, the server walked out in not so great weather to bring it to our car, which was a nice gesture.

Lisa C.

We were a party of seven celebrating a late Christmas dinner in mid-January. We were seated immediately and greeted by our wonderful waitress. Appetizers were ordered and came out hot and timely. All seven entrees were served together and were perfect! Two were the vegetarian dish that was offered and both parties said they had never had anything quite this delicious or upscale. They also were all served in a timely fashion. There was not one single complaint, and everyone is excited to return! Thank you for a wonderful evening and your impeccable hospitality!

Ali B.

Chef Zach‘s food is always stunning, exceptional, and as close to perfection as any food can get. You’re treated like family when you visit this family run restaurant and you certainly don’t get the pretentiousness that you often get from places that serve this caliber of food. Ingredients are seasonal, locally sourced, the menu is ever-changing and always thoughtful. is be never left here wanting more and that is why this is my favorite place to dine when I visit Nevada County.

Danny G.

Last night, my wife and I had the absolute pleasure of dining at twelve28, and I can confidently say it was one of the best dining experiences we've ever had! From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped by a warm and inviting atmosphere that set the tone for the evening.

The service was impeccable. Our server Robin was friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive without being intrusive, making sure we had everything we needed as we caught up with old friends. We shared a table filled with laughter and great conversation, all while enjoying the stunning culinary offerings from the kitchen.

The menu offered a delightful mix of innovative dishes and classic favorites, all crafted with fresh, local ingredients. We decided to go family style, sharing every dish to fully savor the vast array of flavors. Each course was beautifully presented and bursting with taste. I particularly loved the new offering of Steak Frites, which was cooked to perfection and paired wonderfully with a bottle of wine we brought along. My wife couldn't stop raving about the Chicken Schnitzel, and our friends were equally impressed with their selections, making for a truly memorable dining experience together.

Twelve28 has truly mastered the art of fine dining while maintaining a relaxed and friendly. Mike the owner is awesome and really makes you feel at home.

Thank you, twelve28, for a wonderful evening filled with good food, good friends, and great memories!

Jason S.

This restaurant is now officially my favorite. We were traveling from the Bay Area looking for a wonderful place to dine and oh my gosh did they deliver! Service was impeccable and the food was so incredibly good. Kitchen was visible and saw lots of smiles in there which definitely translated to the love they put in the food. It was actually so good that we went back a second night and took additional people with us. Highly highly recommend!