We happened upon Amador City on our way to Sutter Creek. I am so glad we stopped for lunch and to check out the shops and museum. We truly love exploring Gold Country which is always rich with history. The Imperial Hotel is a hidden gem and I can't wait to come back. Built in 1879, but restored several times over the years the Imperial Hotel was a perfect place to grab lunch. We will definitely have to consider staying the next time we are up this way. We sat outside on the most perfect day that was a little breezy but with the perfect amount of sunshine! They have a great outdoor patio with fire pits for cooler days. We ordered the Buttermilk Crispy Chicken Sandwich with lettuce, pickled onion, aioli, and herb fries. Delicious! The chicken was really tender and the aioli was on point. We also ordered a harvest salad that had beets and sweet potatoes. It was also really flavorful. We ordered a Sauvignon Blanc and the Cinsault Blend. Both were wonderful and even better since we were able to try these local wines. read more

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Occasionally, I run across a hidden gem that just sparkles. This is one of those places, not to be missed. It's located in a charming off the beaten path historic Gold Country town in Amador Co. that exudes charm in every direction. Amador City is rural and hasn't changed much in many years. The Imperial is a historic hotel with overnight rooms to rent and a dining room/bar. I came for dinner and am so glad I did. Although I made a reservation, it didn't seem necessary, but I would, just in case. The interior is so warm and cozy, and the historic elements make for a beautiful backdrop. We had a nice table for two against the brick wall that was intimate and yet connected to the ambiance of the room. Our server, a delightful woman, was friendly and professional. I started with a Pick Axe Freezer Martini with gin, and oh my gosh, it was a powerhouse of flavor and exuberance. It had a delightful wallop. It comes with a round cut glass side tray of things to add- olives, onion, etc. for one's individual taste. We had the bread service with warm, freshly made bread and a sun-dried tomato, basil, and garlic sauce for spreading or dipping. DELICIOUS! For the first course, I had a bowl of the clam chowder that was superb, creamy, delicate, and nicely mixed with bacon, carrots, croutons, etc, yet seemed devoid of clams. I won't hold it against them as the soup's consistency and taste were magnificent. There were two specials, a rack of lamb or a tuna poke bowl. I had heard that the scallops were very good, but they were substituting shrimp that day. I chose the lamb, and my dining partner had the poke bowl. Both were excellent. The lamb was fresh, nicely crusted, and cooked perfectly. The only criticism is a couple of times I tasted a small clump of salt, similar to Kosher salt. Since I use little salt in my own cooking, it really hits me when it's not well integrated into a dish and/or overpowering. Overall, the meal was excellent. It was relaxed, interesting, and an adventure into history, too. This place really has it down, and I highly recommend getting there for a very nice meal amongst the historical delights. read more

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We absolutely loved our room. They put a lot of thought into the amenities. All the little touches such as the oversized towels that were soooo soft, the bed was so comfy with soft pillows that hugged when you laid your head down as well as the cozy comforter, we slept 10 hours of deep sleep and we normally get 6-7 max. In the morning we enjoyed fresh home made croissants and espresso The history of the building is something you should check out if you should decide to stay. They do have a nice bar and restaurant as well. They make really fun current and old fashioned cocktails/mocktails. For dinner they have a set menu, while rather small it's all made from scratch and smelled amazing. read more

*REVIEW IS FOR RESTAURANT ONLY* Amazing experience and the most pleasant surprise ending up here. I had no idea about this hotel until a few friends showed us and we loved it! We went for brunch and I had a hot latte and BLT. My partner ordered the savory pancakes and we split some fries. Everything was fantastic and service was great! The interior decor is so cute and we really enjoyed ourselves. We will be back when we're in the area. read more

We stayed at the dog friendly cottages owned by the Imperial Hotel. They deserve 6 stars out of 5 for hospitality. The manager, Alyssa, was great about returning phone calls and sent emails when we had trouble connecting before our arrival. There was no one in the biggest cottage so she upgraded us without cost. The location is near Knight foundry, which is why we wanted to visit the area. We visited the main hotel for a peek around. The restaurant and bar were closed for a January break. The building itself was a historic brick building with 2 floors. The accommodation was fabulous. Comfy king bed, good in room coffee with actual cream in the little cups, a huge jacuzzi tub for 2 and a little gas fireplace for a heater. There was a living room area with a couch and coffee table, and house plants in every room. The entryway offered a stand with umbrellas to borrow in case of rain. There is a grassy yard with a low fence so your pup can romp as long as it isn't a jumper, and they provided a dog bed suitable for a small to medium dog. There was a dog bowl, which was great because I forgot to bring one, and a jar with a dog cookie in it. Alyssa left a welcome note for us in the room, and a few nice perks as well. In short, thoughtful details everywhere. read more

We stayed at the Imperial Hotel & Bar for one night while we did some wine tasting in the area during the day and were thoroughly impressed. The renovations are fantastic! The rooms and decor are absolutely beautiful. The mini bar offerings are very unique (don't think pretzels and M&Ms), with things like a mini negroni kit, dried fruit, etc. Toiletries are also top notch. We made a dinner reservation at the restaurant, so it was nice and convenient to just walk downstairs from our room. Our server was extremely friendly and attentive, and we thoroughly enjoyed our meal. - Roasted beet salad: an excellent start to dinner. - Mediterranean mussels: the broth was so delicious that we ordered more bread to soak up all that yummy goodness. - Pork cheek: the meat is salty by nature, but having the whipped potato to cut that was great. read more

The Imperial is wonderful! It's a very lovingly restored, charming and comfortable hotel with a super attentive and kind staff. The bar is utterly fabulously, try the California olive oil-washed Gold Fashioned. We'll miss the incredible restaurant which had a divine tasting menu, but we understand the concept must change based on business needs. We've been several times and are booking our next visit momentarily! A true gem in an under appreciated part of this beautiful state. read more

I was excited to take girlfriends, as my husband and I have found our new favorite place for drinks and dinner out. The Imperial does not disappoint. Seated in the main dining room, we loved the ambiance heightened by candlelight and live music. Gimlets and the best Old Fashioned in the county started us off, followed by a memorable arugula salad, entrees prepared to perfection, and desserts, of course. May I recommend the lemon curd if it's on the menu. The service was excellent, and Rosie, the mixologist, knows her bar. Treat yourself to this very special place without hesitation. read more

Imperial Hotel - Hotels & Travel Near Me - Amador City, California

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Little city with a big heart. I had learned about Amador through Mecha Mucho's Instagram and saw they went to this cute little area not too far from me. I saw pictures of a historic hotel and delicious looking pizza from Moonrise. Secretly I researched and planned a getaway for my fiancé's birthday. The Imperial hotel has so much charm and unique amenities. I really like the building's historic design and the interiors cozy vibe. The town is very small and quiet which I appreciated because it gets exhausting visiting overcrowded tourist locations. I almost want to keep this place a secret to myself! Haha. But I had to share an experience in which the Imperial Hotel staff went above and beyond to take care of us. We had lost some items in the kitchen and Susan and Alyssa went out of their way to replace my fiancé's birthday gift bag of fancy cheeses and jams we picked up from Miller shop. As someone that comes from a small family business their exceptional service is much to be applauded. You just don't see this anymore. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! I will be back to stay and explore more of the beautiful wine countryside. read more

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Quiet, intimate and atmospheric, particularly at the bar. Cocktails are carefully made and well balanced, and the food is excellent. Service is wonderful too. read more

This is a dreamy hotel - a must visit in Amador City! The location is perfect for wine tasting in and around the area. The staff is incredibly warm and welcoming. Our room was so clean and had perfect touches - there's even a Bluetooth speaker you can connect to and we had a great time using that. We also love the back patio area, it's the perfect spot to sit and read. They made us delicious coffees even before the restaurant opened, so good! The restaurant!! Delicious. We had pre dinner drinks at the bar, a delicious dinner, and then a very yummy brunch the next day! read more

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We loved the atmosphere! It reminded me of dining al fresco in Europe somewhere! The menu could have been a little better, but I'd go just for the atmosphere! read more

Such a cute place to eat! They have outdoor dining set up. I've had the gumbo and the organic chicken dishes. Both were very good! The first time I went there I got a few mosquito bites so make sure to wear repellent if you attract mosquitoes like I do. The second time I only got one bite. Service was good. They weren't like super friendly but just normal. Nothing to rave about. But they weren't rude and service was good. Plain good. No smiles but not rude if that makes any sense. In my opinion if they were friendlier I'd for sure give the place 5 stars easy! My favorite part was the hotel kitties!!!!!!!!! They get 5 stars!!!!!!! They are so friendly and loving!!!!!! read more

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Things have changed! Excellent food, great cocktails and wonderful service. all in a really cute location and property!

I came on Sunday with my partner,I loved the food loved the hotel and the restaurant but when i came out with my partner, our server was the hostess. A red headed women she was giving fake nice the entire time she talked to us, i noticed she wasnt wearing a BRA! All i could see was her two stars... when i looked up to talk to her it was very distracting and i could only imagine my partner.. trying not to stare... i wanted to feel the experience of fine-dining not dinner/ pub. . We got a free show. Food was good not bad but not what i expected. Hut would try again maybe with a more reframed server. read more

Poor service all around. The bartender Arthur refused to serve my boyfriend drinks twice even though he was fine. I stopped drinking because I was tired, but refusing him service and then adding an illegal $20 tip after he signed the bill and returned home is a disgrace! This establishment should be ashamed of themselves. The bar and restaurant were dead for a reason. Do yourself a favor and don't fall for this hotel's old school charm. Patronize another establishment in Amador City or in a different town. read more

This gem of a hotel has recently been refurbished and it is lovely!!!! We had a 65th birthday celebration there last weekend and occupied 4 of their 6 rooms. all rooms were well appointed and cozy, the beds and bedding are very high end and so comfortable as well as deluxe towels and bathroom amenities. We enjoyed their Prix fix meal for the celebration, everything was delicious and the staff so attentive and friendly. their breakfast was a nice surprise as well with some basic items that were given a little twist to make them more upscale. Another thing to mention is that their AC works very well as we were there during record heat! If you are looking for a cozy get away in a laid back town the Imperial Hotel is your perfect place! read more

My wife and I recently stayed here for our anniversary. Our stay was fantastic from start to finish. The staff was very friendly and warm. We started our stay with a cocktail on the patio which is a perfect place to take in the evening. We stayed in the "Jane" cottage, and were very pleased with how clean and comfortable the room was. Even checkout was a pleasant experience...we'd definitely recommend checking out the Imperial l. read more

In the years since my first review, I've attended multiple events here, recommended countless folks to stay over and even had them host my wedding rehearsal dinner. In all that time, my love for the Imperial has only grown, even when the business has changed hands many times and the service has fluctuated. It all has to do with the magic and history of the building itself. Originally built as a mercantile store when this was a thriving gold mining region in the 1870s, it shortly after became the hotel we know today after the owner realized there was more money in offering quarters to out of town travellers. It's still the center of town - with a facelift. The front patio has been handsomely updated. The interior remains the same. I've never stayed here, but I've attended happy hours and just recently brought in a group for a drink while in the area wine tasting. The bar is original. It's a treat to sip a scotch and wonder at what history has taken place there. The current owners are friendly. They showed us how the still operating, original gas lamp system works and told us about their events and upcoming Valentine's Day dinner. I don't need a reason, but I will be returning soon to attend both their ongoing Wednesday happy hour gathering and their Irish jam, which happens the second Monday of each month. Maybe, too, I'll finally have an occasion to stay upstairs. read more

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We dined in right before California's second shut down order went into effect and we were the only customers there and we absolutely loved the experience. The service was good, food was great!! My husband and I both had the pear salads and filet mignon dinners with fresh vegetables and potatoes and everything was quality. A little pricey, $129 later including tip but you can't put a price tag on good food not to mention the restaurant was very clean and had that rustic, western atmosphere. Will definitely be back... after Newsom gets booted out on his ass and we get a new governor who hopefully will lift the bans that aren't backed by any science and allow Californians to choose whether or not they hide in their homes or go out and enjoy life since we should really have that right. read more

Imperial Hotel - YUM!! - Hotels & Travel Near Me - Amador City, California

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We stayed in the hotel overnight at cottage number 8 with the jacuzzi tub. The room was very clean and quiet and had the feel of "gmas house "! I really enjoyed the beautiful deck. They bring you coffee in the morning which we didn't know about after we went to the bakery downstairs and ordered coffee, so check outside your front door. We had dinner the night we stayed and our food was very good. Hubby had the lamb and I had the filet. He ordered a beet salad and I had the stuffed mushrooms. We shared the chocolate cake for desert . Our waitress was very kind and polite . The restaurant was very peaceful and elegant. The next morning that we left we had breakfast which is provided with the nights stay. It was delicious! We definitely will be coming back again. read more

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We moved to Jackson ( about 10 minutes away ) 2 years ago from Southern California- finding good food was a real challenge- fortunately we found a few awesome places ( Taste and Union Pub ) and now we have Break even and this place ( same owners ) - great service and awesome food - great ambience as well - the chef is quite creative and everything is nicely prepared ( my partner is an amateur chef and hard to please but had no complaints so there you have it) enjoy! read more

This is the perfect getaway. Anytime but especially right now it's perfect for cautious COVID relaxation. We stayed in Cottage 9 which is their pet friendly option. The room was delightful with a small couch, comfy bed, mini fridge and coffeemaker. So very clean and cared for. You'll have a small porch and a charming outdoor area that overlooks the town. Perfectly quiet. It is about a block from the main hotel with designated easy parking. read more

Imperial Hotel - Bar Area. Paul was utterly charming. - Hotels & Travel Near Me - Amador City, California

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My husband and I had not been to the Imperial Hotel to eat since new ownership. We had really enjoyed the prior ownership's food, had been our go to for the last three years. The food was excellent, the chef obviously a pro. We did the tasting menu and every bite was delicious. The staff very friendly with a few faces from the prior ownership. There were many upgrades and the place looked great. We both felt something was missing, however I think maybe the issue was we just really like this spot and the history it was like a friend. We miss the piano and the evenings when someone was playing. When we were allowed to go back out during the pandemic this was one of a few places we went to support local, to keep them going. We will go back as the quality of the food and service deserves a second taste. Maybe this will be one of our go to places again. read more

Was clean n easy to check in and out , A bit noise with being on Main Street hard to sleep read more

We had dinner there this evening and I couldn't wait to come home and shout from the rooftops about our phenomenal experience. My husband and I live in Sutter Creek and this meal was by far the best we've shared together in Amador county ever. Everything we ate & drank was delicious, we will be back asap! It's a wonderful spot for a date night. Thank you so much for the amazing hospitality, food, & ambiance. It's a treasure to have you so close. read more

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Hearing great things since the new owners took over we went there for brunch this morning. The French press coffee was really good and the steak and egg and the eggs benedict not at all bad though I prefer the traditional sauce and meat on benedicts, and the eggs were not soft enough though I made a point of mentioning it in advance, so can't give them that extra star I'd like to. Beautiful outdoor seating in back and with the tables in front, the large dining room and bar and snug there is plenty of room so, give it a try. read more

Where to begin... went for brunch. Had the avocado toast. Was yummy. Wanted more but not for the $$$. Went back for dinner. Went to make a reservation night before until I saw the $25 per person cancellation fee. Huge turn off. We're in Amador City for heavens sake.... There was 3 of us. We had a couple appetizers and ordered a small plate dinner each. Great presentation. However meat was chewy despite being med. rare. Pork belly was tasteless ,and we were left being underwhelmed. Being a local we had high hopes of making this our go to place. But with a tasting menu of $75 pp and all at the table must have... not a weekly or more option. From what we were told they want this to be a stopping place for wine country visitors. I get it. But I think locals would frequent more.... Been there done that.... read more

Brunch was excellent! Food was delicious with very nice plating. Thoroughly enjoyed the food and service. The patio dining is perfect for pups. Highly recommend! read more

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My husband wanted a getaway for our anniversary & just stayed 2 nights at The Imperial Hotel in Amador City. It is centrally located being a few miles from wine tasting, Sutter Creek, Jackson & Plymouth. We were able to bring our little dog as there is a "dog friendly" room, not in the main hotel, but just down the street in a cottage. Keep in mind, this area of N. California is old & historic, very relaxing & beautiful, your lodging will be a little funky, not like a Hyatt Hotel. We had a cozy room, peaceful & quiet. No TV which we didn't miss. There is a bar & nice restaurant in the main hotel. A delicious hot breakfast was included with our stay. The staff was very friendly & accommodating. Priced reasonable as well. Amador City is a a quiet community & still has the old restored buildings like back in the day. We will revisit for sure. read more

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The most magical intimate country experience you can imagine, plus Michelin quality dining. Wonderful all around.

I love this place! Nope it has sold, I hope it comes back just as good as before. Wish the new owners the best!

The historic hotel is beautiful but it's run by people that don't bother to know the history of the place. The restaurant is really poor. Hard hamburger buns, sloppy salads and paying triple for think slices on , of course hard bread. I had food at a Convalescent home taste better than what they serve and we waited an hour for our dinner. I'm really sad and ashamed because I want to support my local business here in Amador County but I can't recommend this place read more

This place is really awesome and in a cool part of town. The Imperial salad is Amazing has a really different but tasty dressing. Not to many options for a vegetarian so I got plain ole spaghetti but it was topped with feta and tasted good. To top it off I got the Imperial sundae homemade pear ice cream to die for and topped with warm caramel I want to go back to order this haha!! The reason I gave it four stars is because our waitress wasn't on it to well. At first I shared water with my boyfriend we ran out pretty fast so I asked for another glass but waitress failed to keep water filled and plates cleared. OH YEAH!! There is a live piano player and he is amazing so cool!! read more

Imperial Hotel - Hotels & Travel Near Me - Amador City, California

My husband and I stayed here because of a wine makers dinner featuring Holgate Hill wines. The dinner pairing was fabulous, and the predinner old-fashioned's were on par! We stayed in their cottage, which is down the road, and it was like stepping back in time. Highly recommend the food here! read more

Fun time! Awesome staff and service. I received very fast responses to emailed questions. I was happy i was able to get a reservation on a potentially busy weekend. The bed was very comfortable, and pretty large for a historic hotel. It was also very quiet. I was a little concerned with the wooden floors, but it was quiet all night. Dinner was wonderful. My sockeye salmon was cooked perfectly, and my wife's chicken marsala was absolutely delicious, also cooked to perfection. The facility is enchanting, not modern, but all of our needs were well met. All the staff were so helpful. Amador City is actually quite small, and everything is within a short walk. And of course you are in gold country where there are many small historic towns and villages nearby. A small intimate bar, very reminiscent of what i imagine as an old western bar. An excellent selection of whiskys, beers and wines. 5 chairs at the bar, and several tables and chairs. Outside there are several tables on the patio. I agree with the other reviewer, this place is Great! read more

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It was everything we hoped it would be! Before booking I looked at other options celebrating the local historical buildings and I found this one to be just the right mix of current upscale comfort yet highlighting the historical beauty of the building. The owners did a remarkable job with this property. Everyone on the staff was friendly and accommodating. We also enjoyed the Chef's Tasting Menu with the accompanying wine tasting. It was delicious and delightful. Our stay was a pleasure from start to finish and we plan to return this winter. We might fit in a visit to the ranch next time as well. read more

We had brunch here today and we realize we're still in "post covid" times but their menu seemed very limited and quality of food good but very basic. Very nice service and kind people working there. read more

The service was amazingly. The food was average I had the pork cheek which was find but everything else on the plate was pure vinegar favor which I couldn't drink enough water to remove the taste. My husband had the the Hen. The vegetable and potatoes were good . The hen lacked favor and was too dry. We share the apple puff desert which was very good. Being in Amador county there should be multiple local wine which they didn't have any! Why would we return to a restaurant that only offered three entries. read more

A comfortable hotel from the 1880s with 21st century amenities. The Imperial is in the middle of Amador City, all quaint 3 blocks of it. The outdoor patio is perfect for brunch or evening meal and indoors the brick walled dining room seats 50. Tony one of the owners plays music weekly and there is jazz piano on weekends. Meal prices are reasonable and so are the rooms. This is Americana at it's best. Grand, welcoming and unpretentious. read more

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