We went for dinner on our 57th anniversary. It was our 1st time at the restaurant. Our server was Hailey who was just wonderful. The owner even comped us a glass of champagne and we had a personalized menu and a congratulations card that we got to keep. Our appetizer was the spicy, peanut shrimp and it was so good we spooned out the last drop of sauce. Our main dish was the Angus beef steak. Tender, cooked to perfection and as good as it gets. Our dessert was a chocolate custard which was amazing. So, it just doesn't get any better than this. Don't get put off my the outside of the restaurant as it is just a "Plain Jane" but it's what's in the inside that counts. Great service, great people, great food, do you need anything more? Try it, you will love it. Dennis&Patti Nevada City read more

This place is amazing! Everything we orders tasted fantastic and the service was absolutely perfect! I drive over an hour to eat at this restaurant is that good! One piece of advice, if they have the pumpkin cheesecake, save room. It's the best cheesecake I have ever had. read more

Agree with everyone who states this is an outstanding dining experience in Nevada County, in fact, it holds its own in any location. Penn Valley is fortunate to have it. We've eaten here many times since they opened and so glad they survived the covid restrictions! Always a creative, delicious experience and great recommendations for wine. Staff is wonderful, friendly and informative as to the selections because the selections are quite unique but always a treat! The portions are very generous, we usually bring some home. They go out of their way to make any occasion very special. Can't wait for our next visit! read more

This place is absolutely one of the best in Nevada County. My family and I have been here several times. We have never been disappointed. The food is fresh and delicious. Our only complaint is that they are only open for lunch/ brunch on the weekends. We will return again and again. Our compliments to the chef and the staff. read more

I celebrated my Birthday by having dinner at Twelve 28, it was a wonderful experience. The meal was so perfect, the service was great and a very talented musician played in the background! We started with the Pear salad and Split Pea fritters. The salad was fresh and had lots of textures between the goat cheese, the fresh and house dried pears and candied nuts, I'll be craving that salad I'm sure! The fritters were equally delicious! For our main course, my husband had the-carne asada, I had the lamb dish, both amazing! The beef could be cut with a fork. The lamb was not gamey and cooked perfect to my taste. We took dessert home because we couldn't resist! Twelve 28 is the real deal, from the flavors to presentation, the service and atmosphere, I am thrilled that the Family chose Penn Valley to share their love of preparing and serving food. read more

A Family run business that supports local farms. Very kind staff and the chef is simply amazing at what he does and the deserts are always on point! What more could you ask for?! Treat yourself if you have been interested in trying this place out. read more

Amazing food. It was hard to decide what to order. We'd been there before and were equally impressed. Both times we ordered many items on the menu (with friends) just to try the flavors and creative cooking/use of fresh ingredients. So Good. We drive an hour and 15 to come here for Sacramento area to eat . read more

The food is amazing! I had a broccoli soup, that was perfect in every way, some Asian chicken wings that were absolutely delicious and for dessert, a lemon panna cotta that was to die for! The decor is warm and inviting and the seating is comfortable, although it was a bit chilly inside. As for the service, I was not super thrilled. Our server reminded me of the service we used to get at Northridge -- Mediocre. When we asked for a dessert recommendation, the server couldn't suggest anything except to mention she tried the vanilla panna cotta and she, herself, did not care for it. Fortunately, we didn't listen and we ordered the dessert we wanted and like it mentioned above, it was amazing. Other than the service, which can be overlooked at this point in time, Twelve 28 Kitchen should be at the top of your to do list. Absolutely worth going to! I'll be back for sure and hopefully they'll get some better servers soon... read more

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Best restaurant in Nevada County and it's not even close... I couldn't give them my money fast enough. Absolutely fantastic food and service. Duck mousse and pok pok chicken has me dreaming... premium wine was very well priced! read more

Hands down the best restaurant in Nevada County! The atmosphere and food are top notch! Catherine is a wonderful waitress. Always goes above and beyond to make a pleasant experience for all patrons. read more

Ohhh, My God!!! I've cheated myself of pure, unadulterated and unsurpassed flavor and palette-spoiling pleasure by not eating at "Twelve 28 Kitchen" in Penn Valley before Saturday evening!!! I had wanted to let the hype die down a bit before giving the place a try... *ERROR* My Mom wanted to go somewhere new for our monthly (ok, maybe it's weekly?) dinner out and had suggested several places, including 12/28. I opted to finally give Twelve 28 a shot, and she got all excited, as she'd actually had brunch there a month ago and loved it! So 12/28 it was... When you first get there, it's unassuming, has a subtle decor and very comfortable. The hostess greeted us and promptly seated us at a reserved table she had hand-tagged for us earlier when I called in for a reservation. Our server, Katherine (gosh, I hope I spelt her name correctly), appeared within a moment to welcome us and set a cordial tone for the meal with her friendliness, smile and genuine personality. She took our appetizer order (dirty Smashed Fries w/Crispy Braised Pork Bellies) and we chose a lovely Riesling from their wine list. Katherine stated she'd be back with both and take our main course order at that time. She returned w/wine in the iced chiller and served it with the ultimate professionalism (I was impressed). Then came the Smashed Fries w/Pork Bellies... for ALL that is Holy!!! For something so seemingly simple, the flavors of the seasoned potatoes peppered with an absolutely mouth-watering sriracha aioli on a bed of the freshest kimchi I've ever had (and I'm not usually a kimchi fan, at all) and to top off the dish... "The Pork Bellies" *slurP* They were tender as butter yet with a delicate crispiness that simply melted in my mouth as I devoured each delicious bite! I seriously could have eaten it all night... I love their menu... it's simple, doesn't inundate one with a million choices (I'm horrible at choosing 'one' dish when I'm hungry and everything looks & sounds so good) and Chef Zach changes it up occasionally to keep one's palette guessing while providing fresh, new choices for us to delight one's taste buds with. I could not make up my mind between a wonder sounding Ravioli entree' or, what my gut was truly grumbling for, the Braised Short-Ribs. I was praying my mother would order one, so I could then order the other and spoil myself by being able to try each... twas not to be, as she could not wait to try the Pork Tenderloin. I had to go with my gut, and ordered the Short-Ribs my stomach campaigned for. After the two of us took mere moments to polish off the ample offering of Smashed Fries & Pork Bellies, Katherine thoughtfully poured us some more wine to cleanse our palettes in anticipation of the main event... our entrees :) After some perfect timing for flavors to melt into memory and the wine to set the tone for the coming entree, in they came... stunningly plated, and each flavor's delectable aroma teasing the senses as mine eyes saw the glory of the feast that now lay before me! Simply Amazing!!! I genuinely cannot remember the last time my sense of vision, smell, and taste has been SO spoiled and delighted with such a visually stunning, beautifully prepared, and absolute explosion of flavors!!! My Short-Ribs were exceptionally tender, sliced perfectly and each flavor in the dish (from the sauce, peppers, everything) stood on it's own yet lent to the overall completeness of the dish! The Pork Tenderloin of my Mom's... well, while I love my pork cuts, I often shy away from it at times due to often experiencing thick cuts that often lend to an unfortunate dryness by too many preparers, despite their efforts at good flavor. NOT THE CASE with Chef Zach's Tenderloin!!! It was the most tender, moist and supple cut of pork I have honestly EVER tasted...hands-down! His seasoning again lent to the taste without creating it's own entity, the Pineapple chutney was sweet oasis in a sea of tastefulness, all on a delicious bed of a perfectly cooked risotto! Marvelous, is all I can say! I let Mom pick her dessert, as I knew there would be a chocolate dish to die for, which she is a true connoisseur of. I cannot (unfortunately) remember the name of the lovely mousse served, but it had "chocolate" in the name twice, so I knew she would approve. When Katherine served it and I watched Mom's first bite, well... I knew it was a true delight! I tased it, of course... *YUM* :) Thank You to all at "Twelve 28"... you've given Penn Valley an absolute GEM of fine (but not pretentious) dining to be enjoyed, treasured and returned to again & again! read more

I absolutely love this place. I have been several times and the food and serviaaawq is always superb!azsSssssaawqwwswwwwww e read more

Twelve 28 Kitchen - New American Near Me - Penn Valley, California

Came in on the recommendation of my son who worked with Zach the Chef at Solage Napa Valley. The food was outstanding. We had several items on the menu and they were all great. Give this place a try. very affordable for the quality. We are looking forward to going back, hopefully soon. read more

Over the last few years we have dined at Twelve 28 Kitchen. It is some of the most amazing food we've have ever had. The complexity and creativity in each of the dishes makes this place very special. We think it's worth every penny! Some have said it's too expensive for the area. We disagree!! Their prices are VERY reasonable for the extremely special and unique dishes their chef creates!! Now, if you are used to run-of-the-meal places that don't make their food, sauces, soups from scratch, then you probably won't appreciate this restaurant! But, if you are looking for something extraordinary, then try Twelve 28 Kitchen! read more

I had dinner with my daughter at Twelve 28 last Sunday. It was superb, as always! Hailey was a fantastic server. She answered our questions and made a wonderful suggestion for a yummy Cabernet! I enjoy traveling and good food! Frequent NYC and lived in SF. This Restaurant stands up to top shelf, big City restaurants. Can't wait to come back! Thank you! read more

Thank you to the whole crew at Twelve28 for such a fine dining experience during these challenging times. When one must consider county restrictions for dining accommodations, Twelve28 has strived to continue to provide their excellent dining and food service to Nevada County. Michael and chef, Zach Sterner and staff stand out in serving our community with both gourmet and "comfort food". From the beet salad artfully served in artisan bowls, to the La Plancha spicey plank chicken to the final touches of desserts made on site, your taste buds will not be disappointed. A wine list to match any San Francisco establishment is yours for the choosing. Plan on being well-fed and well-taken care while being immersed in Twelve28's family hospitality and service. read more

Food was great and beautifully presented. Good wine list. Very welcoming staff, service was prompt but not rushed.

This place is always absolutely devine! The food is always fresh and flavorful! The dining room is very nicely decorated and they often have live music! read more

This place is worth the drive, we drive 35 minutes to come here and we always are glad we do. Last night my wife had the chicken breast with a perfect crispy skin, veggies were perfect and pair nice. I had the pork and let me tell you cooked perfect, med rare.....Risotto cake, figs and a jus. we took home the chocolate mousse and the lemon panna cotta......Divine! We eat here once a month or more........ read more

The food was quite amazing. Like everything on the menu! With a staff that's on top of your meal. They will not let you down. Have one of the wonderful beers on tap while you eat a piece of the fresh baked bread. Dinner will have you leaving a 5 star review read more

Best restaurant in area, hands down! Compares and overshadows San Francisco eateries in freshness, creativity and value. Presentation is stunning. read more

I Celebrated my birthday here and it was by far the best dining experience I've ever had. Since the moment I walked through the door they welcomed us like family, wished me a Happy Birthday and were genuinely sweet. They printed out menus that wished me a Happy Birthday and even signed a card for me.. I WAS TEARING UP. Not to mention the food was to die for. There was also live music, it's hard to imagine this place could get any better but I'm sure this establishment continues to find ways to shake things up. We will most definitely be in back. read more

Superior food, excellent service and a thoughtful, engaged owner (Michael) with family involved throughout the business (Micheal's wife does the deserts!). Staff is highly professional, competent and attentive. Behind the diningroom, Twelve 28 Kitchen's Chef Zach is the real deal in terms of menu creativity, producing unique, top quality dishes from an ever changing selection. The bottom line is, this restaurant is a very classy addition to our community. We are delighted to see them doing so well as the word gets out of Penn Valley. Twelve 28 Kitchen has developed a real following - You just can't keep a great place like this secret. Ron Calef Lake Wildwood Penn Valley read more

Wow. There was not a single thing on the menu that I didn't want to try! Had the watermelon gazpacho, the strawberry salad, and the beer braised short ribs. The chilled soup had so much flavor and was perfect for a warm evening. The salad was truly one of the most delicious I have ever had, with a goat cheese mousse and pistachios. Finally, the short ribs were so tender they literally fell apart in he bowl. They came on a bed of polenta with corn and fried okra, and WOW the fried okra was so tasty!!! Although I didn't have any wine, the wine list looked great. I will definitely come back here any time I am in the area! read more

The best restaurant in Nevada County hands down!!!service is amazing and the food is the best

Great food, awsome service. Looking forward to our next visit. I took clients to celebrate their new home purchase. We had the Korean wings and smashed potatoes as appetizers. Two of us had short ribs, the other two had the macaroni and cheese and chorizo tacos ALL very good . Don't miss the dessert read more

Salt is the main ingredient in all their dishes. HOWEVER, nevada county is lacking in good restaurants. Get rid of all the salt that overpowers all the other flavors present in your dishes and you'll have a good place for nevafa county. Our waiter was outstanding! Excellent service. read more

Cannot go wrong. Can't believe we have a restaurant this phenomenal in/ near our small town. I would plan vacations around dining here if we lived far away. Just amazing. I wish I could pinpoint everything we've had. The menu also changes frequently, they're unique dishes and I wish I could try every single special. read more

The food is good. But the prices are not justifiable. The appetizers are very small, especially for the price. And the meals are good, but not so good to justify paying an arm and a leg. San Fransisco prices in a small country town. Update: Received this message from Micheal. Jennifer, I am the chef at Twelve 28 Kitchen and I'm on my 14th hour today. I am wondering what justification you have to give my families restaurant 1 star for from scratch, locally sourced food. Do you purchase food, cook it and clean up after for much less than you paid here? How long since you have eaten at an upscale restaurant in SF? As a small restaurant, we run close to a 5% profit after we paid back what we put into this place, maybe we will start making money In year 10. This is our livelihood, passion and life and the fact that you think we deserve 1 star? Where do you work, I want to come review you. read more

It may well be the best place I may have ever had the pleasure to eat! I would say for sure that Zach is a culinary genius; flavor, flavor and more flavor. Service, staff and the above mentioned food makes this a 5 if there was ever a 5 to be given. read more

This is hands down the finest restaurant in Nevada County, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. The menu is incredible, the staff is attentive, the food is presented beautifully and each bite tastes more amazing. Our family celebrated two birthdays there yesterday and we were stunned to walk in and find birthday cards for each member of our party celebrating their birthdays with our names written in calligraphy on the envelopes and the cards signed by every member of the staff. Then when they handed us our menus, they had printed our names and "Happy Birthday" on the tops of them. You would never know you are in a strip mall in little old Penn Valley once you walk in the door of this establishment. You are transported to a city restaurant with amazing ambiance. Thank you, Twelve 28 Kitchen, for a fantastic dining experience!! read more

Michelin rating, anyone? For as young as he is, Zach is a creative and accomplished chef. The food, presentation and service has been excellent every time we've gone. See if you don't agree. read more

Outstanding, service & food, in the industry my entire life, not easily impressed, they hit every point! Great family operation, treat yourself to Amazing, 12/28 will do the job! read more

This is my favorite place in town. The manger is always there making sure everyone is well taken care. The servers are kind. The food is always amazing. I highly recommend the charred broccoli and homemade desserts. For a delicious meal and great service check out twelve 28. read more

I really enjoyed the food at this restaurant, my first visit this evening. All the food was wonderful. Service, tops. I only have one question: why do restaurants, especially ones this small, have live music? Especially when it is so loud you have a hard time hearing your companion talk? The guitar player was an older gentleman, who I guess was hard of hearing himself and didn't realize how loud he was. I kept hoping he'd take a break, but no. When I'm eating a wonderful meal I'm not in the mood to hear "Kumbaya". Know what I mean? read more

Very pleased by our first visit here. Staff was friendly, food good, we shall return.

This place is above and beyond. I can't believe a restaurant of this quality exists in Nevada County. The food is reminiscent of something you would find in the California wine country. Fresh, unique, and beautiful. I've been several times, and each time is better than the last. I have yet to eat something on the menu that I didn't LOVE. Make sure to call in advance and get a reservation. The facility is small, and fill up fast! read more

After our first visit here, we will definitely go back. The service was warm and friendly and the decor is very pretty and comfortable. My friend and I shared the German salad...what a treat for the tastebuds with so many different flavors that all went together beautifully. My entree was agnolotti with fresh tomatoes in a cream sauce, just delicious, and my friend had the pork belly. We both loved our meals. Dessert did not disappoint either, delicious chocolate torte and panna cotta. read more

Not the best food in Nevada County but the best food I've ever had, anywhere. Shockingly talented!!

The best restaurant in Nevada County hands down. If I could give it a 10 I would. No one can do the food this guy does. #boywonder