In search of the best restaurants in Merced, CA, for a fun mealtime?
Merced is the county seat of Merced County, California, in the San Joaquin Valley of Central California.
It is a charter city with a council-manager government. As of 2019, the city had a population of 83,676. Judging from its size it’s obvious Merced house several attractions.
Merced is also home to some great restaurants that will satisfy any craving. Are you ready for some hearty comfort food or a light and healthy option? There’s a restaurant in Merced that will have what you’re looking for. And with so many great restaurants, you’ll never get bored eating out in Merced!
Some of the popular Merced restaurants include Toni’s Courtyard Café, Jantz Cafe & Bakery, The Branding Iron Restaurant, and Black Bear Diner.
Are you planning a food tour of Merced? Check out the top restaurants in Merced, CA.
Best Restaurants in Merced, CA
1. Toni’s Courtyard Café
If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy a delicious meal in Merced, look no further than Toni’s Courtyard Cafe! This charming cafe is one of the best restaurants in Merced, CA. It lies in the heart of downtown.
Tony’s Courtyard Cafe features a beautiful patio perfect for enjoying a meal or a cup of coffee. The Cafe has a warm and inviting atmosphere, so dining anywhere in the premises will be great.
The menu features a variety of American and Italian favorites; there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Some of the items on their menu are breakfast burritos, egg croissants, Mediterranean chicken salad, turkey avocado melt, and New York pastrami.
The Cafe also has a variety of pastries and sandwiches available, making it the perfect place to grab a quick bite. Toni’s Courtyard Cafe is the perfect spot whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely meal.
Toni’s Courtyard Café is open for business from 7.30 am to 3 pm from Monday to Friday and from 7.30 am to 2 pm on Saturday.
Address: 516 W 18th St, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-384-2580
2. Jantz Cafe & Bakery
Jantz Café & Bakery is a family-owned business serving the Merced community for over 20 years. They offer a variety of breakfast and lunch items and a wide selection of baked goods.
They aim to provide their customers with a warm and welcoming atmosphere and ensure they always leave with a smile.
The environment in Jantz Café & Bakery is very cozy and inviting. The Café is small and intimate, with a warm, homey feeling. There is a small counter with a few stools and small tables.
The walls are lined with shelves full of baked goods, and there is a small stage in the corner where live music is sometimes played. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the staff is amicable.
The menu at Jantz Café & Bakery contains variety of meals, including Strawberry Spinach Salad, Chicken-On-Greens, Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad, a host of signature sandwiches, and excellent burgers.
This restaurant is open from 6.30 am to 5.30 pm from Monday to Friday and from 7 am to 3 pm on Saturday.
Address: 3361 G St, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-726-5157
3. The Branding Iron Restaurant
The Branding Iron Restaurant is a family-owned and operated restaurant located in Merced community. It is a cozy little spot located in the heart of Merced, just blocks away from the UC Merced campus.
The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with dark wood floors and exposed brick walls. The menu is extensive and includes both American and Mexican dishes.
In addition, it offers a variety of dinner items. Some cuisines on the menu are Signature Prime Rib, Succulent Steaks, Salmon Au Poivre, Shrimp Scampi, Lobster Mac n Cheese, and Teriyaki Chicken Breast. They also offer a wide selection of beer and wine.
The service is attentive, and the staff is friendly. The Branding Iron Restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a good meal with family or friends.
The Branding Iron Restaurant’s working hours are 5 pm to 9 pm from Tuesday to Saturday. They are not available on Sunday and Monday.
Address: 640 W 16th St, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-722-1822
4. Black Bear Diner
Black Bear Diner is a restaurant located in Merced, CA. The restaurant is a family-friendly environment that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The environment in Black Bear Diner is casual and relaxed. The décor is simple and rustic, with wood floors, walls, and simple furnishing. The menu features a variety of American cuisine, and the diner is known for its large portions and friendly and efficient service.
The Grizz, bigfoot chicken fried steak & eggs, stuffed blackberry French toast, bacon & cheddar burger, western BBQ burger, and chicken fried steak benedict are some of the items on this restaurant’s menu.
Address: 1435 V St, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-383-9600
5. Bella Luna Bistro
In Valley City, Bella Luna is a mainstay. Chef Vinnie Deangelo founded Bella Luna in 1995, intending to express the stunning Valley products via traditional Italian dishes.
Bella Luna has established itself as one of the best places to eat in Merced, CA, throughout its 27-year existence. It will continue to be a vital part of the neighborhood for many more.
Bella Luna Bistro is arguably the best romantic Italian restaurant in Merced. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with soft lighting and music playing in the background. The menu features a variety of traditional Italian dishes and a selection of desserts.
The restaurant also has a full bar with an extensive wine list. Bella Luna Bistro is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner for two.
They are open for business on Tuesday from 4 pm to 8 pm, Wednesday and Thursday from 11 am to 8 pm, Friday from 11 am to 10 pm, and Saturday from 4 pm to 10 pm.
Address: 350 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-383-1700
6. Paul’s Place
Paul’s place is a small, family-run restaurant in Merced, California. The restaurant is cozy and inviting, with a warm atmosphere. The staff is friendly and accommodating. Paul’s place is one of the best restaurants in Merced, CA.
The food is excellent, and they have a great selection of dishes. The service is also excellent, and the staff is amiable. The restaurant is also spotless and well-kept. It is highly recommended to anyone who is looking for a good meal.
Chicken tenders and chips, soup and half sandwiches, turkey bacon melt, avocado croissants, grilled ham and cheese, and sweet potato fries, amongst others, are part of their menu.
Their menu includes chicken tenders and chips, soup and a half sandwich, a croissant with avocado, grilled ham and cheese, and sweet potato fries.
They are open for business Tuesdays to Saturdays from 8 am to 8 pm and Sundays from 8 pm to 2 pm.
Address: 2991 G St, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-723-1339
7. Sam Café
Sam Cafe is a local coffee shop and inarguably one of the best places to eat in Merced, CA, serving freshly brewed coffee and espresso drinks, along with pastries and light breakfast items. The environment is very relaxed and comfortable.
The cafe has a cozy, homey atmosphere with wooden floors and exposed brick walls, and it is the perfect place to relax with a book or catch up with friends.
The cafe is located in a historic downtown area, and the decor is modern and stylish. The staff is amiable and welcoming, and the menu is extensive and includes breakfast and lunch items. The food is fresh and delicious, and the prices are reasonable.
Sam café’s working hours are 11 am to 8.30 pm from Wednesday to Sunday.
Address: 235 W 12th St, Merced, CA 95341, United States. Phone +1 209-383-5350
8. H & W Family Drive-In
H & W Family Drive-In is a local, family-owned business in Merced. They offer a variety of fast-food items, as well as a drive-thru service.
The environment in H & W Family Drive-In is very relaxed and family-friendly. The staff is very friendly and accommodating, and the food is always fresh and delicious.
Double French Burger, Meal French Burger, Meal Bacon Double Cheeseburger, Western Burger, Avocado Burger, Pastrami Burge Bar, B-Q Beef Sandwich, French Dip, Hot Pastrami Sandwich, and Grill Cheese are on their menu.
You can’t afford to miss dining in this H &W Family Drive-In as it’s one of the outstanding Merced restaurants.This restaurant is open for business from 10.30 am to 9 pm daily.
Address: 121 W 16th St, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-722-8595
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9. BBQ Pit
The BBQ Pit specializes in barbecue cuisine. The restaurant is known for its affordable prices and large portions.
The menu features a variety of barbecue favorites, including ribs, chicken, and pulled pork. The restaurant also offers a variety of sides and desserts.
BBQ Pit has a large outdoor seating area with plenty of tables and chairs for guests to enjoy their meals. The BBQ Pit also has a large fire pit for guests to roast marshmallows or make s’mores.
Meals on their menu include dinner salad, fresh vegetable medley, crispy chicken salad, fajita salad, and chicken tenders.
Their meats, which include chicken, tri-tip, spare ribs, pork, and baby back ribs, are smoked daily using local almond wood.
Their opening times are Sunday to Saturday from 7 am to 8 pm
Address: 1720 G St, Merced, CA 95340-5040. Phone 209-383-2558
10. Five Ten Bistro
Five Ten Bistro is a small, family-owned restaurant in Merced, CA. The restaurant is known for its fresh, homemade food, friendly, welcoming atmosphere, and fine dining. The restaurant is decorated in a modern style with dark wood floors and white walls.
The tables are set with linen tablecloths, and the chairs are upholstered in dark brown. The service is attentive. The prices are reasonable, and the food is excellent. The restaurant features explains why it is regarded as one of the top restaurants in Merced, CA.
Five Ten Bistro is open for lunch and dinner, and reservations are recommended. Their menu is extensive and includes both American and international dishes, such as Chicken Artichoke Pasta, Smoked Salmon Pasta, Black and Bleu Steak, Beer Batter Fish and Chips, Stack House Burger, and Filet Mignon Medallions Cognac Sauce.
The Five Ten Bistro is open for work from Monday to Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm and from 11 am to 10 pm on Friday and Saturday.
Address: 510 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-381-0280
11. Taste of Little India
If you’re looking for a taste of India in Merced, look no further than Taste of Little India.
The environment in Taste of Little India is very festive and colorful.
Many people are walking around, and the smell of Indian food is in the air. The colors and lights are very bright, and the music is thunderous.
This authentic Indian restaurant offers various Indian dishes, from classics like chicken tikka masala and lamb vindaloo to more modern takes on Indian cuisine. With its spacious and comfortable dining room, Taste of Little India is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with family and friends.
Be sure to save room for dessert – the mango lassi is a must-try! Chicken Pakoras, Chana Bhatura / Puri, Vegetable Samosa and Chana, Tandoori Platter, Chicken Tikka, Mattar Paneer, and Chana Masala, among other delicacies, are meals on this restaurant’s menu.
This restaurant is open for business on Tuesday to Friday from 11 am -2 pm, 5 pm – 9 pm, on Saturday from 5 pm – 9 pm, and on Sunday from 12 pm – 3 pm and from 5 pm to 9 pm.
Address: 1052 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-722-2230
12. The Bistro
The Bistro is a casual eatery with a French flair, located in downtown Merced. It is known for its upscale atmosphere and menu.
The restaurant is in a converted house and features a patio area with a city view.
The menu features classic bistro fare such as croques, madames, and monsieurs, as well as salads, quiches, soups, and tartines.
The Bistro also offers a selection of wine, beer, and a whole coffee and espresso bar. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, with outdoor seating available in the warmer months.
The Bistro is a popular destination for dates and special occasions.
The Bistro is open for business on Monday to Friday from 6.30 am to 10.30 am and from 5 pm to 10 pm, and on Saturday and Sunday from 7 am to 11 am and from 5 pm to 10 pm.
Address:750 Motel Dr, Merced, CA 95341-5151. Phone +1 209-725-1221
13. El Asadero Taco Shop
El Asadero Taco Shop is one of the favorite local Merced restaurants. The restaurant is clean and brightly lit, with a cheerful atmosphere.
The shop is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, great atmosphere, and reasonable prices. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the food is freshly prepared and delicious.
The menu features a variety of tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and other traditional Mexican dishes like flying saucer, tamales, and tacos al pastor buche. The shop is open for lunch and dinner and offers a take-out option.
Their working hours are 8.30 am to 9 pm from Monday to Saturday and from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm on Sunday.
Address: 3532 G St, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-385-3880
14. Destino’s
Destino’s is a family-owned Mexican restaurant in Merced, CA. The restaurant is known for its authentic Mexican food, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere. Destino’s has served the Merced community for about 5 years now and is gradually becoming a local favorite.
Their menu includes roast beef, chicken pesto panini, papa pinoke, and hot garlic bread.
The service is friendly, and the prices are reasonable.
Address: 460 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-580-4418
15. Strings Italian Café
In 1987, the first Strings location in Sacrament opened. Strings are still effectively servicing the initial region and sites around central and northern California about 30 years later and under the same management. Strings Italian Cafe is a great place to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.
Both traditional Italian fare like spaghetti, handmade meatballs, and tortellini chianti, and more contemporary food like salmon balsamic, zesty cioppino, and renowned gluten-free and vegetarian “zoodles” are served at Strings Italian Café, Merced.
The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff is always happy to help you choose the perfect meal.
They hope you will stop by, sit down, and take advantage of everything they offer, whether you have been a devoted patron from the start or are searching for a restaurant to name your favorite.
They are open from 11 am – 9 pm on Sunday to Friday and from 11 am – 8 pm on Saturday.
Address: 731 E Yosemite Ave, Merced, CA 95340, United States. Phone +1 209-383-9777
Map of the Best Restaurants in Merced, CA
To get around during your trip to Merced, here is a map of the best restaurants in Merced with markers of the top places to eat in Merced, CA.
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Plan a Visit to Merced
California’s Central Valley is home to this lovely and historic city. The city is home to many fascinating sites, such as the campus of UC Merced, the Merced River, and the Merced County Fairgrounds.
In addition to its various activities and attractions, there are several excellent Merced restaurants. Your trip to Merced will certainly be one to remember.