Sounds like a local fav for the older set out here in Stockton. It's in a somewhat nicer/more upscale shopping complex. They've been around for over 30 years so that's a statement on its own. Place is big (lots of seating), bright with natural light. Service casual with a nice wine/cocktail menu, cloth napkins and bread service. The early evening visit I went was super quiet and it seemed like the servers knew all the regulars in there. I like that vibe. Glass of Pinot Gris ($10/4.5*) Anytime I travel around and dine I try find if a local wine is available. I saw they had this unique white wine from a Lodi winery so I immediately went with that. Cool, crisp, slight stone fruit aroma with a minerally finish. Love those traits in a white wine with seafood. Cajun Shrimp ($20/3.5*) Upon arrival for the price I initially thought it was an iffy portion for the price. 6 smallish shrimps (1 n a half bites per shrimp). Very simply prepared, grilled lightly with just a smidge of cajun seasoning then served with 2 sauces (a cocktail and tartar). But as I ate these, I did start to like them more and more. The seasoning was not bold but did work well with the grill flavor. And a dab of creamy tartar sauce complimented the spiced-grill flavor nicely, and it paired super nice with the pinot gris. These ended up being better than I had initially perceived. Clam Chowder (4.5*) I chose a cup of chowder as it comes with an entree. A salad can also be had if you wanted. But I found their chowder to be quite ideal. Perfect creamy texture without being too thick and stodgy, and great presence of potatoes and tender clams. The flavor could be more briny/clam-y but that's just my preference. Great with a dab of Tabasco and a dip from their hearty table bread. Snapper Filet ($24/4*) Thin filet seasoned very mildly if any at all. Chose for it to be grilled versus fried or sauted. But you have choices here which I applaud. But it was so mild that I took a half pat of butter and melted it on top of the filet, sprinkled with salt and a squeeze of lemon. Totally amped up the dish. Next time I think I'll try a more involved dish like a seafood pasta. Served with nicely steamed veggies and red potatoes which I find comforting with simple seafood. Too full for dessert and their offerings did look promising. I visit my retired aunt and uncle in this town a couple times per year. I think I'm gonna include this place as part of our options for dining outs. See ya again Bud's, well played. read more

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Service: 3.8 = attentive & friendly Food: 2.2 = unseasoned Wife not feeling well, but she still needed to work; so ended up driving her around for work. Lunch time so she chooses Bud's a long standing restaurant located in the Lincoln Center. Walking in and looking around, you get that old school vibe where a more mature crowd would dine for lunch and talk business. We were greeted and sat immediately, followed by waitress coming by to take our drink order. We placed our order: Fish & Chips (no coleslaw) for me and my wife chose the catfish platter. Restaurant provided bread (supposedly sourdough but couldn't tell by smell or taste) and butter prior to our meal. Food arrives and my fish looked (like fish sticks) & smelled like something out of a frozen box, luckily after a bite the fish was fresh but unseasoned. And because it was unseasoned, the only thing I could taste was the lemon I squeezed on top. My fries were salted which helped . My wife had a nice piece of fried catfish that was unseasoned too with steamed veggies and a side of rice that was very dry. Our waitress kept tabs on us during stay which was probably the highlight of our visit. Not sure if this was an off day for their kitchen but when a staple like Fish & Chips at a seafood restaurant is excused poorly IMO then it's time to go back to the drawing board and hold the kitchen to a higher standard. read more

Bud's Seafood Grille - Catfish platter - Seafood Near Me - Stockton, California

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Another great brunch. We meet friends here every two months. I had the shrimp stuffed avocado instead of the brunch. I was very happy I did. Everything was fresh. The avocado was perfectly ripe. The shrimp was plentiful. I will have it again. As always service was good. My only comment is that the seat on the booth we had was super uncomfortable. It was like sleeping on a mattress someone else had made a crater in. See you in two months! read more

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Friends and I went to Bud's for Restaurant Week. The food was really good. I had the shrimp and steak medallions with the house salad. It came with a side of veggies and red potatoes or rice. Forgot to take a picture of my dinner plate! The restaurant wasn't super busy when we arrived around 4pm, but was full by the time we left. There's a bar inside and happy hour on weekdays, bar area only. Service was a bit slow, but I'm not sure if that's because our waitress was trying to give us space or not rush us (lol). Bud's always has yummy specials and the foods never let me down. There tends to be an older crowd at the restaurant depending on the day/time. read more

Bud's Seafood Grille - Dinner salad - Seafood Near Me - Stockton, California

Wife and kids took me for brunch on Father's Day service was great food was awesome off brunch menu,ambiance was nice and clean restaurant...service was fast waiter was awesome definitely would go back for lunch and dinner menu read more

Amazing service, quiet seating in the outside covered area which was very comfortable temperature wise. Our server was spot on. We have been here several times before however I was worried that it being Easter we would have to wait. Nope! No wait at all. The inside of the restaurant was bustling and very noisy so we picked outside. We ordered off their brunch menu and it was delicious. See pics. I almost ate my shrimp cocktail before a picture but hey I was hungry! We ordered a sourdough French toast and egg Benedict. Clean plates.!! read more

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They are very racist went to pick up DoorDash. They wouldn't help us. Even after trying to get their attention. Waste of time tbh

As Usual for many years going here it was amazing today! Best food, drink and service! The menu is the best as well! Highly recommend for fresh seafood. ********** read more

Very pricey but generally good food and excellent service. I had the beef medallions which unfortunately were ruined by a sweet marinade. Couldn't even taste the beef. When I order beef, I want to taste beef. My wife had the seafood pasta combination and said it was very good. Our two guests thought their meals were good too. Unfortunately to us, just not worth the price. read more

Everything was spot on! We just had a Girls lunch at Bud's and the atmosphere, service and food was great! After we were seated (6 of us), the fresh bread came out. Our server was very friendly and attended to our drinks. She also recited the specials and wine special too. Very attentive waitress (sorry I didn't get her name, tall blonde who makes you feel like VIP, but she's been working at Bud's for quite awhile and she really makes customers feel valued and welcomed), the place was getting pretty busy on a Wednesday early-afternoon. I ordered the Bud's salad, while the other Ladies ordered the shrimp salad, crab Louie and filet of sole. Bud's beef by itself is so tender, marinated perfectly and cooked medium on top a bed of dark leafy salad with avocado, tomatoes, baby corn, red onions and blue cheese on the side. Excellent!!!! Everybody's food looked amazing and they all loved their food as well. I usually order salmon or the combo seafood dish, but this time I wanted to try the Bud's salad (I have had the Bud's beef before and knew it was addicting good). Bud's Seafood Grille is a gem of restaurant in Stockton. Clam chowder is to die for too, but everything is deliciously good! If you have never eaten here, you must try it, you will not be disappointed! Sorry for not posting a picture, I ate it up before thinking about taking a picture. read more

OMG this place used to really good. It went downhill so bad. Went there for lunch with my family that came down from the Bay Area order fish and chips and it looked like something that came out of the freezer in a box. Little kid, fish, and chips will not be returning here the second time I tried it in both times it was terrible read more

Bud's in Stockton has become a family go to. Their food is always good and the service is always excellent. We went for Father's Day most recently. I ordered the shrimp and crab omelette and the blackberry cobbler. Both were really good. I will say, I saw the French toast at a table nearby and I'll definitely be getting that next time if I had one thing I would change, it would be to serve the brussel sprouts all day. I love the brussel sprouts there but we generally go for brunch. Otherwise it's always a pleasure. read more

Bud's Seafood Grille - L - Seafood Near Me - Stockton, California

My mom and sis had told me how much they liked eating here. I myself had not been before so I was looking forward to dining here. I came w/my mom and my husband for dinner. Our server was Mersedes and unfortunately the service was not good. She was unfriendly and unwelcoming. Her attitude was like she didn't wanna be there, and it showed. She asked if we were ready to order. We said no. The menu felt quite extensive and so I asked her what she recommended. Then, she mentioned what the special was. Usually that's mentioned at the start, and I feel if I hadn't asked for recommendations, she would not have said anything. When I asked her what sides came with the special, she was quite annoyed in her response as If I was supposed to already know the answer, and she started walking away from us!! My husband and I both got the halibut special. She didn't check on us to see that we needed water re-fills, didn't ask my mom if she wanted another glass of wine, didn't offer us dessert, and just brought us the check. lol. My mom said the service has always been great when she's come to have lunch, so she was quite shocked at how awful the service was. Now the food: -clam chowder soup: too thick for my liking. no oyster crackers were provided. but soup was okay. -Oysters, VERY small and a bit pricey. 6 for $24. - Halibut special: the fish was unseasoned, bland, and lacked flavor. My husband didn't agree w/me and said it was good. Our palates are different. lol. so it's subjective. The rice and veggies were standard. -Blackberry mojito: portion was good but a bit too sweet. Perhaps they could invest in getting longer straws for this tall cup, or changing to a shorter cup. As I got to the end, the straw was a bit too short so I couldn't finish what was at the bottom w/o bringing the cup up to my face. -dessert: can't say b/c we weren't asked if we wanted dessert!!!! She just brought us the check and walked off. Throughout dinner, my mom and I noticed another server who looked like she was enjoying her job. Her tables were near us and she frequented them. She looked cheerful, she was smiley, and just overall what you would want in a server. As we were leaving, my mom and I approached her and told her she was doing a wonderful job. She told us her name and said we should ask for her next time. We left and ended up going somewhere else for dessert. Since my mom and sis enjoy it and their past experiences have been good, I think I will return for lunch and see if that's better. read more

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Their seafood is the BEST anywhere. We'll be going there again when we're back in Stockton.

I have always Loved Buds for dinner and take out, but last night at 4:15 my husband and I went. the waitress was lovely as always, but the fish and chips we always loved were horrible, over cooked and greasy. and the price was $30.00 a plate unbelievable for such a crappy fish and chip meal. I now am questioning if I ever want to go back. sorry but for thirty dollars we expected much better read more

Must try! We had a clam chowder bread bowl amazing, had the salad with medallions delicious. Lemon drops were the best I've ever had.

Amazing!! Dinner was great and the service was even better. I had the fish with veggies and potatoes. The fresh bread was perfect in addition to my amazing lemon drop. Can't wait to come back read more

Bud's Seafood Grille - Seafood Near Me - Stockton, California

It's been almost thirteen years to the day since my last visit to Bud's Seafood Grille, and I'm happy to say that it was a much better experience this time. I was in a group of five, and we all ended up ordering the same thing but with different sides. The service was efficient, attentive and prompt without being overbearing or intrusive. The food was much better than the last visit, so maybe back in 2012 they were having a bad day in the kitchen: it happens. The price point is more than fair, too. I don't think I'll wait another thirteen years before my next meal at Bud's. One more thing: it's so nice that the butter packets are served at room temperature rather than fresh from the fridge or even worse, on ice. Hard butter would have been a bitch to spread on their wonderfully soft bread. read more

I had the buds beef and prawns and my girlfriend had the Panko crusted halibut. Both were absolutely delicious. The berry cobbler shared for dessert with ice cream and whip whipped cream was to die for. The service is always excellent and the ambience is perfect. Wonderful place to eat! read more

Delicious food, Good portion Excellent service First time here and I'm coming back read more

We went there tonight for a special occasion, our anniversary. We've eaten at Bud's in the past and were always satisfied. I am not sure if the stars weren't lined up or what but this time it was clearly underwhelming. First, the waitress (I believe Jamie) was in a real hurry, Without anything close to a warm greeting she seemed to be set on getting us in and out. She didn't say the specials but we had read them on the board at the entrance so my wife knew she wanted the panko crusted halibut. However, I was not completely ready but she asked if we were ready like I needed to speed up my decision. We then agreed we were ready and I ordered grilled Mahi Mahi. The waitress asked if I wanted red potatoes, rice or french fries however, I didn't catch that she said red potatoes at first (she was really talking fast, again seeming to be in a big hurry. So I asked to clarify "did you say baked potato?" and she was obviously annoyed that I asked and she bluntly replied that she said "red potatoes" This was clearly a misunderstanding on my part but there wasn't a reason to be rude. When the order came my wife's halibut was good and she liked that it was a big portion so she could take some home for later. My Mahi Mahi was very thin (which is not a problem) however, it had been left way too long on the grill and was overcooked. I picked at it for a while and ate the veggies while I waited for her to come by. And I waited. I was done with the veggies when she breezed by and made eye contact with my wife and asked in passing "all is good here?" then she was gone. I decided to cut my losses and get a box to go. We paid cash so to not have to wait for a long time to have her return again. Very disappointing, especially since it was a very special occasion. This was a big letdown from our previous experiences where we had more experienced, more attentive wait staff who seemed to like their job and appreciate their clients. Next time, if there is a next time I will ask to be seated in a section with an experienced and friendly waitress. See photo of my Mahi Mahi below read more

Bud's Seafood Grille - Grilled way to dry - Seafood Near Me - Stockton, California

Calamari was sooooo good! 10/10 They also give complimentary bread which I love the butter is amazinggg Marg was good also but strong af lol read more

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Came here for lunch w/ my family. It was the first day of lent so my parents wanted to go for some seafood. Located in Lincoln Center, nice restaurant with bar seating as well. Our waitress was very nice and attentive. My mom and I ordered the seafood alfredo, we love Alfredo pasta and it didn't disappoint. My dad had the red snapper filet and he seemed to enjoy it as well. We enjoyed our lunch, would return again. read more

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Two female servers ignored my boyfriend as he tried to make a to go order, once acknowledged he was told to wait which he did and then after 20 minutes said again they weren't capable to fulfill his ceaser salad order....... read more

Excellent food and choices. Friendly, timely service. The food was delicious and plentiful.

This is a solid 2 1/2 stars but I can't make half star on Yelp. The Ambiance is really nice especially in the outdoor area. We sat inside in front of s huge picture window. Fresh flowers on the table with cloth tablecloths and napkins. 4 stars Parking was ample so 5 stars Service was spotty so 2 1/2 stars. Asked for water with lemon to drink. Waitress came out with our drinks and sat them down to answer phone and take s phone order. Forgot our drinks then went back in kitchen. When she came back out I gave her a look and she went and got our drinks. We had already eaten all of the bread on the table by this time and we were very thirsty. The bread was 5 stars but I asked where the sourdough bread was from and the waitress said Genova do I will just continue to go there to get sourdough bread as I live Genova's anyways! I got the calamari steak with Parmesan... 2 and a half stars. Calamari was tough and chewy which lets me know it's over cooked. Also calamari steak was very thin. The veggies and potatoes were delicious so it gets a overall score of 2 1/2 Fish and chips for him... should say fish sticks. Super small pieces of fish with lots of batter. Very disappointing portions of fish. 2 stars. Coleslaw was good but far from great. 2.5 stars. French fries were excellent 4.5 stars. So sad this place was a disappointment as the Ambiance was really good. Check out my photos read more

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Came in for the first time the other day to pick up some lunch after doing yard work in our backyard all morning. My family and I built up an appetite and Bud's has some fire rib eye sandwiches so that's what we agree'd upon. Nothing special, just your average steak, bread, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles. The staff is welcoming when you walk in, they have a seating area. The restaurant itself is pretty big, plenty of parking space, in the same lot as Podesto's. Not really sure of what else they offer to be honest. In all the times we've ordered from here we only have gotten the rib eye sandwiches. Look forward to trying something new next time we order from here. read more

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At end of meal because we complained waitress Alissa said we are banned my husband asked for another mimosa she said 2 limit with brunch and walked away we weren't asking for anything free she could have just got it and we would have paid buds use to give you bread she said not until you order we were shocked after 20 yrs of coming dining room was empty she accosted me pointing in my face and wanting my name so she could ban us also tip wasn't an issue we gave it to bus boy so we can't go to buds ever again after this traumatic experience it doesn't matter also 3 slice bread limit for person ordering lunch we spent over $70 money not an issue she said owner would not see receipt because where we had left comments because all decisions were up to her she ruined our anniversary and birthday lunch which can never be experienced again read more

A dinner with old friends. Lots of chatter. The waitress was very patient. Part of our group had dined here before and ordered appetizers, good. I had a cesear salad with shrimp, very nice. Nice spot. read more

This place was great! We ordered calamari, buds beef, and fish & chips. The food were all fresh and beef was so tender. Great service overall read more

Bud's Seafood Grille - Fish and Chips - Seafood Near Me - Stockton, California

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Bud's Seafood Grill is the only place in town where I can get a Crab Sandwich. It is amazing and their fries are the best!!! Friendly staff and nice ambiance. Love this place! read more

Amongst the appetizers I saw an item labeled "mushroom bread bowl" with no other description so out of curiosity I ordered it with low expectations. However I was pleasantly surprised on how delicious and filling this item was! The mushrooms had a lovely snappy texture with no strong or fishy tastes and the gravy it was surged in was a well seasoned brown mushroom gravy that was exploding with flavor. Paired with the tangy sourdough bread it was perfect if you're looking for a small satisfying bite. Id recommend trying it to anyone! read more

Bud's Seafood Grille - Mushroom bowl - Seafood Near Me - Stockton, California

This was our 2nd visit, but we probably won't be returning. We still can't figure out how or why this restaurant is always busy with customers. The only good entree was the Short Ribs which they only serve on Sundays. We were hugely disappointed to find that this delicious and tender item is only served 1 day out of 7 and this was the only reason we decided to come back. Bummer! :0( The Fish and Chips was a nice portion but the fish wasn't tasty. The thick cut fries were tasty and crispy on the edges when hot. This was the best part of this order. The mushroom ravioli was disappointing and tasteless. It came with a gravy like sauce. I thought it was going to be a white cream sauce. We sat outside in the front patio area, but not sure why they didn't turn on the misters despite it being much hotter than the last time we dined here. Even after asking for them to turn on the misters, they either forgot or didn't want to. read more

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It was Easter Sunday, and I was sitting at the bar when the bartender asked if I would like a drink and if I was having lunch. I ordered a beer, and she gave me a menu. However, when I was ready to order lunch, the bartender informed me that the kitchen was closed until 3 PM. I wondered why she hadn't told me that the kitchen was closed when I first sat down at the bar. I know why? Because she was gossiping with the other waitress instead of working. This happens when management y owners are not present at the business. I gave a ZERO dollars and she can shoved the beer too. Bad services all around. read more

#1 - The Restaurant Is A Winner #2 - The Food Is Always Good #3 - The Help Always Nice And Very Attentive To The Customers Needs read more

Buds is our go to restaurant! The food is always good; we've never had a bad meal. Our favorites are: buds beef, crab cakes, chicken marsala, New England clam chowder, just to name a few. The staff are always nice and friendly; our favorite is Hector ;). The restaurant is clean and tidy. read more

Great food superior service! Great location! No complaints. Crab salad was great and the bread is to die for.

This was my first time here. I went with the buds medallions beef salad. This was really good. I paired it with a Cabernet. This is definitely a popular restaurant with the locals. A lot of people in there knew each other, which is always good for a local restaurant. I would like to get back and try the mahi-mahi next time read more

Bud's Seafood Grille - Inside - Seafood Near Me - Stockton, California

Great food!!! A bit pricey. Love to sit outside. Friendly staff especially love Pat. Bud and wife are super nice as well. I love the fried asparagus, grilled chicken, potatoes and that darn bread. Great bloody Mary's too!! read more

Food is really good here. The atmosphere is great too. It's a little more than I want to spend on a regular day. It's a great place to go for special occasions. read more