Had a lovely lunch last Saturday at Rainbird. It was our first time there and we will definitely go back. The servers and hostess were very friendly. The menu was well-balanced with a variety of proteins and choices. Even the kids menu was reasonably priced for a more upscale restaurant. Everything we tried was delicious. My husband and mom both had the salmon and it was fantastic. I had the BLTA and I was very impressed. First- their sourdough was amazing and then with that thick-cut bacon, it was bomb! I also had their tomato bisque and it was one of the best I've ever had. Overall, very very happy with our meal. read more

An outstanding gourmet restaurant nearby. Starting with a diverse menu for anyone. Each selection, however, shows the chef's touch to ensure it is unique memorable. Add to that professional and attentive service and you will leave thinking about what you will have for your next visit. read more

Really quite excellent. I had the Eggs Hollandaise , with sweet potatoes and greens. I loved the flavor, the eggs were very light and fluffy. The sugars was delicious. It's conveniently located next to the El Capitan Hotel. read more

My wife and I enjoy dining weekly at Rainbird. We find the food atmosphere enjoyable. It is, however, the outstanding service that makes our meal six an excellent experience that has us returning on a regular basis. We always request Koa as our server. Respectful, attentive and professional, Koa never fails to provide us with a great dining experience. Thank You! read more

Let's be perfectly honest. Merced has become a complete dumpster fire. The downtown is fill of drug addicts, homes a burglarized in broad daylight and downtown buildings are literally collapsing. What a surprise to find this jewel in the rubble that is now downtown Merced! The staff are so professional! Breakfast was off the charts! Everything was clean! The seating was comfortable and the milieu was refreshing and elegant. And unexpectedly the pricing was descent! I highly recommend Rainbird! read more

Kao- gentleman server provided great service!!!He had a bright friendly smile and attitude and went next-door to get more beer to ensure we had an amazing brunch and time! . We will return to to this restaurant because of Kao and their egg scramble options! read more

Rainbird - New American Near Me - Merced, California

Was excited and wanted to love this place but it was so inconsistent. Beautiful contemporary ambience but flies buzzing around our table. Drink menu featured a "blueberry sour" but the cocktail had no egg white foam which is integral to any sour. Tiger prawn appetizer was served whole with shells and heads on (nobody wants to de shell shrimp at a nice restaurant; also they were slightly overcooked. After we were done with appetizers the staff seemed to be mostly out of sight; nobody was watching to clear plates or refill waters. We eventually had to move our dirty dishes to a nearby empty table. The addition bread we ordered took a long time to come out. The entrees while very tasty, came out in stages so only a couple people would have their food and the rest of us would be waiting. Once all 7 in our party had an entree, my husband and I still had to wait on our scallops as only our split risotto had arrived and the server said they were still working on it. No salt on the table which I know is customary for fine dining establishments but when salt was requested we got a shaker but no salt would come out as the hole seemed too small for the granulas to come out. We requested another salt shaker but it took so long we ended up having to open the bottom of the shaker we had and poured the salt onto a plate so we could pinch and sprinkle salt. We were there for my husband's 45th birthday and I had included that in the reservation but none of the staff were aware. I had to mention it to our server. On top of the lackluster service we of course had a 22% large party gratuity added automatically which was not deserved based on the service. Would I go back, probably but I would go back just as a party of 2 with the mindset that it's just a very nice looking Olive Garden or Applebees. Don't expect fine dining service or attention to detail, appreciate the dishes that are tasty and understand that some will be a miss. I think this place would do much better if staff was better trained and there was some oversight by owners or management to ensure service standards. read more

A couple of friends and I took a drive to Merced just to try this restaurant. We were greeted by a friendly young server. He looked like Richard Ramirez but very friendly. He was knowledgeable and very attentive to our table. I really appreciate how kind he was. We went for brunch service. You get to pick 3 items off the menu. I started off with the yogurt. It had granola and a little fruit. It was good but even better when my friend gave me some of her berries. Next I chose a potato dish with eggs. The sauce on top of the potatoes was so yummy. My dessert was the stoop waffles. They were smaller in person than what the pic looked like online. Still good though but I wish it was bigger. I ordered a side of their bacon too. It was good but to fatty for me. My friends and I usually try everything so we can all sample each others dishes. My friend had beignets for his dessert. I'd have to say they were the star of the show. They were warm and soft and had delicious sauce on the side. They actually didn't need the sauce because they were so good. My whole experience here was awesome. I loved the whole course idea and the drinks were pretty and delicious too. Also side note it's inside the el captain hotel. The hotel is beautifully decorated. My friends and I went through the lobby and took lots of pics here. They also have a coffee shop on the other side of the restaurant. They told us if we wanted flavored coffees we were more than welcomed to order and bring it back to our tables. They do serve regular black coffee though. This restaurant is kind of pricy but definitely a must at least once for the experience or a special occasion. read more

Rainbird - New American Near Me - Merced, California

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Ordered a simple Beet root and chervil salad, received a spinach, strawberry and goat cheese salad. not at all what I ordered. Waitress was apologetic, but I left, nevertheless, a complete screw up. read more

Well to start, the restaurant is beautiful, sophisticated and nice mood lighting. You can definitely tell a lot of planning went into this spot. Service was excellent and like nothing you will find in Merced. Drinks, also excellent and well crafted. These are the good points, however I'm still trying to wrap my head around the food. For 85 dollars just felt like it lacked content and didn't have any 'meat on the bones.' and the salt content, as others have mentioned, was outrageous on two of the dishes. The squash blossoms and the halibut. Two dishes had shrimp and crab but trying to find any of these ingredients in the dishes proved challenging. The pumpkin dish was also very mediocre. You're starving from the first two dishes and then you are given a 5 LB butter soaked loaf of bread with some tasty accompaniments but the bread was just way to heavy for me. Then when the main dish halibut came it was super tiny and a salt bomb. I really should have said something at the beginning but I just kept eating it because I was starving :] I mentioned something at the end... if anyone else had complained about the salt but didn't receive a response. Not sure if I will return. I expected more substance and dishes that had a bit more wow but for me it felt a bit flat, especially at $160 a person. But give it a try and let me know what your thoughts are. read more

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Went to Rainbird today for the 3rd time ever and it was by far the best experience yet. The previous menu was frankly trying a bit too hard to be some Michelin-rated place, but was never quite able to pull it off. The current menu is a balance of comfort food, as well as using fresh and interesting/ innovative ingredients. The service was also excellent. My salmon dish was by far the best I've had in Merced. Highly recommend Rainbird. read more

Rainbird - Salmon with pesto orzo - New American Near Me - Merced, California

Well I wanted to come here for my first time but unfortunately unseen circumstances didn't allow. I had to buy a couple of tires around the corner at Hansen tires and the Rainbird was open for breakfast so I stopped by. Prices are pretty reasonable and the atmosphere and ambiance is relaxing and peaceful. Although the service was a little slow my eggs Benedict tasted great. Unfortunately I'm going to have to dock a star because while I was eating a solicitor came and asked me to help the cause. The person was polite and respectful but I really don't care to be bothered while I'm at a restaurant or a similar business. Out on the street is one thing have breakfast is another. All in all it was a good experience and I will be back but next time with the wife! Henehehe read more

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We keep thinking of our Rainbird dining experience ! I had the mushroom Risotto ! It melted in my mouth. We shared the beet salad, perfection! The restaurant was nestled inside the El Capitan Hotel in Merced, California and they complimented each other. Lorenzo was our server and he was fun and very informative. We want to come back!!!! read more

Visited after they reopened since their revamp. I loved the wide selection of food options without breaking the bank. Love the decor inside and such a relaxed atmosphere. Drinks are good. Fast and friendly service. read more

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Amazing experience! Kao was so friendly, attentive and so helpful! He recommended delicious drinks and food. Can't wait to come back. read more

Rainbird - New American Near Me - Merced, California

This place was very cute and clean and sleek! Modern feel. I had breakfast here after a work appointment. I had the ricotta pancakes, grapefruit juice and a side of bacon and it was all very tasty! Presentation was perfect too! I want to come back for lunch and/or dinner! read more

Rainbird - New American Near Me - Merced, California

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The service and food here are top rate! Some people complain that it is a bit expensive, and while I agree somewhat, for special occasions it is okay. Our waiter was great with his suggestions and service. read more

Updated Review: Omg. Sooo disappointing. Rainbird Restaurant got a new chef, changed their concept, and it's definitely a downgrade. They switched from a pre fixe menu to a la carte. I absolutely love the ambience, but the food has gone downhill. If I can compare the food to any restaurant, I will compare it to a diner's restaurant food. I got the ribeye dish. The ribeye came with a side of asparagus and fries. Guys, the fries were so damn flimsy. Like it's been sitting there for hours. For the ribeye, you can taste the residue grease and oil from cooking on a griddle/grill all day and not cleaning it. There was nothing special about it. My husband got the sea bass. The sauce was overpowering (kind of tasted like Prego Sauce) the fish, and the olives were a bit overkill. I also had the Tuna Crudo; which, to me, was bland, and one note. The highlight of our meal was the dessert and cocktails. Those are absolutely delish! 2/5 for me. I'm going to return for their breakfast menu, but not getting my hopes up. I'm a bit sad to lose such a gem. Best of luck to the restaurant. read more

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Food and service were both great. We had the avocado toast and the french toast, and both were delicious & had generous portion sizes. Kao was our server and he gave us above and beyond service. Would definitely dine here again. read more

Good food, service , ambiance and price!!!! Highly recommended! Will recommend to clise friends and family specially if out of state comes and visit! read more

Kao was a polished and friendly waiter who went out of his way to offer top notch service. I had the scramble with chèvre and my husband had the ricotta pancakes, eggs and sausage. Everything was delicious and well presented. The ambience was elegant and clean. Highly recommend. read more

Amazing food, service & ambiance! We love Rainbird and we will always return! Staff are great. read more

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Came here for a birthday dinner. Our food and service was beautiful! We enjoyed the experience. The prices are a little high and the main course serving size is a little small for us to be going on a regular basis. Definitely a place to enjoy for special occasions and having the wine pairing with the courses! read more

Rainbird - New American Near Me - Merced, California

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I very disappointed in The Rainbird Restaurant!! Not worth all the hype I've heard! I came to Merced to take my brother to Christmas Dinner! All three of us were not pleased! Baked turkey breast (really?) was dry! NO cranberry!!! Spiral ham overdone! NO mashed potatoes, NO dinner rolls! $8 for 2 slices of toast (after we asked for rolls). So grateful for Christmas with my brother!! That's what matters most! Service great! read more

The food is as beautiful as it is delicious. Everything about this place is insta worthy: the aesthetic, vibe, presentation and taste. Absolutely YUM. My husband's Spanish omelette was so good and my ricotta pancakes are a must-try. Our server, Kao, took excellent care of us and gave great recommendations. This place was a perfect start to the day and shouldn't be missed when in Merced. read more

The food is very tasty, love the ambiance with the decor & music in the background. And lastly the service is top notch, Kao our server was very attentive, friendly and went out of his way to ensure that we got what we wanted as I was a lil picky and he accommodated. Thank you Koa for making my morning, your smile was very inviting and we appreciate you. read more

I had eggs and sausage, which was very good. Also included toasted sourdough (yummy). My cousin had the Eggs Benedict , which she deemed delicious. Service was also on point by our server, Rodney. We arrived shortly before breakfast was over (like 5 minutes to spare), and we were accommodated with no problem. Ambiance was very quiet while we were there. Lunch crowd was beginning to trickle in. I do recommend this restaurant! read more

We came for our Wedding Anniversary Dinner. We been here before but they have reputation for small portions and possibly not worth the price. We had pleasant experiences in the past for Brunch so we decided to check out the dinner any way. We also heard they changed a few things on the menu so that intrigued us. We were welcomed by the host. No reservation made prior but we mentioned we chose Rainbird Restaurant as our anniversary choice and we were sat right away. We ordered: - Burrata Cheese appetizer - Tuna Crudo - Butternut squash soup - 4 pieces of sourdough bread - Mushroom risotto - Crispy Duck confit - Glass of Pino Grigio and a glass of Pino Noir Pros: - Sourdough bread was phenomenal and accompanied Burrata cheese appetizer well. Worth the price. - Mushroom risotto had robust flavor and hearty portion. - Wine went well with food. - Service was efficient and people were welcoming. - Atmosphere was fun and chairs were comfortable. Design of the dining area had living room type feel. Cons: - Small bowl of butternut squash soup was $11. It was tasty but not worth the price. - Duck was okay. Portion felt small. Accompanying quinoa didn't mesh and it was too sweet with sweet greens that was also on the plate. - 6 pieces of tuna for $18 - Wine glasses were $15 and $16 each. No options to buy bottles. We honestly felt that we were hoping to get an exceptional experience for our special dinner even as a walk-in. We even mentioned the special day for us. Even though they greeted us, it felt like it was just a regular Wednesday midweek meal. It was okay. Most high-end restaurants will acknowledge this type of occasion with a complimentary dessert or drink to help celebrate the dinner, but they didn't. I understand it isn't standard but you would think, places like this would. It is definitely one of the more expensive restaurants to choose from here in Merced. Overall experience: solid dinner, good service, nice dining set up. Would come back. read more

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Rainbird has an inviting ambiance with their modern vintage + chic vibe. My husband and I enjoyed brunch here on a Sunday and right off the bat we were impressed by their top notch staff- shout out to Rachel and Lorenzo for showing us great hospitality. We had the brunch tasting menu that included some gems. Grits was savory, pancake fluffy (pro tip: add on fruits as a side to enjoy with the tasty syrup), eggs benedict had buttery toasted English muffin, pomme rosti with steak nicely seasoned, and we ended with stroop waffle and wild berry beignet. My most favorite was their nicely curated cocktails- I had the Mariposa that balanced beauty and a strength of gin and St. Germain. Nice check in from Hakan, part of management team to ensure our dining experience remained as promised. Thanks for a great time, we are very excited to try out the dinner menu next! read more

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Leticia was very friendly and provided great customer service in the courtyard. Weather was perfect for an evening dinner. read more

Rainbird - Braised short rib and roasted veggies were delicious and well prepared. - New American Near Me - Merced, California

Our experience at Rainbird was such a treat. First of all, it has been a minute since we have visited downtown Merced and the improvements are impressive. We pulled up for valet parking which was so nice. We stopped by the bar for a drink and looked around the lobby of the hotel. Not a fault of Rainbird, but the hotel desk attendants could have been more welcoming. The restaurant, though. One of the most beautiful restaurants in the Central Valley. Such thoughtful textures...linen, wood, sea grass, leather. The lighting was perfect. All the touches that make you feel so good when you walk in. The only thing that could be improved upon was there was a significant change in temperature from the hotel to the restaurant. We were a little chilly when we first sat down, and going to the restroom and back to the restaurant, the temperature drop was noticeable. We sat at the Chef's table made from a local carpenter. It felt so good to be at the back of the restaurant next to the bar. The servers were so conscientious about their voices. It was so refreshing to be in a serene space where they took such care for every detail. Even the noise. Our group ordered cocktails and asked for the wine pairing. The smoked acorn old fashion smelled like camp heaven. The amuse bouche was lovely and for starters we ordered one of everything around the table so we could try it all. Our favorite was the amber jack - hamachi with avocado and citrus. The flavors were perfection. The cauliflower custard and risotto were also standouts as our second course. As everyone has said, the bread course is delicious! Our favorite entrees were the lamb and cod, and our favorite dessert was the black walnut cake. What a gift to have this restaurant in our area! So many compliments to the chef, the servers, and the owners for creating such a remarkable dining experience. We can't wait to go back! read more

Rainbird - New American Near Me - Merced, California

Some girlfriends and I came here for brunch and we were definitely not disappointed! We enjoyed our 3-course meal (I got the pancakes, eggs Benedict, and malted beignets - all so delicious) as well as many of the cocktails. I am currently pregnant so it was refreshing to see that they had options to get a "zero proof" cocktail so I could join in on the fun! We had one little mishap but our server was so attentive and kind, and even the manager came out to speak with us and was so accommodating. They genuinely care about their customers and took care of us! We will definitely be back in the future! read more

Rainbird - Malted beignets - New American Near Me - Merced, California

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my wife and I had simple grilled cheese and tomatoes bisque. the food was excellent. The server, Kao was outstanding and very professional. the restaurant decoration and seating arrangement ate tastefully done. the previous night, we had salads and they were delicious. read more

Savannah made our visit amazing! Even the chef came out to consult with me because I have some food sensitivities, and everything was fantastic! It is a charming, beautiful place to eat. You must go try it! I had the fillet, and my husband had the risotto, both were off the charts wonderful. read more

Ever since I caught wind of a fine dining restaurant set to open in Merced I knew I had to reserve a spot. I'm pleased to say it did not disappoint! The customer service, food, and overall dining experience was very nice. Rain Bird is definitely setting the bar for fine dining in the Central Valley, and it's worth checking out! Food: White Onion Macaroon + Potato Tart - though tiny, the Macaroon was flavorful and the chicken skin was amazing. The Potato Tart complimented the macaroon well. Buttery and creamy! Smoked Cauliflower Custard - lightly sweet, but flavorful. The truffle gelee and egg were very nice. Bread - the best! Toasted just right served with butter, honeycomb and another spread (I didn't catch the name) but all three equally amazing. They even offer the bread for purchase! Ribeye - Perfectly cooked, the beeswax and black salt crust really helped with the flavor! I just wished there was more! Dessert: Black Walnut Cake - cake was moist and delicious, walnut mousse was sweet and paired well with the cake. The gelato was Smokey and earthy, and the toasted meringue on the sides gave it a campfire feel. Drinks: Fire Fall - I chose the speciality drink of the night 'Fire Fall' along with a few of my friends and we all loved it! I honestly feel it should be added to the drink menu. Overall Rainbird was a great experience and I can't wait to go back again! read more

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Service: 5 Stars from the beginning Favs: Acorn - table side old fashion where they come with a smoked glass & pour table side. Bread - Honey/butter was great Appetizer - Abalone & Smoked Custard was our fav dishes Entre - Rainbird was much better than the ribeye in our opinion. Dessert - weakest part of our dinner, hence the 4 stars Cocktails: Our favorites - #1 drinking bird, #2 Spring Time (if you like fruit tart sourness), $3 dorthy in daytime (if you like the fruity tart from the ginger/lime) #4 elderberry read more

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Breakfast sandwich. Potato's were under done but other than that very yummy for this GF girl. Good service nice atmosphere in downtown Merced at el captain hotel Native son restaurant is good to. Not so much Mainzer. But two out of three ain't bad. Try it. read more

Rainbird - Breakfast Sandwich - New American Near Me - Merced, California

Emily and dayan have been helping me out for the past couple of visits here. ​I will be coming back for their amazing service

This was such a treat. We honestly didn't expect much because we were just looking for a quick bite to eat after our stay at the El Capitan Hotel. But boy did they prove us wrong. My party got BLTAs. Every item on the sandwich was perfectly seasoned and didn't need to add any condiments. So satisfied with the size, taste and price point. Wish that it wasn't so far away cause if it weren't for the distance I'd be a regular trying all the different dishes. read more

Service was SUPERB!!! Dishes were tasty but there's room for improvement. Overall, the textures were spot on but many things were over salted. Less is more sometimes. Cocktails are a must, very well mixed. Glad Merced is getting good dining options. This restaurant is a 3.5 for me but willing to give it a 4 for Merced. The price point is very reasonable at $85 per person. I would definitely return. The bread and starters were amazing. I tried everything on the menu. They need to finish with more memorable desserts. My go to items that I would recommend choosing if I only had to choose one item from each option would be the custard, halibut or ribeye, and chocolate thing (but I wasn't impressed with either dessert). You'll get the sourdough and both amuse bouche starters standard with the tasting menu. Give yourself time to enjoy the experience... about a 2 hour dining window from start to finish. read more

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