We had a great experience at The Mining Company in San Marcos! The ambiance was perfect, the food was amazing, and the cheeseburger was one of the best I've had. Everything came out quickly, hot, and exactly as ordered. What really made our visit special was our server, Kala. She greeted us with a big smile, got our drinks right away, took our order, and made sure everything was perfect throughout our meal. Her happy disposition, smiling face, and attention to detail made us feel genuinely welcome. Great food is important, but great service can turn a good meal into a memorable experience--and Kala did exactly that. I definitely recommend The Mining Company. And if you have the opportunity, ask for Kala. She's the best in my book! We'll definitely be back. read more

My family were able to sit down on a Friday night with no wait which was nice. A few TVs around that had the baseball game which was a pleasant surprise. Service was sometimes quick and sometimes slow. Our food came out very quickly, but our sever was very slow with taking the bill. Now for the part people are most interested in, the food. My wife and I split a couple dishes. She ordered the bbq chicken salad which had lots of chicken, but I felt the chicken was a little over cooked. The garlic toast with it was tasty. We also got the prime rib, that was good. The salt and pepper on the outside was seasoned well. We also got the tri tip appetizer which I think was delish. Overall I recommend giving this place a try. read more

See all

I took my dad to The Mining Company yesterday to celebrate Father's Day and overall had a pleasant experience. We went around 2 p.m., so it wasn't very crowded, and we were seated right away. Service was friendly, attentive, and prompt throughout the meal. My dad really enjoyed his meal. He loved the side salad and especially the country fried steak, which he said was the best he'd had in a long time. My mom also thought the baked potato soup was delicious. My mom and I both ordered the roast turkey dinner, and unfortunately it didn't quite hit the mark for either of us. The stuffing had a texture we didn't love, and the turkey and mashed potatoes were a little bland, even with the generous amount of brown gravy. We also would have preferred broccoli over the zucchini that came with the meal. That said, the food wasn't bad, just not our favorite choice from the menu. The restaurant itself is clean, spacious, and has a lot of charming decor that gives it character. Since some of the dishes were such a hit with my parents, I'd definitely come back and try something different next time. read more

See all

I wanted to come here for the fun, Old Western decor. We had the pleasure of having Wyatt as our server. Friendly, attentive service. Rotisserie chicken was delicous with smokey flavor throughout and the chicken was moist. Good service and not too busy if you come early on a Saturday before the lunch rush. The booth settings are great for families or small groups. I appreciate any restaurant which has those activity menus and water cups for kids--thanks! read more

The Mining Company - Salty Donkey (non-alcoholic) - Steakhouses Near Me - San Marcos, California

See all

Tried this place out due to the variety of options on the menu but sadly it was just meh. We ordered the club sandwich and tri tip platter and both were in need of some serious flavor! The turkey was dry, bacon almost burnt, and the grilled bread had a ton of butter. The tri tip wasn't much better - couldn't taste the smokiness nor was it seasoned well. We also got a cup of the chili and this was pretty tasty. Cheri provided great service and gave her honest opinion and recommendations- she was great! Overall, the food was just underwhelming. read more

See all

So funny we went here years ago when they were at restaurant road and we were in town today so I figured I'd use a coupon and get the buy one get one free Burger they had it was by far the absolute worst two burgers we've ever ordered in our life my son got a smashburger that was drier than the Sahara desert and I ordered a barbecue bacon burger that was so well done it was pitiful and I clearly ordered a media hate to bash on people but I'm sorry at the same time you guys are going to charge $22 each for these burgers plus cheese they should be good absolutely horrible absolute gross don't waste your money do not come here it's exactly how I remember it being at their other location which I don't even think it was the same owner but I remember getting a steak there it was a tasteless dry steak that's probably why the restaurant is empty keep your money eat elsewhere .. the funniest part was the owner was there and he clearly took it off the check for her and he didn't even walk over and acknowledge us because he knew deep down that they serve crab food and a lot of people won't say anything they'll just pay the bill and leave but be for one their food is garbage.. heck they call it a mining company restaurant but I'll be honest with you if I was mining all day I would rather starve than eat this crap.. but they will be out of business before you know it I should have known better when you're on clip or you're giving away buy one get one free food you are desperate for business maybe they should try to make good food and they wouldn't have to worry about that read more

Nice local restaurant that serves up meats and burgers. - Burgers are big and are recommended. - Tri-tip salad and sandwich are also recommended. - Potato soup was also good. - Nice to see this place was almost at full capacity on a Saturday night. - Salad bar is nothing to write home about. I'd recommend walking past it first to inspect the options and conditions of the produce. On a Saturday night many items were very low and messy. - Note that many of the menu options on pervious menus are no longer available. You really need to be a meat eater to enjoy this place. read more

See all

We love this place normally food & service wise, but didn't have the best time this time. Nice inside & comfortable. Our 1st time, we sat in the restaurant vs. the bar. The music was so freaking loud and literally 70's screaming acid rock (which I loved as a young guy rocking out to music), you couldn't even hear the person next to you let alone across the table. Not the best choice for a calm dining experience. Asked for it to be turned down. It was, but still too loud so asked again and it was lowered. (When in the bar a few times, the music was way too loud too and we asked them if it could be turned down, which it was. What's up with the overly loud music here? It wasn't like that at their old location.) The service wasn't great. He came back 1x after being served asking if everything was good & it was; but never came back to ask us if we wanted another beer, dessert, boxes. And being that we ordered endless soup & salad, he never came back asking if wanted another soup and we didn't feel like trying to flag down another again. Sat for a long time before being able to nab another server to get boxes. And it wasn't busy inside. There were many servers & few people. Nice cold beers. Mom got their meatloaf meal & really liked it. We got the unlimited soup & salad bar and it's always so good! Fresh & so many choices of food to add to the salad. Best fresh dressings! read more

Absolutely delicious food and delightful atmosphere. Our server was a treasure. I ordered the prime rib medium cooked perfectly!

I was visiting and had never heard of this place so I asked my brother to join me. We had a lovely lunch. Simple but delicious. Just a hamburger and the price was right. French fries were good and I don't normally like them. Found out that my daughters brother used to work here. I will return when I come home to visit this year. The restaurant is clean and welcoming. Looking forward to coming back to try the other dishes. read more

The Mining Company - Steakhouses Near Me - San Marcos, California

Brought our family friend to celebrate her birthday and Ms Karla M. Was very attentive with us and with our friend celebration she understood the assignment right away. Thank you also to the gentleman who helped me Karla bring out dishes and also very pleasant and professional like ms Karla. Thank you to the whole staff for making our dinner tonight extra special. Came here from LA and heading back right after. We recommend coming here even if it's for just a beer, don't get me wrong. Food is amazing! read more

Great locally owned business with a fun atmosphere! However, publically supporting a MAGA backed candidate for San Marcos Mayor closed the door for me and many others. I'd rather not know your political stance as now I cannot unsee it. read more

5 STARS for Jen!!!! I came in on a Monday afternoon and believe it or not... Jen was the only person working in this restaurant besides the cooks. That's right. Jen had to run the bar - the register and take orders AND serve the customers!!! Jen performed everyone's job with confidence and grace. Again... FIVE STARS for Jen! read more

The Mining Company - Gin martini - Steakhouses Near Me - San Marcos, California

Yummy! Best burger in San Marcos! Great service! Great people! Great door! Good variety off door for everyone in your party. read more

The Mining Company - Smash burger - Steakhouses Near Me - San Marcos, California

See all

We use to go to the mining company when it was in Restaurant row. We just rediscovered it today. Nick, the owner, is so nice and makes you feel very welcomed. Our food was fresh, delicious, and delivered in a timely manner. The restaurant itself, is very clean, they play nice music, with comfortable seating.... highly recommend.! read more

Delicious, my favorite was the coconut shrimp and the cheese potato soup was amazing. Omg the dessert Brownie Sundae was soooo big and delicious. Everyone was friendly and nice. Service was fast and of course the food was delicious. I will be coming back for their lunch specials. read more

See all

The Mining Company used to be my family's go to steakhouse in San Marcos. They had great entrees and salad was top rate with steakhouse dressing (thick and flavorful) A few years back they had a fire which closed them down but loyal customers came back day one. Then the Ol'd California Restaurant Row in San Marcos sold to high density housing and Old California Mining Company moved into restaurant space up the road and reopened again. This time the quality did not go with them. The worst salad dressing at any restaurant around. It was runny and without flavor. The meat we have had has been loaded with gristle I loved the place but it isn't around anymore. read more

Went tonight with the family for the first time after searching for a place that still had a salad bar. It appeared clean and it was nice and calm. Service was okay. It did seem a bit like they were still trying to figure that part out. The major part of the review is the food. I ordered the unlimited salad bar and soup, my husband ordered tri tip and chicken and the kids got a burger and salad bar. The salad bar was fine. It was kept up on pretty nicely and had decent options. Nothing special. The potato soup was cold the first time, I ordered another bowl and it was still barely warm. That was pretty disappointing. My kids fries were completely cold. Overall I just don't think I'd go back again for $135. read more

We met my friends here who are visiting from Las Vegas. My friend made a reservation for 4 at 6:30pm yet when we got there we were told it would be a 5-10 min wait despite many open tables. We were heavily encouraged to wait and ultimately to eat in the bar. I found this to be very odd and can't help but wonder if it had more to do with our race (we were the most colorful people in the place) and there were clearly open tables and we had a reservation. The food was just okay. My medium rare ribeye was definitely on the medium well side and it was a pretty thin cut as well. The salad bar was adequate although out of boiled eggs. My bf got the combo with ribs and tri-tip. The tri-tip was decent, the ribs were not great. On a positive note, the drinks were great and our bartender/waitress is the only reason this review isn't a 1 star. Kenna has an amazing attitude and her service is outstanding. She was truly the highlight of our visit. Can't say we'd return because the vibe in the main dining area was not welcoming but I wish nothing but the very best for Kenna! read more

I really hate to write this review because we really wanted to find another go to restaurant in the area. Sad to say this will not be it. This was our first time on Saturday and it was really a bad experience. Our waiter, had zero personality first of all. We went there to have Prime, so my wife and I split a large cut. This had to be the worst prime rib I've ever had. Tough, zero flavor with hard gristle fat. My buddy ordered the baseball Filet which came medium well, so we will probably not be back. Maybe it was an off night but for what we paid, I would rather go to Cheescake Factory where I know my meal will always be good every time. read more

First time to The Mining company! Sebastian made our first visit so incredible! He was very kind to explain the menu, talked about the soup options and even gave us little taster of two soups since I inquired about them. We ended up getting the Prime rib, with side salad, baked potatoes, and a side of onion rings! Boy, everything was yummy! Incredible service, incredible food! We will be back. Thanks again Sebastian for making our 1st visit an unforgettable one with your amazing customer service and joyful spirit! read more

The Mining Company - Yummy Prime rib! Cooked perfectly and the baked potatoes with cheese and bacon and sour cream was to die for! - Steakhouses Near Me - San Marcos, California

See all

The restaurant is decorated in traditional a mining style with many rustic touches. Our server seemed shy. We ordered a Sauvignon Blanc two waters and potato skins. We received our starter and wine in a timely manner. The potato skins were good so we each ordered the Country Fried Steak with garlic mashed potatoes. The garlic mashed potatoes that were heavy on the garlic and the country gravy tasted like it was from a packet. Our server did not refill our water nor did she ask if I wanted another wine. All this for the price of $90 including tip. read more

So happy this place opened back up! I love the Ruben sandwich or the baseball steak. Chili is pretty darn good too! Love that they stuck with the country western theme and so happy the have the salad bar back! Service is always excellent. read more

Went here today for a late lunch/early dinner and everything was perfect. Food was delicious. I had the fish n chips and my husband had a steak cooked exactly how he asked. Our server was great. Didn't catch her name but she was very nice and made me feel very comfortable. Will definitely be back! Great dining experience! read more

The Mining Company - Fish N chips and steak with veg/ swapped the potatoes for asparagus - Steakhouses Near Me - San Marcos, California

Second time here, atmosphere not so awesome, accommodating staff, friendly but not over the top. No refills of water, extra napkins, had to flag server who walked by to get drinks...no one was smiling. read more

The location was cute! Staff was polite & helpful. Food just sadly was not good. We paid $22 for an appetizer sampler that was the smallest sampler I've seen in awhile. My potato soup didn't taste good at all. The bread on the steak sandwiches looked like it was microwaved, all deflated. Just need an upgrade on food here. read more

This has to be the most expensive and mediocre meal I've had in a long time. The smoked Tri Tip for 2 comes with same portion of fries as a kids meal. The worst part was our server Paul. I've seen more energy from someone with clinical depression. He tried to charge us extra for the salad bar claiming that my father in law went multiple times. Which he didn't and he tried to ease the tension with a joke but our server just had a blank look on his face. Reluctantly fixes it for us. I'd never come back here and I'd advise keeping this server away from any customers. read more

The Mining Company - Handful of fries - Steakhouses Near Me - San Marcos, California

See all

This place was ok. I liked the feel of it, and it is much nicer than the previous location, but the food was kind of a miss for us. Fish & Chips - were ok, nicely cooked, but a strange batter on the fish. The fries were not bad at all. Loaded Baked Potato Soup - Interesting flavor, but good. Smoked Turkey - The meat was not good. Seemed like packaged turkey not something cooked. The gravy was salty and the potatoes were bland. Would not get again. The Great - Like the new spot! Open and clean The Good - The servers were pretty pleasant The Bad - The food was kind of sub par The Ugly - NA We aren't in a hurry to go back, but haven't discounted The Mining Company completely! Will update if we do go back! read more

See all

The Burgers a pretty good and really big. Can't complain. The onion rings are very good. read more

The Mining Company - 49er burger - Steakhouses Near Me - San Marcos, California

See all

Comfortable place to get a meal. Dress up, dress down, it doesn't matter. The menu has a wide variety of options, there are some veggie choices like swapping out a meat patty for a veggie patty on the burger and the salad bar. But you come here mostly for the meat. So what's good? Get what you like but I get the chili every time. I don't know what magic they work on it but it is fantastic. Big chunks of steak, delicious herbs that I can't put my finger on what it is but it makes my taste buds happy. We get friendly service each time we are here. An attentive staff that asks if we need anything and fills our drinks. It makes eating out a great experience. Two thumbs up. read more

Love this gem, a bit like going back in time. Old west decor and a great ambiance. Private room for family/friend gatherings. They have one of the last salad bars that I know off, so for salad lovers, all you can eat is an option. We got three different entres and all were delicious. The fresh sourdough rolls were amazing. Best of all is that we got the best server, Kenna who was knowledgeable, energetic, funny & sweet. read more

You know, super old school feel steakhouse. The place used to be Phil's BBQ and sad they left... but we needed a sit in for Friday and decided to check this place out. There was about a 10 minute wait on a Friday night. Lots of seniors here. The food wasn't too bad! The bread was warm and the butter was nice and soft. Which some fancy steak places can't even get that right! We didn't get any apps, but for a drink. They have their house beer for a really good price and it wasn't bad! Wine was also affordable too. The prices weren't too bad. I got the prime rib and my husband got the 2 mix plate of tri tip and ribs. The ribs were completely flavorless and don't get it! But the tri tip wasn't bad. There was a good bark and smoke ring. It was tasty. He also got the tri tip chili, and there were chunks of tri tip on there. My Caesar salad was fresh and crunchy and no brown stale pieces. My prime rib wasn't bad either. The au jus was a little sweet so I added salt and it was better. It was cooked to my liking. And I liked the veggies that it came with. Service wasn't too bad either. Not a bad place. This is like old school steakhouse dinner type that my father in law likes. Like cowboyish in the boonies type too. read more

See all

What a great steak house. My cut was absolutely delicious! Service is outstanding. Our waitress was able to explain everything about the cuts, size, and way to have it cooked. She was also excellent in helping me pick a side. Ambiance: the dining room is nice. Not fancy, not a dive, just nice. The Men's room needs to be demolished. I don't know what happened in there, but it was bad. I felt like I had to explain to the guy coming in that it was like that when I walked in. Just burn it and rebuild. Knocking a star for the scar the men's room gave me. DO NOT GO IN THERE! read more

The Mining Company - That Men's room - Steakhouses Near Me - San Marcos, California

Popped in for brunch @ 10am. OUTSTANDING SERVICE and the food was delicious. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. $3 Mimosa is always a win!!!

Place is big has a dining section and a bar area. The menu is small and doesn't have many options. Service was attentive and kind. They have pepsi products. read more

The Mining Company - Fish and chips and steak with pink lemonade and tea lemonade - Steakhouses Near Me - San Marcos, California

Food was delicious, customer service was amazing and atmosphere is a nice relaxing vibe! Theresa was very attentive and friendly! Will make sure to tell friends and family!! read more

Amazing food. Great atmosphere. Very gos friendly. I've been coming here for years. Moved to Temecula and still come back for a nice dinner and friendly staff. read more

The Mining Company - Steakhouses Near Me - San Marcos, California

See all

Shorthanded staff still managed to be friendly and pay attention to all tables, even if a touch of a wait. Food quality and price in line with other reviews on here. Thanks for taking good care of us on what was a busy lunch run for you! 5 stars for our server. read more

Food was pretty good! I was surprised I had a steak well seasoned. The service was great.!

Made reservation for a party of 10 on a Sunday evening. Walked in at 5:45 to an empty restaurant. That should've been our first sign. The food was just average at best. Our server was very kind and attentive, but hundreds of dollars later her kindness wouldn't be enough for me to return. For the price you're paying you want the food to be tasty and it just wasn't. read more