Second times the charm! Came in today Sunday for lunch while shopping with the fam and safe to say today's experience was top notch compared to our first a little while ago! The service was quick, we were seated in a timely manner and the food was so good! We sat closer to the bar and our server was on top of it! We ordered and had our food right away not even a 20 minute wait! We got the pulled pork sandwich, recommended by our server, the western burger, and the Mac and cheese for our little! It was all soooo good! The pulled pork sandwich was amazing. Happy to see this business thriving! And glad to update our review to a positive one! Today was great! Cheers! read more

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First off I do not frequent higher end restaurants very often. I wanted to take my girlfriend out for a nice dinner on my birthday, so we invited my brother and his wife. I made reservations for 4 of us for a Friday night at 5:00. We were seated in the dining area on time, however because of the time of day the sunshine that was reflected off the building across the street through the window was absolutely blinding. We moved a table back but there was no difference. I let our guests sit in the seats that were not facing this terrible reflection and just dealt with it myself. We should have actually moved completely but didn't want to make a big deal about it. This issue could be easily fixed with blinds (duh) So we ordered our food. Women ordered the ball steak (which is sirloin) my brother ordered fish and I ordered the filet. Well the ball steaks were absolutely horrible (tough as shoe leather) fish (salmon) was ok and filet was also good but undercooked plus they forgot my mashed potatoes. ($69 for a 8oz filet which was probably more like 6 oz ) you would expect much better. We pointed that out (which is quite unbelievable they forgot the potatoes) they eventually brought them on a separate plate ( they were just warm). The butter was still pretty much frozen in the little tin cup that they serve it in. So we pointed out the two ball steaks were like leather. Both of the women have ordered those before and they have been good, well not this time. For the kind of money you spend for these meals, it really is sad. They did remove the two steak dinners from the bill but that does not make it all good in my opinion. Oh yeah and 5 slices of tomato's with cheese on top ( that were not ripe ) at $18 are you serious) For one of the top restaurants in this area, they completely failed. IWaitress was very nice and apologized (like they should) but unfortunately we won't be going back. read more

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood. A beautiful day indeed because I decided to check out this local spot. They offer outside and inside seating and the decor is lovely. The staff were friendly and told me about the specials. I already knew I wanted the Steak Frites and the Mac and cheese, so I glossed over the specials but people around me ordered it and were raving about the pulled pork sandwich. My dishes were stellar to say the least. The steak was a nice juicy cut at a perfect medium and the fires were crunchy! The Mac and cheese was creamy and so perfect! I will definitely be back because I want to try the Texas Twinkie. I had leftovers for my dogs when I left and I was a happy camper. Why this isn't five stars is that they can level up their flavors. Give me the option of a peppercorn sauce for the steak, chives for the mac and cheese, etc. However, this food is amazing as is. Definitely try out the local GEM! read more

The Owl Tavern - Steak Frites and Mac and cheese. - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

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Went here with some friends. Food was very good. The Texas Twinkies were fun and tasty. I ordered the braised short rib special which was very satisfying. The service was friendly and stopped by often to check in with us. It has an old time miner vibe and has a very interesting history. The server told us about the haunted booth and the things that go on throughout the restaurant that can't be explained. Almost forgot... they make a great cocktail. read more

The Owl Tavern - Outside - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

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Visited March 11 2026...see my receipt as always. It was a lovely day in Grass Valley and decided to come into the Owl after a long drive. They open at 11am. I had the Texas twinkies which are filled with pork and cream cheese and then fried inside a large jalapeño. Delicious and so was the dipping sauce! I also enjoyed a glass of wine while sitting outside for a bit. Plenty of inside and outside seating. DOG FRIENDLY outside! It's a classy yet casual place with a full bar. I have been going here for several years and it has changed hands many times but this owner has it dialed in! Great relaxing time in a beautiful environment. Friendly waitress ( I think her name is Heather). Btw. They have awesome steaks! read more

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It was a beautiful day to eat outside in the shady side of the street. It took us a while to figure out what we wanted and the waitress was so kind and patient. The Wedge Salad and Texas Twinkles were delicious. Texas Twinkles were not hot, only warm. read more

The Owl Tavern - Texas Twinkies and Wedge Salad - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

We had seen this place before during our previous visit but never made it inside so we decided to stop by for lunch today. Really enjoyed the historic atmosphere throughout the place and I think everyone was pretty happy with their food. I was pleased to get those Texas Twinkies, which were a bit ridiculous, but tasted wonderful and actually were quite filling as they were packed with brisket and cheese! I heard the fried chicken sandwich was quite good and the macaroni and cheese nicely gourmeted up a bit. Our server was friendly and helpful in selecting our menu choices. This was a fun place for lunch and we definitely enjoyed our time here and would return on our next visit to grass Valley. read more

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Food is great & service is very good. Bartender does not know how to make a Mai Tai. I believe it was a female. Not a rocks glass but a Collins glass. 1 Oz light rum, 1/2 oz Creme de Almond, 1/2 oz Triple Sec, equal parts sweet & sour and pineapple juice. Float 1/2 oz dark rum. Garnish is a flag. Look it up. Study up on exotic drinks please. My son is a Bartender and I should have sent it back. read more

Oohhh I did not realize this spot excited and glad I stumbled upon it. Delicious. I was craving red meat and of course got the steak frites. I got it with truffle fries. I'm pretty sure the steak was supposed to be 8oz. Idk if it's been a long time since I've seen 8 ounces because that steak looked massive. And the amount of fries was just as insane as well. Am not complaining because it was all so delicious. I asked for a side of the aioli that comes with the truffles and the chimichurri aioli (that one was meh). To drink I had a Shirley Temple. Service was great. Love the ambiance. I looked at the dessert menu and everything is made in house. I'm so mad for eating so much of the main course because I want ALL THE DESSERTS. Will definitely be back. read more

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I had one of the most amazing meals this afternoon with my family for my mothers birthday! Great staff experience with a wide variety of craft drinks and excellent food. The environment is low key and low light with a unique atmosphere that we thoroughly enjoyed. I will absolutely be dining here again read more

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The food was delicious and the decor was fun. I actually learned about this restaurant from a romance novel by Alison Parker and it sounded so good, we tried it the next time we were in the area. I was not disappointed! read more

What a fun historical location with AMAZING food! While it is a smaller setting, the place was hopping! The service was fast and classy. The food was superior. I had the pork chop and it was the best I have ever had. If you are looking for a fun date night destination, this is it! read more

Came in for a night time cocktail. We're seated at the bar table and a young man brought us some water. After that we waited for 10 minutes and no one came to take our drink order, mind you the bar wasn't that crowded. Wait staff walked past us several time until I stopped one young lady and asked if she could take our order which she did. It wasn't a very comfortable atmosphere as the girls staff were spending more time talking with friends than serving customers. I have eaten here before and the food was great. The bar area at night needs a bit of attention. read more

Enjoy the atmosphere and the bartenders make some really yummy drinks. I've had a couple appetizers from their Menu that are really good. GarlIc Fries, Mac w/ Cheese. Stop and visit The Owl Tavern next time in town. read more

The Owl Tavern - Bartenders at the Owl Tavern in Grass Valley, Ca - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

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Dine into the past. From the moment you walk in, you are welcomed by the friendly staff. The food is excellent and there was a variety of menu choices to please our party of 4: From filet mignon to salmon to prime rib dip to portobello mushroom entrees accompanied by a choice of 2 sides with each entree. We were all happy with our selections. We were pleasantly surprised with the unique appetizer of Texas Twinkies. The presentation in shot glasses with individual servings for 3 people was fun. The Billy Blue Bread was our only disappointment. There's ample free parking in the back, and check out the Del Oro Theatre when you're in the vicinity. The tavern is located in a pedestrian promenade with many interesting shops. Enjoy! read more

The Owl Tavern - Texas Twinkies appetizers - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

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We had a great time at the Owl Tavern in Grass Valley on Saturday. It was our first time there. The drinks were fantastic.... Espresso martini & Vodka St Germain spritzer. Food was D-lish!... Prime rib dip and a wedge salad. And dessert was creative... Pistachio Tira Misu. But best of all was our server Macaela W. Happy... friendly...very efficient. Thanks for the great evening Macaela! read more

The rib eye is as one of the best I've had in years. All the cocktails as well. Friday night, the staff really helped us along on the menu. We like the vibe as well. Desert was amazing!!!! . Makaela was very helpful and the bar manager. read more

From washing hands to meeting Justine, we relaxed, relying upon his knowledge of "tonight's fresh catch. To the awesome mixology of Justine, we were entertained, with tempting smells as we awaited our dinner read more

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The food and service is great. I really enjoy coming here food drinks and appetizers are all very good. Photos from 2 different visits. read more

The Owl Tavern - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

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Let's think what do I not like about this restaurant? Atmosphere? No service? No greeting when you walk in? No. Ok, it is perfect. But what I love the most is the chef. The salmon was cooked to perfection. But before you take your first bite is looks awesome. See pic.. read more

The Owl Tavern - Salmon with rice. - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

Stopped by Owl Tavern for a lunch and espresso martini(s) following a good hike. Espresso martinis tend to be made differently by different bartenders. In fact, this was the 4th establishment where I had espresso martini in the week visiting Nevada Co., including at the 2 famous hotels. BY FAR, best espresso martinis made by Ryan at Owl Tavern!! Thank you Ryan! And thank you Laura, my server, for keeping an eye on me. Food and ambience were just as wonderful with rock from the late 70's and 80's, playing in the background. I recommend Owl Tavern for a bite to eat, an afternoon cocktail, or both! Cheers! read more

It wasn't as good as before. And just Maybe it was that we were parked in the middle row with waiters running past us constantly Wasn't a good time. read more

Our first time here and we can't wait to go back!!! Their food was fresh and delicious!!!! Loved Thier Onion Soup!! Wow!!! A 10 for sure!!! Also had Thier wedge salad with a side of chicken. Oh and a virgin Bloody Mary!!! My in laws had their prime rib sandwich and they also loved it!! YUM!!!! read more

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My sons took me out to dinner for Father's Day. my eldest son and I both had the same thing, the New York steak with mashed potatoes and fries. we went with the New York, because there was no way I was going to pay $125 for a porterhouse steak! I asked for my steak well done and my some asked for his medium well. when they arrived my steak was half the size of my sons, and still pink in the middle. add to that the small handful of fries and the ice cream scoop of mashed potatoes. the place was extremely loud and we couldn't even have a decent conversation in there either! the service was slow and while we all got diet cokes, and they brought us a pitcher, it was very watered down. So WAY overpriced, for barely average quality food. will not be going back again, for sure! read more

Everything about The Owl Tavern is terrific!! Paul, our fabulous server, knew all about each item on the menu. I didn't realize that the steak they serve is Wagyu and being a foodie I knew that would be great over my Caesar Salad. What a treat. The booth was perfect for the three of us. It is hard to decide what to choose on the menu because all their sandwiches are beyond yummy. I will be going back and maybe next time for dinner(and have their great steak) or for lunch again. Ask for Paul. He's the best. You will be delighted with everything. read more

Went here on a recommendation from a friend who lives in town, did not disappoint ! It was a Sunday night so not much was open anyway but this place had plenty of seating ( larger than it looks from the street ), good parking ( or in our case walking distance from our hotel ) and delicious food. Service was fast and friendly Con : lots of flies in the entry way / end of bar if the door is open which happens with the small foyer . But otherwise great experience . read more

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Very cool historic decor, sort of speakeasy/saloon vibe. Food was tasty. The sourdough was piping hot with delicious orange blossom butter. The salad was picture perfect and unfortunately I don't have a picture for you...we dug in before I got the shot! Truffle fries were crispy with lots of Parmesan. White linen cocktail was light and refreshing. The maple infused old fashioned was reviewed as voted one of the best (and these two are in the know!). Service was friendly (if a bit slow, but the place was busy, so you know it's good!) and we are very thankful for their checking with the kitchen about our food allergies. read more

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Beautiful historic ambiance, friendly staff and delicious food. They were extremely busy so a little bit of slow service was to be expected. Overall really enjoyed our meals! read more

We stopped in for some warmth, drinks and maybe a small bite to eat during the Cornish Christmas celebration. There were 4 of us and 3 of us sat at the bar while the 4th one in our party stood (not an issue). Bartenders were friendly enough but super busy and it took longer to get 2nd rounds. We ordered some truffle fries which were not very good (they were like In N Out fries and bland). We decided to go elsewhere for dinner and it took a while to get our tab. They also added a 3% credit card surcharge. Its probably not a place i would go back to but I can chalk up the longer wait times to the busy time of night. read more

Replying to owner ... there were six of us and no we all weren't intoxicated. And the food was horrible so no thank you.

We stopped at the owl tavern for appetizers and drinks. We ordered the artichoke special which was mediocre with a heavily mayo based sauce. The Texas Twinkie's were an absolute hit! They were flavorful and tender. Our drinks were lovely. This restaurant has a high charm atmosphere and high quality food. It was nice to sit on the patio and enjoy nearby live music and delicious food and drinks. read more

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We stopped by after a day in the sun lakeside. It's not gourmet but it's darn good and a great place to people watch. The jalapeno peppers are so darn good. I had a salad with grilled chicken and my son had a burger and fried which he said were delicious. Service was awesome!! read more

Apparently, this place just opened and I am hugely impressed! This is our first trip to Grass Valley and this place looked good, but we were surprised how good! Since we didn't have reservations, we sat at the bar and watched Luke work his magic. Besides the best Old Fashioned I have ever had, Deb was knocked out by the Dark Manhattan. Neither of us was very hungry, so we stuck with appetizers which turned out to be a real treat! The Texas Twinkies were outstanding, definitely recommend! The place itself is well preserved/restored in showing it's heritage and the wait staff seemed well trained, pleasant and happy to be there, as were we! We'll be back! read more

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Went back! The bbq plate is insane. This is my favorite place when I visit Nevada city. Our waitress was super friendly again. I think the owner came by and got us all a drink for a mess up. The place felt clean and has the same charm it had when we first came. Thanks Owl! read more

The Owl Tavern - Bbq plate - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

The Owl exceeded expectations tonight. We thankfully had a reservation, it was busy. Despite how busy it was, we received timely, professional, and attentive service. I was nervous about getting a ribeye because my spouse makes incredible ribeyes at home, so we ordered the Wagyu NY Strip special and it was perfection! They have bottles of Gray Pine Merlot which is like a warm hug to your steak. I don't think you can get it anywhere else, it's the only merlot I've ever liked. It's so nice to see The Owl thriving, providing great service, and food. Keep it up! Love the wallpaper! read more

0 stars if I could. Went on a Saturday around 1pm and it wasn't busy inside or outside at all. Got seated pretty quick outside which was great. We had a server gave us water and a drinks menu and had to wait another 10 minutes before we had to flag a server for a menu. It took another 10 minute to order our food. Drinks came out right away which I thought was a good sign but it's been over an hour and our burgers are still not here. I never had to wait over an hour for 4 burgers before. 50 minutes in the waiter says the food is almost ready... Ok, we already been waiting so what's another few minutes right? So after an hour and 20 minutes of waiting, our server comes out and says she figures out what the issue is. The order was "deleted" and never went through and we'll be getting a 15% discount for our troubles. If I wasn't with my in laws, I would have left right then and there. But alas, we reordered and our food should be at the very top of the order with a 20% discount. So it turns out our order was not placed at the very top, and 1 hr and 40 minutes later. We had enough and just left. More excuses from the server and owner and it's just ridiculous at this point. Talked to a local and she said service is not that good. Definitely would not recommend this place at all. I was trying to give the burgers a review at least but what can you do. read more

This experience was alarmingly poor. We are locals in Grass Valley, and are used to amazing service up here. This evening we were seated at 6:15pm. At 8:00 we still had not received food. My children fell asleep at the table. I went in to speak to a manager to see what was going on. As I was standing there they attempted to bring out just the kids food which I asked to be boxed. Then I spoke to someone and explained that I understand things being busy and maybe they are short staffed but that we have been waiting almost two hours, my kids are asleep, we need to leave. I was met with attitude. At that point I informed them that we needed to just go. We don't want the food. At this point a man yelled at us " you have got to be F@&#ing kidding me" ... Completely inappropriate. If they had communicated with us, told us there was a delay etc we could have planned accordingly but to be yelled at in such a way was insane. The manager/ owner, and others were so rude. The ONLY polite members of staff were a bus boy and a bar tender. read more

Drinks were awesome... no misses there. The menu looked amazing and had a ton of solid options. I ended up going with the French dip and it was tasty--simple, flavorful, and exactly what I wanted. Cool spot overall... I'll definitely be back to work my way through the rest of that menu. read more

Everything was excellent at The Owl Tavern. I had the French Onion soup and the Rice Krispy fried chicken sandwich, both were absolutely delicious. The soup was rich, flavorful, and topped with perfectly melted cheese. The fried chicken sandwich was crispy, juicy, and had a really unique texture thanks to the Rice Krispy coating. The service was great, the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and the food came out quickly. No complaints at all, just a really great experience from start to finish. I'll definitely be back. read more

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We had a large party and the server was fantastic at managing us! Food was more upscale pub food, from steaks to roasted chicken to burgers. Our table commented it was all very good! Adorable location! read more