Rainbird

Name: Rainbird
Address: 609 W Main St, Merced, CA, United States, 95340
Telephone: (209) 446-4026
Price range: $50 and over
Rating: 4.7

4.7

190 Reviews

$50 and over

Californian

Top Tags:

Located in the heart of one of the most productive agricultural regions globally, chefs at El Capitan prepare artisanal fare and spirits that pay homage to the ranchers, farmers, cheesemakers, bakers, brewers, and winemakers that have re-fashioned Merced into one of California’s best kept epicurean secrets.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Oct 4, 2023

7:00 PM

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Cuisines
Californian
Hours of operation
Sun 9:00 am–2:00 pm Dinner Thu–Sat 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
Phone number
(209) 446-4026
Website
https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/jdv-el-capitan/fatjd/dining
Dress code
Business Casual

Location
609 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340
Neighborhood
Merced
Parking details
None

What 190 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7

4.7 based on recent ratings

4.5Food
4.9Service
4.5Ambience
4.1Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

Fresno / San Joaquin Valley
Best Overall
Fresno / San Joaquin Valley
Best Service
Fresno / San Joaquin Valley
Best Ambiance
Fresno / San Joaquin Valley
Great for brunch
Fresno / San Joaquin Valley
Innovative
Fresno / San Joaquin Valley
Healthy
Fresno / San Joaquin Valley
Great for fine wines
Fresno / San Joaquin Valley
Romantic
Fresno / San Joaquin Valley
Good for special occasions

190 Reviews

LH
LizH
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 3 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience4
We went to celebrate a birthday. The 5 course tasting menu was delicious, with generous portions for a tasting menu. The highlights were the beet tarts, fried bread with various spreads, venison and carrots braised with bone marrow. Very upscale for Merced and we plan to come again.
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t
thtrbuf
San Francisco
28 reviews
3.0
28 reviews
Dined on September 16, 2023
overall3food3service5ambience3
Because the restaurant relies on locally sourced food, the offerings were very similar. The high point was the desserts. The server was amazing in making the us feel very welcomed and appreciated. The hostess was a very sweet young woman who made the initial contact a positive experience. The people are great, the food was not exciting.
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RM
RandallM
San Francisco
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 16, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
My son and I enjoyed. a wonderful experience that included delicious food in a beautiful setting. The presentation of the food was unique and the quality exceptional. The use of wood in the decor also created a visual environment that added to a memorable visit.
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FS
FoodieSon
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 27, 2023
overall5food4service5ambience5
Fun experience. Great to try the different food with the 8 course meal. The three of us had different favorites. The service was excellent.
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SS
SherrieS
Phoenix
12 reviews
vip
5.0
12 reviews
Dined on August 20, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Very creative food. Wine pairings delicious. Attentive and courteous service. On the very expensive side. But we like to support our local nicest restaurant.
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l
lwcarstens
San Francisco
19 reviews
4.0
19 reviews
Dined on July 15, 2023
overall4food4service5ambience4
Wanted to try Rainbird for a while. We did the 8 course dinner, some of the items were hit or Miss.also did the wine pairing, which again were hit or Miss. The service was very good. They tried very hard but need to work a little harder.
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JC
JinChong
San Francisco
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on July 9, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Great dining experience! We are truly enjoying it!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 9, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Our dining experience at Rainbird was nothing short of exceptional. We decided to indulge in the eight-course dinner, and from start to finish, it was an absolute delight. The attention to detail and the commitment to excellence were evident in every aspect of our meal. One of the standout features of this restaurant was the chef's willingness to accommodate our taste preferences. We had certain dietary restrictions, and the chef crafted each course with precision, ensuring that every dish surpassed our expectations. The flavors were harmonious, the presentation was impeccable, and the quality of ingredients was outstanding. The service we received from our server, Charles, was truly remarkable. He was attentive, knowledgeable, and had an infectious enthusiasm for the culinary journey we were embarking on. He guided us through each course, providing insightful information about the ingredients and the chef's inspirations behind the dishes. Charles' passion for his job enhanced our dining experience and made us feel truly valued as guests. The ambiance of the restaurant was cozy and inviting, providing the perfect backdrop for an intimate and memorable dining experience. The attention to detail extended beyond the plate, with tasteful decor and a warm atmosphere that made us feel at ease throughout the evening. I would like to express my gratitude to the entire team behind this restaurant for bringing such a culinary gem to our community. The commitment to perfection, the personalized service, and the outstanding flavors combine to create an extraordinary dining experience. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking an unforgettable meal that celebrates the art of gastronomy.
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CM
ChrisM
San Diego
8 reviews
5.0
8 reviews
Dined on June 18, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Great dining, love the depth of flavor of each course and the balance of savory, acid and spice. The chef has made an intentional effort to bring unique ingredients and pleasing flavors together. We enjoyed our evening!
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PP
PattiP
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 4, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Rainbird's Sunday brunch is wonderful. It's like being in a big city for brunch but you're in Merced. The grits are fabulous as was the apricot desert. Would go back again.
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A
Amazing
Central Coast
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on June 4, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Everything was excellent. Wonderful good, service and atmosphere.
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K
Kane
Sacramento
2 reviews
4.0
2 reviews
Dined on June 4, 2023
overall4food4service5ambience4
Many unique foods. Some are excellent while others are mid. Overall good experience.
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J
Jarnathan
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 27, 2023
overall5food4service5ambience5
The service is excellent, the food is delicious and original with each visit. I highly recommend.
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B
Bling
San Francisco
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on May 21, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The ambience sets the mood, we knew we were in a great restaurant. Cocktail offerings delicious along with beautiful presentation. A very nice selection for every course, especially loved the eggs benedict. Waiters were attentive and willing to answer our many questions. It was a belated birthday celebration that could not have been better. We are looking forward to our next visit.
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TP
TomP
Sacramento
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 21, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
On of the best dining experiences I've ever had, anywhere.
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CC
CrystalC
Los Angeles
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on May 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Went here for a special anniversary meal. The staff was very polite and accommodating to my food allergy. I was hesitant to eat here at first because the descriptions of the meals online seemed a bit odd to me, but once I tried the food, it was absolutely delicious.
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NN
NomNom
San Francisco
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on May 14, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Always love brunch at Rainbird and the Mother’s Day menu did not disappoint!
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A
Adriana
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 14, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The brunch at Rainbird was so delicious and well worth what we paid! We will definitely be returning!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 14, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Professional and courteous customer service. Very accommodating and quick response when you ask or request for something. The greeter was very prompt and very friendly and welcoming upon arrival.
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C
Cori
San Francisco
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 14, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Wonderful service. Creative menu! Appreciate the mocktail options.
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WL
WadeL
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 14, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Service was great food was outstanding cocktails were absolutely wonderful had a great time the 8 course is amazing very happy Merced has a different spot to eat these days
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AG
AjayG
San Francisco
8 reviews
vip
4.0
8 reviews
Dined on April 30, 2023
overall4food4service5ambience5
Have been here several times. There are new menu items which we were excited to try. They were mostly very good but some of them like the fish need some work getting the flavors right. Service and ambience were exceptional as usual. Overall an excellent spot for a special occasion dinner
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KM
KaarenM
San Francisco
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on April 29, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Delicious seasonal menu! Enjoyed the crab w trout roe appetizer. The farro bread is NOT filler it deserves its own course on the menu! And I’m so glad it is presented as food to be savored - delightful! The mains did not disappoint lamb w morel mushrooms … need I say more? Thyme basted monkfish w potatoes and parsley cream… Dessert - the unexpected beetroot cherry and berry mouse w aged sherry - a fun exploration in flavor. And the dark chocolate mousse w the caramelized popcorn and brûléed banana ice cream a rich satisfying end!
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K
Kona
San Francisco
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on April 28, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Tried the 8 course sampler-a lot of fun! Food was delish and service was friendly. A very enjoyable dinner to celebrate a milestone!
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L
Loren
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 23, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
It was a pleasant surprise to discover this 1st class restaurant in Merced. Every aspect of this dining experience met my highest standard of quality.
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MR
MichaelR
San Francisco
7 reviews
5.0
7 reviews
Dined on April 21, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Party of 5 for birthday. Attended one of the wine experiences. Everyone at our table enjoyed the whole experience - not just the food, which was wonderful, but interacting with the chef, the wine maker, and the other guests around us.
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ET
EuTom
San Francisco
1 review
vip
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 15, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The food was delicious and beautifully presented. We had our kids share one dinner. It was so nice of Chef Quentin to include a special dessert for the kids. We love the food.
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OC
OlympiaC
Sacramento
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 9, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Good experience everything was delicious !! We will totally come back.
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S
Shootingstar
Central Coast
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on April 9, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
Unparalleled service and attention! Gourmet and sustainable dishes. The staff was more than willing to accommodate eating preferences and dietary limitations. Terrific eatery for a special occasion.
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SL
SherryL
San Diego
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 9, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Food and service was outstanding. My husband and I will most defiantly will be eating here again
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B
Barb
San Francisco
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on April 9, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The food was all delicious and beautifully presented. The wait staff were awesome.
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GB
GinnyB
San Joaquin
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on March 26, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We enjoyed a beautiful brunch with our daughter and grandchildren on Sunday noon. Our first visit but definitely not our last. Everything was delicious and the restaurant is so tastefully decorated it was a very pleasant experience for all. Thank you!!
RainbirdResponded on April 5, 2023
Hello GinnyB! We are so delighted you enjoyed our brunch. Thank you for the lovely review and most importantly, thank you for being our guest! We look forward to seeing you again soon.
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AR
AiryR
San Joaquin
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on March 26, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
I loved the ambience of the restaurant and the attentive staff. My expectations were met and I will be back to try the brunch and will make this a seasonal must!
RainbirdResponded on April 5, 2023
Dear AiryR, Thank you for the lovely review. We are thrilled to have met your expectations! Yes, please visit us again soon for the brunch. We are working on elevating the experience even more and would love for you to be our guest.
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JS
JeffersonS
San Joaquin
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on March 26, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
The dinner experience is quite amazing when you consider the level of food preparation, presentation and care given so one can enjoy the experience of elegant food. Well worth the time, effort and price.
RainbirdResponded on April 5, 2023
Thank you so much for your review! We look forward to serving you again soon. Please keep us in mind in the next few weeks as we look to elevate our brunch offerings as well. Thank you for being our guest!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on March 24, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Have been here a couple times already. Food and everything always great. Thanks. Keep up the great work
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V
Victoria
San Francisco
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on March 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Love this place. The food is amazing and the service is amazing.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco
2 reviews
vip
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on March 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Amazing! Can’t wait to go back. Great spot to spend a quiet dinner together. Loved ever bite.
RainbirdResponded on April 5, 2023
Thank you so much for your review! We are delighted to know that you were amazed with the food and the dining experience. Thank you for being our guest. We look forward to serving you again soon.
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j
johnv
Sacramento
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on March 12, 2023
overall5food4service5ambience5
Rainbird is at the top of my list; they are very customer oriented and went beyond our expectations, wonderfully entertained, and to top it off the food was exceptional. Our favorite go-to-place in the Central Valley! Hats off to the entire staff. John
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A
Angelo
San Francisco
3 reviews
4.0
3 reviews
Dined on March 12, 2023
overall4food3service5ambience3
Overall it was a unique experience. Food was good but for the cost the environment seemed a little casual. The 7/8 courses took too long. We had a good time for the first 1 1/2 hours but then started to get a little tired of sitting. We were seated at 5:32 PM and didn't finish until 8:15 PM. The restaurant wasn't very busy for a Saturday night. I believe there was only about 8-10 tables in total that were occupied.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Central Coast
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on March 5, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Wonderful food and service. It was a memorable experience and in our top all time great dining.
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FAQs

Rainbird is rated 4.7 stars by 190 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Oct 4, 2023

7:00 PM

609 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340

Additional information

Neighborhood
Merced
Hours of operation
Sun 9:00 am–2:00 pm Dinner Thu–Sat 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
Cuisines
Californian
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Business Casual
Parking details
None

Website
https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/jdv-el-capitan/fatjd/dining
Phone number
(209) 446-4026

Rainbird

Make a reservation

Additional information

Menu

What 190 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

FAQs

How is Rainbird restaurant rated?

Is Rainbird currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Additional information