Last updated: 2025-04-07
From downtown Merced’s cozy Paul’s Place Restaurant & Bakery to the modern Rainbird, weekend brunch has become a cherished tradition in the Gateway to Yosemite. Local favorites serve up everything from classic American breakfast plates to Mexican-inspired morning specialties.
Central Valley regulars know to arrive early at Pedro’s Place for their famous breakfast burritos, while UC Merced students flock to Joe On The Go Cafe for fresh pastries and coffee. Strings Italian Cafe adds a European twist to the morning scene.
Discover Merced’s best brunch spots below!
Featured Brunch Spots in Merced
- Rainbird
- Galletto Ristorante (Modesto)
- Agave Azul Kitchen & Tequila Bar (Modesto)
- Mainzer
- Paul's Place Restaurant & Bakery
- Black Bear Diner
- Strings Italian Cafe
- Pedro's Place Mex & Grill
- Joe On The Go Cafe
Agave Azul Kitchen & Tequila Bar (Modesto)
What to Expect
Mexican-inspired brunch with craft tequila cocktails
Description
Agave Azul Kitchen & Tequila Bar offers a vibrant Mexican brunch experience in Modesto, featuring bold Southwestern-inspired morning dishes. Signature brunch highlights include chilaquiles verdes with crispy tortillas, slow-braised carnitas, and creative breakfast tacos paired with craft tequila cocktails. The lively atmosphere combines traditional Mexican flavors with contemporary California brunch culture, creating an energetic weekend dining destination.
Where: Modesto | More Info: Agave Azul Kitchen & Tequila Bar
Black Bear Diner
What to Expect
Oversized homestyle portions with bear-themed restaurant concept
Description
Black Bear Diner serves hearty homestyle breakfast classics in a rustic, bear-themed setting. Their signature BIGFOOT Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs features a massive 10-oz tender beef cutlet smothered in rich country gravy. The menu offers generous portions of traditional American breakfast favorites like New York Steak & Eggs, thick-cut bacon, and The GRIZZ breakfast platter with pancakes, bacon, sausage, and ham.
Where: Merced | More Info: Black Bear Diner
Galletto Ristorante (Modesto)
What to Expect
Personalized dining experiences with attentive service
Description
Galletto Ristorante offers an intimate Italian dining experience in downtown Modesto, featuring authentic cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere. Their carefully curated menu highlights classic Italian dishes with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and detailed presentation. The restaurant boasts an inviting patio and creates personalized experiences, especially for special occasions like anniversaries.
Where: Modesto | More Info: Galletto Ristorante
Joe On The Go Cafe
What to Expect
Convenient local breakfast cafe with quick service
Description
Joe On The Go Cafe delivers a cozy breakfast and brunch experience in the heart of Merced, California. Specializing in quick, satisfying morning meals, this local cafe offers a welcoming environment for those seeking hearty breakfast classics. Their menu features fresh, made-to-order dishes perfect for a mid-morning bite or casual dining experience.
Where: Merced | More Info: Joe On The Go Cafe
Mainzer
What to Expect
Hotel restaurant with craft cocktail program and local ingredient focus
Description
The Mainzer offers a contemporary restaurant and bar experience in downtown Merced, housed within the El Capitan Hotel. Blending modern American cuisine with a vibrant social atmosphere, this venue provides a versatile dining and drinking destination featuring craft cocktails, local ingredients, and a welcoming community-focused environment.
Where: Merced | More Info: Mainzer
Paul's Place Restaurant & Bakery
What to Expect
Local Merced restaurant and bakery
Description
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Where: Merced | More Info: Paul's Place Restaurant & Bakery
Pedro's Place Mex & Grill
What to Expect
Authentic Mexican-style breakfast burritos with generous meat portions
Description
Pedro's Place Mex & Grill offers a Mexican-inspired brunch experience in Merced, featuring standout breakfast options like Ranch Eggs and hearty breakfast burritos. Their menu spans breakfast platters, griddle specialties, and omelettes, with customer favorites including the tender carne asada burrito. A local Mexican restaurant providing diverse breakfast and lunch selections with a casual dining approach.
Where: Merced | More Info: Pedro's Place Mex & Grill
Rainbird
What to Expect
Farm-to-table breakfast highlighting Central Valley produce
Description
Rainbird offers a locally-sourced brunch experience celebrating Central Valley agriculture. Featuring seasonal ingredients from nearby farms like Burroughs Family Farms and J Marchini Farms, this restaurant transforms local produce into innovative breakfast dishes. Their commitment to regional culinary traditions shines through carefully crafted morning meals that showcase the area's agricultural bounty.
Where: Merced | More Info: Rainbird
Strings Italian Cafe
What to Expect
Italian cafe in Merced
Description
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Where: Merced | More Info: Strings Italian Cafe
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