Last updated: 2025-05-06
Merced’s dining scene blends Central Valley agricultural heritage with innovative culinary craftsmanship. From farm-fresh ingredients to creative plating, local restaurants transform simple meals into memorable experiences that capture the region’s unique flavor profile.
Discover exceptional dining destinations like Rainbird, Bella Luna, and Destino’s, where chefs transform locally sourced ingredients into extraordinary dishes that reflect Merced’s vibrant food culture and agricultural roots.
Explore Merced’s most delectable dining destinations now!
Featured Fine Dining Spots in Merced
Bella Luna
What to Expect
Farm-fresh Italian cuisine with creative cocktail and mocktail program
Description
Bella Luna offers an intimate downtown Merced dining experience featuring Italian-inspired cuisine in a sophisticated setting. The restaurant boasts an elegant atmosphere with a full bar, carefully curated menu highlighting farm-fresh ingredients, and attentive service. Guests can enjoy signature dishes like ribeye steak specials, pesto salmon, and artisan pizzas in a refined yet welcoming environment.
Where: Merced | More Info: Bella Luna
Destino's
What to Expect
Versatile Italian menu with vegan options and full bar
Description
Destino's offers a casual Italian dining experience in Merced, featuring a diverse menu with pizzas, pastas, and desserts. The restaurant provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere with full bar service, generous portions, and accommodating staff. Highlights include signature dishes like margarita pizza, shrimp scampi linguine, and options for various dietary preferences.
Where: Merced | More Info: Destino's
Five Ten Bistro
What to Expect
Downtown Merced contemporary American bistro with seasonal menu
Description
Five Ten Bistro offers an intimate dining experience in downtown Merced, featuring a locally-inspired menu with contemporary American cuisine. The restaurant provides an inviting atmosphere with carefully crafted dishes spanning appetizers, lunch, dinner, and cocktail selections. Seasonal ingredients and creative presentation define their culinary approach.
Where: Merced | More Info: Five Ten Bistro
Rainbird
What to Expect
Wine program highlighting Central Valley and Central Coast regional vintages
Description
A farm-to-table restaurant celebrating Merced's local agricultural heritage, Rainbird offers seasonally-inspired cuisine featuring ingredients from over 15 regional farms. The elegant dining space showcases an artfully curated wine program with 75 varietals, including a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2024. Guests enjoy a locally-sourced menu across breakfast, lunch, and dinner services with complimentary valet parking.
Where: Merced | More Info: Rainbird
Table 59
What to Expect
Italian-inspired menu with flexible dining options
Description
Table 59 offers an inviting Italian dining experience in Merced, featuring a diverse menu with dishes like sirloin steak, shrimp entrées, fettuccine Alfredo, and Margherita pizza. The restaurant provides a comfortable atmosphere with attentive service and an interior featuring nice decor, appealing to those seeking a casual yet quality dining experience.
Where: Merced | More Info: Table 59
The Mainzer
What to Expect
Hotel restaurant with full bar and private event capabilities
Description
The Mainzer is a sophisticated restaurant and bar located in the El Capitan Hotel, offering a modern dining experience in downtown Merced. The venue features a stylish interior with a full bar, providing a contemporary setting for casual yet refined dining and socializing.
Where: Merced | More Info: The Mainzer
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