WELCOME TO The Branding Iron Restaurant

We are a cherished culinary destination in Merced, CA, where tradition and innovation meet to create unforgettable dining experiences. As a premier American restaurant, we take pride in offering a diverse menu that caters to all tastes and preferences. Our expertly crafted dishes feature succulent steaks, savory pasta, juicy cheeseburgers, and an array of fresh options that showcase our dedication to quality. Whether you're joining us for a leisurely lunch or a memorable dinner, you can expect the finest ingredients prepared with care and creativity. Not only are we known for our classic American fare, but we're also celebrated as a seafood restaurant, presenting the finest oceanic flavors in every bite. Our menu is thoughtfully designed to offer a perfect blend of hearty and light dishes, ensuring there's something special for everyone. Looking to celebrate a special occasion? Our versatile catering services are perfect for any event, providing a touch of elegance and flavor that your guests will remember.

In addition to our culinary offerings, we invite you to unwind at our elegant bar, where you can enjoy a carefully curated selection of beverages and expertly mixed mocktails that perfectly complement your meal. At The Branding Iron Restaurant, we are committed to delivering exceptional service in a warm, inviting atmosphere. We cherish the relationships built with our community since 1952, and we look forward to welcoming you for an experience that celebrates the best of American dining. Come and discover why we are a beloved part of Merced's culinary landscape, where every visit is a celebration of great food, fine ambiance, and heartfelt hospitality.

Classic

SAVORY


Step back in time and savor classic dishes at our historical restaurant, where timeless flavors and rich heritage create a savory dining experience like no other.
Elegant

SOPHISTICATED


Immerse yourself in elegance and sophistication, where our refined ambiance and exquisite menu craft a dining experience that's both stylish and unforgettable.
Premium

TOP-QUALITY


Delight in premium, top-quality dishes meticulously crafted with the finest ingredients to ensure every meal reflects our commitment to culinary excellence.

SERVING SINCE 1952

We have been serving up tradition and taste,
where every meal is a testament to our enduring legacy and commitment to quality.

TOP RATED

Your satisfaction is guaranteed with every visit, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience that leaves you craving our delightful offerings.

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

Indulge in our delicious dishes, where every bite is a testament to our culinary passion and dedication to flavor perfection.

DELICIOUS DISHES

Enjoy the convenience of various payment methods, including cash, cards, and Apple Pay, making your dining experience seamless and hassle-free.

VARIOUS PAYMENT METHODS

Enjoy the convenience of various payment methods, including cash, cards, and Apple Pay, making your dining experience seamless and hassle-free.

FRIENDLY STAFF

Experience the warmth of our friendly staff, dedicated to making your visit enjoyable with attentive service and welcoming smiles.

COMPETITIVE PRICING

Benefit from our competitive pricing, offering you exceptional value without compromising on quality or taste in every meal.

CATERING SERVICES

Elevate your events with our exceptional catering services, where quality and variety meet impeccable service. We offer a catering menu that's as diverse as it is delicious, featuring an array of dishes crafted from the freshest ingredients to suit any occasion. Whether you're hosting an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, our team is dedicated to providing a seamless, customized culinary experience. Delight your guests with our signature dishes, each prepared with precision and flair. We offer flexible menu options that can be tailored to your preferences, ensuring that every palate is pleased. Our professional staff is committed to delivering prompt and courteous service, allowing you to relax and enjoy your event without worry. From corporate luncheons to weddings, our catering brings the best of our kitchen to your table, promising a memorable dining experience that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Choose us to transform your next event into a culinary masterpiece.

6

Days a Week Availability

#1

American Restaurant in Merced, CA

1952

EST.

100%

Customer Satisfaction

FEATURED MENU

STEAK

Indulge in our perfectly grilled steak, seasoned to perfection and bursting with robust flavors, promising a melt-in-your-mouth experience that steak lovers dream of.

PASTA

Savor the taste of Italy with our exquisite pasta dishes, crafted with fresh ingredients and sauces that dance on your palate, delivering a culinary journey you won't forget.

CHEESEBURGERS

Bite into our juicy cheeseburgers, where succulent patties meet melted cheese and crisp toppings, creating a mouthwatering symphony of flavors in every bite.

SALADS

Refresh your senses with our vibrant salads, featuring crisp greens and a medley of colorful veggies tossed with house-made dressings for a delightful crunch.

DESSERTS

Treat yourself to our decadent desserts, where each bite is a sweet escape into layers of rich flavors and textures, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

MOCKTAILS

Enjoy our creative mocktails, expertly mixed with fresh fruits and unique flavors, providing a refreshing and sophisticated sip without the alcohol.

GALLERY

Learn More

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to uphold a tradition of excellence and community connection that has been the cornerstone of our establishment since 1952. We are dedicated to delivering exceptional culinary experiences with every meal, offering a menu that celebrates the rich flavors of American cuisine. From our perfectly grilled steaks and savory pasta dishes to our mouth-watering cheeseburgers and crisp, refreshing salads, each creation is crafted with passion and precision using the finest ingredients available. We embrace our role as a historic dining destination, where the elegance of our full-service bar and versatile banquet rooms provide an inviting atmosphere for any occasion. Our commitment extends beyond just serving food; we strive to create lasting memories for our guests through outstanding service and a warm, welcoming environment.


WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

    James Zarkos
    Used to live here 30 years ago. Had my in-laws 50 year anniversary here. I'd meet my wife here for lunch of gazpacho and salad. Always a great meal. So glad we were able to make it here for a great steak dinner.
    Salley J Robins
    Happy to see this Historic Merced Icon has revamped its menu to include a few vegetarian options. Had a delicious meal with family. While I was enjoying my Marchino House Salad, my companions were raving about the excellent quality of the perfect prime rib.
    Lori Borges
    The food was soooo very good! Pretty HOT in the area we were seated but, George kept our birthday party of 14 in laughs good spirits. 👍 Better hang on to that server! Hostess was fantastic too. 💕 Thank you for making my sister's birthday a beautiful experience 💗