01
Best overall pick
The Branding Iron Restaurant
Downtown Merced • Classic Steakhouse • Special-Occasion Pick
A long-running Merced steakhouse known for hearty plates, a retro lounge feel, and unhurried dinners.
If you’re up for a proper night out after a day on the back roads around El Nido, The Branding Iron is the place to dress up a bit. Expect generously cut steaks, classic sides, and a throwback bar that feels like it’s hosted more than a few local celebrations. Service is old-school attentive, making it a reliable choice for anniversaries, business dinners, or whenever you want a sit-down meal that feels a step above casual.
02
Best for casual nights
Little Oven Pizza
Central Merced • Artisanal Pizza Spot • Best For Groups
A lively pizzeria turning out creative, shareable pies that hit the spot after a long day on Highway 99.
Little Oven Pizza has the relaxed energy you want when everyone’s hungry and nobody feels like cooking after a day trip. The menu leans into well-charred crusts, thoughtful toppings, and plenty of options for sharing around the table. It’s easy to linger over a couple of pies and a salad here, whether you’ve driven in from El Nido with kids in tow or are meeting friends from around the valley.
03
Best budget-friendly stop
J&R Tacos
Downtown Merced • Casual Mexican Street-Food Joint • Quick, Budget-Friendly Stop
Colorful, fast-moving counter service with loaded tacos, burritos, and plates that don’t skimp on flavor.
J&R Tacos is an easy detour when you’re craving something fast, filling, and affordable on your way in or out of El Nido. The setup is casual and lively, with plenty of choices from crisp tacos to hefty burritos and tortas. It’s a dependable go-to for grab-and-go meals or relaxed lunches where you can taste a bit of the local student-and-office crowd energy in downtown Merced.
04
Best daytime café
Toni's Courtyard Café
Historic Downtown Merced • Sunny Courtyard Café And Bakery • Best For Brunch And Lunch
A charming downtown café serving fresh sandwiches, salads, and baked goods in a tucked-away courtyard setting.
Toni’s Courtyard Café is a pleasant surprise if you’re looking for something lighter than steak or tacos. Set just off the main streets, it offers a quiet courtyard where you can linger over sandwiches, salads, and house-baked treats. It’s an ideal stop for a late breakfast before heading back to the fields around El Nido or a relaxed midday break between errands in Merced.
05
Worth-the-drive flavor trip
Kabab City
Atwater, Along Highway 99 • Pakistani-Indian Grill • Destination For Bold Flavors
A no-frills Atwater favorite where smoky kababs, curries, and fresh naan are the main attraction.
Kabab City is a short hop north of Merced and has built a reputation across the Central Valley for deeply spiced, generous plates. The focus is on grilled meats, rich curries, and still-warm naan that makes the drive from El Nido feel more than worthwhile. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with adventurous eaters or just want a change of pace from typical roadside options.