My bf and I are Carlsbad residents and decided to take a drive up to San Clemente for the day. This place did not disappoint, we had fat efficient service by Kyle our waiter and the food was delicious! My bf enjoyed the fried chicken sandwich, and I had the short rib sandwich that was huge but it was so good I ate the whole thing! We also had a side of shoe string fries that were a perfect side for our delicious sandos! If ever in the area again we will definitely be back. read more

MRK Public - Short rib sandwich, fries and fried chicken sandwich in my bf's hands lol - New American Near Me - San Clemente, California

Just moved to the area and could see the sign from my balcony so decided to try it out. Great craft beer list and the food was pretty tasty. Menu is limited but all items sounded tasty. We ordered the lemongrass curry mussels and the Brussels Sprouts which were delicious . Also shared the Thai salad with marinated beef. We ended up pouring the broth from the mussels into the Thai salad to give it some flavor and moisture as it was pretty dry. Service was a bit slow but friendly. I think they were just short staffed. Not sure. But I'll def be back. read more

My firends and I are from LA and were heading home from SD when there was a terrible accident on the 5 fwy (Nov 23, 2014) involving a motorcycle and a big rig. Unfortunately, the biker was killed. The 5 was pretty much shut for 2+ hours. Everyone was heading for exits to pee, gas, eat or whatever. My buddy Chris went to Yelp and found a heck of a review for a place called MRK PUBLIC so we sought it out. there were 4 of us and 3 of us ordered hamburgers (no, we're not boring, it's just those MoFos smelled heck a good!) and one of us order the pork belley sandwich. Only one of us ordered beer (the Imperial Indian Pale Ale). So, the burgers got a serious high five all the way round. FLAVOR FLAVOR FLAVOR! The beef was high quality, seasoned like a champ. The tomatoes were grilled (as was the beef), the bun was (Sp?) Bishio??? Fries were off da hook and the ketcchup was home make. My bill came to $14.85 after tax. That's a bargain. My firend said the Pork Belley S'which was very good as well ( i didn't try it) this place is in San Clemete. Can't remember which exit but the folks working there are really nice, fun and armed with a wicked sense of humour. We got back to LA and told all our friends. This place is the place if you like: Friendly service, Amazing Gastro-Pub food, Great prices, easy parking, damn good beer. read more

Really great little spot in San Clemente-- OC is stepping up its food game! Stopped by on a Friday around 7pm with my husband and in-laws, and there was a bit of a wait, but not too bad considering the size of the restaurant. Rotating craft beers on tap for $5. YES. The non-alcohol drink selection is meager (just a few bottled sodas to choose from), but the beer and wine list offers something for just about any adult palate. MRK | Public offers a small menu with a lot of personality. There may not be a ton of options, but it's clear that a lot of thought went into the menu. There are a few sharable plates and sides, a couple of salads and a few sandwiches/burgers. Very simple, but great execution! I got the Thai Basil Mussels, which were spicy and delicious! We also tried the House Burger, the Pork Belly Banh Mi, and the Fried Chicken Sandwich. All very flavorful and super fresh. The fries are perfect, and they come with housemade ketchup. So why only 4 stars? The waiting/ordering process is pretty awkward. You order your food at the counter, but unfortunately due to the size of the restaurant, you can't just walk right in, order, and grab a table. If it's busy, you first have to check in with the hostess, then she alerts you when you can go inside and order at the counter. The hostess is also responsible for seating you once you've ordered, so there's a lot of back and forth. I'm sure it's much less awkward when the restaurant isn't busy, but based on the food, I think this place is going to be really popular! Hopefully they can find a smoother ordering system before they get too busy. read more

My husband and I stopped here on our way to San Diego. It looked really good based off of the pictures and the reviews. Might as well give it a try! The services was good but the food was mediocre. We ordered the wings which look mouth watering but when you bite into one you taste an odd flavor and notice that they are very dry (most likely over fried). You get accustomed to the flavor but still so so. We ordered a side of ranch which also tasted weird and definitely didn't expect to see a 50 cent charge for this tiny side of ranch. We also ordered the short rib sandwich which lacked flavor. There was a horseradish sauce but it wasn't thrown on top and really needed to be near the meat which was slightly dry and flavorless. And this is where you start throwing ranch on it to give it a little moisture. Overall this place is just ok, probably won't be back. read more

Love this place!! Great food, good craft beers that change regularly, and friendly service! If you're heading south to San Diego on the 5, this is a MUST to stop and get some grog & grub! read more

Came here twice in the past week. Food is unbelievable ! We had the poke , Brussel sprouts , mussels, Thai beef salad, chicken sandwich and the pork belly sandwich. Everything was absolutely perfect and unlike I've ever had before . The flavors and amazing. There is no restaurant like MRK the casual atmosphere combined with 5 star food and great friendly service . We are hooked . Thank you to the chef Rayne ( the R in MRK) you are amazing. read more

Just not impressed. I'm not sure why our meal turned out sub par because the reviews here looked pretty good! wings- over cooked! Very chewy and extremely hot on the inside. Fries- too salty!!! But the dipping sauces were good. Kale salad- dressing not good, too much dressing Chicken bahn mi- my husband said it was "confusing". Maybe we just had a bad chef that night. The couple sitting next to us wasn't impressed either. Unfortunately, I don't think I'll give this place a second chance. read more

The pier was a nightmare last night with Non-Residence swarming in town...that finding parking was not going to happen We immediately decided to have dinner someplace else... an opportunity to try somewhere NEW MRK Public was on the list...and What a WONDERFUL find We were greeted upon our entrance and invited to choose anywhere to sit... I liked that " decision "...lol and perfectly found one outside for two left in the corner... no issues on a chilly nite with patio heaters strategically placed... Kyle approached our table and when we placed several selections... acknowledged our Great choices... never a fan of Poki anywhere... but ooohhh my YUMMY ...and what about the crispy Wings tossed in Sweet Chili sauce perfection! Everything else was even better... Thank You Chef for preparing our meal with attention read more

This place is delicious. Have had a few salads and sandwiches already. All are gourmet with a affordable prices. It is busy and a wait is standard unless you get lucky, very worth it. Save room for lemon beignets. read more

Oh my Gosh!!!!! This place is phenomenal! The Rib Sandwich was delicious. My Buddy had the Burger, and said it was the best Burger he's ever had. The Brussel Sprouts were like nothing I've ever had. They had a good selection of Craft Beers too, they were delicious as well. We will be working here for a month, so looking forward to trying more items. read more

Cute, modern place with small menu. Prefer small menu simply because each dish is impeccably done. The pork belly Banh MI had large, thick cuts of juicy, tender pork belly, accompanied with three types of sauces, a variety of fresh herbs and pickled vegetables. Absolutely amazing, however it needed a bit more sauce. They happily brought me more sauce, BUT later to find out, they charged me an extra $.50 for only an oz of it. It really should have been complimentary. My husband got the poutine and he thoroughly enjoyed it. I can't describe it because I was enjoying my sandwich so much that I didn't care to try enough of it to describe it in detail. I had one bite and it was better than other restaurants we've been to. My five year old had the chicken tenders and fries. Most chicken tenders are quite the opposite, dry. This was indeed tender and nicely done. Fries were light and thinly cut. Staff there are so friendly and nice. Overall, will come back again. Great restaurant, great experience, close to the beach, can't beat that! ...just don't charge extra for sauce :( read more

Really solid place, friendly staff, feels comfortable and the food is good. Nice selection of wines and beers. Had a burger and fries for lunch, cabs back for appetizers and wine. Appetizer was beautifully presented, lunch was carry out. Both were exceptionally delicious. Friendly staff and chefs who pride their cooking. Seating is appropriate for parties of about 6. Modern look available feel made me feel like I was back in San Diego. read more

MRK Public - Post wine and meal, very enjoyable - New American Near Me - San Clemente, California

Super legit blend of old school and new school. Interior is a very laid back. All black leather booths and a classy kids bar facing the back window. Perfectly blending San Clemente family beach town vibe with upscale American cuisine. Not so upscale you can't bring your kids but also not basic. Now onto the food. I had the short rib and fries which was solid while my wife had the calamari. The calamari was unlike anything I'd had before. Easily the best calamari salad I'd ever had. Didn't get the banana bread this time but definitely looking forward to it for our next visit! read more

This place is very delicious, best way to describe it is a gastropub. Very mellow atmosphere, good energy on the inside. My favorite is the fried mushroom burger. Really great quality fresh food and ingredients, creative interesting and delicious recipes. I have spoken to one of the owners and they are just good people and San Clemente Locals!!! Which is important! Support your fellow SC locals and support your local restaurants. it is hard to establish a lasting restaurant in this town it seems and I really hope MRK Public stays and grows with the town in a positive way. GO!! Dont think twice just do it read more

Great group of gentlemen who work here very knowledgeable of different styles of food. Their beer menu is amazing along with the food, atmosphere is very laid-back and Home like feeling. My girlfriend and I come here often now because the hospitality is so good you can literally order anything off the menu and it will be scrumptious. read more

My husband and I stopped here on our way to San Diego. I wouldn't classify this place as a Gastropub but it was a good choice to stop. They have local beers, which rotate. The food was amazing. There's a very small but well done menu, something I can appropriate; however, there are not a many vegetarian options. The patio is dog friendly! read more

the burgers here speak for themselves. For burgers the marginal improvement can only go so much. Im not much of a burger person, an In-N-Out for me hits the spot. For the price, the burger does indeed stand out. We tried the chicken sandwich and the regular burger. Both were awesome. The wings are good but they were like crunchy as I hoped. You might be able to skip it. For the price conscious folks-just focus on the burger-fries are good but nothing like wowee. read more

I'm going to preface this review by saying I hate chicken wings. I don't like chicken on the bone and I especially don't like wings. With that said, I LOVE MRK's wings. I was talked into trying one and now I have to go back for them every few months. I've tried other sticky wings since and nope, I hate them all - except the ones here. The sauce, it's BOMB. The rest of the food can stand alone as well - from the fried chicken sandwiches, to the Banh Mi, the mussels, the short ribs, burgers... I could go on and on. It's all good. read more

Very impressed!! This place is a gem!! I am a very picky eater and I can say this place checked all the boxes. The soup of the day was delicious, a creamy mushroom soup like I never had before... delicious! The wings really good texture, a little bit to sweet for my taste ( in the menu shows the caramel flavor).... I think I didn't pay attention to that when I ordered. The house salad extremely fresh and the flavor delicious . All the plates coming out of the kitchen just perfect. The guy who served us very helpful with his recommendations and very thoughtful to bring us a dipping sauce for a last minute order of fried chicken. Very unique place! I think the menu includes enough variety for all tastes. read more

This place is a gem! Really delicious food and super mellow atmosphere when we came. Friendly service, good menu, good beers on draft.The house burger with a side salad was outstanding. This place is just far enough from the hustle and bustle of the triangle. Perfect for a late lunch or early dinner. Awesome ocean view at the table in the back. read more

Who knew you could get amazing Parmesan crusted bone marrow in a tiny little gastropub in San Clemente. Great $5 craft beers to cleanse your palette. The special was a deliciously tender and flavorful beef short rib sandwich (with fries, of course). Finished it all off with the lemon and ricotta beignets, oh my, this is going to be my new favorite place! read more

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LOVE LOVE LOVE this place . Locals watering hole with excellent food and amazing service . Our go- to .

Great value for money, simple and thoughtful presentation and prep. The fried chicken sandwich is great, all elements are perfectly in balance. The hot wings have a Thai vibe going, and we're cooked perfectly with a rich spicy, sweet sauce. Simple causal environment, with friendly and casual staff. Good little list of beers and wine too. There's inside and outside seating. Probably a total of 18 tables so this is just a small neighborhood spot. read more

Great new spot soft opened last night. Working out minor kinks but hasn't gotten in the way of amazing food and great brews. Wine list not shabby either and prices are fair. Stay tuned for more this place is going to be another must visit for the community and visitors! read more

Every time I eat here I am blown away by the culinary execution, service and most importantly for me, the taste. Pork belly banh mi - ultimate favorite. I don't know how they manage to make fatty pork belly so meaty, rich and delicious but they do. I expected a fat-layered slab of pork but was served a decadently glazed, thick layer of pure, tender meat that melted when I bit into it. Tuna poke - having lived in Hawaii for 6 years I definitely miss the flavor of authentic poke (Tamashiro's had so many kine) but this hit pretty close to home. Fresh tuna, light shoyu sauce and crisp wonton all worked perfectly over a bed of greens. Roasted bone marrow: I love marrow and it's hard to improve upon something so delicious. They serve the rich unctuous marrow with a thin aged-cheese crust, along side parsley and red pepper condiments with grilled toast. The marrow was perfection. I liked the condiment sauces but honestly they muted the natural flavor of the marrow and were too strong. Easy enough to just leave them on the plate. I wanted more of this as soon as it was gone, which is a sign they are doing it right. Lemon ricotta beignets - nice. They were served warm with the lemon ricotta dip. Fried sweet anything with sauce is always a win so, yeah. My friends had an enormous fried chicken sandwich that they swear changed their life. I'll have to try it when I go back. Love the concept, love the food, love the amalgamation of classic recipes with unique twists. read more

Had really fantastic 1/2 lb burger ($10), really really delicious. Cooked perfectly, medium rare. The roasted tomatoes are a good touch to this sandwich. This burger should cost more, it was that good. Shared an Ahi Poke plate ($15). A generous portion. Fair to good, not awesome. The beer selection is definitely eclectic and unique. They have 10 taps and actually had 10 different types of beer (including a cider and a nitro tap) but they are all average tasting micros. It looks like they are making a point to sample local breweries - Societe, Laguna Beach Brewing, etc. I had the Laguna Beach Beer Greeter's Ale (only $5 for pint), I'll give that beer a 3/5. The design and set-up of the restaurant is very basic with square booths and square tables. Outdoor seating is nice. read more

Was pleasantly surprised by this restaurant. Looks like a remodeled drive in on the outside but when you walk in it has a cool SoCal vibe. My wife and I had the Vietnamese Pork belly sandwich(very good) and sweet chicken. The best part of the meal was the Lemon ricotta beignets! Took us back to New Orleans and Café DuMonde but with that SoCal twist. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Definitely a new go to place for us in San Clemente. read more

Holy **** Eat here. Thai salad w poke is off the chain. Wings fantastic. Beignets w yuzu custard. Are you kidding me? Drooling. Staff most excellent. My new favorite spot in San Clemente. read more

My husband and I enjoyed our first date night in months here and were absolutely thrilled with our choice. The staff is friendly and welcoming; the prices are fair; and the food is ridiculously good. We recommend trying the mussels, the hamburger, and pork rib sandwich exactly as prepared. My only regret is not having any room for dessert. This is a great place to go if you want gourmet food without having to get all gussied up. (Just make sure you don't go on a Tuesday--they are closed.) read more

MRK Public - New American Near Me - San Clemente, California

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I "like" MRK, but don't "love" it. I'd give it a 6.5...but have HOPE that the menu expands and I can upgrade my number to a 9. The Cons: - The menu is somewhat small/limited (especially for vegetarians) - Not many booths/seating - Situated on a loud street (El Camino Real) The Pro's: - The burgers are reported to be excellent! I've seen them and they do look tasty! - The one chicken dish (happens to be a sandwich) is ok - The service is very friendly - The atmosphere is casual - Indoor & Outdoor dining tables - Immediately off of the I-5 exit/easy freeway access read more

MRK is the best of the best for original food, made from scratch recipes. Something you can't find anywhere else in the area. Very laid back beach vibe and everything they offer is amazing. This is a place that you have to try and you'll become a regular like us. read more

Great service and delicious food. Although I'm usually against visiting restaurants close to highways, however gave this one a try and am really pleased. Try their burger, you won't regret! read more

We checked this out for the first time last night. Very cool spot. The food was really good and the prices weren't too bad. The wine was the priciest, which was $15 for a glass of average Pinot Noir. Had the wings, which were good. The short rib sandwich was by far the biggest hit. Love the micro brew collection too. Service was great and I liked that you pay at the register, including the tip so when you are finished you just leave. We will be back! read more

Nestled in the belly of south San Clemente thrives a progressive, affluent but rooted culinary masterpiece. Seated on San clementes main artery el Camino real lives this breath of fresh air. The menu is full of dishes you would expect from a Michelin star restaurant but it's here in San Clemente without reservations that take months like the French Laundry or how the Vine used to be. The menu fulfills your appetite no matter what your preferences are. Food items are paired with wine or beer. The staff is knowledgeable about the best combinations and are friendly and happy. The service isn't intrusive yet not lacking, there is no wondering where they are. They are there when you need them. We asked for a meal Togo and it was presented timely to us at the end of the meal. They offer testers of food, beer and wine as well. I don't feel like I'm at a study restaurant with a server breathing down my neck. The chef and sous chef are right there in view and the environment is warm and friendly. The portions are perfect, not to large or small although it is so good I would love extras to take home. The prices are fair. My wife had Thai mussels and it was delicious. One note to the staff. My mother used the restroom and mentioned to me the lock was broken and someone entered the restroom while she was in process of restroom activities. Please fix that read more

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This place is absolutely amazing! My wife and I were looking for a new restaurant to try and stumbled across MRK Public. It had great reviews so we decided to check it, GLAD WE DID! My wife got the burger and I had the short rib sandwich. Both of us are very plain Jane when it comes to food so we were a little skeptical with the different flavors and sauces that they use but each dish was superb! We finished off with Lemon Ricotta Beignets and yuzu curd. We just about died! These guys really have something special here. All of the employees are very laid back and extremely helpful. I also love the fact that it's locals that started it and run it! read more

Excellent food, staff & service. The soups totally rock and anytime they have a special it exceeds expectations! A definite favorite!

Stellar! This place is so great! I brought the wife and kids and we all loved it. I had the pork belly bahn mi. The pork belly was cooked perfectly and had a really nice crust. My wife had the chicken bahn mi and the kids both had burgers. Everything was excellent! The staff was very helpful and happy to talk about menu items. They have a very good craft beer selection that changes often. I highly recommend this place! read more

We just mobbed this place last night for my birthday. 12 people deep at around 6:30 on a Saturday with no reservation. Recipe for disaster right? Not at all. The hostess & servers were nothing but gracious and were more than able to accommodate our just slightly inebriated crowd. The food is delicious by the way!! Great fries, I've had many a pork belly bahn mi & theirs definitely rivals the competition. And killer beer too! Great experience overall. read more

Tried this restaurant because of the good reviews here. It's a detached building with its own parking lot. There's a covered patio in front (facing Tommy's across the street) for outdoor dining, and inside the usual booths plus a short counter with stools under a window in the back with a peek-a-boo view of the ocean. We got there a bit after 1:00 on a weekday and it wasn't crowded at all. The menu is short but interesting. As an appetizer, we split a big bowl of Thai basil mussels in a lemongrass coconut broth, served with grilled baguettes. It was fabulous. The wife and I agreed that these were about the best mussels we had eaten. The greenish broth was delicious. I soaked it up with the leftover baguettes and finally just drank what was left! After that, I had pecorino-crusted bone marrow served with what they call "salsa verde"(no relation to the Mexican variety) and roasted red bell pepper relish in bowls on the side. This was as good as it sounds. The portion is pretty small, just one longish bone, split, plus more grilled baguettes. But there's no knocking the presentation or the flavor. My wife had ahi poke, made with pickled red onions, seaweed, and scallions. She liked it very much and said it was full-flavored but very pure in taste. She also had a beer from their pretty extensive selection. Service was certainly not fast, but I'd guess they prepare each dish as the order comes in, which obviously takes some time. Nothing to try our patience, especially given the nice ambience and friendly staff. In short - we'll be back! read more