Second times the charm! Came in today Sunday for lunch while shopping with the fam and safe to say today's experience was top notch compared to our first a little while ago! The service was quick, we were seated in a timely manner and the food was so good! We sat closer to the bar and our server was on top of it! We ordered and had our food right away not even a 20 minute wait! We got the pulled pork sandwich, recommended by our server, the western burger, and the Mac and cheese for our little! It was all soooo good! The pulled pork sandwich was amazing. Happy to see this business thriving! And glad to update our review to a positive one! Today was great! Cheers! read more

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First off I do not frequent higher end restaurants very often. I wanted to take my girlfriend out for a nice dinner on my birthday, so we invited my brother and his wife. I made reservations for 4 of us for a Friday night at 5:00. We were seated in the dining area on time, however because of the time of day the sunshine that was reflected off the building across the street through the window was absolutely blinding. We moved a table back but there was no difference. I let our guests sit in the seats that were not facing this terrible reflection and just dealt with it myself. We should have actually moved completely but didn't want to make a big deal about it. This issue could be easily fixed with blinds (duh) So we ordered our food. Women ordered the ball steak (which is sirloin) my brother ordered fish and I ordered the filet. Well the ball steaks were absolutely horrible (tough as shoe leather) fish (salmon) was ok and filet was also good but undercooked plus they forgot my mashed potatoes. ($69 for a 8oz filet which was probably more like 6 oz ) you would expect much better. We pointed that out (which is quite unbelievable they forgot the potatoes) they eventually brought them on a separate plate ( they were just warm). The butter was still pretty much frozen in the little tin cup that they serve it in. So we pointed out the two ball steaks were like leather. Both of the women have ordered those before and they have been good, well not this time. For the kind of money you spend for these meals, it really is sad. They did remove the two steak dinners from the bill but that does not make it all good in my opinion. Oh yeah and 5 slices of tomato's with cheese on top ( that were not ripe ) at $18 are you serious) For one of the top restaurants in this area, they completely failed. IWaitress was very nice and apologized (like they should) but unfortunately we won't be going back. read more

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood. A beautiful day indeed because I decided to check out this local spot. They offer outside and inside seating and the decor is lovely. The staff were friendly and told me about the specials. I already knew I wanted the Steak Frites and the Mac and cheese, so I glossed over the specials but people around me ordered it and were raving about the pulled pork sandwich. My dishes were stellar to say the least. The steak was a nice juicy cut at a perfect medium and the fires were crunchy! The Mac and cheese was creamy and so perfect! I will definitely be back because I want to try the Texas Twinkie. I had leftovers for my dogs when I left and I was a happy camper. Why this isn't five stars is that they can level up their flavors. Give me the option of a peppercorn sauce for the steak, chives for the mac and cheese, etc. However, this food is amazing as is. Definitely try out the local GEM! read more

The Owl Tavern - Steak Frites and Mac and cheese. - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

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Loved the interior of the restaurant. Greeted and sat down right away. Loved all the choices on the menu. Our food was excellent! Service was a little slow. But would go back again! read more

The Owl Tavern - Chicken sandwich - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

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My goodness, what a Surprise gift. Imagining opening a Togo bowl to find the smell of Brown Butter imelted and gently cooked until the milk solids toast and separate, releasing a fragrant, nutty, and caramelized aroma that cuts right through the sweetness of the corn. Delectable. Thank you My Ed , for your kind delivery. Once again The Owl Tavern hosted dinner for my household. Yummy read more

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Went here with some friends. Food was very good. The Texas Twinkies were fun and tasty. I ordered the braised short rib special which was very satisfying. The service was friendly and stopped by often to check in with us. It has an old time miner vibe and has a very interesting history. The server told us about the haunted booth and the things that go on throughout the restaurant that can't be explained. Almost forgot... they make a great cocktail. read more

The Owl Tavern - Outside - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

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Visited March 11 2026...see my receipt as always. It was a lovely day in Grass Valley and decided to come into the Owl after a long drive. They open at 11am. I had the Texas twinkies which are filled with pork and cream cheese and then fried inside a large jalapeño. Delicious and so was the dipping sauce! I also enjoyed a glass of wine while sitting outside for a bit. Plenty of inside and outside seating. DOG FRIENDLY outside! It's a classy yet casual place with a full bar. I have been going here for several years and it has changed hands many times but this owner has it dialed in! Great relaxing time in a beautiful environment. Friendly waitress ( I think her name is Heather). Btw. They have awesome steaks! read more

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It was a beautiful day to eat outside in the shady side of the street. It took us a while to figure out what we wanted and the waitress was so kind and patient. The Wedge Salad and Texas Twinkles were delicious. Texas Twinkles were not hot, only warm. read more

The Owl Tavern - Texas Twinkies and Wedge Salad - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

We had seen this place before during our previous visit but never made it inside so we decided to stop by for lunch today. Really enjoyed the historic atmosphere throughout the place and I think everyone was pretty happy with their food. I was pleased to get those Texas Twinkies, which were a bit ridiculous, but tasted wonderful and actually were quite filling as they were packed with brisket and cheese! I heard the fried chicken sandwich was quite good and the macaroni and cheese nicely gourmeted up a bit. Our server was friendly and helpful in selecting our menu choices. This was a fun place for lunch and we definitely enjoyed our time here and would return on our next visit to grass Valley. read more

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We came in on a Friday around midday, and the restaurant wasn't very busy, which was nice. There seemed to be quite a few staff members around, but many were sitting and chatting with each other, so it took surprisingly long for someone to notice me waiting at the host stand. Since the sign specifically says to wait to be seated, I wasn't sure whether I should approach someone or continue waiting. Once I was noticed, I was seated quickly. I was waiting for the rest of my party, and they brought menus and poured water, but no one really checked in or spoke to me again until a little while after the rest of my party arrived. Our server was kind, but overall the staff seemed a little more preoccupied with each other than with the guests. That being said, the food was INCREDIBLE and absolutely made up for it! The mac and cheese was delicious, and my sandwich was such a perfect combination of savory meat and cheese with the sweetness of the caramelized onion jam. So, so good. The service could definitely be a little more attentive, especially when it isn't busy, but we would absolutely come back for the food. I'd definitely recommend giving them a try! read more

The Owl Tavern - Not Yo Mamas Grilled Cheese, onion rings and "small bites" Mac n cheese - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

Oohhh I did not realize this spot excited and glad I stumbled upon it. Delicious. I was craving red meat and of course got the steak frites. I got it with truffle fries. I'm pretty sure the steak was supposed to be 8oz. Idk if it's been a long time since I've seen 8 ounces because that steak looked massive. And the amount of fries was just as insane as well. Am not complaining because it was all so delicious. I asked for a side of the aioli that comes with the truffles and the chimichurri aioli (that one was meh). To drink I had a Shirley Temple. Service was great. Love the ambiance. I looked at the dessert menu and everything is made in house. I'm so mad for eating so much of the main course because I want ALL THE DESSERTS. Will definitely be back. read more

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The French Onion Soup is my favorite. I have had a few specials that were really good as well as the prime rib dip. Service has been friendly. Love the history and ambiance. read more

The food was delicious and the decor was fun. I actually learned about this restaurant from a romance novel by Alison Parker and it sounded so good, we tried it the next time we were in the area. I was not disappointed! read more

I had one of the most amazing meals this afternoon with my family for my mothers birthday! Great staff experience with a wide variety of craft drinks and excellent food. The environment is low key and low light with a unique atmosphere that we thoroughly enjoyed. I will absolutely be dining here again read more

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What a fun historical location with AMAZING food! While it is a smaller setting, the place was hopping! The service was fast and classy. The food was superior. I had the pork chop and it was the best I have ever had. If you are looking for a fun date night destination, this is it! read more

Dine into the past. From the moment you walk in, you are welcomed by the friendly staff. The food is excellent and there was a variety of menu choices to please our party of 4: From filet mignon to salmon to prime rib dip to portobello mushroom entrees accompanied by a choice of 2 sides with each entree. We were all happy with our selections. We were pleasantly surprised with the unique appetizer of Texas Twinkies. The presentation in shot glasses with individual servings for 3 people was fun. The Billy Blue Bread was our only disappointment. There's ample free parking in the back, and check out the Del Oro Theatre when you're in the vicinity. The tavern is located in a pedestrian promenade with many interesting shops. Enjoy! read more

The Owl Tavern - Texas Twinkies appetizers - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

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Food is great & service is very good. Bartender does not know how to make a Mai Tai. I believe it was a female. Not a rocks glass but a Collins glass. 1 Oz light rum, 1/2 oz Creme de Almond, 1/2 oz Triple Sec, equal parts sweet & sour and pineapple juice. Float 1/2 oz dark rum. Garnish is a flag. Look it up. Study up on exotic drinks please. My son is a Bartender and I should have sent it back. read more

Came in for a night time cocktail. We're seated at the bar table and a young man brought us some water. After that we waited for 10 minutes and no one came to take our drink order, mind you the bar wasn't that crowded. Wait staff walked past us several time until I stopped one young lady and asked if she could take our order which she did. It wasn't a very comfortable atmosphere as the girls staff were spending more time talking with friends than serving customers. I have eaten here before and the food was great. The bar area at night needs a bit of attention. read more

Enjoy the atmosphere and the bartenders make some really yummy drinks. I've had a couple appetizers from their Menu that are really good. GarlIc Fries, Mac w/ Cheese. Stop and visit The Owl Tavern next time in town. read more

The Owl Tavern - Bartenders at the Owl Tavern in Grass Valley, Ca - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

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The food and service is great. I really enjoy coming here food drinks and appetizers are all very good. Photos from 2 different visits. read more

The Owl Tavern - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

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Our first time here and we can't wait to go back!!! Their food was fresh and delicious!!!! Loved Thier Onion Soup!! Wow!!! A 10 for sure!!! Also had Thier wedge salad with a side of chicken. Oh and a virgin Bloody Mary!!! My in laws had their prime rib sandwich and they also loved it!! YUM!!!! read more

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The rib eye is as one of the best I've had in years. All the cocktails as well. Friday night, the staff really helped us along on the menu. We like the vibe as well. Desert was amazing!!!! . Makaela was very helpful and the bar manager. read more

Stopped by Owl Tavern for a lunch and espresso martini(s) following a good hike. Espresso martinis tend to be made differently by different bartenders. In fact, this was the 4th establishment where I had espresso martini in the week visiting Nevada Co., including at the 2 famous hotels. BY FAR, best espresso martinis made by Ryan at Owl Tavern!! Thank you Ryan! And thank you Laura, my server, for keeping an eye on me. Food and ambience were just as wonderful with rock from the late 70's and 80's, playing in the background. I recommend Owl Tavern for a bite to eat, an afternoon cocktail, or both! Cheers! read more

Let's think what do I not like about this restaurant? Atmosphere? No service? No greeting when you walk in? No. Ok, it is perfect. But what I love the most is the chef. The salmon was cooked to perfection. But before you take your first bite is looks awesome. See pic.. read more

The Owl Tavern - Salmon with rice. - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

unique food in unique atmosphere. worth a meal, if you can find parking... i have taken my family and my dates there for decades. food to dye for... read more

Went here on a recommendation from a friend who lives in town, did not disappoint ! It was a Sunday night so not much was open anyway but this place had plenty of seating ( larger than it looks from the street ), good parking ( or in our case walking distance from our hotel ) and delicious food. Service was fast and friendly Con : lots of flies in the entry way / end of bar if the door is open which happens with the small foyer . But otherwise great experience . read more

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It wasn't as good as before. And just Maybe it was that we were parked in the middle row with waiters running past us constantly Wasn't a good time. read more

We stopped for cocktails and oysters. Was delicious. Servers were on it and very helpful. Next time in the area we will be back

Everything about The Owl Tavern is terrific!! Paul, our fabulous server, knew all about each item on the menu. I didn't realize that the steak they serve is Wagyu and being a foodie I knew that would be great over my Caesar Salad. What a treat. The booth was perfect for the three of us. It is hard to decide what to choose on the menu because all their sandwiches are beyond yummy. I will be going back and maybe next time for dinner(and have their great steak) or for lunch again. Ask for Paul. He's the best. You will be delighted with everything. read more

We had a great time at the Owl Tavern in Grass Valley on Saturday. It was our first time there. The drinks were fantastic.... Espresso martini & Vodka St Germain spritzer. Food was D-lish!... Prime rib dip and a wedge salad. And dessert was creative... Pistachio Tira Misu. But best of all was our server Macaela W. Happy... friendly...very efficient. Thanks for the great evening Macaela! read more

My sons took me out to dinner for Father's Day. my eldest son and I both had the same thing, the New York steak with mashed potatoes and fries. we went with the New York, because there was no way I was going to pay $125 for a porterhouse steak! I asked for my steak well done and my some asked for his medium well. when they arrived my steak was half the size of my sons, and still pink in the middle. add to that the small handful of fries and the ice cream scoop of mashed potatoes. the place was extremely loud and we couldn't even have a decent conversation in there either! the service was slow and while we all got diet cokes, and they brought us a pitcher, it was very watered down. So WAY overpriced, for barely average quality food. will not be going back again, for sure! read more

Very cool historic decor, sort of speakeasy/saloon vibe. Food was tasty. The sourdough was piping hot with delicious orange blossom butter. The salad was picture perfect and unfortunately I don't have a picture for you...we dug in before I got the shot! Truffle fries were crispy with lots of Parmesan. White linen cocktail was light and refreshing. The maple infused old fashioned was reviewed as voted one of the best (and these two are in the know!). Service was friendly (if a bit slow, but the place was busy, so you know it's good!) and we are very thankful for their checking with the kitchen about our food allergies. read more

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We stopped in for some warmth, drinks and maybe a small bite to eat during the Cornish Christmas celebration. There were 4 of us and 3 of us sat at the bar while the 4th one in our party stood (not an issue). Bartenders were friendly enough but super busy and it took longer to get 2nd rounds. We ordered some truffle fries which were not very good (they were like In N Out fries and bland). We decided to go elsewhere for dinner and it took a while to get our tab. They also added a 3% credit card surcharge. Its probably not a place i would go back to but I can chalk up the longer wait times to the busy time of night. read more

We stopped at the owl tavern for appetizers and drinks. We ordered the artichoke special which was mediocre with a heavily mayo based sauce. The Texas Twinkie's were an absolute hit! They were flavorful and tender. Our drinks were lovely. This restaurant has a high charm atmosphere and high quality food. It was nice to sit on the patio and enjoy nearby live music and delicious food and drinks. read more

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I was excited to have this place as our final nights visit in Grass Valley as over the last few nights we have tried a few places in Nevada City. We came up for a guys weekend with my Father and my son. Spent some time at the Yuba and took in the town as we lived here long ago when I was my son's age. That said, it was busy, Sunday night, so no surprise there. We were able to get sat at a high top in the bar. Our server was great! She was able to help my dad navigate the menu and help some of his dietary restrictions and all was well with his meal. My son's meal was to be expected for the outlandish Chicken Strips and fries that every 12yo., eats. Where things fell short was my dish... It being Sunday night, they have a prime rib special however, by the time we got there and sat, they were sold out. I suspect that means it must be very good. I decided to get the "Marinated" Baseball Cut Top Sirloin and went with their Garlic Mashed and Rice Pilaf. I have to be honest. When the garlic mashed (average) is the star of the show... The meat was cooked to temperature as requested, medium rare. However, there was absolutely ZERO flavor whatsoever. No "marinade" , no seasoning, not even salt. Even just the flavor of the meat was absolutely absent. The rice pilaf- I get it, Grass Valley isn't far from San Fransisco because they were using San Fransisco's treat .... Maybe the main chef is out tonight because all of the flavor in the food certainly was. Overall experience though, fun environment, cool bar set up, our server was great. I'd probably look for something else on the menu where the ingredients naturally force more flavor in the meal rather than relying on how well your cut is prepared by the chef or the quality of the meat. The menu does have some good looking sandwiches and from what I so others eating- I think if I were to come back, I would stick to those. read more

Beautiful historic ambiance, friendly staff and delicious food. They were extremely busy so a little bit of slow service was to be expected. Overall really enjoyed our meals! read more

Apparently, this place just opened and I am hugely impressed! This is our first trip to Grass Valley and this place looked good, but we were surprised how good! Since we didn't have reservations, we sat at the bar and watched Luke work his magic. Besides the best Old Fashioned I have ever had, Deb was knocked out by the Dark Manhattan. Neither of us was very hungry, so we stuck with appetizers which turned out to be a real treat! The Texas Twinkies were outstanding, definitely recommend! The place itself is well preserved/restored in showing it's heritage and the wait staff seemed well trained, pleasant and happy to be there, as were we! We'll be back! read more

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Replying to owner ... there were six of us and no we all weren't intoxicated. And the food was horrible so no thank you.

Went back! The bbq plate is insane. This is my favorite place when I visit Nevada city. Our waitress was super friendly again. I think the owner came by and got us all a drink for a mess up. The place felt clean and has the same charm it had when we first came. Thanks Owl! read more

The Owl Tavern - Bbq plate - Steakhouses Near Me - Grass Valley, California

The Owl exceeded expectations tonight. We thankfully had a reservation, it was busy. Despite how busy it was, we received timely, professional, and attentive service. I was nervous about getting a ribeye because my spouse makes incredible ribeyes at home, so we ordered the Wagyu NY Strip special and it was perfection! They have bottles of Gray Pine Merlot which is like a warm hug to your steak. I don't think you can get it anywhere else, it's the only merlot I've ever liked. It's so nice to see The Owl thriving, providing great service, and food. Keep it up! Love the wallpaper! read more