Burly's California Bistro

1219 N Carpenter Rd suite 5, Modesto, CA 95351, United States
+1 209-312-9400
$$$ Bistro , American restaurant , Charcuterie , Hamburger restaurant , Pasta shop , Restaurant , Seafood restaurant , Steak house , Wine bar
(196 Reviews)

Burly's California Bistro is a full-service restaurant in Modesto that brings together a varied American menu with a straightforward, no-frills dining atmosphere. Located inside a modest strip center on Carpenter Road, it has the feel of a neighborhood spot where locals come for reliable, hearty meals rather than for ambiance or trendiness.

The setting leans toward practicality with simple decor and lighting rather than eye-catching design, making it a comfortable spot for casual lunches or laid-back dinners with family and friends. The restaurant seems best suited for anyone looking to enjoy classic American bistro offerings ranging from steak and seafood to charcuterie and hearty burgers.

The menu highlights a selection of solid American staples prepared with care—think French Dip sandwiches, grilled Atlantic salmon, various peppercorn steaks, and a notable filet mignon. Portions here lean generous, fitting a hearty appetite rather than a light fare approach. The kitchen shows attention to detail with dishes like herb-roasted mushrooms and blue cheese potato gratin accompanying steak options, while the seafood selections include crispy calamari and Cioppino, adding some coastal flavor. There is enough variety to suit both meat lovers and those seeking something lighter, such as the Burly’s garden salad or cheese boards paired with local and imported wines.

Service receives consistent mentions for being warm and attentive, providing a welcoming feeling without pretense. The staff can make first-time guests feel at ease, which complements the straightforward charm of the venue. The pace of service appears well-managed, even for larger groups, with all dishes arriving fresh and timely.

Burly’s works well for casual gatherings—whether a birthday dinner, a meal with family, or a relaxed catch-up with friends. The kitchen’s focus on flavor and solid execution means it’s not necessarily a place for elaborate presentations but good quality comfort food done well.

Parking and visibility might present minor challenges since the bistro is tucked into a strip mall with limited spaces and subtle street presence. This makes it a spot more likely frequented by those familiar with the area than drive-by diners.

Best times to visit: Early dinner hours from 4 pm onward, especially on Thursdays when prime rib is served, seem ideal for experiencing some of their specialty cuts. Lunch is also an option, though a narrower menu applies. Weekday visits might offer a quieter experience, while weekend evenings could bring in local groups celebrating special occasions.

Who will enjoy Burly’s most: Anyone craving traditional American bistro fare with an emphasis on steaks and seafood in a low-key environment. It’s a spot for those who prioritize amiable service and filling portions over flashy interiors. Families with kids will appreciate the approachable kids’ menu options like mini corn dogs and mac & cheese, making it a casual family-friendly choice.

Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Serves great dessert
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves healthy options
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Best for
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Saturday

05:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

196 Reviews
Kayla T

03 Jan 2026

Appetizer was very good, food was also pretty good. The pasta sauce had an excellent taste but my steak was slightly overcooked for how I ordered it and the gravy was just alright to me. But overall enjoyed it. The atmosphere (walls, decor, lighting) were pretty bland but the food on its own was good.

M.Y. Salyer

31 Dec 2025

What a hidden gem! This charming little bistro is anything but pretentious—think cozy, welcoming, and tucked-away local favorite rather than anything stuffy or upscale. We absolutely love it here! The herb-crusted chicken is out of this world, but it’s the warm, attentive service that truly sets this place apart. Whether you’re grabbing lunch with a friend or enjoying a relaxed dinner with family, this spot hits all the right notes. If you’re in Modesto, do yourself a favor and check it out—you won’t be disappointed!

Gabriela Cadena

27 Dec 2025

Loved the beer! Would return for beer and cheese board. The peppercorn steak was liked by my husband who rated it a 5, while i gave it a 3.5. The portions are great. Pro tip, the dinner menu starts at 4 so we missed the lunch menu by a few minutes. It's inside a little strip center so not very visible from the street. Seems like not a lot of parking available.lovely mural.

Rose Rose

09 Dec 2025

Our food including our calamari appetizer was all so tastey . Alexandria was so nice and helpful a great first time there. We will be back! I will always bring someone new.

Brent Jackson

15 Nov 2025

Can't say enough good things about this place Burley's Bistro. Went here for my Birthday dinner. The food was amazing we had appetizers, cheese board, Brussel sprouts, lamb meatballs, almond crusted chicken skewers. All of it was absolutely delicious. We had 18-20 people all of our food came out at the same time it was all hot fresh and delicious. We tried several different entrees and everyone loved what they ordered. They severed the kids first as they should have. Service wow I really want to express how wonderful our service was. These days you just can't find good service anywhere and to find exceptional service anywhere is unheard of. Well this place checked all the boxes of exceptional service. No one in my group had been there before with the exception of my son and every single person said they would be back. Excellent Food excellent service if you haven't tried Burley's Bistro you are missing out.

Robert Oxley

14 Oct 2025

Food was delicious!! The wait staff was very friendly, they were there when you needed them but I never felt rushed or interrupted while enjoying time with my family. The atmosphere is laid back, with hometown vibe. The brownie with ice cream on top was phenomenal and fresh.

American Angler

28 Sep 2025

It's time to celebrate! And....Burly's California Bistro is the spot to be in for such an occasion. I was in Modesto to see an old friend, and once I was finished visiting I decided to head straight to Burly's Bistro because they're the best in Modesto, and right there on the corner of Marlow Ave and Springfield Street there was a dude selling 4 month old Porcupines, he had a tent set up up right on the sidewalk! Well...I have a Porcupine, Walter's his name and he's about the loneliest 2 year old Porcupine there is! So, I rip into a parking spot, and pick up the cutest little heifer Porcupine in the bunch...just for Walter! And...Celebrated with a filet mignon cooked perfectly, and just as I asked! 5 stars for sure

Antenette Jermanon

25 Sep 2025

Best calamari, served locally (ever). I ordered their salmon dish; it was very tasty served with the rice and a gravy....mmm. yum. Service was very attentive. I'm definitely coming back. Hubby and I had a nice date night. It's a nice place not too fancy and nice enough to know this is a great date.

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