Temecula Stampede — Restaurant in Temecula

I wish I could give them 0 stars but a 1 star is the lowest review possible. I never write reviews, but this was probably the worst experience l've ever had in hospitality. This place is completely discriminatory, particularly towards Hispanics. I would even go as far as to call them racists. All of their staff was Caucasian, expect for one African American security guard. The night started when my wife and I decided to go there after our wedding with some of our guests. Once we arrived, they immediately denied us entry because they claimed my wife was "too intoxicated" and that "have higher standards at this establishment". This wasn't based on anything other than his opinion. My wife wasn't stumbling, slurring her words, or showing any sign of intoxication. I informed him that we are coming from our wedding and of course she has a few drinks but she wasn't drunk. She started getting snooty and l asked to speak to his manager. Once I explained the situation to the security manager, he even gave his employee a look like "come on dude, it's their wedding night" and he let us in if we promised not to consume alcohol.

Within 5 minutes of us entering, they escorted one of our guests out for "being aggressive". However, there was no aggression present. My cousin had paid for the mechanical bull ride, signed the waiver, and as soon as he got on the bull, the employee told him to get off and start the process all over again. He explained that he already paid and filled out the waiver and she said "I didn't tell you to get on". After a few snarky comments, my cousin finally said something back and she had 3 security guards escort him out for being "aggressive". My cousin is a gay Mexican man weighing 120 pounds and is no way aggressive. This was about control.

l asked to speak to the manager to find a middle ground and he was the worst of the lot. This manager was different from the security manager. This guy is also Caucasian, about 6'2", tattooed sleeves, and for lack of a better word, douchey attitude. When I asked why was he kicked out and if there was any middle ground we can find, he just smiled and said "I've never had any issues with this employee before and I'm not taking your cousins word over hers". I said "that's completely understandable as a manager, but that's only one side of the story. I've known my cousin longer than you've known your employee and I know he's not aggressive, so I in turn can't take her story over my cousins". His response was "you're being argumentative so guess what, you're kicked out too". I then said "it's our wedding day, and we brought 20 people to spend money and line dance here. Can't there be any middle ground?" He responded with "kick rocks". That's when I understood that he's the ring leader and why all other employees were acting the way they do. They think they can talk to guests however they want and kick you out if you call them out on their poor service.

Since they kicked us out, all of our guests went to another bar down the street only to find out that manager called the surrounding bars telling them "don't let the bridal party in". We found this out when we arrived to next bar. Their security asked "are you the bridal party?" I said "yes" and he told us that the stampede manager called them to block our entry. But he said no way and let was kind enough to stay open after hours just for us.

So to the smart ass manager at Stampede, looks like the...

My recent experience at Stampede was frustrating due to a lack of professional staff and poor management.

After waiting in line for the mechanical bull for over 20 minutes (with the person in front of me waiting even longer), a staff member returned but helped a couple who had just arrived. When I brought this to her attention, she was unhelpful and rude. When a manager and security got involved, they refused to check the timestamps on our completed waivers, claiming they weren't valid because a staff member wasn't present when they were filled out. This was illogical, as the timestamps still proved we were there first.

Both the manager and security seemed uninterested in resolving the issue fairly or honoring the time we had waited. They dismissed my concerns and showed no willingness to find a reasonable solution. It was a disheartening display of poor customer service. After walking away from the situation, I was thanked by the girl who was in front of me for speaking up for her, and was also told by other witnesses that I had their support in the situation.

I ended up leaving without riding the bull, as I didn't want to support a business that treats its patrons this way. It's a shame, as the female staff at the entrance were very kind and professional, and most of your other staff are great.

I am willing to speak with higher leadership to discuss this situation further and will adjust my review based on their response

Update 9/14/25: Stampede did not respond to BBB regarding a request to be contacted and hear me out. No contact attempts were made by admin or staff, it's unfortunate to see a lack of effort on their side to resolve customer concerns.

Update 10/1/25: Stampede’s BBB reply claims my review is “inaccurate” but doesn’t address skipping me and the other guest after a 20+ minute wait, ignoring timestamps, or dismissive staff/managers. Witnesses backed me, yet I left without riding. As a regular who loves line dancing, I’m disappointed. I’ve requested an email from leadership (rather than a statement from the staff member(s) involved, as this was their response on BBB) by 10/7/25 to fix this—I hope...

The Temecula Stampede is the ultimate destination for anyone seeking an authentic country western experience. It's not just a venue; it's the heart of country dancing, exciting concerts, and all-around fun in Temecula. With its mechanical bull, multiple expansive bars, a variety of games and pool tables, and the largest dance floor I've encountered in California, it's a place of non-stop entertainment.

Additionally, the Stampede plays a pivotal role in the local music scene, hosting the annual Old Town Music Festival, featuring nationally acclaimed artists. This event alone is a testament to the vibrant atmosphere and quality entertainment they provide.

For those planning a visit, I highly recommend checking their website to stay updated on the array of weekend concerts and events. The energy and ambiance at the Stampede are simply electrifying. Plus, their country-themed shop is a gem, offering the perfect attire for your weekend adventures, be it a stylish dress or a classic cowboy hat.

Moreover, what truly sets the Temecula Stampede apart is its welcoming atmosphere to people of all races and backgrounds. As a Latina, I felt immediately embraced by the inclusive and friendly environment—and I brought my Lebanese and German friends! The staff and fellow patrons make it a point to ensure everyone, regardless of their heritage, feels at home. This level of inclusivity enhances the overall experience, making it a place where diversity is celebrated and everyone can enjoy the spirit of country western culture together. Whether you're there to dance, enjoy the music, or just soak in the ambiance, the Temecula Stampede is a shining example of community and unity in diversity. ¡Vamos a Bailar!!

Whether you're a local or just passing through Temecula, the Temecula Stampede is a must-visit for a memorable and...