Buckhorn Steakhouse — Restaurant in Winters

I wanted to treat my father-in-law to a great steak at the Buckhorn for his birthday where I have dined many times in the past. I made a reservation for 5 people, which included one 2 year old toddler. Later that day after some close friends said they would like to join us, I called back and spoke with the same person who helped me before (Ester) to change the reservation to 7 people. I was assured that the party size had been changed and there was no problem keeping the same time.

When we arrived on time the hostess said the reservation was only for 5 people and that we could have the table for 5 people or we would have to wait for a table large enough to accommodate the larger group. Obviously the reservation had not been changed despite assurances three days before to the contrary. After having driven for an hour to get to Winters, I was hopeful we could still have a good evening, so I kindly requested the table for 7 as I had reserved.

After an additional hour wait in the bar we were finally shown to a table. Apparently we were treated as walk-in guests without a reservation. During the wait no one checked on us to see how we were doing, to take a drink order, or to even apologize for the mistake in not changing the reservation when I called. During the wait I noticed that the staff looked stressed, and not one staff member greeted us or so much as smiled as they rushed by.

The bright spot of the evening was our server who was attentive and hard working. I realize the server had nothing to do with the reservation, so he was treated to a generous tip despite his co-worker's oversights. The experience, however, was disappointing and frustrating.

As to the food, the steak was good, although over cooked. The mashed potatoes were poorly made and had a rancid flavor. I hesitated returning anything for fear that we would be stuck waiting for food even longer.

There are problems with management at this iconic restaurant which appears to be in decline. This is my second visit in a row where I left disappointed in the service that I had previously thought was excellent. While I hoped my prior bad experience was a fluke, I am noticing a pattern of poor service and a lack of appreciation for customers, many of whom travel significant distances to Winters. I hope the management can turn things around before they ruin the reputation of this...

Worst customer service for such a staple in Winters... we arrived for our reservation which we made days in advanced and asked to be seated inside. Upon arrival we were told that they had no tables available but that she would get us seated as soon as possible. We then were called and told that she already pre assigned tables and that we would have to sit out side because she wasn't going to rearrange the seating chart. I'm so sorry but we asked for indoor seating along with our reservation so I don't understand the disconnect. I then reminded her that we requested indoor seating and that a couple just walked out from an indoor spot she again said oh well I won't be changing the seating. I then stated we would find somewhere else to eat and walked away and the hose began pointing and loudly stating did you hear that he was mad we didn't put them inside.. and the manager told her to stand her ground and it didn't matter what request was made on our reservation.. Are we kidding?!??! I have a skin condition where I can't sit on your unshaded street to enjoy my dinner I apologize if You can't accommodate your guests even after two days ago the hostess stayed she would ensure our table was inside.... Avoid this place at all cost.

In regards to the response: No one ever told us that it would be an outdoor reservation for Saturday and in-fact confirmed that it would be indoors. We originally called to see if there was any availability for Friday evening and were told that for Friday evening the only thing you had was outdoors. We declined the outdoor option which is why we decided to go for a Saturday reservation since she confirmed it would be indoors.

Everyone is experiencing the limited use of their business so this is a poor excuse for your staffs rude behavior especially the pointing and clicking of her fingernails. This behavior is obviously learned from the top down based...

The Buckhorn is an excellent steakhouse in Winters, CA. They have the best bread ever. Very, very good steak and prime rib! The BUCKHORN offers the best in steaks. They bake their own loaves of bread right there. The bread is simply divine. There is a full bar where some patrons wait and also an outside seating area. Reservations are definitely recommend for busy times. A reservation here does not save your spot if you are late though, so make it by your appointed time. You typically spend between 1-2 hours here. Birthdays are frequently celebrated here and they offer a complimentary piece of ice cream coffee cake that is enough for 6 to share. You can call ahead and order a balloon if you desire. They tell you the cost. The steaks, chicken, fish, NE clam chowder and bread are excellent. In fact, everything is great. We are here just this evening and someone was having difficulty choosing between two excellent soups. The waiter offered to bring out a cup of each type instead of a bowl of one type! Unfortunately the bread and soup/salads are so delicious that we often end up taking our main meal home but it’s excellent the next day too! The ambience is unique with stuffed heads of various animals hanging on the walls. There are 2 big dining rooms and booths are available as well as tables. The waiters and waitresses are all very knowledgeable and friendly. You will get great service here. If you encounter a rare problem, simply contact the manager and they will make it right! HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE BUCKHORN! You will not be disappointed! They don’t have their own parking lot but there is street parking and a lot across the street. It is very handicapped convenient except the Women’s restroom door is very heavy! (Can’t comment on the Men’s!). If my review is helpful please leave me a thumbs up! Thank...