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Best Californian Restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

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5 restaurants available nearby

A photo of First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1200)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Solvang
Booked 8 times today
First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn in Solvang delights diners with its exemplary Modern European cuisine, earning a Michelin Plate designation in 2022 for its culinary excellence. With a focus on seasonally-inspired dishes using local and organic ingredients, each meal is a masterpiece of flavor and creativity. Guests rave about their dining experiences, noting the "wonderfully memorable" five-course option with wine pairing and the "absolutely delicious" three-course meals. The restaurant’s ambiance, combined with "impeccable" service, ensures a dining experience that is as delightful as it is unforgettable. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a gourmet outing, First & Oak promises a memorable Modern European culinary journey.
A photo of Nella Kitchen and Bar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1063)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 22 times today
Nella Kitchen and Bar, nestled in the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley of Los Olivos, is a culinary gem that epitomizes the essence of modern Californian cuisine. Since its opening in August 2020, Nella has captivated diners with its innovative approach to Californian flavors, particularly through its signature Roman Pinsas. Guests rave about the "light and airy" texture of these unique dishes, with a standout being the sausage and potato pinsa that has been described as a must-try. The restaurant's commitment to quality is echoed in glowing reviews, noting dishes like the truffle pizza and fresh pasta with pesto as "delicious and filling." The ambiance, described as "modern and delightful," complements the excellent service provided by attentive staff, making Nella not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience. As patrons put it, "Always one of our favorites," Nella Kitchen and Bar is truly a cornerstone of Californian dining in Los Olivos.
A photo of Willows at Chumash Casino restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1504)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 25 times today
Nestled in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley, Willows at Chumash Casino is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, boasting a 14-time AAA Four Diamond Award-winning dining experience. Patrons rave about its "mouthwatering prime steaks and beautifully cooked seafood," paired with an "extensive selection of local and imported wines" from its Wine Spectator Award-winning list. The ambiance is described as "exquisite," perfect for savoring dishes that are "delicious and beautifully arranged." Notable for its robust flavors and impeccable service, it's no wonder guests recommend Willows for a memorable dining experience, emphasizing that it's "definitely worth every dollar." Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful meal, Willows stands out as a premier choice in Contemporary American dining.
A photo of Pony Cocktails + Kitchen restaurant
5.0
Exceptional(4)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Ynez
Restauranteur & Mixologist Battaglini Alberto redesigned the Cafe' style dining into something unique, elevated yet comfortable.Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner this hybrid Cafe/Cocktail Bar Restaurant integrate the Santa Ynez Valley style with modern comfort style food and unrealistic Cocktails.Situated in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley and, with Chef Jonny McDermott on the helm of the kitchen, Pony COCKTAILS + KITCHEN has a comfortable yet upscale feeling with a super friendly approach to food reflecting globally inspired dishes and fresh farm produces.
A photo of Petros Restaurant at Petros Winery restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(950)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Los Olivos
Booked 14 times today
Petros Restaurant at Petros Winery in Los Olivos is a culinary gem where California cuisine meets the finest Greek elements. Guests rave about the authentic Californian flair, praising dishes like the "Greek Cesar with salmon" and "Hearty salad with chicken," which showcase the freshest organic vegetables from local farms. The ambiance is described as "peaceful and beautiful," perfect for enjoying meals prepared with imported Greek ingredients like olive oil and feta, blended seamlessly with California's vibrant produce and wines. Reviewers consistently highlight the "excellent food, great prices, and fabulous service," making Petros a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of California's culinary excellence.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Steve
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    Everything was delicious at willows. I had the double pork chop, which was big and cooked perfectly. It came with broccolini and mashed potatoes. My wife had a grilled artichoke (best she’s ever had) and crab cakes. Chris was an excellent server.
    More info
    Willows at Chumash CasinoPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.7
  • Darcyvip
    Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •22 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    One of my absolute favorite placed in Santa Barbara! If you care about what ingredients you put into your body this is the place for you! Homemade breads, dressings, sauces. Locally sourced. All the dishes are truly unique and special. They change the menu so currently my favorites are the Hamburger, lamb dish, persimmon salad. I do miss their smashed crispy potatoes so I DO HOPE they bring those back!!
    More info
    BarbareñoPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • Margaret
    San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    I went with my girlfriend for a quiet lunch. We had a lot to discuss. The food was very good, but our server was a real motor mouth. Very pleasant, but he went on and on. He was very sweet, but was not picking up our cues to move on. He kept suggesting that he sit down and join us. A little much to say the least. Someone should gently remind him why he’s there.
    More info
    Nella Kitchen and BarPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.7
  • Kimberly
    California Central Coast •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 10, 2024
    I was extremely impressed they were able to customize my menu to be vegan without sacrificing the flavor. Absolutely incredible experience and will be returning!
    More info
    First & Oak at the Mirabelle InnPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Solvang
    4.7
  • TheFoodCritic
    California Central Coast •27 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Aug 20, 2022
    We shared a caesar salad and requested a few anchovies as the dressing doesn't have anchovies in it. They served several white anchovies which I hadn't tasted before. The salad is a terrific choice and the white anchovies are very mild and not as salty as the usual anchovies I've had. We shared the flatbread which is the best I've ever had. I ordered the chicken cacciatore which we took home as I ate all of the flatbread. My wife had the carnitas tacos which were excellent as well. Not many people have caught on to the dinner offered Wednesday through Friday. It is really wonderful.
    More info
    Pony Cocktails + KitchenPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Ynez
    5

Discover best Californian restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

Explore the heart of Californian cuisine in the scenic Santa Ynez Valley, where the dining scene reflects a blend of local flavors and innovative culinary techniques. Our curated selection of restaurants in this location brings you the essence of Californian hospitality, characterized by fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and creative menus that cater to a variety of tastes. Each restaurant in the Santa Ynez Valley offers a unique atmosphere, from casual and cozy settings to elegant dining experiences, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Patrons can expect exceptional service and a memorable culinary journey, with offerings that highlight the best of California’s abundant produce and wine. Whether you’re in the mood for sophisticated seafood dishes, prime steaks, or inventive plant-based options, the restaurants here promise an enriching dining experience. Embrace the charm and culinary excellence of California's Central Coast, a true paradise for food lovers seeking quality and authenticity in every meal.

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