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Best Italian Restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

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4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of SY Kitchen restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3807)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 41 times today
Nestled in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley, SY Kitchen offers a delightful escape with its authentic Italian cuisine that truly stands out. Diners rave about the "superb oxtail pasta" and the "homemade pappardelle with mushrooms," highlighting the freshness and creativity of the dishes. The "black truffle pizza," often a special, is praised for its generous truffle topping, embodying the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The ambiance is described as "cozy and chic," providing a perfect setting for a memorable meal. As one reviewer put it, the food and service at SY Kitchen are "as good as Italy," making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian fare in Santa Ynez.
A photo of Nella Kitchen and Bar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1063)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • 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 Pony Cocktails + Kitchen restaurant
5.0
Exceptional(4)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • 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 Leonardo Ristorante & Pizzeria restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1361)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Solvang
Booked 20 times today
Discover the charm of authentic Italian pizzeria cuisine at Leonardo Ristorante & Pizzeria in the heart of Solvang. Known for its exceptional culinary delights, Leonardo's has become a beacon for pizza aficionados. Guests rave about the "amazing, authentic Italian food" and the margarita pizza that stands out with its perfect crust and delightful toppings. The restaurant prides itself on crafting pizzas that are both traditional and innovative, ensuring each dish celebrates the rich flavors of Italy. Whether it's your first visit or you're a returning patron, Leonardo’s pizzeria offers a consistently outstanding experience that makes every meal memorable. Join us for a slice of Italy in the beautiful setting of Solvang!

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Fredvip
    Los Angeles •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We make it a point to visit SY Kitchen every time we’re in Santa Ynez. While most of our experiences have been enjoyable, our most recent visit on November 19th—coincidentally our 42nd anniversary—was truly exceptional. I savored one of the best vodka martinis I’ve had in years at the bar. The service was outstanding, with our server demonstrating professionalism, attentiveness, and a friendly demeanor. Each course was timed perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience. The food was exemplary, and the manager went above and beyond by checking on us three times to ensure everything met our expectations. It does leave us wondering, though—why is Nella Kitchen, under the same ownership, such a stark contrast in quality and service?
    More info
    SY KitchenPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.9
  • Chrisvip
    Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •53 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We love this restaurant, always great service and delicious food. A high energy, sophisticated, casual dining experience.
    More info
    Tre LunePrice: Expensive• Italian• Montecito
    4.8
  • Danavip
    Los Angeles •73 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Always a winner! Short rib ravioli is a winner! Arugula salad is simple & perfect! Service was great too!
    More info
    Leonardo Ristorante & PizzeriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Solvang
    4.9
  • 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
  • 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 Italian restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

Discover the essence of Italian dining in the heart of California's Central Coast with our curated selection of Italian restaurants in the Santa Ynez Valley. Renowned for blending traditional Italian flavors with the fresh, local produce of the region, these establishments offer an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Each restaurant brings its unique twist to classic Italian dishes, from homemade pastas and artisan pizzas to innovative seafood combinations and delightful desserts like pistachio crème brûlée. The dining scene in Santa Ynez Valley is characterized by its commitment to quality and freshness, making each meal a showcase of culinary excellence. Experience exceptional service and a warm ambiance that complements the exquisite food, creating the perfect setting for both casual and sophisticated dining. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these Italian eateries promise a dining experience that is both satisfying and inspiring, embodying the richness of Italian cuisine with a distinctive Californian touch.

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