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Best Romantic Restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

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14 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Brothers Restaurant at Red Barn restaurant
1. Brothers Restaurant at Red Barn
4.9
Exceptional(1353)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 19 times today
The Nichols brothers, Matt & Jeff, grew up in Ames, Iowa where their love of cooking, good food and a sense of family and community was nurtured.The 2013 opening of their second Santa Barbara Wine Country restaurant, Brothers Restaurant at the Red Barn in Santa Ynez, allows them to offer visitors and locals alike great food, wine and hospitality. The brothers strive to have legendary service, innovative cuisine, and a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere that causes you to return time and again.As chefs, the brothers continue to experiment with new dishes and cuisine, but always with that “from scratch”, homemade element. Fresh ingredients from local producers, a wine list that showcases the region’s award-winning wines and a comfortable and historically interesting atmosphere that takes you back to the romance of the old west. They want you to feel at home, and experience all the best of Santa Barbara’s Wine Country.
A photo of SY Kitchen restaurant
2. SY Kitchen
4.9
Exceptional(3808)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 40 times today
RESERVATIONS Reservations for parties of 5 or more please call restaurant directly. S. Y. Kitchen requests a credit card to hold a reservation of 6 or more. You may cancel by calling the restaurant by 5 PM two days prior to the reservation. After that cancellation is subject to our policy and fees may be incurred. All credit card information will be processed securely.
A photo of Ellie's Tap & Vine restaurant
3. Ellie's Tap & Vine
4.9
Exceptional(655)
Price: Expensive
• Farm-to-table • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 4 times today
Welcome to Ellie's Tap & Vine... Join us for seasonal cuisine, elegant ranch ambiance and great wine! We are Valley to Table dining, working with many local farms and purveyors; We look forward to seeing you soon! Our menu changes regularly, so please feel free to visit our website: www.elliestapandvine.com or follow us on IG and/or FB.Our restaurant is located in the heart of Santa Ynez. We boast amazing outdoor seating with great views and because it is often a little chilly in the evening, we have heaters. We are also dog and cat friendly.We know re-adjusting to dining out is a strange experience for everyone and we are all slowly returning. For now, we will be suspending lunch service.
A photo of Mattei's Tavern restaurant
4. Mattei's Tavern
4.7
Exceptional(374)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Los Olivos
Booked 24 times today
Recently opened on November 16, 2022, The Tavern continues her legacy as Santa Ynez Valley's beloved social hub. This California ranch-inspired restaurant highlights flavorful dishes and honest ingredients, many of which are harvested from Mattei’s on-site garden and surrounding local farms. Paying homage to its century old roots, the menu is elevated yet unfussy, offering grilled dishes and vegetables alongside seasonal specialties. The exceptional wine program is a singular and definitive draw of The Tavern. The comprehensive list features a California focused glass list which is complimented by an extensive cellar of Old World favorites.For informal fare join us at The Bar, Mattei’s Tavern’s most authentic hangout. With a roaring fireplace and fixtures dating back to its 1886 origins, the historic bar and lounge space offers local craft beer and wine, amber hued cocktails and a snacks menu that ranges from bite sized to burger dinners.
A photo of The Gathering Table restaurant
5. The Gathering Table
4.7
Exceptional(94)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Asian • Solvang
Booked 17 times today
Welcome to The Gathering Table, Solvang’s newest culinary gem. Led by acclaimed Chef Budi Kazali, renowned for his innovative Asian cuisine with French influences, our restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience.Chef Budi Kazali brings his mastery to every dish, infusing flavors from his Indonesian heritage with local ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Whether indulging in his signature dishes or exploring new creations, every bite at The Gathering Table is a celebration of culinary artistry.Situated amidst Solvang’s picturesque streets, our restaurant offers a serene outdoor dining area, perfect for enjoying Chef Kazali’s creations al fresco. Inside, savor handcrafted cocktails at our full bar or host an intimate gathering in our Private Dining Room, where every detail is tailored to exceed your expectations.Discover a place where exquisite cuisine meets warm and approachable hospitality at The Gathering Table!
A photo of First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn restaurant
6. First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn
4.7
Exceptional(1200)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Solvang
Booked 7 times today
First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn is a romantic destination, with reviewers frequently mentioning its 'perfect ambiance for a romantic dinner' and 'nice, quiet ambiance'. The restaurant's 'beautiful and romantic' setting, combined with 'superb service' and 'delicious food' has made it a favorite for couples. The 'intimate and lovely' dining room, paired with the 'thoughtful and warm service' further enhances the romantic experience.
A photo of Nella Kitchen and Bar restaurant
7. Nella Kitchen and Bar
4.7
Exceptional(1063)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 26 times today
Opened in August 2020, Nella Kitchen & Bar offers fresh, modern California cuisine and focuses on 'Roman Pinsas'.Meals are served on the front porch overlooking Grand Ave where guests are warmly welcomed, or in the cozy Dining Room which also has a private Wine Room that can host family seating and private parties.Cocktails are focused on classics and served in the Lounge with a lot of bar seating.As much as we love pets, we only allow service animals at Nella, thank you for understanding.
A photo of Leonardo Ristorante & Pizzeria restaurant
8. Leonardo Ristorante & Pizzeria
4.9
Exceptional(1361)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Solvang
Booked 17 times today
Highly anticipated opening by Chef Leonardi Curti.
A photo of Willows at Chumash Casino restaurant
9. Willows at Chumash Casino
4.7
Exceptional(1504)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 22 times today
The Willows specializes in mouthwatering prime steaks and seafood. This 14 time AAA Four Diamond Award-winning restaurant also features a Wine Spectator Award winning wine list with an extensive selection of local and imported wines, all served in an exquisitely appointed setting.
A photo of McClain Cellars - Solvang restaurant
10. McClain Cellars - Solvang
4.5
Awesome(26)
Price: Expensive
• Wine Bar • Solvang
Booked 2 times today
Enjoy a luxury wine tasting experience in Solvang in front of our 36-foot long fire pit and fall in love with our relaxing couches and a beautiful wine bar. We offer unique blends, crisp whites, and amazing award-winning wines from the Santa Ynez Valley. Enjoy our artisan popcorn. A “hip” modern industrial luxury vibe that is a cross between a New York “Soho” music venue and a beautiful “Napa Valley” tasting lounge. Hang outside and soak in the warm sun and relax in the cool breezes or step up to the bar for a glass of the good stuff. We offer live Jazz and Blues music on most weekends and an inviting lounge-like atmosphere with a patio. If you love art, wine, and great service... then stop by to be amazed."

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Michaelvip
    California Central Coast •23 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The menu is exquisite, great influence of asian cuisine. Great selection of specials also. Third time being here, and definitely not the last.
    More info
    The Gathering TablePrice: Expensive• Contemporary Asian• Solvang
    •
    4.7
  • Jamievip
    Los Angeles •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Tara and Ezelle greeted us and Anthony and Luis gave amazing service as did David the sommelier. Can’t wait to go back.
    More info
    Mattei's TavernPrice: Very Expensive• American• Los Olivos
    •
    4.7
  • 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
  • sallyvip
    Jackson Hole / Wyoming •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The restaurant was full on a Tuesday evening. Service was good, although they looked a little overworked. The food is quite heavy and certainly I think I would've shared portions had I known we had  the calamari, and there was a massive amount of garlic in it, which I enjoyed, and the flavor was great as well as the tenderness of the squid. Our main courses were very hearty and well cooked. Desert apple crisp was way too sweet with masses of caramel . Overall good but rich and heavy so go hungry and share .
    More info
    Ellie's Tap & VinePrice: Expensive• Farm-to-table• Santa Ynez Valley
    •
    4.9
  • Susan
    California Central Coast •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 14, 2024
    Their food is always excellent. And their servers & wait staff are the best!
    More info
    Brothers Restaurant at Red BarnPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Ynez Valley
    •
    4.9

Discover best romantic restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

Discover the most enchanting dining experiences in California's Central Coast with our curated selection of romantic restaurants in the Santa Ynez Valley. Renowned for its picturesque vineyards and tranquil landscapes, the valley offers a perfect backdrop for an intimate dinner. Each restaurant in our collection blends superb culinary offerings with a charming ambiance, ensuring a memorable dining experience for couples seeking a romantic getaway. From expertly crafted local cuisine that highlights the freshest ingredients from the region to sophisticated wine lists featuring the best of local vineyards, these eateries cater to those who appreciate a refined dining atmosphere. The dining scene here is vibrant yet relaxed, characterized by its unique blend of rustic elegance and culinary excellence, making it an ideal destination for lovebirds. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a beautiful place to reconnect, the Santa Ynez Valley's romantic restaurants promise an unforgettable evening.

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