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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(1217)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Solvang
Booked 7 times today
Nestled within the charming Mirabelle Inn in Solvang, First & Oak offers a sublime Contemporary French / American culinary journey that delights every sense. This Michelin Plate-awarded gem captivates diners with its seasonally-inspired menu, showcasing the artistry of local and organic ingredients. The chef's five-course tasting menu is a "masterpiece" with "layers of complex flavors, artfully presented" in each dish. Guests rave about the exquisite Hamachi Crudo and the "wonderfully tasty" Roast Cauliflower. Every aspect, from the "impeccably plated mains" to the "attentive and knowledgeable" service, ensures a dining experience that is both memorable and indulgent.
A photo of Nella Kitchen and Bar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1094)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 32 times today
Nella Kitchen and Bar, nestled in the charming Santa Ynez Valley of Los Olivos, is a haven for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine. Guests rave about the quality of their dishes, noting that the experience rivals "fine restaurants in Italy." A standout feature of Nella is their 'Roman Pinsas,' a delightful twist on traditional pizza that has diners coming back for more. The Bolognese and flatbread-like Pinsas receive high praise, with one fan declaring the Bolognese "to die for." With an engaging atmosphere and consistently excellent service, Nella Kitchen and Bar makes every meal feel like a special occasion. Buon appetito!
A photo of Pony Cocktails + Kitchen restaurant
5.0
Exceptional(9)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Ynez
Booked 2 times today
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 Willows at Chumash Casino restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1529)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 21 times today
Willows at Chumash Casino, nestled in the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley, offers an exquisite Californian dining experience that is truly unparalleled. This 14-time AAA Four Diamond Award-winning establishment excels in delivering authentic flavors with its prime steaks and fresh seafood, making every dish a culinary masterpiece. Guests rave about the "OUTSTANDING" food and the "excellent" service, with many highlighting the delightful ambiance that perfectly complements the dining experience. The restaurant's Wine Spectator Award-winning wine list is a testament to its dedication to showcasing the finest local and imported selections. Willows promises an unforgettable meal, perfect for any special occasion.
A photo of Petros Restaurant at Petros Winery restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(965)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Los Olivos
Booked 9 times today
Petros Restaurant at Petros Winery, nestled in the charming Los Olivos, is a true testament to exquisite Greek cuisine. The restaurant imports authentic ingredients from Greece, ensuring that each dish bursts with genuine flavors. Guests rave about the "authentic and delicious" Greek food that pairs perfectly with their extensive wine selection. The serene setting, enriched with "Western charm," provides a unique dining experience that many locals hold dear. Reviewers unanimously praise the "amazing food and great service" and highlight the exceptional hospitality of staff like Ricardo. Whether you're a Greek food aficionado or a curious diner, Petros is a must-visit destination.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Yesenia
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Cristina was amazing and her recomendacións were excellent
    More info
    Willows at Chumash CasinoPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.7
  • SalmanVIP
    Orange County •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We had a great time, the staff was very friendly and restaurant had a very cozy vibe. The standout item was definitely the truffle roasted cauliflower.
    More info
    First & Oak at the Mirabelle InnPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Solvang
    4.7
  • ELSAVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    One of the very best restaurants in Santa Barbara. The staff is always friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable and professional. It’s easy to label the food as Californian or New/Contemporary American, yet there is a uniquely local vibe that permeates the entire menu. Each dish showcases its primary ingredients with often interesting and playful flavors and textures. Standouts from the current menu (December 2024) include the acorn papardelle, crispy pork belly with bbq beignets. The persimmon salad with Urfa vinegraitte perfectly balances out the richer dishes. Don’t skip the bread, which is made with an 11 year-old starter and is served warm. For dessert, the Baked California is never to be missed and should probably be trademarked. The Chamango, with its spot-on blend of Tajín, mango and chamoy is a celebration to and a tribute of the humble Mexican fruit stand that I really hope stays on the menu.
    More info
    BarbareñoPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • Andres
    California Central Coast •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 23, 2024
    Dinning here is always a good time, i like my steak medium chard and most places always fail ever so slightly but ever time time i dine here they cook it perfectly. Personally i find the tables to be a bit too close there fore your could overhear another parties conversation, i would as for a corner table next time to help with this. Other than that i would definitely recommend this restaurant for any occasion you want to remember.
    More info
    Nella Kitchen and BarPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.7
  • LauraVIP
    California Central Coast •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 21, 2024
    Food was amazing - will totally go back for that for sure and drinks were spot on - servers need to be a little more knowledgeable regarding alcohol - honestly all and all it was amazing and owner is super nice and very friendly so that’s super important - great meal and plan to go back
    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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