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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

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3 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
First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn is a neighborhood gem due to its excellent food, friendly service, and quaint atmosphere. Reviewers rave about the unique and delicious flavors, with one calling it a 'hidden gem.' Another review highlighted the seasonal tasting menu and wine pairings, describing the experience as a 'memorable flavor journey.' The restaurant also offers two dining experiences, including a Chef's Five Course Tasting Menu, and operates with the mindset of warm, compassionate attentive service.
A photo of Leonardo Ristorante & Pizzeria restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1383)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Solvang
Booked 30 times today
Highly anticipated opening by Chef Leonardi Curti.
A photo of Hitching Post II restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5136)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Buellton
Booked 51 times today
Here, on the Central Coast of California, BBQ has always meant grilling over an open fire of red oak, a style of cooking that is native to our area and goes back to the days of the Spanish Rancheros. By combining the old and the new, we have created an exciting cuisine with outstanding steaks, ribs and chicken, along with fresh fish and seafood and vegetarian options. We also create our own (world class) wines for sale in the restaurant and to the public. Hartley Ostini Hitching Post Wines have garnered an excellent reputation. Try them here or purchase on our website for your enjoyment at home.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • FrankVIP
    Los Angeles •571 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I’ve been here many times over the last 15 years and it’s such a beautiful restaurant. The food was amazing and our waiter was fantastic. Valet was terrific too. The hostess was a little stiff and standoffish which was surprising. We’d definitely return again hoping for a perfect dining experience. Thank you Chef!
    More info
    Stonehouse at San Ysidro RanchPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • 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
  • Maya
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Visiting Solvang for the first time, my family and I went twice to this restaurant! I really enjoyed the two meals I had - Fish of the day (I chose the Halibut), and it came with such yummy potatoes! I also had the Chicken parmesan, the right amount of seasoning and cheese, and it was very soft! Also the (non-alcoholic) cucumber sparkling drink! Oh! And that tiramisu was one of the best ones I've tried so far! The bartender, waiters, host, cooks, busser, and every staff member were so nice! And they even recognized us coming back. I want to come back here to try the pastas! Till next time and thank you for such a wonderful time. Appreciation from a family from Oakland, CA! :)
    More info
    Leonardo Ristorante & PizzeriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Solvang
    4.8
  • Shirley
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 24, 2024
    We stoped in on a mini holiday vacation our experience at The Hitching Post was amazing. Our waitress Jennifer went above and beyond, handling our dietary needs with ease and attention to detail. Her cheerful personality in what was an extremely busy evening, the ambiance of the restaurant and AMAZING FOOD made for an extremely enjoyable Pre Christmas Eve dinner for us all. We can’t thank Jennifer enough, and are still talking about what a great night we had over all.
    More info
    Hitching Post IIPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Buellton
    4.7

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

Discover the charming dining scene in California's Central Coast, particularly in the Santa Ynez Valley, where local restaurants are celebrated as neighborhood gems. These eateries offer a quintessential blend of cozy ambiance and exquisite culinary experiences, making them perfect spots for both locals and visitors seeking authentic and delightful meals. Each restaurant in this region reflects a commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, crafting dishes that showcase the unique flavors of the area. Patrons can expect not only high-quality food but also warm, welcoming service that adds a personal touch to every dining experience. The diverse menus cater to a variety of tastes, featuring everything from modern Californian cuisine to innovative takes on international dishes. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual meal with friends, the Santa Ynez Valley's neighborhood gems offer an inviting atmosphere and exceptional dining that are sure to impress. This area is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the best of California's culinary offerings in a charming, picturesque setting.

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