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Best Casual Restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

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9 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Brothers Restaurant at Red Barn restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1364)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 22 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 Ellie's Tap & Vine restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(666)
Price: Expensive
• Farm-to-table • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 21 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 SY Kitchen restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3848)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 45 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 Mattei's Tavern restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(389)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Los Olivos
Booked 25 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 First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1213)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Solvang
Booked 7 times today
We are excited to welcome you to First & Oak! We offer outdoor seating on our heated patio & inside our intimate dining rooms. Seating is limited, a credit card is required & will only be charged for cancellations. Please allow us a minimum of 24 hours prior to avoid any cancelation fees.We offer two dining experiences: Traditional Three Course or a Chef's Five Course Tasting Menu. Parties of 6 or more please call. When reserving standard (indoor) or outdoor seating (Please be mindful regarding the weather, it tends to get chilly as the night goes on), please choose which experience you would prefer & let us know of any dietary restrictions, Vegan request needs a days advance notice. First and Oak is located inside the Mirabelle Inn, & was awarded a Michelin Plate designation in 2022. We offer a seasonally-inspired menu that highlights local & organic ingredients prepared in a thoughtful manner. Our dining room operates with the mindset of warm compassionate attentive service.
A photo of Whiskey 'N Rye restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(228)
Price: Expensive
• Barbecue • Solvang
Booked 3 times today
An American Smokehouse and Tavern, Whiskey 'N Rye features a varied menu of barbeque classics along with an eclectic mix of modern wine-country cuisine. Our dining experience focuses heavily on grill and smoke cooking techniques, with several unique signature features including our Hickory Smoked Brisket and Baby Back Ribs, Grilled Romaine Caesar, Smoked Spaghetti Squash, BBQ Chicken, Grilled Flatiron Steak with Chimichurri, and our Whiskey 'N Rye Brisket/Short-rib Burger, just to name a few. Enjoy your meal with our full bar featuring Signature Craft Cocktails, Zero-Proof Elixirs, and more than 60 specialty whiskeys from both local as well as national and international distilleries. With both covered patio and cozy indoor dining areas, Whiskey 'N Rye is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed afternoon or evening dining experience. Also visit us for the Best Happy Hour in town hosted Mon. to Thu. from 4:00pm to 5:30pm. Featuring $10 Craft Cocktails and 1/2 priced Appetizers!
A photo of Willows at Chumash Casino restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1524)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 33 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 Maverick Saloon restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(25)
Price: Moderate
• American • Santa Ynez
Booked 3 times today
Taverns have flourished along Santa Ynez’s Sagunto Street since 1906. Sixty years ago, four busy bars entertained the locals and visitors alike. These establishments were named Last Chance, the Bum Steer, Parker’s and the Maverick Saloon. While three of the four original taverns have since disappeared into history, the legendary Maverick Saloon is still going strong and continues to be a staple in the Santa Ynez valley.In 1963, Jerry and Diane Thompson bought nine bare lots from publisher tycoon Hastings Harcourt. Plans were drawn up for a museum, restaurant, two-story hotel and the Maverick Saloon, which is named after a TV series starring James Garner. A few years later (approx. 1968) the barn was built next to the saloon. To achieve an antique look, the Thompsons used materials salvaged from demolished Victorian houses. The barn’s history began as the “Lulubelle’s Restaurant” and a tool rental facility. The barn and dancehall became a permanent part of the Maverick Salo
A photo of Hitching Post II restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5127)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Buellton
Booked 33 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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • StephaneVIP
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    A Memorable Experience at The Tavern: Exceptional Cuisine and Warm Hospitality Nestled in the heart of wine country, The Tavern offers a dining experience that is nothing short of spectacular. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, made even more special by the hospitality of the attentive and knowledgeable staff. The service is impeccable, with each team member eager to ensure that your visit is nothing less than exceptional. The culinary highlight of The Tavern is undoubtedly the seasonal menu curated by Michelin-rated Chef Joseph Humphrey. His thoughtful, creative approach to ingredients results in dishes that are both innovative and deeply satisfying. The menu showcases the best of local, seasonal produce, expertly combined in ways that highlight the natural flavors of the region. Every course feels like a celebration of the bounty of wine country, with ingredients that are as fresh as they are flavorful. Pairing perfectly with the cuisine is The Tavern’s carefully curated wine list, which offers a selection of local wines that beautifully complement each dish. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, the sommelier is more than happy to guide you through the perfect pairing. The ambiance at The Tavern is equally as impressive, with its cozy yet refined interior, featuring rustic touches that evoke the charm of the surrounding wine country. It’s the perfect setting for an intimate dinner or a celebratory evening with friends and family. In all, The Tavern offers an unforgettable dining experience marked by top-notch service, extraordinary cuisine, and a beautiful ambiance. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s a destination that truly captures the essence of wine country living. Highly recommended.
    More info
    Mattei's TavernPrice: Very Expensive• American• Los Olivos
    4.6
  • Devika
    Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Amazing food and service Scallops were sweet and perfectly cooked and the sole melted in the mouth. Our waiter was very attentive and we loved celebrating our anniversary here The brothers mud pie dessert is a cappuccino ice cream with Oreo crust and chocolate swirls - need I say more? Loved it and would definitely return
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    Brothers Restaurant at Red BarnPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.9
  • RobertVIP
    San Diego •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Incredible service! So nice and helpful as this was our first visit. All of her recommendations were spot on. The artichoke didn’t stand a chance as our kids caught on the ended up devouring it. Our group had a pizza, pomegranate salad special, their pasta special with shaved truffles, and the sliders. Their craft cocktails are well done and her recommendation for an Italian white was money. No room for dessert. Must try if you’re passing through.
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    SY KitchenPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.9
  • Jason
    San Diego •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Outstanding experience. Staff was incredible. Super laid back vibe in a beautiful setting. 5 course tasting was the way to go. We added caviar and Brussels sprouts. Perfect for two people. Add the wine pairings too!
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    First & Oak at the Mirabelle InnPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Solvang
    4.7
  • AnnieVIP
    Los Angeles •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 20 Dec 2024
    Three of us ordered the Filet Mignon! We all commented on how delicious they were; cooked to perfection, juicy, tender and seasoned just right! Perfect meal and enjoyed the ambiance for a perfect dining experience.
    More info
    Ellie's Tap & VinePrice: Expensive• Farm-to-table• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.8
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