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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

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5 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mattei's Tavern restaurant
1. Mattei's Tavern
4.7
Exceptional(374)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Los Olivos
Booked 24 times today
Experience the pinnacle of American cuisine at Mattei's Tavern in the heart of Los Olivos. This beloved social hub marries traditional American flavors with innovative culinary techniques, creating dishes that are both familiar and intriguing. With ingredients sourced from its own garden and local farms, Mattei's Tavern offers an authentic taste of American gastronomy. The atmosphere, described by guests as "hands down one of my all-time favorite luxury hotel experiences," complements the delectable menu, featuring everything from grilled specialties to seasonal delights. Reviews consistently praise the "friendly and attentive" service and the "exquisite" food, noting that the "portions were on point." Whether it's the "divine souffle" or the "perfectly cooked" pork chops, every dish is a testament to Mattei's commitment to quality. Join the legacy of exceptional dining and make your reservation today at Mattei's Tavern, where every meal is a celebration of American culinary excellence.
A photo of Ellie's Tap & Vine restaurant
2. Ellie's Tap & Vine
4.9
Exceptional(657)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 5 times today
Ellie's Tap & Vine in Santa Ynez Valley is a culinary beacon for grill enthusiasts seeking authentic and high-quality cuisine. Patrons rave about the "best steak and crab cakes I’ve ever had," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to excellence in grill cuisine. The menu, which changes monthly, features locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and supporting local producers. Guests particularly applaud the perfectly cooked filet mignon and the succulent roast chicken, describing them as "melt in your mouth" delights. The ambiance, described as "rustic romantic," complements the meal, making Ellie's Tap & Vine a must-visit for a memorable dining experience in Santa Ynez.
A photo of Willows at Chumash Casino restaurant
3. Willows at Chumash Casino
4.7
Exceptional(1504)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 20 times today
Nestled in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley, Willows at Chumash Casino is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, boasting a 14-time AAA Four Diamond Award-winning dining experience. Patrons rave about its "mouthwatering prime steaks and beautifully cooked seafood," paired with an "extensive selection of local and imported wines" from its Wine Spectator Award-winning list. The ambiance is described as "exquisite," perfect for savoring dishes that are "delicious and beautifully arranged." Notable for its robust flavors and impeccable service, it's no wonder guests recommend Willows for a memorable dining experience, emphasizing that it's "definitely worth every dollar." Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful meal, Willows stands out as a premier choice in Contemporary American dining.
A photo of Pony Cocktails + Kitchen restaurant
4. Pony Cocktails + Kitchen
new
5.0
Exceptional(4)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • 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 Whiskey 'N Rye restaurant
5. Whiskey 'N Rye
4.7
Exceptional(210)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Solvang
Booked 12 times today
Whiskey 'N Rye in Solvang is a haven for barbecue enthusiasts, offering a delightful blend of traditional American smokehouse flavors with a modern twist. Patrons rave about the "amazing" Hickory Smoked Brisket and the tender Baby Back Ribs, which are just a few highlights from their diverse menu. Reviewers consistently praise the restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service, with comments like "the BBQ sampler was very delicious" and the brisket being "the best we have ever had." The full bar, featuring over 60 specialty whiskeys, complements the rich, smoky barbecue flavors, making Whiskey 'N Rye the perfect spot for a truly authentic and satisfying dining experience in Solvang.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Glennvip
    Los Angeles •72 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Passing nearby, we decided to try a restaurant we had not been before. A great surprise. We were warmly welcomed and seated a nice table. The restaurant is beautifully decorated. The service was outstanding. And the food was expertly prepared and delicious. We had a half chicken dinner and a chicken pot pie. Both dinners were large portions and very tasty. We had warm apple tort for desert that was really good. We will certainly be back. A great find.
    More info
    Ellie's Tap & VinePrice: Expensive• Farm-to-table• Santa Ynez Valley
    •
    4.9
  • Steve
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Everything was delicious at willows. I had the double pork chop, which was big and cooked perfectly. It came with broccolini and mashed potatoes. My wife had a grilled artichoke (best she’s ever had) and crab cakes. Chris was an excellent server.
    More info
    Willows at Chumash CasinoPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Ynez Valley
    •
    4.7
  • Jamievip
    Los Angeles •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 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
  • Mariavip
    California Central Coast •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 16, 2024
    Taylor is the absolute best! Treats us like family every time we go in.
    More info
    Whiskey 'N RyePrice: Expensive• Barbecue• Solvang
    •
    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 Contemporary American restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

Explore the vibrant dining scene of California's Central Coast with our curated selection of restaurants specializing in Contemporary American cuisine in the Santa Ynez Valley. This region, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich culinary culture, offers a unique blend of traditional flavors and modern culinary techniques. Each restaurant in our list provides a distinctive dining experience, embracing local ingredients, sustainable practices, and innovative menus that highlight the best of Contemporary American fare. Diners can expect expertly crafted dishes that not only satisfy the palate but also reflect the area's commitment to quality and creativity. Whether you're seeking a casual meal or a sophisticated dining adventure, the Santa Ynez Valley's Contemporary American restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey. Experience the exceptional service, peaceful ambiance, and diverse menu options that characterize these top dining establishments. Discover why the Santa Ynez Valley is a must-visit destination for food lovers and culinary connoisseurs alike.

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