Best Southwest American Restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

9 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Brothers Restaurant at Red Barn restaurant

1. Brothers Restaurant at Red Barn

4.9

Exceptional(1362)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Santa Ynez Valley

Booked 7 times today

Brothers Restaurant at Red Barn in Santa Ynez Valley is acclaimed for its exceptional Steak cuisine. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and preparation of the steaks, with remarks like the "BEST Prime Rib" and the filet being "as good as any I’ve ever had." The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients, which shines through in their dishes. The grilled prime top sirloin and filet mignon are favorites, often highlighted for their perfect seasoning and tenderness. Whether it's a special occasion or a regular dining out, Brothers at Red Barn delivers a stellar experience with their innovative yet authentic steak offerings, making it a must-visit for steak lovers in Santa Ynez.

A photo of Ellie's Tap & Vine restaurant

2. Ellie's Tap & Vine

4.8

Exceptional(666)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Santa Ynez Valley

Booked 7 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.

3. Mattei's Tavern

4.6

Exceptional(384)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Los Olivos

Booked 15 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.

4. Whiskey 'N Rye

4.7

Exceptional(227)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Solvang

Booked 16 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.

5. Maverick Saloon

4.5

Awesome(25)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Santa Ynez

Booked 1 time 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 Willows at Chumash Casino restaurant

6. Willows at Chumash Casino

4.8

Exceptional(1518)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • 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

7. Pony Cocktails + Kitchen

5.0

Exceptional(9)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • 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.

8. Hitching Post II

4.7

Exceptional(5120)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Buellton

Booked 32 times today

Experience the essence of authentic Steakhouse cuisine at Hitching Post II in Buellton, where the tradition of grilling over red oak fire brings out the incredible flavors in their steaks, ribs, and chicken. Praised for "one of the best steaks I've ever eaten" and meat so tender that "you can slice them with a fork," this restaurant blends traditional Spanish Ranchero techniques with modern culinary excellence. The Hitching Post II is not only famous for its exceptional food but also for its world-class Hartley Ostini wines, perfect for complementing any dish. Guests consistently rave about the "outstanding food and service," making it a must-visit destination in the Central Coast of California. Whether it's the filet mignon, the perfectly cooked pork chops, or the unique ambiance, Hitching Post II delivers a memorable dining experience every time.

A photo of California Tacos Cantina & Distillery - Buellton restaurant

9. California Tacos Cantina & Distillery - Buellton

4.6

Exceptional(28)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Buellton

Booked 3 times today

California Tacos Cantina & Distillery in Buellton offers a delightful culinary experience that extends beyond its celebrated Mexican cuisine to include exceptionally tender and flavorful steak. Their steak, often highlighted as "sooo tender" by patrons, showcases the kitchen’s commitment to quality and authenticity. Guests rave about the steak's perfection, with one review noting, “Wow amazing tacos. The chicken was moist and the steak was sooo tender they have to make their own tortillas.” This establishment not only promises a true taste of Mexico but also excels in crafting steak dishes that leave a lasting impression, making it a must-visit for both steak and Mexican cuisine enthusiasts.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

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9 restaurants available nearby

1. Brothers Restaurant at Red Barn

2. Ellie's Tap & Vine

3. Mattei's Tavern

4. Whiskey 'N Rye

5. Maverick Saloon

6. Willows at Chumash Casino

7. Pony Cocktails + Kitchen

8. Hitching Post II

9. California Tacos Cantina & Distillery - Buellton

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