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Best Cozy Restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

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8 restaurants available nearby

A photo of SY Kitchen restaurant
1. SY Kitchen
4.9
Exceptional(3918)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Ynez Valley
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 Ellie's Tap & Vine restaurant
2. Ellie's Tap & Vine
4.7
Exceptional(700)
Price: Expensive
• Farm-to-table • Santa Ynez Valley
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 Pony Cocktails + Kitchen restaurant
3. Pony Cocktails + Kitchen
4.9
Exceptional(24)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Ynez
Owner & Mixologist Battaglini Alberto redesigned this iconic Santa Ynez landmark into something unique, elevated yet comfortable.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. The cocktail program follow the same ideology of the food giving every cocktails a unique flavor and personality.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.
A photo of Nella Kitchen and Bar restaurant
4. Nella Kitchen and Bar
4.8
Exceptional(1133)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Ynez Valley
Nella Kitchen and Bar is described as having a 'relaxing vibe' and a 'cozy, yet modern' decor. Reviewers appreciate its 'wonderful ambience' and 'nice, comfortable, upscale feel'. The restaurant offers dining options both indoors and outdoors, making it cozy and accommodating.
A photo of Mattei's Tavern restaurant
5. Mattei's Tavern
4.7
Exceptional(421)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Los Olivos
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
6. First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn
4.6
Exceptional(1231)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Solvang
First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn is a cozy restaurant due to its intimate dining rooms and outdoor seating on a heated patio. Reviewers frequently mention the restaurant's quaint and comfortable dining room, charming ambiance, and friendly, attentive service. The restaurant's menu, featuring seasonally-inspired Californian cuisine, is described as unique and delicious, with standout dishes like the roasted cauliflower. The front patio is also a hit with guests, being described as charming and quiet, perfect for a romantic or relaxed dining experience.
A photo of Whiskey 'N Rye restaurant
7. Whiskey 'N Rye
4.5
Awesome(248)
Price: Expensive
• Barbecue • Solvang
Whiskey 'N Rye is described as a 'warm and cozy' place with a 'relaxed afternoon or evening dining experience.' It has an 'amazing' atmosphere, with reviewers noting it as 'modern and warm.' The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining, with heaters available for the outdoor seating. The menu is praised for its 'inventive' and 'elevated' dishes, and the bar features a selection of 'over 60 specialty whiskeys.'
A photo of McClain Cellars - Solvang restaurant
8. McClain Cellars - Solvang
4.5
Awesome(28)
Price: Expensive
• Wine Bar • Solvang
Enjoy a luxury wine tasting experience in Solvang in front of our 36-foot long fire pit and fall in love with our relaxing couches and a beautiful wine bar. We offer unique blends, crisp whites, and amazing award-winning wines from the Santa Ynez Valley. Enjoy our artisan popcorn. A “hip” modern industrial luxury vibe that is a cross between a New York “Soho” music venue and a beautiful “Napa Valley” tasting lounge. Hang outside and soak in the warm sun and relax in the cool breezes or step up to the bar for a glass of the good stuff. We offer live Jazz and Blues music on most weekends and an inviting lounge-like atmosphere with a patio. If you love art, wine, and great service... then stop by to be amazed."

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Discover best cozy restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

Discover the essence of cozy dining in the heart of California's Central Coast with our curated selection of restaurants in the Santa Ynez Valley. Known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culinary scene, this region offers a variety of dining establishments that embody warmth and intimacy, perfect for those seeking a snug, personal eating experience. Each restaurant features unique decor that blends rustic charm with modern comforts, creating an inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy a leisurely meal. From fireplaces and soft, plush seating to ambient lighting, every detail is designed to enhance the coziness of your dining experience. The Santa Ynez Valley itself is renowned for its exceptional wine country cuisine, integrating locally-sourced ingredients with innovative culinary techniques. These eateries not only provide a delightful dining ambiance but also showcase the expertise of chefs who specialize in creating memorable meals that cater to all palates. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner spot or a comfortable venue for a family gathering, these restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey in the scenic backdrop of the Santa Ynez Valley.

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