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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Santa Ynez Valley

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4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of SY Kitchen restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3892)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 43 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 Ellie's Tap & Vine restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(692)
Price: Expensive
• Farm-to-table • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 15 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 Leonardo Ristorante & Pizzeria restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1400)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Solvang
Booked 10 times today
Highly anticipated opening by Chef Leonardi Curti.
A photo of Hitching Post II restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5159)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Buellton
Booked 27 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, particularly for our Pinot Noirs. Try them while dining, or at our wine tasting room next door, or purchase on our winery website (www.hpwines.com).

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Ryan
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I had watched a review on YouTube from Mark Weints on the best barbecue on the central coast where Jockos featured for it red oak coal fired barbecue. I also had mentioned it to my supervisor who’s from the area. And mentioned to me that he highly recommended it and that he always goes back when he is in town, which is about twice a year. I can tell you this place does not disappoint. The food was excellent. Our waiter was awesome and amazing and gave very good recommendations. Anytime I’m in this area. I will make it a point to come eat here. I highly recommend making this a restaurant to frequent. Make sure to make your reservations cause the place gets packed after about 5:30 PM.
    More info
    Jocko's SteakhousePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Nipomo
    4.7
  • Roberto
    California Central Coast •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    From start to finish; AMAZING. Took my daughters and mom for Valentines. The hostess arranged for us to get the best table in the house. The food was excellent, not the normal, but an original interpretation of what food should taste like. Our waitress was very kind and attentive. Dessert was also very thought out. The house manager was also very involved in our experience. My family and I felt very much appreciated and most of all cared after. One of our best if not the best Valentines we have lived.
    More info
    SY KitchenPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.9
  • Odessa
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 25, 2024
    Service and ambiance was wonderful! Food was good as well. Would dine there again sometime.
    More info
    Timber's RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Goleta
    4.6
  • Lisa
    California Central Coast •52 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 13, 2024
    The Caesar Salad was fresh and the dressing was a tasty surprise. The Veal Milanese breading was crispy and paired nicely with the buttery, cheesy fettuccine. My friends both enjoyed their Spinach Ravioli and Pappardelle Vodka. Topped it off with us all sharing the Warm Lava Cake...delish!
    More info
    Chase RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Santa Barbara
    4.1

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

Discover the culinary delights of the Santa Ynez Valley, a hidden gem on California's Central Coast known for its exceptional dining scene that is undeniably "worth the drive." This region hosts a variety of restaurants that cater to those seeking not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience. From innovative California cuisine to intimate bistros offering local and seasonal dishes, each establishment reflects the area's commitment to culinary excellence and sustainability. The restaurants in this region are celebrated for their unique atmospheres, ranging from rustic charm to modern elegance, ensuring an ambiance that complements every dining style. These dining spots are not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes, with many offering scenic views of the valley’s picturesque landscapes. Patrons often travel from afar, drawn by rave reviews and the promise of a meal that transcends the ordinary. Each visit promises an adventure in flavor and a journey through the local culture and cuisine, making any drive to the Santa Ynez Valley well worth the effort.

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