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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

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4 restaurants available nearby

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 First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1228)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Solvang
Booked 6 times today
First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn is a neighborhood gem due to its excellent food, friendly service, and quaint atmosphere. Reviewers rave about the unique and delicious flavors, with one calling it a 'hidden gem.' Another review highlighted the seasonal tasting menu and wine pairings, describing the experience as a 'memorable flavor journey.' The restaurant also offers two dining experiences, including a Chef's Five Course Tasting Menu, and operates with the mindset of warm, compassionate attentive 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 28 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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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • EdVIP
    San Diego •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    What a wonderful place! Our compliments extend to all staff and in particular our server who allowed us to enjoy our dinner with peace and quiet. The guitar music was phenomenal, We will absolutely be back many more times!
    More info
    Stonehouse at San Ysidro RanchPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • Jack
    Los Angeles •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Second time here after a few year hiatus. Happy to report exquisite food and very good service! Only complaint was ambient noise level in back room was a bit too much. This restaurant is highly recommended and I will happily visit again soon!
    More info
    Leonardo Ristorante & PizzeriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Solvang
    4.7
  • Mark
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    I came here as a fan on the movie Sideways. My meal was excellent and the service was even better. I had filet mignon and it was cooked perfectly. Lentil soup was superb! My server was Autumn and she was personable, professional, polite, and provided excellent service. The wine was excellent. I would highly recommend the Hitching Post II.
    More info
    Hitching Post IIPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Buellton
    4.7
  • NatalieVIP
    California Central Coast •52 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Ellie’s Tap & Vine is our favorite restaurant in the SYV, and we’ve become regulars. The food is always amazing, and the chef is consistently considerate of my food allergies. The entrees Ellie’s serves cater to any palate, and the dishes are so creative. The staff are polite and friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu offerings. We love the ambience- the decor, candles and awesome playlists! This restaurant is one I’d highly recommend to both locals and visitors. You’ll fall in love with it, too!
    More info
    Ellie's Tap & VinePrice: Expensive• Farm-to-table• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.7
  • LynetteVIP
    Kansas City / Kansas •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 8, 2025
    The best food ever! It was quiet and intimate. We had an excellent time
    More info
    First & Oak at the Mirabelle InnPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Solvang
    4.6

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

Discover the charming dining scene in California's Central Coast, particularly in the Santa Ynez Valley, where local restaurants are celebrated as neighborhood gems. These eateries offer a quintessential blend of cozy ambiance and exquisite culinary experiences, making them perfect spots for both locals and visitors seeking authentic and delightful meals. Each restaurant in this region reflects a commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, crafting dishes that showcase the unique flavors of the area. Patrons can expect not only high-quality food but also warm, welcoming service that adds a personal touch to every dining experience. The diverse menus cater to a variety of tastes, featuring everything from modern Californian cuisine to innovative takes on international dishes. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual meal with friends, the Santa Ynez Valley's neighborhood gems offer an inviting atmosphere and exceptional dining that are sure to impress. This area is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the best of California's culinary offerings in a charming, picturesque setting.

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