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Best Authentic Restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

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5 restaurants available nearby

A photo of SY Kitchen restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3809)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Ynez Valley
Booked 36 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 Mattei's Tavern restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(375)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Los Olivos
Booked 25 times today
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 Leonardo Ristorante & Pizzeria restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1362)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Solvang
Booked 15 times today
Highly anticipated opening by Chef Leonardi Curti.
A photo of Petros Restaurant at Petros Winery restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(951)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Los Olivos
Booked 9 times today
Our menu is a combination of the best ingredients that Greece and California cuisine have to offer. We import olive oil, feta, honey and oregano from Greece, the freshest organic vegetables from our farms in Los Olivos and wineries of our great state. Come enjoy lunch, dinner and wine indoors or on our beautiful patio. We can also host your next event!
A photo of California Tacos Cantina & Distillery - Buellton restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(28)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Buellton
Booked 1 time today
Welcome to California Tacos Cantina and Distillery, a premier Mexican dining destination located in the heart of Buellton, CA. Our restaurant offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican food options, including our signature tacos, burritos, and various seafood options, made with the freshest seafood from the Pacific coast.Some highlights of our restaurant include our agave distillery, and an extensive selection of 100% Agave tequila and mezcal, making us the ultimate destination for tequila and mezcal lovers in Santa Barbara County. Our homemade tortillas are made daily, adding that extra touch of authenticity to our dishes. At California Tacos Cantina and Distillery, we pride ourselves on providing our guests with a true taste of Mexico in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Solvang, our restaurant is the perfect destination for a memorable Mexican food experience. Book your reservations now and join us for a culinary adventure.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Marcvip
    Chicago / Illinois •39 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Really amazing location - so beautiful with wonderful service. The wine list is so amazing with many local small vineyard options that you just want to try as many as you can. Menu is really great and the food was wonderful.
    More info
    Mattei's TavernPrice: Very Expensive• American• Los Olivos
    4.7
  • David
    California Central Coast •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Extraordinary experience all the way around. A hidden gem of sorts. Lucky if you discover it.
    More info
    Petros Restaurant at Petros WineryPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Los Olivos
    4.9
  • Larry
    Adelaide •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We were visiting from out of town and thought we would try California Tacos Cantina & Distillery - Buellton. Great decision! The food was the best we have had and the staff and atmosphere were welcoming and positive. Highly recommended.
    More info
    California Tacos Cantina & Distillery - BuelltonPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Buellton
    4.6
  • Fredvip
    Los Angeles •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We make it a point to visit SY Kitchen every time we’re in Santa Ynez. While most of our experiences have been enjoyable, our most recent visit on November 19th—coincidentally our 42nd anniversary—was truly exceptional. I savored one of the best vodka martinis I’ve had in years at the bar. The service was outstanding, with our server demonstrating professionalism, attentiveness, and a friendly demeanor. Each course was timed perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience. The food was exemplary, and the manager went above and beyond by checking on us three times to ensure everything met our expectations. It does leave us wondering, though—why is Nella Kitchen, under the same ownership, such a stark contrast in quality and service?
    More info
    SY KitchenPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.9
  • Danavip
    Los Angeles •74 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Always a winner! Short rib ravioli is a winner! Arugula salad is simple & perfect! Service was great too!
    More info
    Leonardo Ristorante & PizzeriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Solvang
    4.9

Discover best authentic restaurants in Santa Ynez Valley

Discover the essence of authenticity in the heart of California’s Central Coast with our curated selection of dining spots in the Santa Ynez Valley. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culinary scene, this region offers a plethora of restaurants that embody the spirit of authenticity through their dedication to local ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, and distinctive regional flavors. Each establishment showcases a deep connection to the local culture, ensuring a dining experience that's not only genuine but also deeply rooted in the area's rich gastronomic heritage. The Santa Ynez Valley is celebrated for its dynamic dining scene, where visitors can indulge in everything from rustic farm-to-table fare to sophisticated gourmet dishes, all emphasizing freshness and local sourcing. Whether you're a foodie in search of the most authentic flavors or a casual diner wanting to enjoy a meal that feels like home, these restaurants in the Santa Ynez Valley promise an unforgettable culinary journey. This selection is ideal for those who appreciate meals crafted with care and a love for culinary tradition, offering a taste of the true essence of the Central Coast.

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