Come with me to Santa Ynez, CA!
I’ve been visiting the Santa Ynez area for over 15 years and absolutely love it. It’s only a 2 1/2 hour drive from Los Angeles but it feels like you’re in another country. It’s such a beautiful place and I can’t recommend it enough. Over the years the area has changed a lot with more and more places to visit and great restaurants to eat at. Here is a list of some of my favorites in the area that I always go to whenever I visit!
A stunning escape just north of Santa Barbara, CA.
Where to Stay:
The Landsby Hotel
A stylish hotel with modern rooms in Solvang, Ca. You really can’t go wrong staying here and the bar downstairs has great cocktails when you’re done with wine and yummy bar snacks. Dog friendly, too!
Corque Hotel
4 star hotel in Solvang, Ca. Love that it has a pool and hot tub and is walking distance to so many cute little shops and restaurants/Danish bakeries in town. They also offer many wine tasting 2-for-1 discounts!
The Inn at Mattie’s Tavern
If you’re looking to splurge a little, then The Inn at Mattie’s Tavern is a must! This luxury hotel is in Los Olivos and is absolutely beautiful. You can’t go wrong eating at Mattie’s Tavern and has a spa!
The Genevieve Hotel
Formerly the Santa Ynez Inn. This is a boutique hotel in Santa Ynez. Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara wine country. It’s a beautiful hotel surrounded by foliage.
Hotel Ynez
Nestled on 2 private acres in Santa Ynez with extensive gardens, 21-and-over pool, bonfire pits and more. Charming hotel that feels like an escape from the hustle.
Wine Valley Inn
To me one of the quintessential hotels in Solvang. Offering hotel rooms and cottages right in the middle of the Danish-themed village. Offers free breakfast!
Where to Eat:
S.y. Kitchen
By far my favorite restaurant in the area—and perhaps of all time. The food is incredible. The drinks are amazing. You MUST try the octopus salad. It’s a standout dish for me. I always order two of them. The meatballs are a must as well!
Bar Le Côte
If you love seafood then you’ll love Bar Le Côte. The food always hits. Everything on the menu is delicious. It’s great for a romantic dinner or light lunch. Has a great wine selection as well. The soft shell crab is superb.
Nella Kitchen and Bar
From the same team behind S.Y Kitchen, Nella is located at the Fess Parker Hotel. The ambiance, the food, the cocktails…all perfection. Some of the highlights for me are the Cioppino, Braised Duck Leg and the Sausage Pinsa!
Coast Range
A great restaurant in the heart of Solvang. Michelin recommended. A perfect spot to grab dinner and a cocktail after a day of wine tasting. My favs include the Parker House Rolls, Pan Fried Pierogies, and Beef Stroganoff.
Mad & Vin
Located in The Landsby Hotel, Mad & Vin is a great spot to grab a happy hour drink and snack. But don’t sleep on the dinner menu. They offer a wide range of delicious dishes. The Roasted Chicken and duck fat fries are a must!
Dos Carlitos
A no-frills Mexican-American restaurant in the middle of Santa Ynez. No reservations but a local spot that gets the job done. Margaritas are on point and the food satisfies any craving. The Pork Pozole is top notch in my book.
Where to Drink:
Stolpman So Fresh
One of our favorite wine makers. Ask for Savannah, she’s amazing and really knows her stuff. The highlights include “Love You Bunches” and “Crunchy Roastie.” Some of the best carbonic wines in the game!
Vega Vineyard & Farm
Jimmy the owner is one of the coolest people you’ll meet. The wine is incredible (the Montepulciano is amazing) but also one of the few vineyards that has food. There’s also a farm with animals and kid-friendly!
Fess Parker Winery
Yes, that Fess Parker, Mr. Davy Crockett himself. A very family and pet friendly winery with some incredible wines. The estate itself is beautiful. Some hits for me include their Pinot Noir and “Big Easy” inspired by NOLA.
Melville Winery
One of the most beautiful vineyards you’ll visit. A huge estate surrounded by incredible views. The wine is top notch. Don’t miss out on the Grenache Rosé, Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir and Donna’s Block Syrah. Bring a picnic!
Roblar Winery
A great winery to visit for some tasty wine tasting and delicious food. Their Fried Chicken on Thursdays are a must. When it comes to wines don’t miss the Roblar Ottimo or the Roblar Rose which is a winner in my book!
Waylan Wine Co.
One of my favorite tasting rooms in Los Olivos. Waylan has some of the best wines in the valley. It is family owned and operated. Hits include their Vermentino, Grenache Blanc, Albariño and Chenin Blanc. A must visit!
What to Do:
Vega Farm
A farm located in the Vega Vineyard. There’s lots of cute animals you can feed. A great place to take kids while you walk around enjoying a glass of their delicious wine. Theo is a regular there and he loves it so much!
Vino Vaqueros
I’ve lost track of the amount of times we’ve gone horseback riding here. Aside from the friendly staff, the beautiful scenery ride, the best part is each ride ends with some wine which to me is worth the work in riding!
J. Woeste in Los Olivos
A must-visit whenever you go to Los Olivos. Jefferson Woeste is a gem and his store is incredible. You’ll always find something every time you visit. There’s anything from garden decor to home treasures and plants. The cookies are a treat!
Sky’s the Limit Ballooning
If you love heights and beautiful views and have always wanted to go on a hot air balloon, then I highly recommend this. You’ll get some amazing views of the valley and have I mentioned how romantic it is?
Pieces of the Past Vintage
There’s always a thrifted treasure to find here. I can’t tell you how many vintage pieces I’ve found here. The place is filled with so many unique and interesting treasures from the past. It’s in the heart of Solvang within walking distance to lots!
Danish mill bakery
Solvang is filled to the brim with so many Danish Bakeries to visit. Danish Mill however is by far my favorite. It’s a must visit when walking around Solvang. The monkey bread and butter cookies are some of my favorite treats!
