Curator’s statement
Santa Ynez Valley is a must-visit for wine lovers. This quaint area is made up of a cluster of small towns, with picturesque mountains, rolling hills, and vineyards in between. Located just a 2.5-hour drive from Los Angeles, it has everything you could want for a 3–4-day getaway. Santa Ynez Valley has far more affordable prices than its in-state wine region rivals. World-renowned vineyards, a variety of activities and fantastic dining make for a quintessential California destination.
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Where to stay in Santa Ynez
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Things to do in Santa Ynez
The Santa Ynez Valley is known for their vineyards and wineries as the temperate climate offers the perfect conditions to produce world-class wines. There are 7 AVAs located in the region that produce 9.5 million gallons (!) of wine annually. Even if you’re not a wine lover, you can still enjoy the beautiful views, architecture, and events at these establishments. Besides touring the vineyards and doing wine tastings, there are also amazing hiking locations, olive oil and lavender farms, shopping, dining and other events happening year-round to fill up your itinerary.
VINEYARDS
TASTING ROOMS
OLIVE OIL TASTING
DANISH BAKERY HOPPING IN SOLVANG
SHOPPING
Wildflower Women
EXPLORE NATURE
Places to eat & drink in Santa Ynez
BREAKFAST
Whether you are looking for a fantastic cup of coffee, Danish pastries, pancakes, or a hearty omelet before you venture to the vineyards, there is no shortage of amazing breakfast options in the area to start your day.
Good Seed (Solvang) - Recommendation: Lavender Latte
The Coffee House (Solvang)
Brekkies (Solvang) - Recommendation: Omelet with tots
Paula’s Pancake House (Solvang)
The Baker’s Table (Santa Ynez)
LUNCH
SYV has no shortage of great lunch options. Whether you’re looking for a more upscale, sit-down or a place to grab a quick bite in between activities, there is something for every occasion in every small town.
Industrial Eats (Buellton) - Portions are huge
Vega Vineyard & Farm (Buellton)
Bar Le Côte (Los Olivos) - Recommendation: fried chicken sandwich
Los Olivos Wine Merchant Cafe (Los Olivos)
R Country Market (Los Olivos) - Great option to pick up picnic supplies before heading to a BYOF(ood) vineyard.
DINNER
California prides itself on farm-fresh ingredients and eating local. This area really takes that to heart when it comes to their evening dining. All restaurants offer a homemade menu and an extensive wine list (filled with tons of local options, of course). Their service is warm and inviting, and really makes you feel like a local.
Mattei's Tavern (Los Olivos) - This restaurant sits on the stunning Auberge property and serves up local wines, innovative cocktails and farm-fresh dishes in a cozy, earthy atmosphere with fireplaces. Recommendation: Duck Confit and Okinawan Sweet Potatoes.
SY Kitchen (Santa Ynez) - Here you’ll find an extensive beverage menu to pair with modern spins on fantastic Italian fare showcasing local produce. - Recommendation: Fantastic homemade gluten free pasta!
Mad & Vin (Solvang) - Farm to table restaurant with a great happy hour bar menu.
First & Oak (Solvang) - A rotating seasonal menu offering guests unique 3- or 5-course prefix tasting options.
Nella (Los Olivos) - Sister restaurant to SY Kitchen, Nella sits alongside the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn. This outpost features a California twist on Italian classics like burrata, meatballs, pizza, pasta and meat entrees.
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to California.