When it comes to planning a trip to Los Olivos, California, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to eat. This charming town in Santa Barbara County is known for its picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and rustic charm, but it’s also a foodie’s paradise. With a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and eateries serving up everything from farm-to-table cuisine to artisanal sandwiches, you’ll want to make sure you’re dining at the best spots.
Get ultimate traveler plannerOverview of Los Olivos’ Culinary Scene
Los Olivos is a small town, but it packs a big punch when it comes to culinary diversity. From casual breakfast spots to upscale dinner destinations, there’s something for every taste and budget. You’ll find restaurants serving up classic American comfort food, as well as those offering international flavors from Italy, France, and beyond. And, of course, no trip to wine country would be complete without a visit to a winery or two, where you can pair your meal with a glass of locally-crafted wine.
What to Expect in This Guide
In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of Los Olivos, highlighting the top restaurants, cafes, and eateries you won’t want to miss. From farm-fresh breakfast spots to artisanal lunch destinations and romantic dinner locales, we’ll cover it all. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine enthusiast, or just looking for a great meal, this guide will help you navigate the best of Los Olivos’ culinary scene.
Where to Eat in Los Olivos: A Foodie’s Paradise
Los Olivos, a charming town in Santa Barbara County, California, is a haven for foodies and wine enthusiasts. This picturesque town is surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate good food, fine wine, and a relaxed atmosphere. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Los Olivos, from farm-to-table restaurants to artisanal bakeries and gourmet delis.
Farm-to-Table Restaurants
Los Olivos is renowned for its farm-to-table restaurants, which showcase the region’s freshest produce, meats, and dairy products. Here are some of the top farm-to-table restaurants in Los Olivos:
- The Los Olivos Cafe: This cozy cafe serves up seasonal American cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Their menu changes frequently, but be sure to try their signature dishes, such as the grilled cheese sandwich and the roasted vegetable salad.
- The Ballard Inn & Restaurant: This historic inn offers a farm-to-table restaurant that serves up gourmet American cuisine. Their menu features dishes such as roasted duck breast, grilled filet mignon, and pan-seared salmon.
- The Los Olivos Wine Cottages & Restaurant: This charming restaurant serves up seasonal American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their menu features dishes such as grilled steak, roasted chicken, and pan-seared fish.
Artisanal Bakeries
Los Olivos is home to several artisanal bakeries that offer a wide range of freshly baked goods, from crusty bread to decadent pastries. Here are some of the top artisanal bakeries in Los Olivos: (See Also: Where To Eat In Milwaukee)
- The Los Olivos Bakery: This family-owned bakery has been a Los Olivos staple for over 20 years. They offer a wide range of freshly baked goods, including bread, pastries, cakes, and cookies.
- The Ballard Bakery: This artisanal bakery offers a variety of freshly baked goods, including sourdough bread, croissants, and quiches. They also offer custom cake orders for special occasions.
- The Santa Ynez Valley Bakery: This bakery offers a wide range of freshly baked goods, including bread, pastries, cakes, and cookies. They also offer gluten-free and vegan options.
Gourmet Delis
Los Olivos is home to several gourmet delis that offer a wide range of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and specialty foods. Here are some of the top gourmet delis in Los Olivos:
- The Los Olivos Deli: This gourmet deli offers a wide range of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and specialty foods. They also offer custom sandwich orders and catering services.
- The Ballard Deli: This gourmet deli offers a variety of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and specialty foods. They also offer custom sandwich orders and catering services.
- The Santa Ynez Valley Deli: This gourmet deli offers a wide range of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and specialty foods. They also offer custom sandwich orders and catering services.
Wine Country Cuisine
Los Olivos is surrounded by wine country, and many of its restaurants offer wine country cuisine. Here are some of the top restaurants that offer wine country cuisine:
- The Los Olivos Wine Cottages & Restaurant: This restaurant offers wine country cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their menu features dishes such as grilled steak, roasted chicken, and pan-seared fish.
- The Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard: This winery offers wine country cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their menu features dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and paninis.
- The Epiphany Cellars: This winery offers wine country cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their menu features dishes such as grilled steak, roasted chicken, and pan-seared fish.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Los Olivos has several breakfast and brunch spots that offer a wide range of options, from omelets to pancakes to quiche. Here are some of the top breakfast and brunch spots in Los Olivos:
- The Los Olivos Cafe: This cozy cafe serves up breakfast and brunch options, including omelets, pancakes, and quiche.
- The Ballard Inn & Restaurant: This historic inn offers breakfast and brunch options, including eggs benedict, pancakes, and waffles.
- The Santa Ynez Valley Bakery: This bakery offers a variety of breakfast and brunch options, including pastries, quiches, and sandwiches.
Dessert Spots
Los Olivos has several dessert spots that offer a wide range of sweet treats, from ice cream to chocolates to cakes. Here are some of the top dessert spots in Los Olivos:
- The Los Olivos Ice Creamery: This ice cream shop offers a variety of unique flavors, including lavender honey and strawberry balsamic.
- The Santa Ynez Valley Chocolatier: This chocolatier offers a wide range of handcrafted chocolates, including truffles, caramels, and nut clusters.
- The Los Olivos Cake Company: This bakery offers a variety of custom cakes for special occasions, including weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries.
Food and Wine Tours
Los Olivos offers several food and wine tours that allow visitors to experience the region’s culinary delights. Here are some of the top food and wine tours in Los Olivos: (See Also: Where To Eat In Wallingford)
- The Los Olivos Wine and Food Tour: This tour takes visitors to several wineries and restaurants in Los Olivos, where they can sample local wines and cuisine.
- The Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country Tour: This tour takes visitors to several wineries and vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley, where they can sample local wines and learn about the wine-making process.
- The Los Olivos Farm-to-Table Tour: This tour takes visitors to several farms and restaurants in Los Olivos, where they can learn about the region’s farm-to-table movement and sample local cuisine.
Recap: Where to Eat in Los Olivos
In conclusion, Los Olivos is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide range of culinary delights, from farm-to-table restaurants to artisanal bakeries and gourmet delis. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a quick lunch, or a sweet treat, Los Olivos has something for everyone. Be sure to check out some of the top restaurants, bakeries, and delis in Los Olivos, and don’t forget to take a food and wine tour to experience the region’s culinary delights.
Restaurant/Bakery/Deli | Cuisine | Address | Phone Number |
---|---|---|---|
The Los Olivos Cafe | Farm-to-Table | 2940 Grand Ave, Los Olivos, CA 93441 | (805) 688-4444 |
The Ballard Inn & Restaurant | Farm-to-Table | 2436 Baseline Ave, Ballard, CA 93463 | (805) 688-7770 |
The Los Olivos Bakery | Bakery | 2940 Grand Ave, Los Olivos, CA 93441 | (805) 688-4444 |
The Santa Ynez Valley Bakery | Bakery | 1555 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463 | (805) 688-5555 |
The Los Olivos Deli | Gourmet Deli | 2940 Grand Ave, Los Olivos, CA 93441 | (805) 688-4444 |
The Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard | Wine Country Cuisine | 6200 Foxen Canyon Rd, Los Olivos, CA 93441 | (805) 688-1545 |
Note: The addresses, phone numbers, and cuisines listed are subject to change and may not be up-to-date. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the restaurant’s website to confirm their hours and menu.
Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Los Olivos
What are the most popular restaurants in Los Olivos?
Los Olivos is known for its farm-to-table cuisine and wine country charm. Some of the most popular restaurants in the area include The Los Olivos Cafe, Mattei’s Tavern, and Los Olivos Wine Cottages & Restaurant. These eateries offer a range of options from casual breakfast spots to upscale dinner destinations.
Are there any restaurants in Los Olivos that serve vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, many restaurants in Los Olivos cater to vegetarians and vegans. The Los Olivos Cafe has a separate vegetarian menu, and Mattei’s Tavern offers several vegan options. Additionally, the Los Olivos Wine Cottages & Restaurant has a dedicated vegan menu. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the restaurant’s website to confirm their options.
Can I find any restaurants in Los Olivos that offer outdoor seating?
Yes, many restaurants in Los Olivos offer outdoor seating areas where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley scenery. The Los Olivos Cafe has a charming patio area, and Mattei’s Tavern has a large outdoor courtyard. Los Olivos Wine Cottages & Restaurant also has outdoor seating with stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. (See Also: Where To Eat In Carmel Indiana)
Are there any restaurants in Los Olivos that are kid-friendly?
Yes, several restaurants in Los Olivos are kid-friendly and welcoming to families. The Los Olivos Cafe has a children’s menu and a casual atmosphere that’s perfect for families. Mattei’s Tavern also has a kids’ menu and a large outdoor area where kids can run around while parents relax.
Do I need to make reservations at restaurants in Los Olivos?
It’s highly recommended to make reservations at restaurants in Los Olivos, especially on weekends or during peak season. Many of the restaurants in the area are popular with both locals and tourists, and they can fill up quickly. By making a reservation, you can ensure that you get a table at your preferred time and avoid long wait times.