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Wine and Dine
All that Santa Barbara wine tasting can work up an appetite. Tempt your palette to treats in the valley. These wine-country restaurants will put the sip back in your swirl.
- Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café : Sit outside on the wisteria-covered patio and pair a pinot noir with the popular Rustic Spreads appetizer featuring handcrafted olive tapenade. Info: 2879 Grand Ave., Los Olivos; 888.WINES4U.
- Root 246: Under the direction of star-chef Bradley Ogden, this five-star restaurant with its fresh farm-to-table approach is the toast of the town. Info: 420 Alisal Road, Solvang; 805.688.9003.
- The Vineyard House: Set in a Victorian home, this spot is known for its view of the Santa Ynez Valley and for serving the freshest California cuisine: Herbs come from the garden, and produce comes from local farms. Info: 3631 Sagunto St., Santa Ynez; 805.688.2886; thevineyardhouse.com.
- Paula's Pancake House: Casual dining with a little bit of everything. They still serve breakfast at lunchtime, meaning go for the decadent Danish pancakes served with fresh fruit. Info: 1531 Mission Drive, Solvang; 805.688.2867.
- The Ballard Inn & Restaurant: A dozen tables aglow with candlelight by a crackling fireplace make for an intimate and romantic evening at this sought-after spot known for French/Asian cuisine. Info: 2436 Baseline Ave., Ballard; 800.638.2466.
Author: Nick Passmore
