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Itinerary: A Weekend in Santa Barbara Wine Country

Updated: Feb 17

Downtown Solvang

Nestled 40 minutes from Santa Barbara and 2.5 hours from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara's wine country is a bourgeoning culinary hub complete with picturesque landscapes and world class wineries. Discover a world where country charm meets the refined, local tastes with this weekend itinerary.


The Mirabelle Inn

Friday Evening: Arrival and Indulgence

  • 7:00 PM: Check-in at The Mirabelle Inn

  • The Mirabelle Inn offers cozy luxury with Dutch-inspired architecture and rustic charm provide a warm welcome. Its intimate ambiance sets the stage for a weekend of indulgence.

  • Address: 409 First St, Solvang, CA 93463

  • 8:00 PM: Dinner at First & Oak

  • Dive into the culinary genius of Chef Steven Snook at First & Oak, where innovative dishes and a Michelin-starred background combine to offer a dining experience like no other. The cuisine is a modern twist on classics, with hallmark dishes such as the intricately prepared beetroot salmon and the savory duck breast commanding attention.

  • Address: Within The Mirabelle Inn

  • Duration: 1.5 Hours

Sanford Winery

Saturday: A Day of Culinary Exploration and Wine Tasting

  • 10:00 AM: Morning Pastry Tour

  • Explore the sweet essence of Solvang through its famed Dutch pastry shops. Each bakery, a short stroll apart, offers its own slice of Denmark with specialties like the flaky kringle or the rich almond tart.

  • Location: Various

  • Duration: 1 hour

  • 12:30 PM: Tasting at Sanford

  • Sanford Winery, nestled in the heart of the Sta. Rita Hills, specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that have garnered international acclaim. The All-Terrain Vineyard Experience offers a journey through its storied estate, providing insights into their sustainable farming practices and award-winning viticulture.

  • Location: 5010 Santa Rosa Rd, Lompoc, CA 93436

  • Duration: 1.5 Hours

  • Reservations available on Tock

  • 2:30 PM: Lunch at Mariscos El Palmar

  • After exploring the rolling vineyards, enjoy the fresh, bold flavors of the sea at Mariscos El Palmar, where every dish is a celebration of authentic coastal cuisine.

  • Address: 1131 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463

  • Duration: 45 Minutes

  • 4:00 PM: Tasting at The Hilt/Jonata

  • Dive deep into the world of fine wines at The Hilt/Jonata, known for their exceptional Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and a unique portfolio of Bordeaux varieties. The JALAMA Tasting is an intimate exploration of their most prestigious and innovative creations.

  • Address: 2151 Sweeney Rd, Lompoc, CA 93436

  • Duration: 1.5 Hours

  • Reservations available on Tock

  • Evening in Solvang

  • As twilight falls, Solvang transforms into a fairy-tale village. Wander through streets lined with Danish windmills, unique trinket shops, and glowing lanterns that illuminate the night, capturing the essence of this European enclave.

  • 8:30 PM: Dinner at Bell's Restaurant

  • Experience the culinary artistry of Chef Daisy Ryan at Bell's Restaurant, where French bistro meets the Californian farm-to-table ethos. Signature dishes like the moules frites and the Parisian gnocchi showcase the refined simplicity and depth of flavor that have made Bell's a gastronomic landmark.

  • Address: 406 Bell St, Los Alamos, CA 93440

  • Duration: 1.5 Hours

  • Note: Bell's is a 20 minute drive from Solvang.

  • Reservations available on Tock


Tyler Winery

Sunday: Leisure and Last Tastings

  • 9:00 AM: Breakfast at Paula's Pancake House

  • Start your day in the heart of Solvang with a tribute to its Danish heritage, enjoying fluffy pancakes and a classic American breakfast amidst the backdrop of charming European-style buildings.

  • Address: 1531 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463

  • Duration: 1.5 Hours

  • Note: There is often a 30 minute wait here so take that into account!

  • 11:00 AM: Tasting at Tyler

  • Tyler Winery, with its focus on single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, presents an intimate tasting at their Mae Estate Vineyard House. Their wines, celebrated for their elegance and complexity, offer a taste of the region's terroir at its finest.

  • Address: 4805 CA-246, Lompoc, CA 93436

  • Duration: 1.5 Hours

  • Reservations available on Tock

  • 1:00 PM: Lunch at Industrial Eats

  • Conclude your epicurean adventure at Industrial Eats, a haven for food lovers where artisanal pizzas and handcrafted sandwiches embody the spirit of community and craftsmanship.

  • Address: 181 Industrial Way, Buellton, CA 93427

  • Duration: 1 Hour

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