Itinerary: A Weekend in Santa Barbara Wine Country

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.

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
  

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

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