Cold Spring Tavern
Santa Barbara, CA 93105-9776
Phone: (805) 967-0066
- Price:
- $$
- Hours:
- Mon-Fri 11am-3pm, 5pm-9pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm, 5pm-9pm
Editorial Review for Cold Spring Tavern – by Tara de Lis
In Short
Originally constructed in the 1860s, this historical marker was originally a way station for mountain-crossing travelers; shortly thereafter, it became a restaurant--and little has changed since. A mix of woodsy log cabin chic, deer head decor and four wood burning fireplaces, the space is still a welcome respite to folks on the road, be it wine aficionados heading home to points south, Santa Barbara locals or adventurous couples and families. Traditional weekend breakfasts are legendary; otherwise, it's all about burgers, chicken and steak.
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Insider Tips
When to GoSundays in summer may be the best time to visit, when bands play from 1:30pm into the evening. There are special tri-tip sandwiches for sale, and visitors are encouraged to pull up a blanket and kick back.
What to DrinkThe restaurant offers wine, beer and a full bar. The corkage fee is $12.
The ExtrasAlso onsite is the original Ojai jail, built in 1873, and four storage buildings the owners found in an old California ghosttown and relocated to the property.
User Reviews for Cold Spring Tavern
09/21/2008 Posted by winendinehopper
If you plan of stay overnight in Solvang area after a wine tasting experience in Santa Ynez or Paso Robles wineries, or for whatever reason, you might need to complement your getaway experience with the brunch that takes you back to past. This historic joint serves breakfast/brunch which I would call "An American Breakfast." Though the food is already incredible, not to mention the cost--your eyes may open wide and your jaw might dropped, dining in this restaurant makes you feel eating with our forefathers... ha ha ha. This place is no ordinary place. You don't come here to compare food but to experience dining in one of California's landmarks--a tourist spot. Over hundred years ago, dusty stagecoaches stopped here at what was then know as "Cold Spring Relay Station" to change teams of horses and allow travelers to rest at this stagecoach stop and enjoy one of the most delicious meals in the Old West. Today the tavern (Cold Spring Tavern) is still a "rest stop" though now travelers arrive in more modern coaches to enjoy the food and refreshment which is still among the best in the West. The place is best for a little romantic experience, family brunch, or group of friends. A great place to experience the countryside after a good meal... California has great weather, so pick your day (or weekend). On different occasions, I came here with friends, family, and a great girlfriend. 100% recommended.
Pros: Food, Ambience, Parking
Cons: It's Old, So Be Careful Not To Break Anything--Just Joking
07/02/2008 Posted by usayhi
I know a lot of people love this place, and my boyfriend and i went b/c of the reviews. We were so excited about it, and it was a total disappointment. The place is nicely tucked away and the outside bar seemed to be more fun than the restaurant. It took our server at least 10 minutes to even acknowledge we were there. My boyfriend's soup came luke warm, and my medium rare steak was a very well done. When I asked about it, he just gave me a look and took the food away w/o saying anything. My water was never refilled, and he never checked on us. We are not rude people at restaurants, and we were always nice, even when I had to return my steak. There was no excuse for the service that we got. It was definitely a low point of our trip, and I'm sad to say I will never return.
Pros: location
Cons: service, food
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