Visit Cold Spring Tavern

Travel back 100 years in time and experience the real tavern!

Last updated: Apr 2023

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Free to visit
97 Miles from you
Local Selection: Exceptional experiences in your area that exceed expectations
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Description

Cold Spring Tavern is a former stagecoach stop dating back to 1886 that has been in the Ovington- Wilson family since 1941. It is located between Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez in the beautiful mountains on the San Marcos Pass off Highway 154. Here you can appreciate the true history of the old stagecoach days. They serve traditional American fare made with fresh local ingredients accompanied by the famous home-baked molasses bread. The dinners feature game inspired entrees, steaks, and ribs and are enjoyed by the glimmer of gas lanterns. Weekends at the Cold Spring Tavern are special. It starts with entertainment in the Log Cabin Bar on Friday evenings. Come and enjoy the great music of local bands, food, drink, and fresh air. It is a weekly tradition for many!

Perfect for

For two

For groups

For families with kids

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

Chill

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Location

5995 Stagecoach Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

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4.7 ● Google reviews

Heard so much about this place and finally was able to stop by for lunch on our way up the coast from Santa Barbara. There's a winding two lane road with a small dirt parking lot for about 10 cars max. The rest of the cars are parked on either side of the road. It's a very cute wooded area and you can walk around while you wait to be seated. We came for a late lunch at 1:30pm on a Monday and there was a 40 min wait. The food was good but everything came out so slow. We ordered the onion rings for an appetizer to come out first knowing this, but it didn't come out until the rest of the order. So if you're in a hurry, which luckily we weren't, don't eat here. They also messed up on our bill so more waiting and flagging down the waitress. They seem short staffed as our waitress was rushing from one table to the next. It's one of those places where you've been to check it off your list but not worth the long wait to return again.

This place did not disappoint! We had a lovely lunch here before taking a drive through the surrounding area to enjoy the bridge and the views. The buffalo burger and chili were delicious as was the cobbler. Our server was very friendly and helpful. It was cozy, with a warm fire and rustic decor. It was well worth the trip and we're looking forward to eating there again.

This place did not disappoint! The food was great, service and especially the staff. I tried the tritrip sandwich, venison sandwich, and beer better onion rings FYI park below the restaurant enough parking every one trying to park near it. Enjoy🙃

Was recommended this place after visiting Solvang. Wasn't expecting such a historic and picturesque place. The food was great and service was also great. Not to mention the ambiance and decor. This is definitely a must-visit restaurant if you are in the area.

Located at the embrace of the mountains, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience that blends with nature's beauty. The menu features dishes that are freshly made and the dining area only enhance the dining experience, providing a picturesque backdrop for a memorable meal. With its charming atmosphere and delicious cuisine, this mountain restaurant is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

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