On our way back from the Santa Ynez valley getaway, Jon took me for dinner at the historic and rustic Cold Spring Tavern. Originally a stage coach post that was established back in 1865, it has been serving food and drinks for travelers for more than 100+ years. The bar is in a seperate house on the left. It’s crowded with motorcyclists and their bikes. There were live music and people were standing outside drinking and chatting.
As soon as I stepped inside I felt like being transported back to 100+ years ago. I absolutely love the rustic setting interior! Very old west and romantic. They offer hearty American dishes. There’re “unusual” meat dishes like Kangaroo and Ostrich on on the special sometimes.
The entree comes with a soup or salad. I got the Cold Spring Chilies. Usually I’m not big on chillies but this is good.
Jon got the Sauteed Medallions of Rabbit with wild mushroom, garlic and brandy. $23 I’m so-so with rabbit meat myself but this is pretty good. The sauce is tasty.
I got the The Cold Spring Chicken, baked with almond-raisin stuffing and smothered with sherry, sour cream and mushrooms. $20.50. I’m usually skeptical in American chicken dishes but the menu description sounds good. And it’s terrific! Lots of flavors and the chicken meat is moist and tender.
It was an unique experience and the food is surprisingly good. If you’re in the Santa Barbara area definitely check it out.
Cold Spring Tavern
5995 Stagecoach Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Tags: American
For those of you into the blues, catch the super acoustic blues duo of Tom Ball and Kenny Sultan, who play there often on Sunday afternoons. Tom is truly one of the top blues harp players alive today not to mention an excellent singer. Kenny’s guitar work is also tops. Their music is fun, uplifting and goes well with the excellent local wines and beers that they serve there.
Thanks for the recommendation Powerharp. I think They’re playing while we were there (it was Sunday afternoon). It’s great music and it felt like a big party there. Great vibe!
This is old American food?? Just by the pictures alone I would have thought it was French. The chicken does sound very tempting and looks good too. Romantic table lamp and window seats…