Fine Dining in Ojai, Ca. including the Ranch House, Suzannes, Azu, Sakura- July 2014
Dining in Ojai, Ca. We have some great recommendations for fine dining without having to get too dressed up. The cozy yet delicious Ranch House is a fabulous spot for dinner, private parties or weddings. The garden is beautiful and there are secluded tables outside for more intimate dining. Definitely start with their fresh market veggie platter which changes daily along with any of the fabulous salads.
For entrees, we highly recommend the diver scallops (featured by iron chef Cat Cora on the food network as the best thing she ever ate) with polenta but any of the meat dishes looked great too. For a unique veggie option, try the baked avocado with quinoa. Executive Chef Marcus Hollingsworth is very talented and creative so this is a must visit.
102 Besant Rd (805) 646-2360 http://www.theranchhouse.com/
Suzannes is just amazing and also a must visit as the atmosphere and dining experience were top notch. Suzanne and her mom pictured below.
There is also a little garden in the back that you can overlook while you enjoy their tasty food. Start with the eggplant tart and goat chsse as well as the steamed clams for appetizers. Any of there fresh salads are great choices before moving onto the main course. We had the lamb chops and special branzino fish, which were both superb.
The menu has a great variety and plenty of other options from shellfish, meats, chicken, vegetarian and many pasta options. Enjoy a glass of wine or one of their specialty cocktails to enhance your meal and finish off with one of their many delectable desserts from the Pineapple Gratinée, Warm Chocolate Tart or Café Liegeois De La Maison (coffee ice cream sundae) to name a few.
Located at 502 W. Ojai Ave. (805) 640-1961
http://www.suzannescuisine.com/
For a great casual yet tasty experience, check out Azu right downtown. They offer a wide selection of tapas, greens and main entrees.
Some of the dishes to definitely try are the creamy hummus with pita, lightly fried calamari, which melts in your mouth, kale quinoa salad and thick cut french fries. Move onto the chile relleno, braised short rib tacos, delicious seafood paella with mussels-calamari-shrimp and not to miss bison burger (a big hit for kids too). Enjoy one of the specialty cocktails, wine or beer to accompany your meal. Finish off with some of their homemade ice cream and you will be completely satisfied.
Located at 457 E. Ojai Ave. (805) 640-7987 http://azuojai.com/
Finally, looking for a casual sushi Japanese restaurant. Head to Sakura Ojai. The owner Claire is so friendly and hospitable while delivering fresh sushi and entrees at affordable prices. Lunch specials include 2-3 choices including spicy tuna, chicken or salmon teriyaki, and vegetable tempura to name a few.
Order any other sashimi or special rolls such as the soft shell crab spider roll, udon noodle soup, salads and edamame as the menu is huge and the food is great. You will not be disappointed, trust me. Located at 11400 Ventura Ave. (805)-649-5555 http://www.sakuraojai.com/
