Hotels & Lodging

The Amazing “Santa Ynez Inn” and Grappolo’s Delicious Italian Dining (5/06)

     On my first visit to the beautiful Santa Ynez Inn, I was very much impressed. The impeccable service and incredible room with a fireplace and Jacuzzi tub was worth mentioning.  Many other amenities including a happy hour with wine and appetizers and a fabulous cooked to order breakfast in the morning was not to be missed.  The location is perfect and not far away from many wineries for tasting or the little town to visit.  This Bed and Breakfast is top notch.  There are different sized rooms/suites with gorgeous décor and fantastic furniture. There is a nice spa with treatments and a workout room. Be sure to stay here on your next visit to the wine country about 120 miles north of Los Angeles and just passed Santa Barbara.  For more information, pricing, photos and activities, visit www.santaynezinn.com 

     The Inn is located at

3627 Sagunto Street

and phone # is 805-688-5588 or toll free 800-643-5774.  If you are looking for a place to have dinner, try Grappolo’s down the road walking distance from the Inn at

3687 Sagunto Street

.

     Head Chef Leonardo Curti and Daniele Serra, who are partners, make this Italian joint a popular and desirable spot to dine.  Many specialty salads and appetizers are a great way to start. Don’t miss the grilled stuffed calamari with mozzarella, garlic, parsley and prosciutto or the Baked Eggplant with tomato, mozzarella and parmesan. A great selection of their Italian style pizzas with many topping options and homemade pasta’s with many ingredients and sauces are also delicious.  The Gnocchi and Risotto of the Day are also specials to try.

     Moving on to the main course and your options are Free Range Chicken with shitake mushrooms; Grilled Lamb Chops in a red wine sauce; Breaded Pork Chop pan fried with tomatoes; Grilled Porterhouse Steak with a garlic-red wine- mustard sauce; and The fresh seafood of the day which always includes some spectacular shellfish.

     A fine selection of home made desserts such as bread pudding, tiramisu, chocolate truffle tart, crème brule and others can be accompanied by one of their tasty after dinner drinks.  Make it a point to dine at Grappolo on your visit to Santa Ynez.  More info at www.trattoriagrappolo.com       This place also offers cooking classes and catering!