When you think of California wine country the first thing that comes to mind is probably Napa, or maybe Temecula, but the Santa Ynez Valley is the real California wine country gem. Nestled between the central coast and the mountains, there’s a tiny little town that you’ve got to visit—Los Alamos.
STAY AT
Since it’s still a tiny town there are only two main motels to stay at, and they fill up fast. There are also some good AirBnb options to stay at too!
The Alamo Motel
Right in the heart of the main drag, The Alamo Motel is a cute little rustic gem surrounded by cactus. It’s walking distance to everything in the town, and it has a perfect fire pit to sit around. I would consider it the ideal place to stay for convenience so you that don’t have to deal with driving too much. Plus, there’s a wine tasting spot from one of my Santa Barbara faves Municiple Winemakers right on site!
The Skyview Motel
Nestled up on the mountain with a killer view and even better pool, The Skyview Motel is a stunner. Each of the rooms have Moroccan rugs, and there’s a restaurant called Norman on site with a view of from the hilltop. The only thing I’m not sure about with staying here is getting around because it’s across the highway, and I prefer to walk in Los Alamos. I’d consider this an ideal spot it you want to stay by the pool all weekend!
EAT + DRINK
If you’re coming to Los Alamos you’re headed there for the wine! The town is brimming with great quality local wines, and good food to match. For such a small town there’s a plethora of delicious dining options. It feels a bit like a bunch of New York/LA chefs wanted to get off the grid and found the perfect spot to in Los Alamos.
Bodega
With a cute alfresco outdoor space, fire pits, and a huge wine list Bodega has the best of both worlds. You can lounge with a glass of wine, read a book, or chat with friends. We ordered their cheese plate and it was incredible. There’s a gorgeous greenhouse in the back, and a cute shop in the front too!
Pico
Make reservations for dinner at Pico one night you’re in town. Man-oh-man everything there is delicious. It was so good that were all fighting over who got the last piece of everything. It has a nice bar too, which is perfect if you want to grab a cocktail and skip the meal.
Bob’s Well Bread Bakery
For brunch, we always end up at Bob’s Well Bread Bakery. The line is always out the door, but it’s worth the wait. Their pastries and breads are delicious, it’s a must-visit!
Norman
A mid-century gem on the Skyview Motel property, Norman is full of glam Jonathan Adler decor. We went for brunch, but their dinner looks good too. Eat outside for a lovely view!
Belle’s
If you’re looking for one of the finest French restaurants, head to Bell’s. They’re open for lunch and dinner, and have a happy hour too!
Lo-Fi Wines
A cute little spot that is all audio themed. Lo-Fi Wines is right across from the Alamo Motel. We chatted with the owner for a while, and listened to records. The perfect chill spot!
Municipal Wines
A cute little wine shack inside The Skyview Motel! I’d do a tasting flight there, and then grab a bottle and sit by the fire pit in the evening.
Casa Dumetz
On the same block, there’s a sunny tasting room with a special line of Feminist Party Wines Casa Dumetz is a Mediterranean style spot you’ve got to stop in during your trip.
Babi’s Beer Emporium
When you’re all wined out, head to Babi’s Beer Emporium for a beer! It’s connected to Casa Dumetz, and they have great beers on tap and bottles.
1880 Union Saloon
A classic old school style saloon on the main strip. 1880 Union Saloon is the place to grab a cocktail, play some games and chill. I’d head that way in the evening!
If you really want to make it a wine-packed weekend getaway, I’d make a stop at Los Olivos down the road for a quaint wine tasting town that feels like you just stepped into Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls. Must do’s are Carhartt, Sarloos and Sons, Solminer and Staffords for chocolate!
