Romantic Restaurants in Santa Barbara County

Bouchon, The Stonehouse, Elements, Mattei's Tavern

Mar 4, 2009

Picking a restaurant to propose marriage? Here are four time-tested, classy and charming choices in Santa Barbara and environs to suit the pickiest bride-to-be.

The prospective bridegroom could use some help in the romance department, especially when choosing a restaurant to break out the engagement ring. Good food alone won't do if certain elements are not in place. The selections gathered here have been chosen especially for all types of future life partners, whatever their tastes are.

For the Wine Buff

The foliage-covered doorway to Bouchon suggests a clandestine hideaway in the midst of Santa Barbara's downtown bustle. The restaurant's name, which means "wine cork" in French, draws romantics who also crave the intriguing seasonal and regional wine and food pairings this restaurant is noted for. The knowledgeable staff enjoys pampering guests to a fault. Although music plays in the background, it is quiet enough for intimate murmurings. There is also a heated patio for those who prefer to propose alfresco. For public proposals, consider the private dining room seating 10-20 guests.

Winter menu items perfect for sharing: Escargot Vol au Vent, Bourbon and Maple-Glazed Duck Breast, Chocolate Molten-Lava Cake.

For the Star-Struck

With 500 acres of gorgeous grounds, San Ysidro Ranch resort is one of the most romantic and expensive enclaves in the country. JFK and Jackie honeymooned here, and today's tabloid curiosities (Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin) had their wedding reception there. It encloses the Stonehouse, a 19th century citrus packing house transformed into a world-renowned restaurant. Pricey by any standard ($120 for a Margarita?), the atmosphere here is more "shabby chic" than stuffy. Do the deed either indoors by the crackling fireplace or on the patio with heated tiles to warm cold feet.

Also at the San Ysidro Ranch: Plow and Angel, located below the Stonehouse, might be described as a pub - it has a crackling fireplace and stained glass windows and serves macaroni and cheese ($13) and weekly specials - Baby Back Ribs on Mondays ($39, includes soup or salad, and dessert). Unlike the Stonehouse, no reservations are taken here.

Menu items perfect for sharing: Pan-Seared Foie Gras, Local Spiny Lobster, Mini Dessert Plate.

For the Architecture Maven

Overlooking the picturesque County Courthouse, where nuptials frequently take place, dining at Elements sets the mood for marriage proposals. Because it can get busy during the day or during special occasions when there are outdoor events at the Courthouse Sunken Gardens, it's best to cozy up here during dinner, when the historic structure is illuminated.

Menu items perfect for sharing: Black Sesame Encrusted Ahi Tuna Steak, Chocolate Lovers' Trio.

For the Cowgirl

Slow oven-roasted prime rib. Smoked bacon mashed potatoes. Perfectly chilled martinis, local Santa Ynez Valley ranchers in Western gear at the bar, old family photos, red velvet covered walls. Bustling and busy every night of the week, this wonderful white painted, multi-roomed 1886 stagecoach stop, owned by generations of the Mattei family, is a Valley landmark, now operated skillfully by real brothers Matt and Jeff Nichols. Many prospective couples find it hard to stir from a cozy armchair by the crackling fire in the lounge.

Menu items perfect for sharing: Oven Roasted Rack of Lamb, Brothers' Mud Pie with Kahlua-Caramel Sauce.

The copyright of the article Romantic Restaurants in Santa Barbara County in North American Culinary Travel is owned by Margie Nelson. Permission to republish Romantic Restaurants in Santa Barbara County in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.