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Stonehouse Restaurant At San Ysidro Ranch
Category: Restaurants American (New) American (New) [Edit]
900 San Ysidro LnSanta Barbara, CA 93108
(805) 565-1724
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 6 pm - 10 pm
Sun 10 am - 2 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Valet
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Ambience:
- Intimate
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
54 reviews for Stonehouse Restaurant At San Ysidro Ranch
Review Highlights
"Parmesan crusted Halibut was so thick and flaky."
(in 3 reviews)
"How can they make simple vanilla ice cream so good."
(in 3 reviews)
"you got to try Belgian chocolate pot de crème."
(in 3 reviews)
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54 reviews in English
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Review from carlos a.
12/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Between the stunning venue, views and amazing food it's hard for me not to say this is one of the best meals I've ever had.
Stonehouse is located in beautiful Santa Barbara (Montecito?). One of my favorite things was the excellent service. Our server was witty and always there when we needed him. The next day we read about his in a local Santa Barbara paper which was neat. He is definitely a big asset to the restaurant and organization.
I had the steak Diane which was fantastic. I do recall it being pretty dim inside which could either be romantic or annoying depending on how good your eyesight is.
I would definitely go back for a special occasion. Great job, Stonehouse! -
Review from Katelyn J.
Greenwood Village, CO
12/15/2011
Why, yes, Jeeves, you may scrape my crumbs between each delectable course. You may also refill my water glass somewhere between my third and seventh sip for the entire evening... I appreciate your service.
I'm spoiled now... the service is so great at the Stonehouse that I'm almost offended when I go to a fine dining restaurant and no one scrapes my crumbs. The location is beautiful, and it was fun to be at the San Ysidro Ranch since I typically wouldn't go as a local.
The food is great, but you do pay for it. I actually think there are better restaurants in Santa Barbara for food that aren't nearly as pricey as the Stonehouse. Overall, though, a great experience! -
Review from Carson B.
Manhattan Beach, CA
11/30/2011
One of my friends took me to the Stone House at San Ysidro on my Birthday and it's safe to say it was a fantastic gift! Every aspect of the meal was wonderful! The ambiance and decor in the Stonehouse is fantastic. It has a very romantic, mountain villa feel. If you have a chance to walk around the grounds during the day (or even at night) do so because it is gorgeous.
The food was amazing as well. We shared a Calamari Salad for a starter and it was cooked to perfection. My friend had the Duck Two Ways for dinner and I had an amazing Parmesan Crusted Halibut. We tried each others dishes and were both awed by the tastes. We also had a few drinks from their cocktails list which did not disappoint. I recommend trying the Old Time (I believe was its name). It is very near an Old Fashioned but with some added flavors. It was very good!
To top off the night the waiter surprised me with a wonderful plate of chocolate dipped strawberries and the message "Happy Birthday" scrawled on a plate in chocolate. He had asked subtly if we were celebrating anything special towards the beginning of the meal but I didn't expect anything to come of it. It was a nice (and delicious!) gesture to finish off the meal.
All in all I'd rate this as one of my all time best dining experiences! I hope you have the chance to enjoy their food and hospitality as well. -
Review from Abbe C.
8/30/2011 6 photos
My fiance (Bryan W) was so sweet and wanted to take me to a romantic steakhouse for my birthday so he made reservation to dine here on the day of my birthday.
This place is located up into the hill in San Ysidro Ranch. We arrived earlier than our reservation time and walked around the place. It's very nice place and has nice manicured garden full of fresh herbs. I've never seen so many rosemary plants along the walk way!
Our reservation was at the upper patio area and it was very lovely especially after the sunset and atmosphere was quite romantic.
Once we were seated and ordered, they served us a complimentary olives and radish of which has a sharp spicy taste to it. It was very tasty and interesting at the same time. They also served us blueberry bread, sesame bun and pistachio and cheese on cracker. They are very tasty!
I'm usually not a drinker since it's special occasion, I figure why not. My drink was cucumber mojito and my fiance's drink is Pear Blossom. I like the freshness of cucumber with mint but my fiance thought it was OK. His Pear Blossom was quite strong for my liking!
Our appetizers were Dungeness crab and sashimi hamachi. The Dungeness crab cake was really good. Probably the best crab cake I've ever had because it's all crab meat and not to mention it's quite filling too due to generous portion.
Hamachi sashimi was good but a little steep for 3 little pieces. My fiance and I used to get half a pound from Fish King but of course we didn't have it nicely decorated with home grown vegetables; julliene radish, ponzu and alfafa sprouts.
Parmesan crusted Halibut was so thick and flaky! Very generous portion since it was steak size though the sauce was a bit overpowering. My fiance had the filet mignon, which had very nice flavor and prepared rare!
We were too full to have any dessert but since it was my birthday, they gave us complimentary chocolate covered strawberry with chocolate signed "Happy Birthday". What a perfect way to complete a lovely evening! Thank you, Stonehouse!! I had a lovely evening dining here with my fiance! -
Review from Bryan W.
Irvine, CA
8/29/2011
Was looking for an elegant, romantic steakhouse for my fiance's birthday and came across The Stonehouse at the San Ysidro Ranch and they did not disappoint. I made reservations for 7pm and for outdoor seating at their upper patio so we could be served as the sun was setting. We got here a little early to walk around and check out the ranch itself, and wow, very beautiful and maintained very well. There are flower gardens everywhere, fresh herbs growing all over which you can smell as you walk by.
We took our seats at the upper patio. I am thankful it was not windy that night as the weather during the day was not that great, lots of fog near the mountains and overcast over half the beach. But here, everything was just perfect (except all the heat lamps and fireplace, you have to understand that I would be most comfortable if I had a couple air conditioners blowing freezing cold air at me while we were sitting in 40 degree weather in Alaska, ha) The ambiance here is excellent, beautiful lamp on our table, fresh flowers all around us, we can look out and see the mountainside, the sun setting across from us, just magnificent.
They served a plate of complimentary olives with a type of radish which were very tasty. They also gave us a basket of variety of breads which were very tasty, I especially loved this one that had sesame seeds and cheese. Our appetizers were excellent. We tried the crabcake and hamachi. The crabcake was one of the best I have ever had, not overpowering with seasoning and stuffing, you can definitely taste the crab in it, yummm! The hamachi was very high quality, though I am not used to paying $20 for 3 thinly sliced pieces of yellowtail, still the quality was excellent.
My fiance had the halibut, and wow, very generous portion for fine dining. They served her a steak sized halibut which was excellently prepared, I would have ordered this if she did not but we love ordering separate items and sharing! I ordered the filet mignon and again, two very generous sized medallion filets. Usually I would just expect one. Very high quality of meat and prepared perfectly rare!
We were a bit full so we passed on dessert but they brought out a plate of fresh fruit with a little candle in a raspberry with Happy Birthday scribbled out with chocolate, very nice final touch to a fine dinner.
Excellent restaurant on a fine ranch, would definitely consider coming back here again for special occasions. I must add that everything was so fresh as they use herbs and vegetables grown on the ranch itself! Yes, definitely expensive, but for me, a memorable evening on a special day with my loved one, is priceless anyway!
10 - Ambiance (wonderful romantic location on a beautiful ranch)
10 - Service (multiple personnel tending the table, excellent attention)
9 - Price (expensive, but very high quality of food and the setting justifies it all)
9 - Portions (very generous portions for fine dining)
10 - Quality (cooked with fresh herbs and vegetables, high quality of meat and fish)
Dinner: Mon. Aug 15, 2011 -
Review from Linda W.
Santa Barbara, CA
12/12/2011
My husband and I came here for a date night with the help of a gift certificate we had gotten as a wedding gift. It is a place that could be described as "an experience." It's quite pricy, but the ambiance, and service set it apart as a very good one! We took pictures on their gorgeous grounds and dream about staying there in one of their cottages, but at $400 a night, we probably won't any time soon. The restaurant we will revisit for special occasions.
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Review from Renuka V.
Los Angeles, CA
1/3/2012
2 of us went for the prix fixe New Year's Day brunch and had a wonderful meal. Sat at the upstairs patio which allowed us to see the gorgeous grounds while we dined. We shared the seafood platter and for entrees, had the crab+avocado omelette as well as risotto with chanterelle mushrooms. The seafood platter was so good- oysters,mussels,crab legs and prawns - everything tasted so fresh and even the horseradish ketchup was good. The omelette was stuffed with crab meat and avocado and came with potatoes roasted with onions and we asked for the same ketchup to put over the potatoes! And the risotto too came with generous amount of chanterelle and both dishes were very good indeed. Also must say that the croissant is (so far) the best i've had in USofA! The prix-fixe also came with freeflow bellinis,mimosas+juices -the bellinis were good, the mimosas disappointing and the best thing was the orange juice which we ended up having the most of! Also, it was a glorious day with the sun shining so strongly at 12pm that we had to change seats a few times -which we could as the patio only filled up later. It wld also have been too stuffy to sit indoors. Also -we brought a change of tshirt and sneakers and went hiking up the trails which starts right at the foot of the Ranch itself!The reason I am not giving it 5 stars is for such a "high-end" restaurant, they did not offer us coffee/tea to go with our breakfast which should have been complimentary.
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Review from Matthew W.
Henderson, NV
7/31/2011
Went here for my wife's birthday based upon recommendations via friends and other yelpers.
Started with cocktails at the Angle and Plow, a restaurant located under the Stonehouse. Drinks were great but a bit pricey. Go for the "not on the menu" habanero and mango margarita. Bartender told u's it's the best and she was right, blazingly spicy but amazing. Their version of an Old Fashioned is called a The Comfortable and it was great as well.
Went to the Stonehouse and started with the roasted beet salad and the hamachi apps. The salad was great and the sashimi was superb but a bit small in portion. $20.00 for 4 small slices of yellowtail and avocado seemed a bit steep but this is a top notch restaurant so everything is a bit steep.
My wife had the whole Lupe de Mar which is a type of sea bass and I had the Morracan spiced Lamb. Both were off the charts and decently sized portions. Still they both ran about double what I usually spend on those types of dishes but the atmosphere, services, and the quality of the ingredients I didn't expect them to be less expensive.
For dessert we were kind of full so chocolate sounded meh, we went for the berry cobbler with caramel gelato. Again it was hot, bubbly, and not too sweet. A perfect end to a perfect meal.
This is a place for special occasions and romantic nights. I recommend it highly but again for special occasions only, it is too expensive for just a normal night out. -
Review from M N.
Newport Beach, CA
9/9/2011
Most beautiful setting for a wonderful dinner! Was staying at the Four Seasons in Santa Barbara for a conference and headed to The Stonehouse for a group dinner. The place is located in San Ysidro Ranch and the grounds are very well kept and gorgeous, especially when the trees are lit up at night. The stone building is picturesque-- I wish I could've seen it during the day or during sunset!
A group of 12 in the upper patio area on a January evening. Attentive staff. Food was delicious. Had the crab cake appetizer to share, a salad, sea scallop entree with purple potato puree and pot de creme for dessert. Mac and cheese here was great. The wine selection was extensive! Overall the food is very good and the presentation is a beauty, but the ambiance, view and location is what really makes this place so very special! -
Review from Janice C.
Mountain View, CA
7/18/2011
Came by here for dinner with some friends. I ordered the tortilla soup, seared scallops and chocolate souffle for dessert.
Tortilla Soup - The tortilla soup was very tasty. It wasn't too salty, but nor was it bland or too watery. It had a pretty good consistency that was good for dipping bread into as well.
Scallops - The scallops were alright. I don't think they were particularly fantastic but nor were they horrible.
Souffle - The souffle here was pretty tasty. My friends who also had the souffle described it as 'life changing souffle' but for me, it was just so-so. It wasn't super sweet (which was nice!) and the vanilla ice cream that comes with it is the perfect pairing for it.
Ambience - The ambience here is very soothing. We sat inside and looking out, you could almost imagine yourself in Hawaii instead of Santa Barbara.
Service - Our servers were very prompt and polite. However, towards the end, we told our waiter to split our bill four ways with $92 on each card and he instead put $98 on each card. I believe this is because we mis-calculated the tip (this place defaults to 20% tip for tables of 6 or more) but he didn't tell us this and just automatically made the bill $98 a person. I felt like he should have mentioned this to us instead of just upping the total.
Overall - dinner was very nice and tasty but I don't know if I'd come back since the ending of the night annoyed me slightly. -
Review from Tyler P.
Los Angeles, CA
6/9/2011
Really pretty good. Everything as advertised.
Came up here with the wife for her birthday on a very, VERY quiet Wednesday night.
The atmosphere is phenomenal. I mean... wow. It's that special, and the pictures don't do it justice.
Food is nothing short of phenomenal too.
Had a great little "Western" (or something) salad to start, and my martini was flawless. The wife's pear blossom martini was delightful as well.
My wife had the Black Cod entree (with teriyaki glaze or something)... which, I'll admit... wasn't amazing. Not bad, per se -- just maybe not worth the price. It just tasted a little cheap.
On the other hand, my halibut, and ESPECIALLY the garnishing and vegetable medley it came with -- were spectacular. Oh. My. God.
We had the souffle cake with the absinthe ice cream, and while the ice cream was new and refreshing and crisp, the cake just... I dunno. It wasn't moist, or decadent, or juicy, or anything. Kind like a flavorless brownie.
The after meal coffee was phenomenal (cappuccino and espresso), so much so that we asked where the roast came from (Santa Barbara Roasting Company).
Now... here's the deal: the valets told me it gets crazy busy on the weekends and prime nights (Fri and maybe Thurs night), which we managed to avoid, so make your reservations and buyer beware about over-crowding, I suppose.
All in all, very special and very good. -
Review from Susan B.
Oceanside, CA
9/19/2011
If I could give this place 10 stars I would!!! The whole night was an experience to remember. The location is sooo romantic and BEAUTIFUL that you wish you could actually afford to get married there. My sister and friend took me here for my bday!! I will never forget it. most dishes from from $50-80. The staff was so friendly and polite. I have nothing bad to sat about this place. They have these cottages that you can rent out too for a romantic getaway. We saw Tori Spelling and her family checking in. the food was amazing!!!! Totally worth the splurge for a special evening.
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Review from M D.
Santa Barbara, CA
9/17/2011
We had dinner in the garden at the San Ysidro Ranch last night a d it was perect. The ambiance outside us beautiful with a rustic feeling. It looks like what you would picture a place in Tuscany to be like. We ordered appetizers from the Plow and Angel Bar menu and our entrees from the Stonehouse Restaurant. For appetizers we ordered the lamb sliders which were very good and the prawns which were nice but the typical prawns you get in nice restaurants with a sweet crust on the outside.
For entrees we ordered the Parmesan crusted Halibut and the shrimp scampi. The halibut was delicious and out of this world! Well worth the price... My wife had the scampi and it was also very nice. But the halibut, you've got to try it. The fish was flaky, the crust on it was amazing and the accompaniments had a wonderful mix of flavors. Highly recommended for a romantic night out.
The sommelier is also very good and not pushy with his suggestions. We had the Talley 2007 Pinot Noir which was an excellent recommendation. -
Review from David M.
9/27/2010
The Stonehouse Restaurant at San Ysidro Ranch is truly as ygood as it ygets. Talk about romantic . . . my honey's yeyes started melting the ymoment we walked in, and things just kept yimproving from there.
Started the meal off with about the best foie gras I've ever tasted. As good as Keller's at TFL. Moved on to a classic Steak Diane served with green beans (tickled with pancetta) so fresh and flavorful they exploded in your mouth. Dessert was a trio of excellent choices, but the one that stood out was the Meyer Lemon Tart made from lemons grown on the property.
Perhaps it was that we kept buying over-priced glasses (at $20 a pop) of Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Rosé Champagne, NV (along with a delicious glass of ice wine served with the foie gras), but they didn't charge us a corkage fee when we showed up with a 2005 Ampelos Pinot Noir (92 pts from WS). That was very nice of them: As was the server whose name I forget, but who's been there for 17 years and was a total sweetie, along with being a complete professional.
All-in-all, one of the finer meals we've had the pleasure to enjoy, with great service in a magically wonderful setting. Make it the spot for a special occasion diner and you'll remember it fondly for a long time. -
Review from Laurie N.
Long Beach, CA
11/30/2011
Every time we drive up the coast from L.A., we stop at the Stonehouse for lunch. First of all, the restaurant is so beautiful I swear I could live there. It was unusually warm out on our last visit, so instead of cozying up to the fireplace we sat outside and soaked in the sun. The service there is at such a high level I want to interview the staff to find out how they are trained. Even the bus girl managed to give epic service! We shared the three course lunch of sashimi, a perfectly grilled steak and butterscotch pudding plus a buratta tomato salad that melted in my mouth. Lunch with wine always ends up being very expensive but always worth it. One of these days we will actually stay at the resort so we can move on to dinner, but in the meantime we will make lunch the highlight of our day.
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Review from Cynthia Y.
San Francisco, CA
12/2/2010
Loved the atmosphere. Perfect for a romantic evening with your special someone. Service is great--if you're lucky, you'll get Lisa who has been there for 17 years, and knows her stuff. We really appreciated her suggestions, especially one margarita flavored with habanero not listed on the cocktail menu--what a kick, highly recommend. Also recommend walking around the property while you're enjoying your pre-dinner drink. The grounds are spectacular...did I mention romantic?
The food is hearty and portions are generous. My favorite was their seasonal cauliflower soup, amazing flavor. The desserts are more or less average, but there is a wide selection.
I would recommend making a reservation around 2 weeks in advance for a weekend. That said, if you are lucky enough to be staying at the ranch, then I know that they do reserve some relatively last minute space for guests. -
Review from Sara E.
Encino, CA
7/6/2011
This place is just fabulous. My boyfriend and I visited for our two year anniversary and the 4th of July. We were staying about 10 minutes away in Santa Barbara. I stumbled upon the restaurant while looking for the "most romantic restaurant in Santa Barbara" on google. I figured, if JFK liked it I'm sure I will too. ;)
Anyway, we were able to get a reservation for the patio at 6:30. The patio is just lovely. You feel like you are sitting in the middle of a garden (bees included... but they wont bother you). The sun does get a little hot in the summer as it sets and will blind you if you are sitting in the wrong place. We requested to change seats as did another couple. They might do well with some sort of covering to block the sun from diner's eyes and it sets. Aside from that, everything was amazing. The waiter (Peter) was accommodating (even when we wanted the Mac and Cheese from downstairs delivered upstairs... he made an exception). We also had the crab cake which was like no crab cake I have ever had. Very little filler. All crab. YUM. We each had a pear cocktail which was so good and was made with Grey Goose which is nice because everywhere I order a cocktail I have to specially request Grey Goose (or another premium vodka). The bread and crunchy flat bread they bring out is the best. They should sell it. I want it at home, all the time. For dinner we had lobster. There was a substantial amount of lobster on top of a decadent risotto. Sooooo good. I couldn't even finish the lobster. Who does that?! We topped it off with champagne and a chocolate souffle with absinthe gelato. They even decorated our plate to say happy anniversary! So sweet. Now, the place is NOT cheap. Expect to spend over $300. But is it worth it? Absolutely. If you can swing it, go. And check out the ground while you there. Stunning!!
Thank you, Stonehouse!! -
Review from Breanne M.
Los Angeles, CA
8/14/2011
I love this restaurant. The atmosphere is romantic and relaxing. You can sit outside, on the covered patio. There is a large fireplace that gives off a faint smell of wood burning, making you feel oh so comfortable. The food is divine. I love the crab cake and the crusted halibut. Save room for dessert! You can try several, in small portions. The service really made our experience an 11 out of 10. We were served by Marcus, the friendliest, most knowledgeable server we could have asked for. He was great! I'm sure their entire staff is plenty friendly, but definitely ask for Marcus, if you can.
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Review from Kristina K.
Carlsbad, CA
11/23/2010 1 Check-in Here
What an incredible place! You will not be disappointed at Stonehouse. One of the more romantic places I've ever been, the food does not disappoint nor does the atmosphere. The services is superb and the food is incredible. When you're here, try the Tortilla Soup (it has been on the menu for 14 years!) and foie gras (it melts in your mouth).
There's really not much else to say - I had an absolute five-star experience and will be returning! -
Review from david h.
Longview, TX
8/1/2010
This is about as nice a setting as you can imagine. Recommend you sit on the patio. We went there three times (it was part of a package).
The service was always expedient and very professional.
The appetizers were sublime. After the success of the appetizers, I have to admit the entrees were a little bit of a letdown. Just good, not great. The dessert rallied well and always finished us off on a positive note.
While it was not a top 10 in the U.S. type place (as billed), it was by far and away the best restaurant in Santa Barbara. -
Review from Max E.
Los Angeles, CA
7/7/2011
The perfect getaway for a wonderful dinner. Quite athmosphere, amazing sunset views, good service. the Loup de mer is served in a casserole whole de boned or on the bone with lentilles. Filet mignon, tres bon. At this time of the year they serve the Iberico ham from spain with bruschetta: excellent apetizer. This place gives you the feeling that you are in Provence, by an outdoor fireplace where every detail helps creating a magical moment.
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Review from aja n.
Santa Barbara, CA
6/9/2010
I love this place!! It is in the top 10 restaurants ever! Cozy atmosphere, outstanding food and wine and the service was excellent!!
Three thumbs up! -
Review from Mark F.
2/12/2011 2 Check-ins Here
While my previous review was unflattering (and has been deleted by Yelp) due to very poor service, my latest visit was exactly what I expect from Stonehouse. Great food, exceptional service and a beautiful environment.
Dinner for 6 with reservations for a patio table took our little group to Stonehouse. My second time at the table by fire and it's the best seat in the house. The restaurant was full on a Friday night but it never slowed down our server, Rachael. Quick to the table, she was a delight throughout the night.
We brought 2 bottles of wine ($25 corkage, 2 bottle limit, no magnums) that were graciously decanted and we kicked the evening off with a fine bottle of Prosecco while we pursued the menu. Rachael was quick to point out her favorites and the chefs specials. No one jumped on the signature tortilla soup (my previous review, not impressed) but the Dungeness & Jumbo Lump Crab Cake was outstanding. Very little filler and tons of crab lightly pan fried and baked to perfection as far as I can tell. The mains were at the table just in time to keep the ball rolling. No downtime here. The Lemongrass Coconut Bouillabaisse was amazing. Strong flavors and succulent seafood. The table also enjoyed the
Pan Seared Jumbo Scallop. HUGE! While I did not try the Classic Steak "Diane", it received rave reviews from the table. I chose the Mountain Meadows Colorado Rack of Lamb and was not disappointed. Truly good food here kids.
The desert tray was presented and the sampler was ordered. A great idea for those who just want a taste. Be warned, after one spoonful, you'll be hooked. Superb.
While my previous review was not stellar, I'm happy to report the "revision" is nothing but the best. Please enjoy the Stonehouse at SYR. It's well worth it. On a side note, the Plow & Angle restaurant down stares offers it's own, lighter menu along with the food from the Stonehouse. P&A is fantastic too.Listed in: Classy Night Out, Santa…
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Review from Alex F.
Irvine, CA
2/28/2010
Is there such a word as "retroreview"? Well...there is now.
G and I were up in the area for a weekend late last year and decided rather last minute to try the Stonehouse, which had amazing reviews. I'm just trying very hard to understand why the mouse/cursor-thing just won't roll over the last star.
In spite of the rather confusing Santa Barbara and Montecito streets, driving up to San Ysidro Ranch was relatively easy. Exit San Ysidro Ranch off the freeway and drive about a mile. If you're parked at the beach, that's a clue to turn around and go the other direction.
The grounds were worth one star alone and it had an upscale unpretentiousness to it. Honestly...you can feel your wallet getting lighter as you get closer to the restaurant. We sat outside on a chilly night, but didn't feel overly chilled. Not sure if the whole al fresco dining is all that it's cut out to be, but it was ok.
The food was very good. I had a flank steak and G had the scallops. We had crab cakes for an appetizer as well as salads and a glass of wine. Everything was good, but was it $250 good? Not sure.
It's not like we walked out thinking we were bent over the food-pool table, but we've been to better places with better food and better ambiance. I left thinking that the "romantic-y" angle was way over played and it was more about Disneyland than it was about the food.
Would we go back? Probably for a 2 or 3 day weekend stay...those villas looked nice. As for the Stonehouse, we'll pass.
Take it for what it's worth. -
Review from Jessica Y.
Los Angeles, CA
2/25/2010
I would definitely give this place 4-5 stars, so I'm upgrading it to 5 stars because of the service, location, ambiance and the fact that my amazing boyfriend took me there for a belated Valentine's Day celebration this year!
Stonehouse Restaurant is sent on the ground of San Ysidro Ranch, where I would love to stay someday! If it's good enough for JFK and Jackie Kennedy's honeymoon and Vivian Leigh's marriage, then it's good enough for me! :) The restaurant is expensive, but if you have the chance to go, I would highly recommend it!
We sat outside, where we had a gorgeous view of the night sky and actually see some stars! The boyfriend ordered baby ranch greens, which we shared and was great for a salad! To me, a salad is a salad, but the greens were fresh and the combination of ingredients made for a great appetizer! For our entrees, we ordered the Cedar Plank Scottish Salmon and Roasted Colorado Rack of Lamb. Both were cooked just right and provided just the right amount of food! I'm a huge fan of lamb, and this dish was among the best that I've had! I particularly enjoyed the pee wee potatoes and fall vegetable hash that came on the side.
I would highly recommend a romantic dinner at Stonehouse Restaurant if you can afford it! The service and food is top notch and you can walk around the ground after dinner! It's a gorgeous place and it will be one unforgettable night! -
Review from Stephanie K.
Manhattan, NY
12/28/2009
If you are lucky enough to have the bank roll to hit this place up for a special occasion, do it. Go, right now and experience the beauty and decadence that is the Stonehouse.
I have been fortunate enough to dine here once in my life, though I definitely wish it was more. My parents took me here as a birthday gift and send off to Spain. This place definitely holds top rank as best meals I have had in my life.
The restaurant itself is absolutely gorgeous. With the stone outside and beautiful wood paneling on the inside. Sit outside if you can, even if it is a bit chilly. They have plenty of heaters to surround you and warm you up.
The service here is friendly and not overbearing. And I seem to remember them being pretty damn attractive. They also have a great and well priced wine list.
The food, well the food is on another level. Like the ravioli was handmade by blind nuns in the Swiss alps. Lobster tastes like you were sitting on the ships in Maine and they cooked it up right in front of you. And the risottos accompanying your dishes are melt in your mouth, make you want to slap your Mama good.
And of course they're going to continue to step up there dessert game. I think the fruits in my dessert came from the Garden of Eden. So good, and sinfully delicious.
I have put this place, along with the ranch, as the place I want to get married. If it's good enough for JFK, I guess it's good enough for me. -
Review from mairead b.
8/23/2010
Lovely dinner - very lovely service- Adrian from Holland great job - Lamb was really great - some boring main courses but generally good quality just not inspired - great dessert except creme brulee which was massive and not a classic - lovely company !
Highly romantic -good place and worth the effort we had drinks and a great conversation! ... Until at 10 pm (Mon. night ) we asked for a cab and were frog marched to reception by the Liverpudlian manager and told to wait there in stark lighting for a half hour while the cab came.Got to chat to the reception kid who is in film school --lovely ---
We could have been seated in the lovely seating area outside the dining area- but no, I guess they wanted to close up as everyone else had left....$300 + for dinner and drinks - nice work boys fell at the last .....very bad manners. -
Review from Felix L.
Irvine, CA
5/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Good atmosphere. Very romantic. Great place for date, anniversary or birthday!
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Review from Yen T.
Thousand Oaks, CA
7/6/2009
The perfect place for a romantic evening.
First off, let's talk about the ranch/building:
It is beautiful! After valet parking the car, you go under a beautiful area with tons of flowers. The restaurant is built from gorgeous stone bricks. We had drinks in the waiting area, filled with leather seating, a fireplace, and large windows. The outside eating area has heat lamps and another fireplace to keep you warm and cozy. We even went for a little walk around the building to the garden where there was beautiful green grass and vegetables that they grow themselves (for the items on the menu). You can even sit out there on the benches and enjoy your drink.
Now onto the food:
I started with the crabcake. It was delicious-- nice and crunchy, with a light sauce. The vegetable risotto was not great. It was not cooked all the way through-- but I forgave them; risottos are not easy to cook. Throughout, we had wine and sparkling water. For dessert we had apple pie a la mode. The vanilla ice cream was also made there at the ranch/restaurant.
It was a fantastic evening. -
Review from Matt W.
Marina del Rey, CA
1/1/2011
If you're going to break up with your significant other this would be the place to avoid.
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Review from Eric L.
North Hills, CA
8/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
wow wow !!!! the food is amazing and so romantic oh I love this place!!!
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Review from Maxi T.
West Hollywood, CA
12/22/2008
I actually give this somewhere between 3.5 and 5. We stopped by the Plow and Angel downstairs for a drink, and I think that may have been the better choice. Warm, Christmasy (is that a word? You know I like to make stuff up) and really friendly, cool people.
Upstairs, cocktail dresses and pearls, but we did get the outside balcony to ourselves ... probably because it was FREEZING. But, with the heat lamps, and the stars and the crackling fireplace, it was gorgeous. I ordered the lobster which was a little tough, and the sweet pea risotto had vanilla in it. Never really a fan of sweet in my savory so I found it strange.
So food wise, I give it 3.5. Ambiance and service though a definite 5. If you are in town, definitely stop by downstairs for a drink and what looked like amazing Mac and Cheese.
UPDATE: We just did Christmas dinner here and I LOVED it. Crab cakes, beef wellington, risotto, yodels .... oh my. I can't totally take back my former 3, but let's just say that they did Christmas dinner oh-so-right. Sigh. -
Review from brooke S.
Washington, DC
12/9/2008
OMIGOD. if you want to fall in love, go to stonehouse on a chilly evening, sit outside under a heated lamp and order a bottle of vino.
this place is spectacular. we were able to get a same-day reservation and were seated on the gorgeous patio, under the stars.
we had a beautiful bottle of pinot, which was recommended by the sommelier based on our specific tastes and what we were ordering for dinner and it was great.
we split the appetizer of the crusted brie cheese and for his main, the sous vide veal and i ordered the gnocci. both were delicious...if not a little heavy when paired together!
i simply could not help myself and ordered the mini dessert plate - the lemon tart with meringue was delicious but the star of the show was the unbelievable pot de creme. yum yum yum.
we were actually hoping to return for brunch on the patio but unfortunately it's only open on sundays! I'd say that this is a "must-do" for any visitor to the Santa Barbara area.
sigh. -
Review from awneepoo l.
Garden Grove, CA
2/23/2011
What a beautiful place to have a nice romantic dinner with your loved ones. I went here for Valentine's day and mmmmmmm such a great experience. I enjoyed my scallop dish and my date's lamp dish. Both really great food. I loveeeeeeeeeeee their wine selection. Great atmospher, too bad we didn't go early enough to enjoy the scenery. Totally worth giving this place a try. However, this place is a expensive. But hey, its a good experience. . doesn't hurt to wine&dine at an expensive place once in awhile right ?
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Review from Carrie S.
West Palm Beach, FL
9/14/2011
Exceeded my expectations in every way. The atmosphere is romantic and relaxing. Although we ate at Stonehouse they allowed me to try the "Chicken Under the Brick" from the Plow & Angel restaurant which is also at the San Ysidro Ranch. The dinner and the $25 Cookie dessert was perfection.
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Review from Aboud Y.
Cambridge, MA
2/13/2011
Wow....great on so many dimensions. I can't really do the place justice with a description. Just try it out...you wont be disappointed.
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Review from Brian G.
Canyon Country, CA
12/23/2009
Went here for their Sunday brunch after a friend's graduation.
The food was spectacular. Had the eggs benedict which were wonderful, but everyone who had the chicken was in pure heaven for how good it tasted. Wish I had a bite. Got a sample of the ice cream which was also spectacular. How can they make simple vanilla ice cream so good?
The service was top notch and the location was beautiful. However, my meal was free. Not sure if I'd come back for $50 per person though. Maybe for a really special occasion. -
Review from greg s.
Pleasanton, CA
5/29/2010
I realize I am providing the lowest rating for this restaurant. Please note that I have reviewed the hotel portion of this business with five stars and the highest of accolades. The dinner here was basically awful. From poor service (unfilled waters, dishes not bussed when entrees arrive, multiple requests to light the lantern at our table, no explaination of the specials) to the food being drowned in butter to the point of the vegetables actually floating in it along with the fish I ordered! I completed a detailed review of the food via the survey the hotel sent so hopefully they will read it. Maybe the extensive use of butter is why people like the food so much?!
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Review from P K.
Santa Monica, CA
7/12/2010 1 photo
Quite possibly the most romantic and memorable experience I have had! I was lucky enough to find out about this place from a local and feel like we were let in on a beautiful secret! Apparently this is where Jackie O and JFK spent there honeymoon....after the amazing time spent here...no question as to why!
The drive up to the San Ysidro Ranch alone is breathtaking and sets the tone for the 5 star experience that awaits. The restaurant is set is this beautiful space that looks like a ranch house decorated with some of the things that you would expect in that space also has a den area in the entrance that looks like a library in a high end lodge. The lighting was as if it were set to enhance everything just right...the mood and the food! We got lucky and were sat at a table inside but I was facing outside so I could see the sunset....gorgeous! From the friendly welcome coming in to each and every little detail during dinner. Never felt like the waiter was trying to "upsell" even though clearly a pricey menu. In fact we brought our own bottle of wine and instead of the attitude you might receive from a high end establishment when doing corkage we got "great bottle". The food from the apps-bread to each main dish was rich and wonderful....a true foodie could appreciate! At desert I realized I had forgotten to say something to waiter about bf's bday....so I ran to the back and the manager walked up immediately and listened to my whispering wine ramblings and simply said....we will take care of it! The waiter even brought a taste of 3 of their deserts after we had bday desert because he saw we were looking at the desert tray ha! That's service:)
Pros: Amazing experience...from ambiance...service...food....and even the walk around the grounds after dinner! Very romantic...and worth every penny!
Cons: That we probably wont get back to visit soon enough:)
Overall: Perfect for that special occasion that you dont want to forget! Dont forget to check out the grounds if you are not staying there, beautiful! -
Review from Nyk K.
Santa Rosa, CA
2/7/2011
Awesome date night restaurant. They have gorgeous outdoor seating as well, and the whole place lights up. They have a very nice wine list as well. It's tucked back into the hillside of so it's very private you wouldn't even know it was back there. It was a little pricey, and our waiter was a bit pompous even more so when he found out I worked for a winery. But even his attitude couldn't ruin the setting and the food.
