The Ballard InnBeautiful Ballard InnAfter a week of biking in and around Los Olivos and Solvang it was a wonderful treat to have dinner at the Ballard Inn. The setting is quite lovely and the staff was outstanding with an attentive and helpful attitude. The meals were across the board above average and several were signature dishes indeed. Anytime we visit the Los Olivos area the Ballard Inn is on our list for dinner.5/16/2013 12:00:00 AMSouthern Wine Country GourmetA great place in the heart of the Santa Ynez Wine region near Santa Barbara. In the heart of a tiny town (Ballard, CA), but near more touristy Solvang and Los Olivos. Beautiful old inn setting, and classic small, cozy dining room. Food was excellent, and interesting with a Eastern/Western fusion -- e.g. Rack of Lamb on Edamame puree with asparagus. It's the best restaurant in the Santa Ynez/Solvang area. Great service and very good wine list with a good balance of many local wines, as well as wines from northern Cal and Europe. Service was also very good.5/15/2013 12:00:00 AMQuaintVery small restaurant with a delicious menu. Romantic dining while in wine country. The hamachi appetizer melts in your mouth.5/3/2013 12:00:00 AMWonderful food and atmosphereWonderful dinner. Had venison and it was tender and flavorful. My wife had beef tenderloin and it melted in your mouth. Great place for any occasion.4/21/2013 12:00:00 AMAs usual, the food was fantastic!!As usual, the food was fantastic!! Pork Bellies are a must! Best food in all of Santa Barbara! Oh, and service ROCKS!4/13/2013 12:00:00 AMWe loved our experience!!We loved our experience!! The food was amazing! The chef has a special touch with his dishes! We reccommend it highly.4/7/2013 12:00:00 AMMeal prepared as requestedMeal prepared as requested with excellent flavor. Service was excellent and friendly. Value for money was excellent. No regrets and will definitely return. The only concern is the menu is limited, but developed around what is in season. None of the appetizers apealed to me, but several of the entrees did as well as several deserts.4/6/2013 12:00:00 AMWonderful place. Great traditionalWonderful place. Great traditional food with a modern flair. Old B&B with an up to date chef. Sweetbreads were magnificent,the rack of lamb sensational and creme brulee above average.
Old time three sided fireplace was unique and added a sophisticated touch to a turn of the century building.4/3/2013 12:00:00 AMDon't miss Ballard InnI cannot overstate what a wonderful experience The Ballard Inn was for dinner. We started with a nice moderately priced bottle of Cabernet Franc. I had a salad that was delicious with a hint of spices. My wife had soup followed by a perfect pork chop. My entree of lamb chops was one of the best I have ever had. Overall, we both had a terrific experience. Absolutely delicious in a beautiful historic setting!3/31/2013 12:00:00 AMFood was excellent. Very niceFood was excellent. Very nice dining experience. We were happy that we got to bring our own wine.3/27/2013 12:00:00 AMEvery item that came out ofEvery item that came out of the kitchen was delicious. A very pleasant surprise.3/13/2013 12:00:00 AMNever disappoints. AlwaysNever disappoints. Always novel dishes, expertly prepared. Small dining room and attentive staff always make for a special evening.3/10/2013 12:00:00 AMWe love the Ballard Inn andWe love the Ballard Inn and Restaurant...a true gem.3/9/2013 12:00:00 AM