Tour of Santa Ynez
By Teona Tone Schley

If you are driving to the Santa Ynez Valley from Santa Barbara over the San Marcos Pass (Highway 154) you will pass three interesting places to visit, two of which have accommodations where you might also want to stay for a night or two. These are all part of a vibrant “Santa Ynez Mountain Community” that is both separate from and an integral part of the wider Santa Ynez Valley Community.

Paradise Store
www.paradisestoresb.com
  When Mark Presley, who is at least 6’3” tall and sports a full beard and long hair drawn back in a ponytail, retired from 27 years of teaching preschool, he knew he was ready to try running a business of his own. But what kind? That was decided when Mark and his long time girlfriend Priscilla Susman learned that the Paradise Store was for sale. They bought it and went into business together in March of 2008.
  Priscilla, who is tall and blonde, still works as an engineer, inspector and project manager in the construction business, but she hopes at some point to spend full-time at the store with Mark. In the meantime, she’s there on weekends, holidays, vacations and whenever else she can fit it in. She loves it as much as Mark does.
  Paradise Store is located at 1 Paradise Road, just one-quarter mile from Highway 154 and visiting it is like taking a step back in time. The main part of the store was built about 80 years ago, and it was enlarged in the mid-1950s. The wooden front porch was added about 15 years ago. It has been a store for all of that time, and a grill for many years, serving sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, some of the best chili you’ve ever tasted and a number of other selections.
  On the weekends the store now features barbecued tri-tip and live music. Most days you will also find a musician or two or three “jamming” on the porch.
Presley (no relation of Elvis) and Susman recently described the varied clientele that give added interest to the store. “There are the people who live up here in cabins along the river and stop by for basic groceries like milk, bread, eggs, or sometimes just to talk or to play music–a lot of them are musicians, artists, or writers–some would call them dropouts from the sixties or seventies.
  Then there are the campers, who buy beer, firewood, flashlight batteries and maybe sandwiches or chili because they don’t want to cook. Next come the motorcycle riders who stop by for the tri-tip on the weekends and hamburgers or chili during the week. Finally, there is the group that comes here to listen to the music on the weekends, especially the jazz. We’re getting more and more of the jazz lovers, and some of them love the barbecue, too, while others want veggie burgers or vegetarian sandwiches and maybe a bottle of specialty water instead of beer. So, we have to stock our store and our grill for at least four different groups of people, which makes running this business really fun and interesting.”
  It also makes stopping there interesting. When my husband and I drive over the pass, we often stop for a quick snack and just to see what is going on. There is one very talented musician who plays classical music on a keyboard whom we especially like to listen to. Also, as a writer I am an unabashed “people watcher,” and I’m never disappointed with the variety I see at the Paradise Store.
  It’s always a fun and refreshing place to visit, and I’m not just referring to the crisp mountain air. Be sure to stop by to see for yourself–and mention their ad in this magazine for a free soda!

Rancho Oso Guest Ranch
www.rancho-oso.com
  The next in our trio is Rancho Oso Guest Ranch, which you reach by continuing right on Paradise Road for about five miles to the Rancho Oso sign on the right, then one more mile along their entrance road. It’s a bit of a drive, but we think you’ll agree it’s worth it—our family loves this place. Your children will enjoy the old fashioned barnyard with its goats, pigs and chickens.
  The rustic mountain setting makes you feel as though you’re far from civilization.
If you’re adventurous, you can go on a guided horseback ride along the beautiful trails, some of which cross the Santa Ynez River and go for miles into the Los Padres National Forest. You can also hike or stroll along these trails, enjoying the birds, wildflowers and other wildlife, as well as panoramic views of mountains and valleys.
You can arrange to spend a night in a “covered wagon” or cozy cabin—you can bring your own horses, too! (Just call ahead to reserve a corral.) In addition, RV and tent camping is welcomed.
  Overnight visitors can use the pools, Jacuzzi and other facilities, and there are many of other activities.
  On Saturdays you can watch herd dog and horse training demonstrations.  Riding lessons are also available on Saturdays after the demos are finished.

Cachuma Lake
www.sbparks.com
  Returning to Highway 154, continue a few miles further to Beautiful Cachuma Lake on the right side of the road. This is the gem of the Santa Barbara County Parks system. Campsites are available year-round, on a first-come, first-served basis. There are also a few yurts and cabins available by reservation, so you don’t even need to bring a tent. You can also just get a day pass to hike the trails around the lake, visit the nature center, rent a boat or launch your own, or take the famous wildlife cruise or a nature hike guided by a park naturalist. You can observe both resident and migratory birds, some of which raise their young around the lake. The most magnificent of these is the American Bald Eagle, but you can also see osprey, red tailed hawks, kites and kestrels. Some of the other birds are scrub jays, California quail and various ducks and other waterfowl. For more information or reservations, visit their website or call (805) 686-5050.
  A group of amateur astronomers from Santa Barbara also hold special “Star Nights” on some Saturday evenings. They present a slide show about which stars, planets and constellations are visible at this time of year, followed by a chance to see them through telescopes provided by some of the volunteers. These evenings are free to the public, both campers and the general public (although the latter have to pay an $8 fee for a “day use” permit to enter the park). For more about these events and a list of dates, please see our feature story, “Starry, Starry Nights.”
  Continuing on into the Santa Ynez Valley proper, visitors should definitely take the time to savor the Western ambiance of the little town of Santa Ynez, which takes pride in its long history and western tradition, going back to its founding in the 1880s. Santa Ynez is located on the north side of Highway 246, about a mile west of the intersection with Highway 154. Turn right on Meadowvale, then left onto Sagunto, which is the main street through town.

Santa Barbara County Vintner’s Association
www.sbcountywines.com
One of the first things you will see on your right is a row of buildings labeled “Old Town Santa Ynez.” There are a number of businesses, three restaurants and a bar located here, as well as the office of the Santa Barbara County Vintner’s Association. For more about their “Fall Crush Celebration” link here.

The Vineyard House Restaurant
www.thevineyardhouse.com
  As you drive west up a little hill, you will see on your right The Vineyard House Restaurant, at the front of the Victorian Gardens. You can park in front and walk up to the restaurant, or you can pull into the parking lot to its left. With the beautiful views and garden setting, you might want to eat on the deck.
  If you love historic houses like I do, you will want to go inside. The main part of the restaurant is located in the old Andersen house, which is nearly 100 years old. It has been beautifully restored and renovated inside and out. The restaurant’s owners, Jim and Debbie Sobell, love the house’s historic ambience and beautiful setting, but most of all they love the restaurant business. Jim once described the secret to their success as constantly striving to create happy customers and a happy staff. From the people we’ve talked to, the Sobells are succeeding on both counts. Their staff is friendly and cheerful, and their menu includes everything from steaks to salads to seafood to pasta. They have a wide selection of Santa Ynez Valley wines and other beverages. “We offer enough variety in our menu to satisfy all types of appetites,” Jim says.
  Jim has produced several events to benefit the Lance Armstrong Livestrong Foundation, which funds cancer research and support for cancer patients. The next will be the third “Gourmet Challenge,” 5k and 10k walk/runs and full & half century bike rides, on September 19. For details on this event, contact Jim at 805-350-0284. 
  On Wednesday evenings during the summer, the Vineyard House features “Jazz Under the Stars.” These performances by local musicians on the restaurant’s exterior deck are a very special treat for both jazz aficionados and for those with little previous exposure to this American-born music genre. And it is simply a wonderful experience to dine under the stars while listening to beautiful and inspiring music.

SYV Historical Society Museum
Parks-Janeway Carriage House
www.santaynezmuseum.org
  Just a block further west is the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Society Museum 
and Parks-Janeway Carriage House, located at the corner of Faraday Street. It was founded in 1961 by a group of Valley residents dedicated to preserving the rich local history of the Santa Ynez Valley region. The Historical Museum includes eight fascinating rooms of history and memorabilia beginning with the Chumash Indian heritage and continuing through the Mission era to the early twentieth-century ranching days. The museum houses more than 8,000 objects.
  Of special interest is a model train diorama depicting the arrival of the Pacific Coast Railway into early Los Olivos. This 1/48 scale model working train exhibit is complete with scenic countryside, a trestle bridge, the station house and the vintage 1886 historical Mattei’s Hotel.
  Through September, the museum is featuring an exhibit entitled “Dairy Days in the Santa Ynez Valley.” This exhibit takes a look at the early dairies of this area through historic photos, dairy memorabilia and fun facts about a bygone era when many dairies flourished in the Valley.
  On Saturday, July 25, the museum will host its annual “Pioneer Valley Jamboree” fundraiser dinner and lively auction. This is some good old-fashioned summer fun, which we can vouch for as we have attended a number of these events. Complementing the current exhibit, the dinner will honor the families that ran dairies in the Valley. Check the museum website for times, prices and reservation.
  On Sunday, August 23, the museum will host a “Lazy Days of Summer Ice Cream Social.” Participants will have a chance to crank the handle on some of the museum’s old-fashioned ice cream makers, then build their own sundaes with lots of different toppings provided. This is a chance to celebrate the cream for ice cream that our local dairies used to produce, along with milk and various cheeses.
  The museum’s annual Vaquero Show and Sale will begin on Friday, November 13th and will continue on Saturday and Sunday, the 14th and 15th, with craftsmen and artists showcasing fine Western items for sale. Roping and horsemanship demonstrations will be held in the museum courtyard. Tickets and more information are available at the museum or on their website.
  Regular museum hours are Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. For more information call 805-688-7889 or visit www.syvm.org.

Brent & Jeff’s Flooring
  Exiting the museum, walk west for half a block to find Brent and Jeff’s Flooring, owned and operated by Brent and Chris McClurg. Brent and Chris have built a solid reputation for the quality of the materials they use and the expertise of their installation. They have the largest showroom in the Valley, approximately 3,000 square feet, as well as the largest collection of carpet, wood, vinyl, laminates, tile and cork flooring, including eco-friendly and green products. They also have the staff to install it professionally and quickly. Be sure to ask for their seasonal specials. Chris is especially helpful in picking out colors and types of flooring, as well as other suggestions for how to put things together. Brent grew up in the Valley and he has been in the flooring business for over 28 years. He and Chris have been married and living in the Valley for over 30 years.
  On December 20, 2008 Brent and Chris welcomed their newest granddaughter, Campbell Lyn McClurg. The McClurg’s son Jeff and his wife Jenny are the proud parents. Brent and Chris are shown in their ad with all six of their grandchildren, although they both look so young that people often think that they are the parents! In the back right, Chris is holding the newest baby and on the left, Brent is holding seven-month-old Levi Snow, son of their daughter Sarah and her husband Tye Snow and brother to 2½-year-old Abby Snow, standing in front holding hands with her cousin, 1½-year-old Ryder McClurg, brother to five-year-old twins Canyon and Cash, who are holding a roll of very fashionable leopard print carpet. These three boys are sons of Josh and Angela McClurg. Quite a crew!

Roasted Bean
  Now continue to walk west on Sagunto just past the Santa Ynez Post Office to find the Santa Ynez Roasted Bean coffee house, which is now under the new ownership of Trace Eubanks. When I asked him some questions about which things he might change and which not, he first pointed out that the Roasted Bean has been a social hub of Santa Ynez for over 12 years and that he is “proud to be the newest member of this select coffee establishment family.”
 There are, however, a few things that Trace has already changed. First, the Roasted Bean will be serving only organically grown coffees and teas from Green Star Coffee. Trace explained, “I was shocked to learn how many pesticides are used by the larger coffee growers. The coffee bean has the highest use in pesticides than with any other agricultural product!” Another change is Trace’s addition of shaved ice treats, “For the kids! I wanted to offer the kids in our community a dessert that was different and more exciting than the standard ice cream cone.” Trace also emphasized how fortunate we are to have some of the finest bakeries in the world in this area. All of the Roasted Bean’s muffins, scones, cookies, doughnuts and bagels come fresh daily from local sources.
  In addition, Trace said, “There are three main objectives I wanted to focus on when I took over this establishment: Quality, Consistency and Customer Service. Quality in our coffees, teas, smoothies and blended fruit drinks. Consistency in taste is paramount. It makes no difference which employee makes your coffee, tea or smoothie, it should always taste the same.” With regard to Customer service he said, “Our employees will always be respectful, courteous and helpful to our customers.”
  Trace has also added a water treatment system that produces water so pure that the coffee machines had to be recalibrated so the sensors could detect the incoming water. The new dual brewing machine is designed to brew flavored and unflavored coffees separately to maintain consistency in taste. He has also added a new espresso grinder and a new ice tea brewer that ensures that teas are not brewed through a coffee machine, which is commonly done to save costs. And there is a new machine for smoothies and blended fruit drinks, which are made of pureed fruit with no added preservatives or fruit concentrates. And the Roasted Bean now accepts most major credit cards.
  In general, Trace feels that, “Santa Ynez deserves a nice, comfortable establishment in which to socialize, greet new and old friends or just sit back and relax.”

The Red Barn Steakhouse
  Further along Sagunto Street, across the corner at Edison Street is a place enjoyed by visitors and locals. The Red Barn Steakhouse is owned by longtime Valley residents Bobby and Chris Gregg, who purchased it in 2001, completely renovating the kitchen and dining room, but keeping the western ambiance.
  One of the best changes they’ve made is hiring Chef Kevin Zandonatti. Bobby notes that Kevin keeps the kitchen hopping and always seems to be available to meet any need.  One old timer was heard muttering, “Even the dern hamburgers taste better!” We heartily agree, and we think you will, too.
  Our family eats there very often and some of our favorites are their salad specials for lunch and their filet mignon or parmesan-encrusted halibut for dinner. They also have delicious fresh fruit pies and cakes for dessert.
  You can arrange for a large-group lunch or dinner by calling ahead, and they can fax you a menu so you can even order ahead. Sometimes our family has ordered out dinners, which always arrive hot and delicious.
  Come in and join the fun during the Red Barn’s “Happy Hour” on Tuesdays through Thursdays, from 5 to 7 p.m., when they offer free hors d’oeuvres and half-price cocktails. My special favorite is their delicious dessert selection, including freshly baked pies and a scrumptious chocolate brownie sundae.

Dos Carlitos Restaurant and Tequila Bar
www.doscarlitosrestaurant.com
  Just across the street is another excellent restaurant, featuring gourmet Mexican and Latin cuisine and some of the best tequila and Margaritas we’ve ever tasted. Owner/manager Carlos Lopez-Hollis told us, “Dos Carlitos was conceived from my long-standing desire to bring the Santa Ynez Valley the bold flavors and lively ambiance from my family’s two restaurants, Carlitos Café y Cantina in Santa Barbara and Cava Restaurant & Bar in Montecito.” 
  After graduating college, Carlos spent several years managing Cava for his family to get the experience he needed to start Dos Carlitos. Some of the staff he worked with at Cava came with him to open the new restaurant this year. “Everything runs more smoothly and efficiently if you’re working with professionals you’ve already had experience with and whom you know will put emphasis on excellence and customer service,” Carlos explained. 
  Our family has already eaten at Dos Carlitos several times and have been very pleased with both the service and everything we ordered. Their house-made guacamole and salsa are some of the best we’ve ever had. 
  Many of Dos Carlitos offerings are prepared on their open fire grill, which imparts a smoky essence to the food’s flavor, including their salsa. The tequila bar offers an array of premium, 100% Blue Agave tequilas, to drink straight with a slice of lime or in one of their generous margaritas.
  I’m not much of a drinker myself, and rarely could finish a  margarita without getting a headache later, but the one I ordered at Dos Carlitos was just the best margarita I’ve ever tasted, so I drank it all, and–no headache! The reason, Carlos told me,  is because they use 100% Blue Agave Tequila: the difference is the quality.
  At Dos Carlitos you can either eat inside in their beautiful and well-appointed dining room, or outside on their patio. On weekends, they are now featuring live, Mexican music on the patio in the evenings.

Star Drug Company
  Now cross over Edison Street to Madera Street, then walk half a block to Star Drug Company, the only independent pharmacy in the Santa Ynez Valley. Owner/pharmacist Steve Reden worked many years in the Santa Ynez Valley before opening his own store in the millennium year 2000. Steve and his employees greet you with smiles as you enter the clean, cheerful building that radiates health and happiness. In addition to filling prescriptions, the store offers a wide selection of over-the-counter medications, sundries, cards, gifts, gift-wrap and candy. If you need anything special, they will be happy to order it for you.
  Star Drug Company is also an authorized shipping center for UPS and Fed Ex—and if you don’t have the time or the skills to package the item(s) you want sent, they offer excellent packing services. And they offer both photocopying and faxing services. All of these things were sorely needed in Santa Ynez, and we’re glad Star Drugs is filling so many needs at once. If you need to have your physician’s office call in a prescription, or if you have any other questions, their number is (805) 688-6898.

Forever Posh
www.foreverposh.com
  As you exit Star Drugs, turn right and walk a few steps past a cute little house and you will see the sign for Forever Posh, set back from the street, with room for parking in front.
  This is one of the most popular boutiques in Santa Ynez—owner Cherise Osha and her husband Arthur designed and built the charming building that houses it. Inside, you will find an astonishing array of gorgeous items, all personally chosen by Cherise. She is especially proud to have many exclusive items to the Valley, including the gorgeous “What is in your heart” line of jewelry.
  “Charm” now has a whole new meaning, due to the amazing “Trollbeads” that Forever Posh features. Originating in Denmark and developed over the past 30 years, Trollbeads are created by internationally renowned jewelry designers. They are made from the highest quality raw materials, including sterling silver, 18-carat gold, Italian Murano glass, natural pearls and precious stones.
  Each bead is a treasure to behold and every bead has its own history. There are many irresistible models to choose from, including different symbols, flowers and animals.
  In addition, Cherise has an assortment of women’s fine accessories, gifts and apparel by some of the hottest designers. She has wonderful handbags, comfy loungewear, great tops and cute designer sweat outfits! She is exclusive in the Valley with the exquisite Jay Strongwater picture frames and collector boxes. And Forever Posh carries the beautiful Heather Moore jewelry, hand-made to order in 14 kt gold and sterling silver. You can create your own, one-of-a-kind piece with the assistance of Forever Posh owner Cherise, or one of her capable staff.
  Forever Posh also has an adorable bridal section featuring cute gift items by “Classy Brides,” as well as the “MOR” collection of soaps, lotions and candles. You can be sure of one thing: If you find it at Forever Posh, it is beautiful and special. And remember, Forever Posh always carries a large selection of your favorite Italian Nomination Charms.

Roundup Market
  When you exit Forever Posh, go through the quaint walkway at the left side of the building right in front of you. You will end up on Numancia Street, where you should turn right and walk to the corner. There you will find the newest gathering place for all of the cowgirls and cowboys in the Valley.
  Roundup Market is much more than just a market: It is a place to gather for some of the best western food in the Santa Ynez Valley. Owners John and Kim Barlogio have a vision of creating an old-fashioned type of market and deli where local and visiting families, including young children, can stop by to pick up a jug of milk or linger to have breakfast, lunch or dinner from the full-service deli.
  Much of the food served from the deli is prepared by John’s mother, JoAnn Barlogio (née Branquino), who came out of retirement to cook for the store. We are certainly glad she did, as she’s a fantastic cook, and has come to be known by customers affectionately as “Grandma Joe.” What people talk about most are the barbecue steak sandwiches with her to-die-for-delicious salsa. But there’s also the breakfast burritos, burgers and fish tacos, as well as mouth-watering salsas, sandwiches, salads and homemade candy.
  Roundup’s weekend barbecues are already a big hit and they will soon be adding live “Country Western Music” played by local musicians. And they have added “Monday Night Barbecues,” which will also feature live music.

El Rancho Market
www.elranchomarket.com
  Now you can get back into your car to visit El Rancho Market, on Highway 246, just west of the intersection with Refugio Road. This family-owned store carries the best fresh produce, meat, cheeses and breads, all in one. If you can’t find something you want, talk to Alfred Holtzeu, the son of the store’s founder. He will order it for you.
  El Rancho is renowned in the Valley for the largest deli, stocked with mouth-watering hot and cold items to tempt the most finicky gourmet.  This is a great place to pick up sandwiches for a picnic. They have a wonderful salad bar, from which you can make a fresh salad to go, and fresh sushi. Their wine selection is also one of the best in the Valley.
  El Rancho also has a coffeehouse, “The Coffee Spot,” on the right side of the building, and the store serves breakfast burritos and more from 7am on. You can enjoy a wide assortment of coffees, teas, ice blendeds and smoothies, as well as pastries and other baked goods on any day at just about any time. But Saturday mornings are going to be extra special this summer, with live music by local musicians in front of the store near the tables where you can sit and enjoy your breakfast, snack and coffee or any of El Rancho’s other beverages.
 
Summerset Farm
www.flowersbysirgregory.com
  The newest attraction in Santa Ynez is a vegetable, berry and flower stand at the corner of Highway 154 and Edison/Baseline, where the stop signs are on the highway.
Now that it is summer, the emphasis is on berries, fruits, leafy greens, vegetables and flowers. Sweet corn will be available by August, and don’t forget to come back in the fall for your Halloween or pie pumpkins.
  Summer is the perfect time for families with young children to come to Summerset to see the young growing plants that produce the summer fruits they love, as well as flowers and vegetables.
  We suggest you bring them back periodically to watch the plants’ progress. The flower stand can provide bouquets or arrangements for any of your spring events, and Sir Gregory is a professional florist. Visit the website above for more information.