About
Just north of Santa Barbara, there is an eatery in the wooded mountains steeped in history and lore. Welcome to the Cold Spring Tavern!
Once a stagecoach stop in 1886, the rustic cabins have been converted into an eatery serving classic American fare. The tavern preserves its authentic charm, making it a place where history and hospitality intertwine.
The first known record of a restaurant at the facility was in 1880, when "Doctor Lawrence" founded the "Hermitage." The eatery failed, partially because the "Doc" was known to be a bank robber and horse thief.
With the birth of the automobile, stagecoaches stopped running in 1901. However, if you search the surrounding rock, you can find the ruts created by the wagon wheels.
Cold Spring Tavern has been managed by the Ovington-Wilson family since 1941, and they have lovingly maintained the restaurant and outbuildings. In addition to serving food, the eatery features live music and hosts weddings and special events.
When you visit, plan on exploring the other structures, like the Road Gang House, constructed by Chinese immigrants, or the Ojai Jail, which has been featured in Ripley's Believe It or Not.
Whether you're stopping for lunch after hiking the Tequepis Trailhead or enjoying a romantic dinner, Cold Spring Tavern provides a unique connection to the past, all while serving mouthwatering dishes.
Vibe
As you drive up to the Cold Spring Tavern, you may feel like you're on the set of a Western movie. The tavern's exterior's rustic wood walls and roof blend in with the greenery, while rusty wagon wheels serve as handrails up the few steps to the interior.
The interior boasts low wood-beamed ceilings, a massive stone fireplace, and weathered wood floors. Vintage tables and chairs dot the floor, adding authenticity to the atmosphere. Small antique lamps illuminate the table, while vintage memorabilia, pictures, and stuffed animals adorn the walls.
The atmosphere at Cold Spring Tavern is electric due to the history that seems to echo and reverberate through the ancient buildings. The laid-back vibe offers a unique chance to dine where pioneers once traveled.
When the weather suits, the patio offers al fresco dining with the historic buildings and woods as your backdrop. No matter where you eat, you'll enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Cold Spring Tavern, rich in history and antiquity.
Cold Spring Tavern: Menu & Drinks
Cold Spring Tavern serves lunch and dinner, so we'll highlight some favorites from each.
All sandwiches are served on locally sourced brioche buns with fries, potato salad, cole slaw, soup of the day, or house salad. A popular pick is the original Cold Spring Tri-Tip sandwich. This mouthwatering handheld features oak-grilled meat sliced thick and slathered with house-made BBQ, apple horseradish, or salsa. Select your side, and you have a hearty meal!
The Wild Game Black Bean chili will appeal to meat lovers and those with an adventurous appetite. This protein-rich chili features venison, rabbit, buffalo, black beans, and chilies. Topped with cheese and sour cream, it comes with flour tortillas, making it a stick-to-your-ribs classic!
The salads will appeal to those seeking lighter fare and vegetarians. The Grilled Vegetable Salad is a standout, featuring local squash, zucchini, onion, eggplant, and tomatoes set on a bed of mixed greens and drizzled with a cranberry vinaigrette dressing.
The menu also includes burgers, ribs, chicken, and game like venison, smoked duck, and salmon, proving there's something for every palate.
When it's time to celebrate a day at Neal Taylor Nature Center, the full bar has what you need. A signature cocktail is the "Ojai Jail" Old Fashioned. This classic starts with Reserve Whiskey but gets creative by adding Peach Schnapps. Orange bitters add the crowning finish to a creative staple you'll remember forever. There are plenty of beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options to please everyone in your group.
Cold Spring Tavern is steeped in history and offers hearty American fare, making it a must-do when vacationing in Santa Barbara.
Local Tips
- Arrive early to secure a patio table for the best views.
- The kid's menu makes the eatery family-friendly.
- Check their website for a live music schedule.
- The homemade desserts are a sweet finish.
- Stroll around the grounds to take in the scenery.
