Along the San Marcos Pass lies The Cold Spring Tavern, an old-fashioned restaurant rooted in history and rustic charm. While the original structure was believed to be built in 1860, it began operating as a stagecoach stop in 1868. The stagecoach company provided services to passengers traveling between Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez and also carried mail. Today, the tavern serves up homemade food, including their famous tri-tip, to travelers looking for a good hearty meal in a friendly, inviting atmosphere.

Travel back in time by visiting the Cold Spring Tavern and enjoy a home-cooked meal by the fireplace.
Cold Spring Tavern/Facebook
You’ll instantly be transported to a different era - one with images of horse-drawn carriages and people gathered around candlelight having dinner after a long day of traveling along the trail.
The tavern has all of its original charm and character from the 1800s.
Cold Spring Tavern/Facebook
Pull up a chair and stay awhile because there’s lots of history to explore.
Outside, you’ll find the staff grilling up their famous tri-tip to serve to customers for lunch and dinner.
Cold Spring Tavern/Facebook
Breakfast features homemade biscuits made fresh on Saturdays and Sundays. Lunch involves more casual fare, including sandwiches, soups, and salads. Last but not least, dinner is the real gem where they serve up steaks and ribs, all sourced from fresh, local ingredients.
Here it is: the famous tri-tip sandwich you’ve been waiting for! It makes the perfect lunch to eat while on a road trip.
Cold Spring Tavern/Facebook
Order it with a side of onion rings and your favorite beverage for a filling lunch.

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Dinner is served amid the soft glow of gas lamps, which instantly takes you back to a different era.
Cold Spring Tavern/Facebook
Imagine dining in this beautiful, rustic setting and soaking in all of the ambiance and soft glow of the lights.
Cold Spring Tavern/Facebook
There’s nothing like ending your evening at Cold Spring Tavern and having a drink outdoors in the fresh mountain air while listening to local musicians perform.
Cold Spring Tavern/Facebook
The present-day tavern still resembles the old photos and holds all of the special features that make it a memorable and cherished place to visit.
Cold Spring Tavern/Facebook

From special events to music, fantastic food, and fresh air, the Cold Spring Tavern is worth a stop if you’re traveling through the Santa Barbara area. Would you like to stop here for a meal? Let us know your thoughts!

To learn more about the history and other happenings, visit Cold Spring Tavern’s website or Facebook page.

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5995 Stagecoach Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA