Willows The Willows
Unexpected elegant dining is tucked away upstairs at The Chumash Casino Resort Hotel.
Openings: Dinner nightly

Features

  • Valet parking & parking lot
  • Dress code: Business casual
  • Full bar
  • Reservations suggested
The Willows, Santa Ynez, CA


The Willows Restaurant Review:


The Willows is the antithesis of its casino surroundings, worlds removed from the cigarette smoke and slot machines downstairs. The Willows provides an oasis of calm, an elegant spot for Prime steaks and quality seafood. The interior is more formal, with white tablecloth-covered tables, while the outdoor patio is casual by comparison. Chef Sergio Renteria's food is thoughtfully prepared. Appetizers include a charcuterie plate of duck prosciutto, Italian salami and roasted garlic. While seafood entrées like Australian lobster tail and Scottish salmon are well executed, it is somewhat disappointing that the menu features few local seafood choices, given the high quality of Santa Barbara spot prawns, spiny lobster and fish like white sea bass and halibut. Regardless, the meat-centric menu, including lamb, bison and chicken is solid, though pricey. Local wines are nicely represented, along with a variety of imports. Alcohol is prohibited downstairs in the casino, but a full bar is available here.