Everyone was talking about it......Industrial Eats. "Have you been?" "You should go." "Can we get in?" "Let's meet there early." Apparently this is the hot spot in Buellton!
I had driven up to Buellton in Santa Barbara wine country from Los Angeles for the Wine Bloggers Conference and was hungry. Located less than a 5 minute drive from the Santa Ynez Marriott Hotel, I was excited to hear that I wasn't going to have to have pea soup or fast food or drive further to find good food. I decided to go early to beat the crowd, not knowing what to expect.
Owning a winery is a dream. To have a home that overlooks the vineyards, waking up everyday to watch the grapes grow and making wine, it all sounds so romantic and something that if you love wine, you probably fantasize about whenever you go wine tasting.
For Los Angelenos Dean Heck, a commercial real estate agent, and Christi Heck, a neurologist, the dream is their reality as they are the owners of Lavender Oak Vineyard in Buellton, CA.
Looking for a day trip from Los Angeles? Heading up to Santa Barbara wine country is always a great option! It will be a full day but there is alot you can do.
Start the morning off with a drive up the coast. Take the 101 freeway to CA-246 exit toward Lompoc/Solvang which is approximately 130 miles north of LA. After the drive, you may be ready for a hearty breakfast and there is one joint that is sure to please your appetite.
Ellen’s Danish Pancake House
272 Avenue of the Flags, Buellton, CA 93427
Located around the corner in Buellton, CA, Ellen’s Danish Pancake House is a family owned restaurant that is sure to curb your hunger. This full service American and Danish restaurant has a wide array of menu choices from their famous Danish pancakes, to savory steaks and seafood. Ellen’s is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. They also serve homemade jams, salad dressings, and offer daily specials.
After breakfast, head 15 minutes to Santa Ynez and start wine tasting.