Cold Spring Tavern

The Cold Spring Tavern is an incredibly unique rare and special place to visit. Coming from Santa Barbara you have a world-class drive through the mountains with a view of the entire town and local ocean. Amazing. Situated under a bridge and in the somewhat quite cold crevice of the mountains is a one-of-kind stagecoach stop restaurant that serves a famous tri-tip sandwich on Saturdays and Sundays and at the right hours an outdoor band. Not to be missed. Like straight out of a movie. $16 for the trip tip. Bring cash! Makes it faster.

We discovered the Cold Spring Tavern in 1978, on one of our first dates. Now in 2026, we returned and were happy to find it just as rustic and charming as we remembered. Highly recommend the tri-tip sandwich, it was The Best Ever! If you go on a cold day, wear warm clothes! It was a freezing cold, we were seated by the door and the fire in the fireplace couldn't keep us warm.

Stopped here during a motorcycle trip. What a pleasant surprise. Incredible spot with rustic charm, historic character, and a cozy atmosphere; the staff are warm and welcoming, the food is fantastic, and the combination of great drinks, live music, and a beautiful woodsy setting makes it a truly unique; overall, it’s a really cool place that I highly recommend.

You are back in 1880 with this historic place serving authentic American fare like trip sandwich, burgers, beer, fried onion rings. It was the location of a historic stage coach and much of the cabins are original. A great stop if you are near Santa Barbara and want something outside the trodden path

Highly recommend a weekend motorcycle ride. Great atmosphere special motorcycle parking, live entertainment, great food and artisans. Spectacular views along the route, just be careful with cars when you turn onto Stagecoach road. If you drive be ready to search for parking and a long hike to the tavern. Labor day weekend was perfect for live music and plenty of bikers. A place to come and enjoy yourself.