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Hitching Post II Reviews List
Hitching Post II
Here, on the Central Coast of California, BBQ has always meant grilling over an open fire of red oak, a style of cooking that is native to our area and goes back to the days of the Spanish Rancheros. By combining the old and the new, we have created an exciting cuisine with outstanding steaks, ribs and chicken, along with fresh fish and seafood and vegetarian options. We also create our own (world class) wines for sale in the restaurant and to the public. Hartley Ostini Hitching Post Wines have garnered an excellent reputation. Try them here or purchase on our website for your enjoyment at home.
Now featuring Hitching Post Burgers in the HP Sidebar Mondays - Wednesdays! Oak-grilled 1/2 pound ground sirloin on homemade cheese bun with our famous french fries for just $12.
See more Hitching Post II details
Now featuring Hitching Post Burgers in the HP Sidebar Mondays - Wednesdays! Oak-grilled 1/2 pound ground sirloin on homemade cheese bun with our famous french fries for just $12.
237 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Rating Breakdown 237 reviews
5 stars
(119)
4 stars
(76)
3 stars
(29)
2 stars
(10)
1 star
(3)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
3.8
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- notable wine list(102)
- fit for foodies(93)
- neighborhood gem(88)
- special occasion(81)
- good for groups(64)
- hot spot(53)
Hitching Post II Reviews List
Review 1 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had high expectations, based on a wine tasting we previously attended, but we were very disappointed. With the exception of the grilled artichoke, the food was at best mediocre, and the service was very rushed. The server came back at least three times to clear the one item we enjoyed (the grilled artichoke).Very unfortunate. We won't be going back."
Dined on 6/14/2013
2012
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Review 2 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Frequent flyer
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Everytime we come to the Buellton/Solvang area we have ot come to the Hitching Post II. The best steaks I have ever eaten. I don't know if it is the oak fired grill or the magic dust, but this is a trip to flavor town. Grilled artichoke is superb and grab a glass of Highliner while you are there. It is a great pinot fruit explosion."
Dined on 6/11/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 3 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Just perfect
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This is not my first visit and once again I was blown away by the fabulous food. Everything was remarkable. We started with a perfectly grilled artichoke, followed by the cream of potato soup and salad. We both ordered the New York cut. Grilled to perfection. My only regret was we were far too full to enjoy dessert. Next time we will better prepare. As always the service was impeccable and the atmosphere was anticipatory. Everyone around us could hardly wait to dig in. I also enjoyed a fine glass of the house grown Pinot Noir. I can hardly wait to return."
Dined on 6/08/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 4 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great food and wine
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"My husband and I have been coming here for more than 25 years when we are in town, and are always happy with our dinner. Now our daughter has started coming with her fiancé."
Dined on 6/11/2013
2012
Special Features: good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 5 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
LOVED this place!!!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Took my son and his girlfriend here for a celebration dinner. A perfect place for when you're hungry and want great food and service. The portions were perfect! We loved it from the moment we walked in to this vibrant restaurant. We will definitely be back!!"
Dined on 6/08/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 6 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Meat lover's will love this place.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The meat was perfectly cooked to our specifications and the seasonings were outstanding. No sweet and sticky sauce, dripping down my face, but wonderfully spiced and meaty ribs were just what I came for. The steaks were moist and tender, the mussels had a great tomato dipping sauce with toasted bread to get every drop. The four of us enjoyed our cocktails and the staff was very attentive and cheerful. Yes, good service doesn't come cheap, but this place is a GEM!"
Dined on 6/09/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 7 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Good place
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had a great meal here. The atmosphere is casual and comfortable and the food tasty. I wouldn't call it top notch but great all thing considered. Good wine list at very reasonable prices."
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
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Review 8 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great food!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Very busy, make sure you make a reservation. We had the rib-eye and duck and both were excellent."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 9 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Always wonderful
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food is delish!! The chicken is cooked to perfection!"
Dined on 6/08/2013
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Review 10 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A gem worth the drive
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We got engaged here 5 years ago and come back at least once a year for our anniversary. I'm glad it is a 3 hour drive from our home or I would eat here at least every week. The best steak I have ever had."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 11 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service level
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The service was below my expectations. I realize this is more of a family restaurant and more casual, however the servers reached in front of other guests to serve food or to pick up finished meals.
The temperature was very warm in the restaurant and the air conditioner was turned up until we complained.
Food was good, but not up to the expectations we had from the advertising."
The temperature was very warm in the restaurant and the air conditioner was turned up until we complained.
Food was good, but not up to the expectations we had from the advertising."
Dined on 6/06/2013
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Review 12 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"If you have one night in the area this is the place to dine. History, Great Food and Great Service."
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: good for groups, hot spot
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Review 13 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Steaks
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Stayed in Sovang. Restaurant was 4 min. driving from oour hotel. Great steaks and servixc"
Dined on 6/06/2013
Special Features: notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 14 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Fun atmosphere great food
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great service in a very friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Lots of conversations between tables.
Highly recommend after a day of wine country touring."
Highly recommend after a day of wine country touring."
Dined on 6/05/2013
Special Features: good for groups, hot spot, kid-friendly
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Review 15 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
A great dining experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Sometimes the old ways are the best - take great meat and produce, apply skilled grilling and preparation and the result is so delicious you wonder why we ever began seeking out the newest dining trends. Our meal was a delight from beginning to end."
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 16 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Always a Great Choice
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I come here every time I visit the area, and it never disappoints... Great food--the steaks are the best you'll find anywhere for the price ($30-$50 depending on the cut and size)-- and the some of the best wine in the world. You simply must go here!!"
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 17 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Santa Maria Style
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We come here every time we are in the area. Food is cooked over a Red Oak fire Santa Maria style and along with the Magic Dust imparts a fabulous flavor in everything. I am especially fond of the New York steak and the unique flavor this style of cooking delivers. They also have some great wines making this a perfect spot to wind down a day of wine tasting with a great meal and good wine. A must try!"
Dined on 5/28/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 18 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great food and atmosphere
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I only get to come here maybe once or twice a year - but I think that has to change. The cheese plate has been different selections and jams and they have all been amazing. This last weekend there was a Blue Shropshire that was perfect. The lobster on special was incredible. From the butter to the dressings to the selection of wines - everything is always consistent and amazing. I do not drink wine but for the first time I found a wine that I actually enjoyed on the recommendation of our very sweet waitress Tammy."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 19 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Overnight Escape
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"As a frequent diner, & foodie, I have never been disappointed with the food. The only real problem is, deciding what to eat! We truly wish they'd put ostrich back on the menu. It is dearly missed."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 20 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was amazing and was further enhanced by a very social and wonderful wait staff."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, kid-friendly
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Review 21 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent !
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We'll be back !food and service were fantastic."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 22 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great food, wine, & service @ HP-II
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Our 1st experience we did not make reservations & had a long wait but enjoyed drinking their great wine at the bar. Our 2nd we time made reservations through OpenTable & seated on time in a pack house.
Food was still as we had remembered it, delicious & incredibly tasty. I had the most scrumptious 12oz natural ribeye steak. It was very tender & seasoned well. I highly recommend any of their Pinot Noir label because when it all comes down to it their wine is the focal point of the Hitching Post II.
The waitress was friendly & fast. The sign of a good waitress is checking up on your diner to make sure we're enjoying our meal. She came by & checked as if we're the only one she was servicing although we can see she had several tables at once."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, scenic view, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 23 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Nice, nostalgic
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Good food, but with all the custom they get, it would benefit from a face lift"
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, hot spot, kid-friendly
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Review 24 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Hitching Post/Sideways, Buellton,Ca
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My wife & I were planning a trip to St. Ynez, Solvang and Los Olivos, and because the movie "Sideways" is one our favorites, we had to include a trip to the Hitching Post II. We went primarily because of the movie, but our experience could not have been better. We started in the bar, where Barbara and Adam, our bartenders were very friendly and made us feel welcome. Kelly, our waitress also was excellent and provided us great service. For dinner we had the Filet, baked potato, salad & shrimp cocktail. In bar and with dinner, we had Pinot Noir (Of Course!). And because we had such a great time with Barbara, we returned to the bar after dinner and enjoyed Barbara's version of a Brandy Ice!
We will be back, and with friends."
Dined on 5/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 25 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Not worth the hype
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had wanted to find a new steak house ever since The Red Barn in Santa Ynez closed. It took a little planning but we got a reservation for a Sunday night. We were greeted gruffly and made to wait 20 minutes. The service was inconsistent -- our waiter was solid, but rarely checked back at the table. We never had our wine refilled. The food was okay -- nothing special, and the wine list was thin. Given the notoriety of the restaurant, they will never have trouble filling th emplacement -- but we were very disappointed."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 26 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Disappointed
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Touted as "the best steak in the Santa Ynez Valley" -- which simply means there isn't much competition. The food was pretty average, and the service was pretty poor. Not worth the price."
Dined on 5/26/2013
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Review 27 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The hype is real
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great place for food and wine; their salsa is great and tastes really good on their steack. A very traditional steakhouse with outstanding food."
Dined on 5/22/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 28 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Really fun place
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I admit it: we went because of Sideways. But the food was surprisingly really good--EXCELLENT steaks. The house wines are good as well. Friendly servers. Not the most elegant place, so expect casual. They have a special for designated drivers, which is pretty cool...we needed ours! Check it out."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: good for groups, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 29 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Everything works
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Amazing! Its everything I want in a weekend get away experience. Nothing on the menu is even basic. It all just works so well. From the wine, to the amazing Santa Maria grilled food. I ordered the grass fed Rib eye and it was one of the most amazing steaks I have ever had. Grilled artichoke appetizer and the Ribeye with a bottle of Cork Dancer. Amazing flavors together. The waitress was really nice and while the courses came rather slowly, she was always on top of everything and making sure we were happy. The food was worth the slight wait (it was really busy) and the wine is so darn good. If you have the extra money to spend while you are on a weekender or just passing through Buellton for the evening, the Hitching post is one of a kind."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 30 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best in town
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My wife travel to Solvang often. We love the area, the wine tasting, the pancakes and of course Lake Cachuma. The only issue is finding a restaurant that serves a good steak. Several years ago, we happened across The Hitching Post. Happy days! This place has incredible steak, a nice wine list and is very reasonable. We eat there every time we're in town. Best in town I swear."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
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Review 31 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
First time experience
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Friend and myself went for dinner to celebrate our Birthdays. Reservation was good, table was OK. First off the white wine I
ordered was vinegary but they replaced it with on problems. Ordered a nice steak and although it was flavorful it was very
chewy with only one or two bites being being tender,it was he top sirloin, my friend got the Filet and it was very tender and
tasty. Salad was delish and potato too. I personally would not go back. they gave us a nice dessert for our Birthday celebration."
ordered was vinegary but they replaced it with on problems. Ordered a nice steak and although it was flavorful it was very
chewy with only one or two bites being being tender,it was he top sirloin, my friend got the Filet and it was very tender and
tasty. Salad was delish and potato too. I personally would not go back. they gave us a nice dessert for our Birthday celebration."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
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Review 32 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best Experience Yet!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"When I made our reservation I noted that we would be celebrating our anniversary. We never brought it up again once at The Hitching Post II. Our waitress was attentive and if we had a questions she couldn't answer she would find out and get right back to us. Our meals came just the way we ordered them. The food was amazing. I had the rib eye special and it melted in my mouth. At the end of our meal we ordered dessert to go and a bottle of wine to take home. The waitress came back with a plate that read "Happy Anniversary" in chocolate with an ice cream dessert. It was a very pleasant surprise! We will definitely be going back on our next trip to Solvang!"
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 33 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Consistently Great Steaks
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We arrived early for our reservations and were promptly seated. We had a wonderful dinner and I recommend the rib eye cooked to perfection and very tasty and I paid what I would have paid in most steak houses for just the steak, here you get a full meal. We love going here when we are in town for the Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon. Additionally, we had great service but I don't recall the name of the waitress. It was a very busy night."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
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Review 34 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Not Worth the Price
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I went to the HP II for the first time this weekend with my wife. She ordered the New York strip and I ordered the lamb chops.
My wife said the best thing on here plate was the baked potato. She was not very happy with meal.
I normally love lamb chops but these chops were over cooked and tasteless. The chops were also on the small side. We also had an artichoke for an appetizer. We drank water the whole time. Our bill was well over $100.00.
Bottom line, the food is nowhere near worth the cost.
To be honest we did not go there for drinks (my wife is pregnant) so we cannot comment on their alcoholic beverages. The service was great. Our waiter did a good job taking care of us."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 35 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
great time
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Our steaks were cooked to perfection. The service was top notch."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 36 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Perfectly cooked
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Everything we had was cooked to perfection. We enjoyed steak, lamb, duck, and quail. At about $50 per person, it was worth every penny."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 37 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Remodeling long overdue
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Sitting in the dining room is depressing. Grey faded walls, worn carpets. If you go, you should sit at the bar to capture some of that sideways feeling."
Dined on 5/06/2013
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Review 38 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Always a must when visiting Solvang
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food is never a disappointment and the service is always top notch. The only complaint I have for this visit is we were say right next to the entrance/hostess booth and since our reservations were for 730pm, a lot of people were near there so it was LOUD but after about a half hour things settled down and it was an enjoyable ambiance. Definitely wouldn't deter me from going back but I do think I'd ask to be seated deeper into the restaurant."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 39 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
It doesn't get better!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Santa Maria BBQ at its finest! HP II is the epitome of using good quality ingredients, keeping it simple, and letting the food sing for itself with an orchestra of red oak and their simple seasonings. HP II is unpretentious with a friendly staff. Very reasonably priced too. Request a table near the pit so you can see how it's done. Truly one of my favorites."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, romantic, special occasion
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Review 40 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
noise level
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The noise level is too loud, our waitress had to yell in order to be heard.
We wanted to go to the bar after our dinner, but when attempting to take a seat when it became available, we were told we had to go on a waiting list to sit down."
We wanted to go to the bar after our dinner, but when attempting to take a seat when it became available, we were told we had to go on a waiting list to sit down."
Dined on 5/04/2013
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Review 41 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Dinner!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I have been to this restaurant before and this time was even better. Very busy, but we were seated promptly with our reservation. Our server was excellent and the food was really good. We will surely return."
Dined on 5/04/2013
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Review 42 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Baby Ribs
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This is so far the best tasting ribs I have ever eaten. They are so tender and tasty and wish I could get the recipe. My wife loves the shrimp dinner. Every time we travel to Solvang, we make a point to dine at the Hitching Post II. Also we make sure to make reservations and we get there early so we can enjoy a drink or two at the bar."
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 43 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great choice for meat-lovers.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Hitching Post is a restaurant for those looking for a good piece of meat with a baked potato. Our group had several different steaks and they were all flavorful and cooked to perfection. The appetizers, particularly the baked chili with corn and the mussels, were excellent. It is a fairly noisy place and not much in the way of ambiance, but the food and service make it worthwhile dining experience."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: good for groups, vibrant bar scene
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Review 44 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The service wasn't classic!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Although the restaurant was made a classic by the movie, "Sideways", the service isn't. It disappointed. The waitress never asked us about our food, in fact we had to flag her down just to get another glass of wine. I am glad I went, to say I have been there, but all in all it was uninspiring. I think they are living off the royalties."
Dined on 5/03/2013
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Review 45 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Perfect finish
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We are on vacation staying in Santa Barbara. Hitching Post was the place we wanted to dine after a day of sight seeing in wine country. We had 6:00 reservations, but arrived before 5:00 to take advantage of their wine flights. We got the last seats at the bar and Barbara served our tasting. Great wine and enjoyed getting to know Barbara. We were ready for dinner a few minutes early and were seated at our table without delay. Everything delicious!! Wonderful steaks prepared just as ordered. Purchased a couple of bottles of wine to take home. All staff attentive. Enjoyed ourselves. Wish we lived in the area so we could return."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 46 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
It was fun to watch the window
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"It was fun to watch the window where they grill the steaks over wood...the steak is one of the best I have ever had!"
Dined on 04/28/2013
2006
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 47 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Love everything about this
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Love everything about this restaurant."
Dined on 04/27/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 48 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Steak. Great wine. Great
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great Steak. Great wine. Great service."
Dined on 04/22/2013
2013
Special Features: notable wine list
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Review 49 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The restaurant was recommended
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The restaurant was recommended by our hotel and also by a cashier at a local store. We were not disappointed. The food and the service were excellent. My husband's steak was cooked to perfection. I ordered grilled shrimp and they were delicious. The atmosphere was quiet and we enjoyed our evening very much."
Dined on 04/25/2013
2011
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 50 for Hitching Post II
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
One of the best places for
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"One of the best places for Central Coast / Santa Maria style BBQ. A widely raved about wine list for those who are interested."
Dined on 04/21/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, kid-friendly, notable wine list, hot spot
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