Mattei's TavernEST. Prior to 1930

















































































Avg. venue rate
$3k - $13kThis venue has been favorited 307 times
Host an exquisite event in the Santa Ynez Valley at this 19th-century former stage coach stop.
Located in picturesque Santa Barbara wine country, the charming historic tavern offers several enchanting dining rooms to host your next birthday dinner or anniversary celebration.
The Lowdown
Venue use
Best for these Occasions
Venue type
Banquet Hall / Event FacilityGardenHistoric BuildingRestaurant / Private Dining
Views
courtyardgardenhistorical monumentlandscaped groundsvalleyRolling HillsMountains
Style
RusticVintageCountryGarden PartyWestern
Venue Settings
Allow the history of Mattei’s Tavern to become part of yours. For almost 130 years, distinguished guests ranging from John D. Rockefeller to Clark Gable have been drawn to Mattei’s Tavern for its blend of natural beauty, romantic heritage and classic luxury – this blend is what makes Mattei’s Tavern an exquisite event venue. The iconic white water tower and original craftsman structures surrounding the ceremony site are softened by pastoral landscaping; providing an unparalleled old west wedding experience. The lush outdoor lawn is the perfect reception area – watch the sunset while dining then dance the night away under the stars. For a more intimate reception or dinner party - enjoy the Garden Room or dine in one of the four dining rooms inside the landmark Mattei’s Tavern. After your event concludes, retreat to one of the 7 charming guest cottages on-site.
Capacity
200Seated200Standing
(Prices listed here are estimates only & are subject to change)
- Venue price range
- Does this include catering fees?
- No
- Additional charges
- Security Deposit:
In addition to the venue deposit, a refundable $1,000-$5,000 security deposit is due upon contraction execution.
Property Buyout:
A Cottage Buyout is required (7 Cottages, sleeping 40 people) with all large events.
- Insurance
Additional insurance may be required depending on the event
Amenities
Event Logistics
Essential logistics and amenities for a seamless, memorable event.
- Celebrations hosted here since
- Prior to 1930
- Curfew
- 10 PM
- Venue spaces
- Indoor & Outdoor Venue Spaces Available
- Catering
- Client must select a caterer from the list provided by the venue
- Alcohol
- Licensed Server is Required
- Music
- Indoors & Outdoors
- Smoking
- Non-smoking venue
- Accommodations
- Seven on site guest cottages for overnight accomondations (17 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms in total) - the Hartley House and West Cottages adjacent to the ceremony grounds and the other four Bungalows have views looking out to downtown Los Olivos. Lush landscaping surrounding The Cottages providing brilliant contrast to their white washed frames while rocking chairs warmly greet all guests on the front porch. Inside, curated historic photos and old west remnants celebrate The Cottages' history in a clean and modern presentation.
- Eco/Green Events
Yes
- Pet-Friendly Events
Yes
- Kid Friendly Events
Yes
- Handicap Accessible
Yes
- other
Yes
Onsite amenities
Venue Features
The scene
Built in 1886 as a stagecoach stop by Swiss-American Felix Mattei, this two-story gabled building was originally known as the Central Hotel. The property offered a bar, dining room, and seven bedrooms upstairs, and was a favorite for those traveling between San Francisco and Los Angeles, which remains the case to this day.
With the arrival of the railway in 1887, the success of Mattei’s Central Hotel was cemented. Since then, it has thrived as many concepts, including the Hotel Los Olivos in 1890 and the Chart House in the 1970’s. Regardless of the concept, however, Mattei’s has always been the shining gathering place of the community, as well as a favorite stop for travelers.
Mattei’s Tavern received Historic Landmark status in November 2010.
With the arrival of the railway in 1887, the success of Mattei’s Central Hotel was cemented. Since then, it has thrived as many concepts, including the Hotel Los Olivos in 1890 and the Chart House in the 1970’s. Regardless of the concept, however, Mattei’s has always been the shining gathering place of the community, as well as a favorite stop for travelers.
Mattei’s Tavern received Historic Landmark status in November 2010.
Design
Multiple craftsman style structures are scattered across the lush pastoral site. Curated art and décor on site alludes to the site’s history, while clean modern presentation promtes an engaging experience for discerning guests. The tasteful blend of history and modernity throughout the site is the hallmark of the Mattei’s Tavern experience.
Extra perks
VENUE INCLUDES:
PICNIC TABLES, PICNIC BENCHES, COWBOY CAULDRONS, STRIPED UMBRELLAS, METAL BISTRO TABLES W/ CHAIRS, HARDWOOD & SOLID STEEL BAR/TABLE, ROCKING CHAIRS, 2 CORN HOLE GAMES, VINTAGE CROUQUET SET, ANTIQUE CARRIAGE, ORANGE TRAFFIC CONES
AVAILABLE TO RENT:
TEARDROP WOODY TRAILER -$500
6 STAINLESS STEEL PROPANE HEATERS - $350
PICNIC TABLES, PICNIC BENCHES, COWBOY CAULDRONS, STRIPED UMBRELLAS, METAL BISTRO TABLES W/ CHAIRS, HARDWOOD & SOLID STEEL BAR/TABLE, ROCKING CHAIRS, 2 CORN HOLE GAMES, VINTAGE CROUQUET SET, ANTIQUE CARRIAGE, ORANGE TRAFFIC CONES
AVAILABLE TO RENT:
TEARDROP WOODY TRAILER -$500
6 STAINLESS STEEL PROPANE HEATERS - $350
Awards, Notables & Events
OUR FAVORITE WEDDING BLOG FEATURES:
Kim & Tyson, Jeremy & Emily, Jamie & Connor, Jackson & Jenna, Nicole & Nathan, Elan & Hillary, JD & Pilar.
Kim & Tyson, Jeremy & Emily, Jamie & Connor, Jackson & Jenna, Nicole & Nathan, Elan & Hillary, JD & Pilar.
Getting there
Santa Barbara Municipal Airport
23.1 mi
Avg. venue rate
$3k - $13kThis venue has been favorited 307 times

