We’d again planned to set off early but feeling cosy and happy at Post Ranch Inn we didn’t end up leaving until 1pm. Coupled with our epic fish and chip lunch stop, a two hour interlude at Hearst Castle and a long drive we didn’t arrive in Santa Barbara until 8.30 and it was already dark…
I loved the fresh and light feeling of the room and we were once again gifted with sparkling wine and strawberries…
Really, there can’t be that many calories in chocolate covered strawberries can there? It’s fruit after all…It was already dark and getting late so we headed out of the hotel for dinner at The Lark.
Located in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone (I love that name), the chefs at The Lark use local and responsibly grown ingredients to create a modern Californian menu that is served family style. Wooden chairs and tables provide a rustic and homely environment and the casual yet fun vibe was exactly what Mr S and I craved after a long day on the road.
The spicy popcorn that was placed on the table was a deliciously moreish nibble to get started on.
We were warned that the sharing plates were pretty substantial and we decided to try three dishes between us.
Grilled asparagus, crispy serrano ham, soft poached egg and parmesan salad.
Grilled Spanish octopus, Israeli cous cous, blood orange and avocado.
Whole grilled branzino, chorizo, chickpeas and artichoke.
All the dishes were totally delicious, flavours were big and robust and all the protein and gutsy sauces left us feeling really full. We had no room for dessert but looked enviously at the desserts of our neighbouring diners. The ice-cream sandwich looked particularly good!
In the light of day we had a better opportunity to look round The Four Seasons, which really was a totally stunning property.
Beautiful flowers and palm trees surrounded us.
The hotel has two ocean-view restaurants serving Californian cuisine. Sadly we only got to enjoy the beautiful views at breakfast and didn’t sample the hotel’s cuisine for any other meal.
Spanish arches and red tiles decorate the historic 1920’s resort.
The acres of lush garden really did remind Mr Silver of his childhood holidays to Marbs.
There were two pools but we only discovered one which was surrounded by beautiful palm trees and felt very private.
Unfortunately, our time in Santa Barbara went all too quickly and we were sad not to explore more of the town, favoured by Hollywood celebrities. But we had plans for later in the day and couldn’t stay much longer.
Next stop Los Angeles!!
