Eat Well in
Ojai
Our innkeepers' curated guide to the best breakfast spots, dinner tables, craft beer, wine, and farmers markets in the valley.
A Town That Eats Well
For a small town of 8,000, Ojai has a food scene that punches well above its weight. The valley's agricultural heritage — citrus groves, avocado orchards, organic farms — means that local restaurants have access to exceptional ingredients year-round. Pair that with a community of passionate chefs and food artisans, and you get a dining landscape that surprises every visitor.
We update our recommendations seasonally. When you check in, ask us what's new, what's in season, and where we've been eating lately. We love talking food.
Innkeeper's Top Picks
Ojai is famous for its pixie tangerines, available only in spring. Ask us where to pick your own.
Don't miss it. We'll pack you a bag to take home.
Get there early. It's worth the wait.
Order the lamb chops and the burrata. Thank us later.
The Chief Peak IPA after a morning on the Shelf Road trail is one of life's great pleasures.
Breakfast & Brunch
Rory's Place
The definitive Ojai breakfast. Packed on weekends — arrive by 8am or expect a wait. The eggs Benedict and fresh-squeezed juice are legendary.
Farmer & the Cook
Organic, vegetarian-forward, and wildly delicious. The breakfast burrito with house salsa is one of the best things you'll eat in Ojai.
Ojai Coffee Roasting Company
The best coffee in the valley, roasted on-site. Grab a cup and a pastry before heading out on the trail.
Dinner
Azu Restaurant & Bar
Mediterranean small plates, an excellent wine list, and a lively patio. One of Ojai's most beloved restaurants for over 20 years.
Osteria Monte Grappa
Intimate Italian with handmade pasta and a romantic atmosphere. Make a reservation — it fills up fast on weekends.
The Ranch House
A Ojai institution since 1958. Garden dining, Sunday brunch, and a menu that celebrates local, seasonal ingredients.
Ojai Rotie
French rotisserie chicken, natural wines, and a cozy wine bar vibe. One of the newer additions to the Ojai dining scene and already a favorite.
Drinks & Wine
Topa Topa Brewing
Ojai's beloved craft brewery, with a taproom, food trucks, and a dog-friendly patio. Chief Peak IPA is the signature pour.
Ojai Winery
Small-production wines made from Ventura County grapes. Tasting room in downtown Ojai, open weekends.
Azu Bar
The bar at Azu is one of the best spots in town for cocktails and a glass of wine before dinner.
Markets & Provisions
Ojai Farmers Market
Every Sunday, 9am–1pm in downtown Ojai. The best way to experience the valley's agricultural bounty — citrus, avocados, honey, flowers, and prepared foods.
Ojai Olive Oil
Award-winning olive oils made from estate-grown olives. Tastings, tours, and a beautiful shop. A perfect gift to bring home.
Rainbow Bridge Natural Foods
Ojai's beloved natural grocery store, stocked with local produce, organic goods, and a deli counter.
Breakfast at the Inn
Every stay at the Lavender Inn includes a full homemade breakfast, served each morning in our dining room or on the garden veranda. We use local, seasonal ingredients — eggs from nearby farms, fresh-baked pastries, seasonal fruit, and locally roasted coffee.
Breakfast is served from 8:00–9:30am. Dietary restrictions and preferences are always accommodated — just let us know when you book.
Ready to Eat Your Way Through Ojai?
Book your stay and we'll send you our full, up-to-date dining guide before you arrive.
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