Located on The Riviera overlooking the city below, Belmond El Encanto has been a fixture in Santa Barbara for many years. In fact, this year marks the 100th anniversary of the hotel! To celebrate, Belmond El Encanto has been hosting a special Winemaker Dinner series all year long. Dining al fresco while enjoying gorgeous city views, delectable dishes and exclusive wines? Now that sounds like a great way to toast to 100 years if you ask me.
Photo credit: Belmond
EL ENCANTO’S HISTORY
El Encanto was established as a premier retreat in the earthy 20th century, catering to artists, celebrities and East Coasters looking to escape the cold. The land where the hotel sits was purchased in 1877 — all 123 acres for a meer $153.75, I might add! After the rail line was put in ten years later, the lots were divided and sold.
In 1911, the installation of the streetcar service on Alameda Padre Serra connected people to the once inaccessible Riviera neighborhood. Then a year later, several dorms and 10-room houses and cottages were constructed on the four-acre lot. They were originally planned to house faculty and students for the school across the street, but it didn’t work out as hoped. So in 1917, plans were developed to convert the buildings to a hotel. On New Year’s Eve 1917, El Encanto Hotel hosted its first dinner, and the hotel officially opened on February 2, 1918.
BELMOND EL ENCANTO
After changing hands several times and undergoing two facelifts in the mid-1980s and early 1990s, El Encanto was sold to the Belmond company (formerly the Orient-Express) in 2004. They spent nearly 8 years and $134 million dollars in renovations before reopening as Belmond El Encanto in 2013. Today, it’s the only Forbes 5-star hotel in Santa Barbara.
I admit that in past years, I’ve mostly visited El Encanto for special occasions. However, I’m trying to get better about taking advantage of Santa Barbara’s offerings without always needing a “special” reason. I mean, the views and serene, upscale ambiance alone are reason enough, right? But really, the fact that places like El Encanto are in my backyard should be the inspiration. Bellini Brunch with live jazz? — sign me up. Afternoon high tea service? Why not!
photo credit: Belmond
WINEMAKER DINNER SERIES
I have made an effort, however, to attend some of the special Winemaker Dinners at Belmond El Encanto, in celebration of their 100th anniversary. There’s nothing quite like dining under the stars while enjoying delicious, locally-sourced food paired with a wide variety of wine. Heaven!
While the featured winery changes monthly, each event showcases thoughtful pairings with regionally-inspired food prepared by El Encanto’s Executive Chef, Johan Denizot.
Each dinner starts with a welcome reception and wine, followed by a five course meal with wine pairings. They’re super intimate, too, so you’ll get to chat with the winemaker and learn about the wines firsthand. From a rosé themed dinner with France’s Chateau d’Esclans Winery (which showcased five courses all designed to pair with the winery’s famed Provençal rosés) to a fabulous dinner spotlighting local Santa Barbara winery, Stolpman Vineyards, each one has been unique and spot on.
The Stolpman Wine Dinner featured dishes like Tempura Squash Blossoms with Tomato Jam and Stolpman Rosé, and Roasted Carrot and Coconut Soup with Dungeness Crab with Stolpman 2015 L’Avion Roussanne. Deliciozo!
While there have already been four Winemaker Dinners this year, there are still plenty more to check out. July’s featured winery is Sunstone Winery on July 19, followed by Au Bon Climat on August 30. Then on September 20, there’s an Amarone dinner and, finally, Ridge on November 1. Each is $120 per person and include a very generous serving of wine and food. I can promise you won’t leave hungry or thirsty.
Whether you have a special occasion coming up or just need a night out, these dinners are worth it. Besides, there’s no time like the present to get dressed up to enjoy an amazing meal and wine at the historic El Encanto, right? Happy 100 years, El Encanto!
*Belmond El Encanto*
Website | 800 Alvarado Place – Santa Barbara
