Our stay at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern was an absolute disaster from start to finish, turning what was supposed to be a luxurious getaway into a frustrating, filthy ordeal that sent us packing within hours. For $4,400, we booked a two-bedroom suite, expecting top-tier service and accommodations. Instead, we got incompetence, miscommunication, and a room so disgusting we couldn’t stomach staying.
The trouble started before we even arrived. I called en route to confirm details about the dedicated poolside cabana included with our suite, as advertised on their website. Virginia, the first staff member I spoke with, had no clue what I was talking about. I had to read the website verbatim to her before she reluctantly agreed. She then transferred me to Hannah at the front desk, who was equally clueless. I read the website to her too, and only then did she acknowledge the cabana. How does a “luxury” hotel have staff completely unaware of their own amenities? The room was also supposed to come with a dedicated Mercedez Benz, as per the website, not 1 mention about the Mercedes by any of the staff members upon check in.
We arrived early at 1:00 PM, only to be told our room wasn’t ready but would be by 4:00 PM at the latest. They directed us to the cabana to spend the day by the pool, which was the one thing that went as expected. But by 4:30 PM, we hadn’t received a single call or update about our room. I had to get out of the pool, dry off, get dressed, and march to the front desk, where I learned the room had been ready for who-knows-how-long. Why promise to notify us and then drop the ball? It’s basic hospitality.
The real horror show began when we finally got to the room. Within 15 minutes, my son noticed the bottoms of his feet were completely black. We checked ours—same thing. Every single one of us had filthy, coal-black soles from walking on the hardwood floors. Upon inspection, it was clear these floors hadn’t been cleaned in months. They weren’t just dirty; they were gritty, like sandpaper, with more traction than a hiking trail. Clean hardwood is supposed to be smooth, not a health hazard. It was so bad we couldn’t walk to bed without our feet getting filthy again. Shower, step out, dirty again—rinse and repeat. Disgusting doesn’t even begin to cover it.
I called the front desk to complain, and they sent the maintenance manager, who had the audacity to insist the floors “do get cleaned.” Really? Then why were all our feet black? Sweeping isn’t enough—hardwood needs mopping, and clearly, they’re cutting corners. His empty assurances did nothing to address the grime we were standing in. At that point, I started wondering what other shortcuts this place was taking. If they can’t clean a floor, what’s happening in the kitchen or with the bedding? I wasn’t about to stick around to find out.
This place calls itself a luxury hotel, but that’s as laughable as calling Pergo faux-wood flooring “hardwood.” It’s a facade. We checked out immediately, demanded a refund (which, to their credit, they processed), and drove two hours back home. No way were we staying in that filth. The Inn at Mattei's Tavern isn’t just a letdown; it’s an embarrassment to the concept of hospitality. Save your money and stay somewhere that actually respects its guests and understands what...
Read moreI am a wedding planner (Crowned Events) who recently had the pleasure of working with the Mattei's Tavern team.
I would highly recommend this property to anyone considering getting married in southern California. This team stands out to me as not only superior in service, but as also as a warm-hearted, truly welcoming, and unified team who's goal was to provide the couple with the absolute best wedding weekend experience they could offer.
Alexa and her team were absolutely incredible, here are some things they did that stood out to me: -Their staff came out and greeted the bride and groom as they arrived (think a group of 15 people waving to them as they drove up) -We had a difficult ceremony layout (a square around a chuppah) and they did not bat an eye and not only set it up but did so with perfect alignment -Their team steamed the rented linens that arrived creased (the only other property I have ever seen do this is one that provides their own linens) -Their restaurant's head chef, Rhoda, prepared an incredible family style dinner and appetizers for the guests (Her chicken and waffles are unparalleled, highly recommend)
These are just a few examples, but their team was always present, 5 steps ahead, and willing to go above and beyond at a drop of a hat. There are a lot of 5-star properties that don't provide the level of service during events that aligns to their price point, but Mattei's Tavern is one that truly exceeded expectations every step of the way.
Their property is absolutely stunning, it is walkable to many restaurants in the area, and the rooms and pool are incredibly well done, providing guests a full weekend experience that they will never forget. Overall can't say enough good things and would...
Read moreThe Inn at Mattei’s is a relatively new property, built last year, next to the original Mattei’s Tavern. My wife was up in Los Olivos and discovered it and got a tour. We called and made reservations right away. The entire staff is amazing here.
We arrived at the property and headed to the Tavern patio for lunch. Lunch was fantastic. We had the BEST tuna melt (aka Hot Tuna Sammie) and a salad. We also enjoyed a great bottle of wine.
Upon check-in, Sean graciously welcomed us with cocktails. Our room, a luxurious first-floor retreat, was a sight to behold. The spacious patio, complete with a firepit and comfortable seating, offered a perfect spot for relaxation. The bathroom, a marvel of modern design, and the immaculate bedroom exuded comfort. The fully stocked refrigerator was a thoughtful touch, adding to the feeling of being pampered. There was also a Nespresso coffee machine that was fantastic.
We walked around the property and found a great spa, pool, gym, etc. We went to the pool, and there was a bar with a great menu. When we arrived, the guys brought us glasses of water. The pool is rectangular and 3.5/4 feet deep. It is an amazingly relaxing environment. My wife went to the spa and got a deep tissue massage that she absolutely loved.
We made reservations on the patio for dinner and were met with Vermouth cocktail shots as a starter. (Another nice touch) For dinner, we shared the “bread for all”, Tavern strip (NY strip) and salad. The food was amazing and cooked to perfection.
The last morning we went for breakfast and had the best Egg, Sammie and Frittata. The coffee was fantastic as well.
We never left the property, except for a walk. We are looking forward to our next trip...
Read more