Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Cafe — Restaurant in Lompoc

So this rating app needs some way to differentiate between service quality of a place and food quality. The cuisine deserves a 5+ due to impeccable flavors, & presentation. The service on three different visits was sub par and disappointing. At the very least might a patron expect the offer of water and a menu within 5-8 minutes of being seated? And then how about a return to the table at select times throughout the meal to inquire whether everything is okay or something else is needed? Our initial server on the second visit was observed hanging about the bar - talking with other staff - and my attempts to catch their eye was frustratingly unsuccessful. We were extremely grateful toward the end of our meal to have a different server attend to us. Kudos and thanks to Lacei for attentively stepping in and efficiently taking care of us for the rest of our time there. Compliments also to the chefs. Extraordinary fare - but the ambience and service (except for Lacei) have not done justice to the cuisine and wines. I am hard pressed to convince myself to return or to encourage others to go, as the dining experience is heavily impacted by not only the food but by those who are serving it. I think perhaps it's a matter of training. An establishment doesn't have to be stuffy and pretentious to ensure excellence. Simply being conscientious and attentive goes a long way to communicating to the customer that their patronage is appreciated. Service matters. So 5+ stars for the food; 1.5 for restroom cleanliness and 2.5 for service, and that's being liberal. Perhaps others will have a different experience -...

Nestled in the heart of Los Olivos, California, Los Olivos Wine Merchante & Café offers a delightful fusion of fine dining, exquisite wines, and a cozy café experience. Renowned for its carefully curated wine selection, this establishment doubles as a premier wine merchant, showcasing some of the best local and international varieties. Whether you are a seasoned oenophile or a casual wine enthusiast, the knowledgeable staff are eager to guide you through their extensive list, ensuring a perfect pairing for your meal.

The culinary highlight, without a doubt, is the pizza. Crafted with a blend of traditional techniques and innovative flavors, each pizza is a masterpiece. The crust is impeccably thin and crispy, providing the ideal foundation for a medley of fresh, locally sourced toppings. The Margherita, with its vibrant tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, is a crowd favorite, but don’t miss out on the more adventurous options like the truffle mushroom or the spicy salami.

Complementing the dining experience, the attached café offers a charming space to relax with a cup of artisanal coffee or a sweet treat. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for a leisurely afternoon or a quick pick-me-up.

Overall, Los Olivos Wine Merchante & Café in Los Olivos is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional culinary and wine-tasting adventure. Whether you're indulging in their world-class pizzas or exploring their impressive wine selection, you're guaranteed a...

There is ALWAYS something delicious on the menu here! No matter the season, the weather, or even the person I am sharing a meal with, I have enjoyed not only the wonderful meal but the total dining experience here.

Although I am acutely aware of the lack of people who are wanting and willing to work, there appeared to be enough staff but that wasn't the issue. It took me a day or so to try to answer my question of why does almost everyone working front of house,seem so neutral about their job? I observed kind people not smiling much, little eye contact etc. and that was something that took the review down a star. Ok, we do eat out locally 2 to 4 times a week and this was the most obvious the apathy has been. Wish I had a simple solution or any solution at all but the only thing I came up with might be a small reward for staff being positively mentioned at any review site?

If we had not heard friends of ours who were sitting a few tables away say almost verbatim what we both felt, I prolly wouldn't have spent this much time on this review. Maybe staff will come around but maybe not. Or maybe management has a Great idea. I wish you well and will return, down...