Santa Maria is chock full of steakhouses and Mexican restaurants, but if you’re looking for homemade food with a touch of American comfort, check out Ambrosia Restaurant.
Quaint with a quiet dining atmosphere and great for everyday dining and special events, Ambrosia has been in business for six years. The restaurant underwent a change of ownership in June of last year.
New owner Otilia Narez took over for the restaurant’s former owners when they retired. Although there’s been a change of hands, customers can still expect the same great food from Narez, who worked as a server at the restaurant for 2 1/2 years before buying the establishment.
“I’ve always wanted to own my own restaurant, and I finally had the opportunity,” Narez said.
Ambrosia’s fare is all made from scratch, from the creamy dressings to the flaky, buttery pie crusts; everything is made in-house with fresh ingredients. The menu boasts a plethora of options, so whether customers are in the mood for prime rib, satisfying salads, or the traditional soup and sandwich combo, they’ll find something to satisfy.
“I make all the soups from scratch, and they’re usually just what I decide to make for the day. The only ‘soup of the day’ we have is clam chowder on Fridays,” Narez said.
Narez has a number of soups in her arsenal: split pea, navy bean, cream of asparagus, cream of broccoli, corn chowder, and potato cabbage, just to name a few. If patrons are looking to expand their culinary horizons, there are even some Danish dishes available, such as the pork loin schnitzel, which Narez said is the entrée Ambrosia is most known for.
But these meals don’t come without a lot of hard work. Narez is at the restaurant every day, usually for more than 12 hours. She prepares the specials, cooks, serves, and is generally all over the place, making sure the food is fulfilling and customers leave satisfied. Her husband, Jaime, who she playfully admitted can’t cook, comes in to help do the dishes or tend to the restaurant’s flower garden.
“It’s very challenging and stressful, but I love the business and like to be involved,” Narez said with a smile.
Locals will have a chance to sample Ambrosia’s cuisine at the restaurant’s upcoming Mother’s Day brunch on May 13. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., find a buffet complete with eggs Benedict, ham, roast beef, stroganoff, and a multitude of desserts.
When it comes to the restaurant business, a change in ownership always makes people nervous, but Narez said there’s nothing to worry about.
“Everything is perfect, so why change it?” she said. “We have good food, good service, and a great atmosphere. Come in and see for yourself.”
Ambrosia Restaurant is located at 112 E. Boone St. in Santa Maria. For more information, call 347-1112.
Highlights
• The inaugural Buellton Brew Fest will kick off Santa Ynez Valley’s Craft Beer Week on May 12 at River View Park, featuring more than 20 local and regional breweries.
Tickets cost $25 in advance and $35 at the door, and include a commemorative tasting glass, lunch, live music, and unlimited tastings. Tickets can be purchased online or through the Buellton Chamber of Commerce.
Featured breweries include Figueroa Mountain, Firestone, Tap-It, Stone Brewing, Heretic, and Mendocino Brewing. Buellton restaurant Avant Tapas & Wine will provide lunch to all attendees, and local band Lakes will perform throughout the day. Free shuttles will also be available to all attendees, courtesy of Chumash Casino & Resort.
For more information, visit Buelltonbrewfest.com.
This week’s Biz Spotlight was written by Staff Writer Kristina Sewell. Staff Writer Jeremy Thomas compiled Highlights. Information should be sent to the Sun via fax, e-mail, or mail.
This article appears in May 3-10, 2012.