Experience the best al fresco tasting menu in Ojai at the reimagined Ranch House, reopened by husband-and-wife team Perfecte and Alia Rocher, celebrated for their imaginative dining concepts in Los Angeles and Seattle. When I heard about the reimagining of this iconic spot in Ojai, I KNEW we had to experience it for ourselves. The legendary Ranch House was originally founded in the 1950s by Alan and Helen Hooker and The Rochers recently lovingly restored and renovated it, while still honoring the legacy of the original property. From the moment we arrived, it was clear this wasn’t just a meal • it was a full sensory experience.
The menu • Best al fresco tasting menu in Ojai
You can expect a four course prix fixe menu (and maybe some surprises along the way) that pays tribute to the original spirit of the 1950s restaurant and integrates the bold, contemporary touches the Rochers have added. Each dish celebrates the current season using California’s finest ingredients. The menu is shaped by what they grow on-site, as well as ingredients sourced from their trusted network of local farms and foragers.
You can see beautiful integrations of Chef-owner Perfecte’s roots in Valencia, Spain plus the travels the husband-and-wife duo have experienced.
You will notice that each dish has many layers, showcasing Chef’s creativity. I won’t detail every dish because I don’t want to spoil the magic, but I will tell you that our favorite course was a close tie between the tuna and duck dishes. Our favorite singular item was the coca de pasta bona, a bread very similar to focaccia. Of course this is the Spanish version. I loved the interactive feel of each dish, whether by dipping, or layering different elements by hand, the experience feels immersive.
They also offer the option to add a curated wine pairing to your meal, or you can simply tell the team your usual sip of choice, and they’ll guide you to the perfect wine or cocktail to complement the meal. We enjoyed a skin-contact wine with dinner, then selected cocktails to enjoy with dessert. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur (they have a wonderful selection) or just looking to try something new, their beverage offerings add an extra layer to an already memorable dining experience.
The ambiance • best al fresco tasting menu in Ojai
We came into town to celebrate Walter’s birthday, so it was the perfect reason to book the best al fresco tasting menu in Ojai. We had been to Ojai together one other time, but we really fell in love with the food and beverage scene even more on this trip. Here (currently in the works) are the details on the rest of our trip!
When you make your booking, you get to choose your ideal spot to dine — whether it’s the lively central walkways or a secluded hideaway like the Bamboo Grove, a private tea house, or a table with a view of the stunning rose garden. We chose a table in the heart of the main dining area, where we could enjoy the beautiful views of the property.
The 15,000-square-foot working garden is worth exploring before or after your meal, adding another magical layer to the experience. Between the beautifully restored spaces, creatively seasonal cuisine, and warm hospitality, Rochers at the Ranch House serves up the best al fresco tasting menu in Ojai, making every meal unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or planning a trip to enjoy Ojai’s food and wine scene, this reimagined icon is a must-visit destination.
If you’re in town for a bit, check out their sister concept just across the path. T.I.N.P. (This Is Not Pizza) is “bold, cheeky, and unapologetically craveable — a takeout spot that trades in crispy edges, fermented heat, and over-the-top flavor.” I haven’t tried it out yet, but I am already making up excuses to book another trip as soon as possible.
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