Glen Ellen

Glen Ellen Star, Glen Ellen, CA., 10/28/26

~ hsnixon ~ Leave a comment
exterior – 13648 Arnold Dr, Glen Ellen, CA 95442

Glen Ellen Star was a medium sized place known for their wood fired oven cooking.  There were tables inside but also patio seating for nice weather days.  We were there on a busy Wed night which turned out to be a night when the locals flock in for the $49, 2-course menu and the free corkage option if you bring your own bottle.  Of course this is wine country so many who live around have lots of bottles in their cellar but hate to pay the $30-75 corkage fees restaurant’s impose on those who don’t want to buy their wines.    It’s a great deal but I also think this place would be crowded any night of the week.  The food and service were terrific even though the noise level was moderate.  There was seating at the counter that looks into the kitchen but a small partition looked to keep interactions to a minimum.  The tables seemed more comfortable and so that’s what we reserved.   The long room had twinkle lights overhead with some in a star formation and a large plank wood floor.  The lighting was subdued for a cozy feel.  The server was happy to course out our order, as we wanted to split a number of things.  I got a photo of the dessert menu but we were too stuffed to try any of it.  It was a lovely meal/evening and one I’d recommend to you to get a reservation for when you visit the area. Continue reading →

Glen Ellen Inn Secret Cottages Bar, Glen Ellen, CA., 10/28/26

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entrance – 13670 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, Ca 95442

When staying in Glen Ellen the small Secret Cottages are a fine and convenient place to stay.  They also have a bar called the Glen Ellen Martini Bar.  It’s cute and good enough that a number of locals were in there, not just hotel guests.  Karen is the usual bartender and she’s efficient and knowledgeable.   Open Wed – Sun from 3:30 – 8:00, but they’ll stay later if you’re having a good time.   Of course they have a House Martini with gin or vodka which is served ice cold and get the remainder of your drink in the metal mixing container- like a great malt only alcoholic.  There are also a number of other drinks on the menu but I’m sure she could make anything you want.  I loved everything I tried and thus am including it in this blog even though they don’t currently serve any food other than a bowl of nibbles to eat with your drink.  Lots of fun places you can walk to for dinner so start here with a tasty cocktail. Continue reading →