The Hitching Post

The_Hitching_Post_-_September_2023_-_Sarah_Stierch_01

The Hitching Post

The Hitching Post is a renowned restaurant located in California, United States. It is famous for its Santa Maria-style barbecue, a regional culinary tradition that dates back to the mid-19th century. The restaurant has gained widespread recognition for its high-quality grilled meats and has become a popular dining destination for both locals and tourists.

History[edit | edit source]

The Hitching Post was established in the early 1950s by the Ostini family. The original location was in Casmalia, California, a small town in Santa Barbara County. The restaurant quickly became known for its unique style of barbecue, which involves grilling meat over an open flame using native red oak wood. This method imparts a distinct flavor to the meat, setting it apart from other types of barbecue.

In the 1980s, a second location, known as The Hitching Post II, was opened in Buellton, California. This location has also become highly popular and is often frequented by visitors to the nearby Santa Ynez Valley wine country.

Cuisine[edit | edit source]

The Hitching Post specializes in Santa Maria-style barbecue, which typically includes tri-tip, top sirloin, ribeye, and chicken. The meats are seasoned with a simple blend of salt, pepper, and garlic before being grilled over red oak. The barbecue is traditionally served with pinquito beans, a small pink bean native to the region, as well as salsa, grilled French bread, and a green salad.

In addition to its barbecue offerings, The Hitching Post also features a variety of other dishes, including seafood, pasta, and vegetarian options. The restaurant is also known for its extensive wine list, which includes many selections from local wineries.

In Popular Culture[edit | edit source]

The Hitching Post gained national attention after being featured in the 2004 film Sideways, which showcased the restaurant's Buellton location. The film's success brought a surge of visitors to the restaurant, further cementing its status as a culinary landmark.