Craving authentic Santa Maria-style barbecue, let me introduce you to The Swiss Restaurant & Bar. Just a short 10-minute drive north of Orcutt, this local favorite is located at 516 N Broadway, Santa Maria, CA 93454, near Orcutt, California. Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM, The Swiss is a go-to spot for those who appreciate good food, a relaxed atmosphere, and a touch of Central Coast tradition.
What’s Cooking? Santa Maria-Style Barbecue
The Swiss proudly serves up Santa Maria-style oak barbecue, a regional specialty that locals swear by. This cooking style involves grilling meats over red oak wood, which imparts a smoky flavor that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re sinking your teeth into their perfectly grilled tri-tip or savoring the tenderness of their baby back ribs, the barbecue here is the real deal.
For those who like variety, The Swiss offers family-style meals to-go that feed 4–6 people. Options include tri-tip with chicken breasts or baby back ribs paired with chicken. These meals come with all the fixings: green salad, Santa Maria-style beans, grilled garlic bread, and fresh salsa. It’s like bringing a backyard barbecue straight to your dining table—without doing the dishes.
A Menu That Covers All Bases
The menu at The Swiss is extensive enough to satisfy just about anyone. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Appetizers: Start your meal with something fun like bacon-wrapped jalapeños stuffed with shrimp and cream cheese or oak-grilled steak bites served with garlic bread and salsa.
- Salads: Try their oak-grilled ribeye steak salad or a classic chicken Caesar for something lighter.
- Burgers: Their half-pound burgers are juicy and customizable—try the spicy chili burger if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Sandwiches: Options include everything from an oak-grilled ribeye steak sandwich to a pesto mozzarella chicken breast sandwich.
- Entrées: Beyond barbecue, they offer dishes like maple-glazed salmon and coconut prawns for seafood lovers.
And don’t forget the sides! From onion rings to fire-roasted veggies, there’s something for everyone.
Drinks and Good Vibes
Before diving into your meal, consider stopping by their famous lounge for a drink. The full bar offers a variety of beverages to suit any palate—whether you’re in the mood for a craft beer, a glass of wine, or something stronger.
The ambiance at The Swiss is casual yet inviting. It’s where you can kick back with friends or bring the whole family for dinner. No need for pretentiousness here—just good food and good company.
Why Visit?
The Swiss isn’t just another restaurant; it’s part of the local fabric in Santa Maria. With its focus on traditional oak barbecue and an expansive menu that caters to all tastes, it’s no wonder this spot has become a landmark in the area. Whether you’re coming from Orcutt or passing through Santa Maria on your way up Highway 101, The Swiss offers a dining experience worth stopping for.
So next time hunger strikes between 11 AM and 9 PM, head to The Swiss at 516 N Broadway in Santa Maria. Your taste buds will thank you.
Sources: swissrestaurantandbar.com, yelp.com, The Swiss Instagram Page
Header Image Source: swissrestaurantandbar.com
