SANTA MARIA, CA—When you visit California’s Central Coast Wine Country, there’s no reason not to have the time of your life. The wineries, hotels, and restaurants you visit should dazzle you. After all, this is your time off for good behavior. You work hard all week and deserve nothing less. That’s my philosophy. 

Hence, I try to steer clear of forgettable wines and the bodily insult delivered by processed foods offered in chain restaurants. If you’re going to indulge, for goodness sake, go all the way. Life is far too short. Do we agree?

Bad food is abundant everywhere. Only through luck of the draw or, perhaps, a good referral will you stumble upon an exceptionally good meal.

For those looking for an evening of superior food and adventure here’s a top pick you can count on.

Step back through a time warp and enjoy the quirky atmosphere of the Far West Tavern. It’s located in the forgotten cowboy town of Guadalupe — a 20 minute drive west of Santa Maria and well worth it.

Cowboys, tourists, and winemakers all pass the darkened bar area as they head for the dining room. The smell of Santa Maria BBQ fills the air and my friend “the moose” carefully sizes up all who enter. (Be careful what you say. He loves to eavesdrop.)

As is customary in most Central Coast “Santa Maria style” eateries, a cold relish tray of raw vegetables starts the meal. However, don’t be fooled. This is no place for vegans. Here’s why: 1) Their BBQ steaks are tender and delicious. 2) Their baked potatoes come cooked to perfection and loaded with sour cream. This was one GREAT meal! (Note the cup of baked beans in the upper left corner. They have a secret recipe here that is addictive. Once I began eating them, I couldn’t stop.)

After dinner, I could not resist the house-made chocolate cake. OMG! It was the best chocolate cake I have had in years. The waitress proudly boasted that they make it from scratch. Well, of course! You can taste the quality. The cake gets my highest desert recommendation.

During my meal, I became distracted by the gun toting couple sitting to my right. At first, I assumed that they were just part of Far West Tavern’s eclectic clientele. However, I was wrong. These kindly folks had just come from a local celebration.

These two cows once worked at Ronald Reagan’s California ranch. Today, they both amaze and freak out children who join their parents here. Can you say nightmare?

The restaurant is housed in a historic building which only adds to the magic. Sadly, next year, the owners will be forced to move to another location in nearby Orcutt. Though I’m confident the wonderful food will remain consistent, it will surely be impossible to recreate the one-of-a-kind atmosphere of their current location.

Don’t wait. Get out to experience the original spot while it’s still there.