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The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection Reborn in Los Olivos, California

February 15, 2023

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY, CA — Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves in the charming, historic town of Los Olivos, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection has welcomed guests since the late 1880s when pioneers began settling this sun-drenched, mountain-fringed valley just north of Santa Barbara. Witness to changing times, from the stagecoach era through the introduction of railroads and automobiles, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern has thrived with dedicated stewards at its helm. Today, Auberge Resorts Collection is proud to serve as custodian of The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern’s most exciting chapter to date and usher in the next phase in the evolution of the property. A natural paradise with bountiful fresh produce and a pleasant climate, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection offers outdoor pursuits in abundance and inspires joy, whether through unique adventures or simply through savoring its exceptional culinary delights. With new and luxurious accommodations, a state-of-the-art spa, bespoke guest experiences, and destination dining venues, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection has been reborn as one of the most exciting new luxury hotels in the country, while still maintaining the same soul and generosity of spirit that founder Felix Mattei bestowed upon the property when it first debuted over a century ago.

“We are delighted to open the doors to The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern and officially welcome the property to the Auberge family today,” said Craig Reid, president and CEO of Auberge Resorts Collection. “Our owners, Brian Strange and Deepak Kamra, had a vision to create a hotel that is true to the heritage of this historic property and embraces the local community. The result is a resort that celebrates the soul, character and history that has made Mattei’s an icon in the area since the 1800s and yet feels so relevant for today’s discerning traveler. It has been a pleasure helping Brian and Deepak bring their vision to life and we could not be more excited to welcome the community and travelers from near and far to this one-of-a-kind property in the charming town of Los Olivos.”

Set on 6.5 acres opposite the original Los Olivos staging post, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection sits in the center of town. With its iconic water tower still rising as one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks, the property consists of numerous free-standing cottages embraced by landscaped gardens and lawns. Opening again with its history celebrated and upheld in every detail, the property has been sensitively reimagined by renowned design firm AvroKO. Original buildings, including the Tavern and a handful of original cottages, have been thoughtfully restored and complemented by newly built structures in keeping with the relaxed country style and heritage of this heirloom property.

Exposed wooden beams, restored wainscoting and unlacquered brass fixtures feature throughout, while vintage furnishings, lighting and accessories add depth and character. Custom items reference days gone by, yet with a contemporary simplicity that underlines The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection’s modern outlook.

Since its founding, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection has had several important stewards who have shaped its narrative and inspired its design. Gin’s Tap Bar, for example, is named after Gin Lung Gin, the head chef for decades starting in 1910. His Chinese heritage is celebrated in the venue’s antique, carved wooden-horse sculptures. The Pinochle Room, the resort’s private dining room, pays homage to Felix Mattei and his loyal manager, Gus Berg, who were known to play a nightly game of cards, and is now home to the original namesake painting, ‘Pinochle,’ by Mattei’s son, Clarence.

“I am incredibly proud of the dynamic and talented team who have brought this vision to life, while honoring the history of Mattei’s and infusing it with their own spirit and passion,” said Dave Elcon, general manager of The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection. “Mattei’s Tavern has always been a celebrated social hub in the community and we are excited to honor its history and century old memories while creating new ones.”

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