When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
San Antonio Winery
Why San Antonio Winery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
San Antonio Winery, established in 1917 by Santo Cambianica, is a historic and beloved winery located in the Lincoln Heights district of Los Angeles. It offers a unique and welcoming destination for friends to meet, socialize, and enjoy premium wines in a space that honors a rich Italian-American heritage. The winery includes a wine and gift shop, a restaurant, and versatile event rooms perfect for private gatherings. Its scenic grounds and inviting veranda create a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for casual lunches or celebratory occasions. The Riboli family, who took over the winery, continue to produce a diverse range of award-winning wines sourced from their family farms in Monterey, Napa Valley, and other California vineyards. Visitors can enjoy free tastings featuring varietals like Merlot, Chardonnay, and dessert wines, with some wines also imported from Baja California — a rare treat in Los Angeles. The winery also features a cheese shop and café, further enhancing the social experience by pairing quality wines with gourmet foods. The combination of historic charm, quality wines, reasonable prices, and a friendly, knowledgeable staff make San Antonio Winery a perfect place to enjoy memorable moments with friends.
Here's what people think of San Antonio Winery
As of recent, San Antonio Winery holds a 4.7-star rating based on 2212 reviews.
User reviews of San Antonio Winery highlight a generally positive experience with a high overall rating of 4.7 from over 2,200 reviews. Positive feedback often mentions the picturesque grounds, the welcoming and attentive staff, and the inviting new bistro where guests can enjoy reasonably priced meals like the popular Tri-tip sandwich. Many appreciate the complimentary wine tastings and the variety of wines available, particularly the Paso Robles Merlot and Chardonnay. Visitors find San Antonio Winery an accessible and worth-the-visit destination for casual wine enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed social environment. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out that certain wines may be of average quality compared to other high-end wineries, which could deter serious connoisseurs. Additionally, some guests feel the food, while decent, does not stand out against local competition in the area. In conclusion, the reviews convey that San Antonio Winery uniquely combines historic significance, a broad wine selection, and a friendly atmosphere to serve as a charming and enjoyable meeting spot, particularly favored for its community feel and cultural roots in Los Angeles.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Erica Garcia
My family and I have been here several times this year but the most recent was my birthday. The food was delicious and the restaurant staff were great. We have always had great service. We especially enjoy the sangria slushes sold in the gift shop area. We all decided we would get one on the way out after dinner. This is where the great service ended. We saw that register was not staffed so I asked a gentleman at the bar if we would be able to purchase any. He said no, the machines were off and they closed at 6. I could clearly see the slush machines were still on but It was around 6:15 so I decided to purchase some wine to take home. As I was picking out a few bottles, I saw an employee walk back to the “closed “ area and begin helping customers and ringing them up, one which was my mother. She bought me a slush and when I approached with bottles in my hand, the cashier immediately put up a sign saying she was closed. I went back to the bar area and waited in line to purchase my wine and the cashiers kept moving to different registers and helping other people who were in line after me. My dad walked up to the cashier and asked her why she was not helping people in line and moving to avoid it. I was ready to leave without purchasing anything at that point but he bought them for me as a gift. After the other great experiences we’ve had here, we all decided it’ll be a while before we come back.
Melystikal
Came for the wine tasting and loved every minute. The vibe was right and the service was superb. I would definitely come again and check out one of the tours.
Kellie Knight
Don't knock it til you try it! San Antonio Winery should be on your Summer to do list. You must check out this local winery before Summer ends. San Antonio Winery did not disappoint! Wow, not only Summer, year around would be a good time to visit. My visit was a Mother's Day gift from my amazing Kiddos, but we went and thoroughly enjoyed the Soulful Sunday Brunch. Food, excellent! Entertainment was amazing, Live, Fun, and Awesome! Started with Stella Rosa Honey Peach Brandy started the day and had to purchase a bottle from the lovely gift shop. The staff in every part of this event were so friendly, helpful and we had an amazing time. Private Cellar for this event, but there are other restaurants to try and indoor/outdoor seating available. Now, I know this was a special event, but I walked around and everyone looked happy as we all celebrated something. Birthdays, Doctoral Graduates, Mother's Day, Bridesmaids getting ready for the Bride's big day, Just Because Day and "I just love wine day" (my personal favorite day) 😂 The Brunch was live, we danced, we sang, we ate the perfect brunch, delicious, fluffy waffles, chicken, fruit, grits, just all the things, look at the pictures. Now, I did a wine tasting after all of this. I had my wine tasting hat on, so that's a good sign. So, I read some comments about this place. People said some things about the wines here. Some negative, so I had to see for myself. My Sommolier, Ellie with an "ie" like me, Kellie, yay! Well, she was so knowledgeable and nice, fun, and shared her knowledge with me about vino🍷learned a lot in 30 minutes. They have great wines and an extensive selection. Stella Rosa is actually a top notch Moscato - it's all in the process. This is a sweet, dessert wine, but not all wines are the same. The Riboli Family has fine wine in addition to the sweets. They also have an extensive tasting area and there is Brandy and Whiskey, I mean a lot of things to choose from - you just have to check it out. They have so many more wines. I learned about notes, tannins, unique varieties of grapes, legs and so much more. These employees are really cool and they know their stuff! I tasted some fabulous wines. There were mixed reviews about the selection of wines at San Antonio Winery. I saw it for myself and must say, they have some amazing offerings. I don't get paid to say these things. I am speaking from the heart. If I was paid in monthly wine, I would not be mad. 😂 Many of their wines are grown in the Paso Robles, CA region. So, I challenge you disbelievers to go check out San Antonio Winery in Los Angeles. White wine lovers, try their San Simeon 2023 Sauvignon Blanc. 😋. Red Lovers try San Simeon Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 and if you get to try Riboli Family's Opaque "Darkness," you will be happy that you did. That's a red blend you don't want to miss. Beautiful Wine.🍷 Wow! Check this place out. See for yourself. Taste for yourself. I will go back to try more of the food next time. For now, Cheers! 🥂
alfred martinez
3 visit over all. 1st visit was more than 14 years ago (when there use to be hay on the floor) 2nd visit was more than 4 months ago today, service was great, Asked about food, asked about refills, etc. And today's visit 3-26-2025 (11:10am - 12:18 pm was our third, I had to ask for a refill for my son. Got dessert to go from table, took long for competing payment -maybe they were getting busy, apparently, when we left the line to order food was long (from where you order to the podeimun they have at front). Maybe a 4th visit will be better.
Juanita Evans-Lawson
I've been to SAW multiple times, a friend was retiring, and I was invited to join her and another friend for lunch. I ordered the salmon pasta, which was so delicious. The atmosphere was nice and welcoming, service was ok. No one came by to check if we needed anything after our food was served but it was fine as we were enjoying ourselves. I saw they had new items in the store but I didnt have time to shop as I needed to go back to work. Overall, I love the winery, and will definitely be back for food and gifts.
How to reach San Antonio Winery
None
Website: None
Why San Antonio Winery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at San Antonio Winery with your friends? When planning a memorable gathering, the right venue can make all the difference. San Antonio Winery, with its 4.7-star rating from over 2,200 reviews, offers a unique blend of history, atmosphere, and exceptional experiences that make it an ideal spot for socializing with friends or family. Founded in 1917 and still family-operated by the Riboli family, this winery embodies over a century of tradition, resilience, and Italian-American heritage in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. Its historic charm is perfectly paired with its welcoming ambiance, making guests feel both special and at ease. The winery's commitment to quality wines produced from their own vineyards across California ensures that visitors enjoy a rich tasting experience, whether novice or connoisseur. Moreover, San Antonio Winery’s dedication to personalized service means you and your friends will be guided through a delightful journey of flavors while surrounded by a setting that invites conversation and connection. Hosting an event or casual get-together here means immersing yourself in a piece of LA’s cultural fabric while enjoying a warm, convivial atmosphere with impeccable wine and food offerings.
What types of activities can you enjoy at San Antonio Winery? San Antonio Winery offers multiple activities that cater perfectly to group meetups. Central to the experience is their wine tasting, which features a wide selection of varietals including reds, whites, dessert wines, and their notable Stella Rosa Rosso. The tasting room staff is known for their friendliness and expert knowledge, which helps guests of varying wine experience levels find something delightful and discover new favorites. Beyond tasting, the winery houses a charming restaurant where groups can enjoy Italian-inspired meals paired expertly with their wines. The space itself is designed to accommodate social gatherings with various private rooms available, ideal for events ranging from casual catch-ups to more elaborate celebrations. Additionally, guests can explore the winery’s gift shop, perfect for taking home a bottle or gift to remember the day. For those interested in the winery’s story and heritage, the historic nature of the site offers a culturally enriching backdrop with informative tours highlighting the Riboli family's pioneering spirit. All these features combine to make San Antonio Winery not just a wine destination, but a full social and sensory experience tailored to making group outings truly special.
Why is San Antonio Winery perfect for group meetups? The layout and culture of San Antonio Winery make it exceptionally well-suited for groups seeking a comfortable yet vibrant atmosphere. Its blend of indoor spaces and private event rooms offers flexibility in hosting, whether you want an intimate evening with close friends or a larger family gathering. The winery embraces a spirit of hospitality that encourages mingling and relaxed conversation, supported by attentive service that anticipates guest needs without intrusion. The food and wine pairings contribute further to group enjoyment, providing a shared culinary experience that enhances social interaction. Furthermore, the historic significance of the winery adds a unique narrative that groups can appreciate and bond over, especially as it is the last remaining winery in Downtown LA, maintaining continuity with over 100 years of local culture and tradition. Accessibly located near downtown Los Angeles, the winery is easy for friends or family coming from different areas to reach, making logistics simpler. This combination of convenience, historical ambiance, and social-friendly amenities ensures groups leave with lasting memories and a desire to return.
How does the historic significance of San Antonio Winery enhance the visitor experience? San Antonio Winery isn’t just a place to enjoy wine; it’s an iconic Los Angeles landmark with a fascinating backstory that enriches every visit. Founded by Italian immigrant Santo Cambianica in 1917, the winery survived Prohibition by producing sacramental wines for the Catholic Church, a testament to its resilience and deep community ties. This historical legacy is palpable as you explore the winery, which is a designated historical monument in Los Angeles. Visitors can appreciate how the Riboli family carried forward Santo’s vision, evolving the business without losing connection to its roots. This background provides a unique cultural context that transforms a simple outing into an immersive journey through time, connected to the immigrant experience, American history, and the evolution of California winemaking. For groups, sharing this story creates a meaningful conversation topic and a sense of participating in something enduring and authentic, distinguishing San Antonio Winery from modern ultra-commercial tasting rooms.
What types of wines does San Antonio Winery offer to delight your group? San Antonio Winery boasts a diverse portfolio of wines, carefully crafted using grapes grown in the Riboli family’s own 500-acre estate vineyards in Monterey County, Napa Valley, and Paso Robles. Visitors to the tasting room can explore a rich variety of options including full-bodied reds, crisp whites, and sweet and dessert wines that appeal to different palates. One of their best-known brands is Stella Rosa Rosso, popular for its approachable, slightly sweet style that has made it a crowd-pleaser. The winery prides itself on producing wines that balance tradition with quality, reflecting the California terroir and the Riboli family’s Italian heritage. Their staff’s expertise empowers guests to sample and select wines perfectly suited to their tastes, making it an educational and enjoyable experience. Offering varietals for both casual wine drinkers and aficionados ensures that group members with differing levels of interest can all find something memorable and enjoy lively discussions around their glasses.
What dining options complement the wine tasting experience at San Antonio Winery? Dining at San Antonio Winery enhances any group visit by pairing exceptional wines with thoughtfully crafted Italian and Californian cuisine. The restaurant emphasizes fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, creating dishes that complement the various wines on offer. Whether sharing plates of antipasti, savoring handmade pastas, or enjoying heartier entrees, groups can delight in a menu designed to elevate the tasting experience and foster conviviality. The restaurant space itself provides a warm, inviting setting that encourages conversation and long, leisurely meals. Moreover, wine pairing suggestions from the knowledgeable staff bring the food and wine together in harmony, making the meal a full sensory celebration. For groups, this combination of excellent food, relevant wine pairing, and a welcoming ambiance transforms a simple meal into a memorable social occasion.
What special accommodations does San Antonio Winery offer for private events and celebrations? San Antonio Winery caters exceptionally well to private groups, providing rooms and spaces designed for gatherings of various sizes. These private event areas are perfect for birthday parties, family reunions, corporate meetups, or any special occasion where groups want a more exclusive setting. The winery’s staff are experienced in event planning and hospitality, helping coordinate food and wine pairings tailored to your group's preferences and needs. The historical charm of the winery adds a unique atmosphere that combines elegance with casual comfort, ideal for creating memorable celebrations. Whether hosting a seated dinner, cocktail reception, or wine tasting event, San Antonio Winery offers resources and expertise that ensure smooth execution and a festive ambiance. This capability to customize group events improves the social experience, fostering connection and enjoyment among attendees.
How accessible and convenient is San Antonio Winery for groups planning their visit? Located in the Lincoln Heights district just east of downtown Los Angeles, San Antonio Winery is highly accessible to locals and visitors alike. Its urban location means good transportation options, whether by car or public transit, simplifying logistics for groups coming from various parts of the city or beyond. The winery also provides ample parking and is close to other downtown attractions, which can make a day of socializing easy and flexible. Inside, the spacious tasting rooms and private event spaces ensure groups can gather comfortably without feeling cramped, even during busier times. The staff’s expertise in handling groups further smooths the visit, helping with seating arrangements, wine selections, and timing to maximize enjoyment. This combination of convenient location, accessibility, and comfortable facilities makes San Antonio Winery a reliable and easy choice for group outings with friends or family.
Why do visitors consistently give San Antonio Winery high ratings? The consistent 4.7-star rating across more than two thousand reviews reflects a combination of quality, atmosphere, and service that resonates strongly with guests. Visitors frequently praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff who create a welcoming environment regardless of wine expertise. The diversity and quality of the wine selection receive high marks, as does the rich historic ambiance unique to this urban winery. Reviewers also applaud the food offerings and the perfection of the wine and food pairings, often noting how these enhance socialization and overall satisfaction. For groups, many reviews mention that the winery is a perfect backdrop for intimate gatherings or celebrations, with staff going above and beyond to accommodate personalized requests. This reputation for excellence and authenticity fuels returning visitors and recommendations, highlighting San Antonio Winery as a standout venue to rally your friends for an outstanding time.
In what ways does San Antonio Winery reflect the heritage and community of Los Angeles? San Antonio Winery stands as a living monument to Los Angeles’ rich immigrant and winemaking history, deeply embedded in the community for over 100 years. Founded by an Italian immigrant and continuously operated by the Riboli family, it reflects the perseverance, faith, and cultural roots that helped shape modern LA. The winery’s location in Downtown Los Angeles connects it with the city’s historic wine industry that once flourished here before Prohibition and vineyard diseases altered the landscape. By surviving those hardships through creativity and community ties, especially with the Catholic Church, the winery keeps that legacy alive. Today, it not only produces high-quality wines but also serves as a cultural hub where locals and visitors alike can appreciate the city’s past and present. Hosting a gathering here means participating in a tradition that honors family, heritage, and the authentic spirit of Los Angeles.
How can a visit to San Antonio Winery deepen your appreciation for wine and community? Beyond tasting and socializing, a visit to San Antonio Winery offers an enriching experience that deepens understanding of winemaking and communal heritage. Learning about the Riboli family’s century-long journey, from an immigrant’s dream to a thriving winery, invites reflection on the values of perseverance and craftsmanship. The guided tastings and detailed wine selections educate guests about varietals, terroir, and production methods, providing a deeper appreciation for each bottle. Group visits foster shared learning and conversations, turning wine tasting into a cohesive, joyful social event. The historical context and community emphasis reinforce the idea of wine as a connector—of people, stories, and culture. This multifaceted experience leaves groups not only with enjoyable memories but also a broadened perspective on the cultural and sensory dimensions of wine.