Liz L.
Yelp
Atmosphere counts for a lot in my book, and Newhall Refinery has one of the best I have seen in Santa Clarita, especially for a gastropub. I don't think my pictures will do it justice. The theme is Western/California, it is warm, cozy, rustic and clever with little extras like nails coming out of the rough-hewn picture frames and leather-like upholstery. Since there is a cow-country theme in Newhall anyway, I thought this was a nice way to emphasize it.
Now, for the menu -- not a lot for vegetarians. I always manage to cobble together things so I had the Drunk Mac and it was very good, rich and flavorful. My friends had Fish and Chips and pronounced it excellent. There were salads, a cheese board with fruit, and an Impossible Burger for those who are looking for variety. Next time I will hit the brunch time slot so I can try other things that look good on that menu.
The music was a plus -- Baby Boomer stuff, mostly 70s and 80s, very upbeat and at just the right volume level. The restaurant was largely full and stayed that way while we were there on a rainy afternoon. We had a reservation and were seated in the place of our choice. Everything was clean and our server, Steven, was a joy. Friendly, professional, efficient -- couldn't be better.
We all had dark beer including Old Rasputin and Moose Drool Brown -- love those names and they were very good, I had my 3 ounces, LOL. Dessert was exceptional and unusual: Strawberry Rye Bread pudding, rich and delicious but somehow light and elegant. You have to try it.
I loved the place. I would like them to take the bacon out of the Brussels sprouts or at least offer a version without it. Maybe add a non-Impossible-style burger (tastes too much like meat for me) made from legumes, etc. But those are just little tweaks. Overall, it is a great casual spot that adds to the growing importance and fun on Main Street, in Old Town Newhall.
This is now heading toward the top of my local list. Don't miss it.