Rory's Place - Ojai, California

susan A.

Lovely, delicious, local and well executed. What more can you say about Rory’s Place in Ojai? Located in central downtown Ojai next to the fabulous restored theater, Rory’s Place is incredibly popular, reservations encouraged. There is a noisy, convivial indoor eating area and a lovely patio. The cocktail list is fun, and the Hello Satan cocktail was so good, I had to have two.

We had just flown in from the East Coast to visit family and felt the need for a healthy dinner, and shared a series of vegetarian plates. So. Good. Highly recommend. The kitchen is creative and our waiter was a pro. Go!

Andrew F.

This place is bomb. I did not expect to be writing a review that starts with bread, but OMG their sourdough bread for the cheese and pâté is amazingly fluffy. I could be smothered in this bread and I’d die happy. The cheese plate was one of the best I’ve ever had. I think cheese plates are fine on average but this was next level - every cheese had fresh and nuanced flavor. The carrot dish had such a vast variety of flavors that somehow all worked together (and the burrata in it is freaking lovely). The daily crudo was hamachi and is the only dish that fell flat - but the fennel and the sauce in it were surprisingly delicious. I spent the same amount of money here on dinner that I did at The Dutchess for brunch and this blew The Dutchess out of the water. Make a reservation - we reserved a table for a Saturday at 5:45pm and the place was packed. Well deserved, Rory’s. Keep the flavors coming.

Will H.

Rory’s Place is truly a gem! From the moment we walked in, the vibe was decadent yet welcoming, setting the tone for an extraordinary dining experience. The service was impeccable—special shoutout to Carrie, who was attentive, knowledgeable, and spot-on with her recommendations.

We started with the beet & burrata salad, which had a beautifully balanced flavor profile—every bite was perfection. The aguachile was a standout for me, combining bright citrus, just the right amount of spice, and light, airy chips that tied it all together. The tuna tartare was another unique dish—almost like a tartare toast, where the bread elevated the whole experience.

Every dish was not only delicious but also presented with such attention to detail. Rory’s Place has set a new standard for me. 10/10 all around—I can’t wait to return!

Susan S.

We loved our experience at Rory's Place! The service was fabulous (shout out to Anice!) and the food was fresh and well balanced. We tried all of the oysters, the beautifully fresh hamachi, and the hanger steak, and they were spot-on. Loved the seasonal cocktails including the Hello Satan and the Lawn Chair. We will come back, and will recommend to friends. Amazing vibe with the lighting, decor, and music.

Geoff C.

Rory's Place is a high-quality neighborhood place - a definite stop when you're in Ojai. The wait staff are super friendly and the food is beyond delicious - really high quality. The wine pairs perfectly with the meals they serve. Caution that this place isn't great for an intimate conversation with a small group as it gets quite loud at times, but a fun family atmosphere.

Socal T.

First Off look at my reviews. I only speak the truth. Reviews on this restaurant by Stephanie T, Geneva Cuthrell , Mermaid magic, must be total losers and like to eat at Denny's. Anyone who rated this place lower than 4 stars are McDonald's loyalist who think a fish fillet is a masterpiece.

Rory's produced one of the best dinners I have ever had. Look at my reviews, I tell no lies.

We ordered about 75% of the menu and every dish was amazing. Almost everything was perfect. The hanger steak for me was the biggest winner but it was hard to conclude that considering how amazing each dish was. My only criticism was the stuffed Ravioli was just a little thick on the outer shell but the corn sauce it was in was heavenly. See photos for each item ordered. I will definitely be eating at Rory's whenever I am in Ojai.

Mary O.

Rory's Place was sold out and my family and I were grateful to get a table. The ambiance is elegantly comfortable, and we eased into the vibe. Because of the crowds, we had to wait a bit for our food and drinks, though when our items arrived, they were each delicious.

We loved that there was a range of flavors - something for everyone with seafood, veggies, steak - without feeling generic. We particularly enjoyed tasting a few locally grown vegetables and spices while being introduced to new sensations.

I will definitely stop at Rory's Place anytime I'm remotely in the area. Yummy and refreshing.

Michael M.

I went with a group of my friends, celebrating a birthday and it was lovely! The staff was kind and personable, ambiance is gorgeous, food was delicious! The chicken liver pate was very tasty, so were the lamb meatballs. Thanks for a beautiful dinner!