Small Barn Old Town in Temecula is a place where history meets modern comfort in a warm and inviting setting. The building dates back to 1912, when it was part of Temecula Iron Works, a blacksmith shop owned by the Knott family, one of the area’s first settlers. As cars became popular, the family transformed it into Knott’s Auto Garage, running it for nearly 50 years.
After serving various purposes over the years, the building was restored and transformed into the Small Barn restaurant by Dan and Cathy Gibson, who preserved its historic charm while creating a vibrant new space for dining and community gatherings.
A Passion for Wine and Local Life
Dan and Cathy Gibson have lived in Temecula for over 25 years and built a deep connection to the area’s vineyards and wine lifestyle. Their Small Barn Winery began as a small home project and grew into a boutique winery specializing in Rhone-style wines made from grapes grown in local vineyards.
This passion carries over to the restaurant, where guests can enjoy wines from the winery alongside fresh, seasonal dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Small Barn is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience that celebrates the flavors and spirit of Temecula’s wine country.
Distinctive Design and Comfortable Atmosphere
The restaurant’s design was crafted by Schoos Design, a team known for blending old and new styles masterfully. They maintained the building’s original character, using rustic wood finishes and a distressed wood parquet floor, combined with eclectic seating. Large portions of the dining area are outdoors, featuring a wrap-around porch, covered patios with retractable awnings, and cozy fireside lounges. This layout lets diners enjoy the pleasant Southern California climate year-round while relaxing in a casual yet stylish environment perfect for all occasions.
A Menu Inspired by Fresh, Seasonal Flavors
Top Chef All-Star Angelo Sosa influences the food menu at Small Barn, focusing on bistro classics made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether it’s their wraps, burgers, or more refined dishes, each item is carefully prepared to highlight seasonal flavors. The atmosphere is perfect for everything from casual meals to special celebrations, where guests gather around fire tables or relax in the comfortable lounge settings. Small Barn is a favorite spot for locals and visitors looking for both great food and a welcoming place to connect.
Honoring the Past While Embracing the Present
Small Barn Old Town is a tribute to the Knott family and the rich history of Old Town Temecula. The restaurant preserves the historic look and feel of the original homestead while providing a vibrant space where community and culture come alive. It offers a true taste of the wine country lifestyle in an atmosphere that feels like home. The balance of history, quality food, and a friendly vibe makes it a memorable destination for anyone visiting Temecula.
Visiting Small Barn Old Town
For those interested in visiting, Small Barn Old Town is located at:
28535 Old Town Front Street
Temecula, CA 92590
The restaurant hours are:
Tuesday to Thursday: 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Whether stopping by for a quiet dinner after a day of wine tasting or meeting friends for a relaxed meal, Small Barn Old Town offers warm hospitality, quality food, and a wonderful setting to enjoy Temecula’s charm and flavors.
Source: smallbarn.com
Header Image Source: cuisineandtravel.com
