About Us
Our history and the team that has helped shape our restaurant
Dave’s Place is more than a restaurant, it’s a tribute to local flavor, lasting friendships, and shared vision rooted in community and hospitality.
It all began when Dave Mercer purchased a historic property that would become the restored Village Inn Hotel. With a deep appreciation for local culture and a desire to create something timeless, he envisioned a gathering place that would reflect charm of mid-century design while offering modern comfort and authentic connection.
That vision found its culinary counterpart in Chef David Jaskolski – a Santa Barbara native whose roots in the Central Coast run deep. With decades of experience in the restaurant industry, including a previous partnership of the beloved Timbers Restaurant and more recently, the Pink Pig BBQ and Village Coffee Stop Café, David brought both skill and heart to the table. A casual conversation turned into a partnership built on a shared passion for great food and memorable experiences.
Dave’s Place was grown from that collaboration, thoughtfully designed and built with local talent, ingredients, and partnerships that reflect the region’s spirit. From slow-smoked BBQ and oak-grilled steaks to fresh seafood and locally sourced produce, the menu is a celebration of the Central Coast’s rich culinary landscapes. Every dish is crafted with care, and every detail is meant to make guests feel at home.
Today, Dave’s Place stands as a cornerstone of the Village Inn Hotel—a boutique, retro-modern destination just minutes from the California coast and Vandenberg Space Force Base. Whether you’re a longtime local or just passing through, you’ll find a warm welcome, bold flavors, and a sense of place that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
Come hungry. Leave inspired..
Meet our dedicated staff
David Jaskolski
General Manager