Stonehaus, Mastros, and Boccaccio: The Conejo Valley Restaurant Scene Is Better Than You Think

In This Article

• How Does Fine Dining in Westlake Village Compare to Los Angeles Pricing in 2026?
• Is the Conejo Valley Restaurant Scene Actually Worth the Drive from Downtown LA?
• What Makes Mastros, Stonehaus, and Boccaccio Stand Out in the Conejo Valley?
• How Do Home Prices and Restaurant Quality Correlate in Westlake Village?
• Frequently Asked Questions About the Conejo Valley Restaurant Scene

As someone who's lived and worked in the Conejo Valley for nearly 15 years, I've watched countless LA families discover what locals already know: The area offers approximately 400 unique dining options for whatever your palate prefers . With The median sale price of a home in Westlake Village was $1.6M last month, up 26.7% since last year , it's natural to wonder if the restaurant scene justifies these premium home values. The short answer is yes, and the data proves it. When I relocated a family from Manhattan Beach to Westlake Village last year, their biggest concern was leaving behind LA's dining scene. Six months later, they told me they rarely drive to the Westside anymore. As an OpenTable Diners' Choice winner for 2025, Mastro's Thousand Oaks continues to be a top destination for unforgettable dining in the Conejo Valley, conveniently located near Gardens of the World and the Civic Arts Plaza , and that's just the beginning of what makes this area special.

How Does Fine Dining in Westlake Village Compare to Los Angeles Pricing in 2026?

The value proposition here is remarkable. Mastro's Steakhouse in Thousand Oaks is the place to go when you're feeling fancy. Picture this: juicy steaks, fresh seafood, and live music. It's perfect for date night or celebrating something special . While a dinner for two at Mastro's runs $350-400, you're getting the same quality as Beverly Hills locations without the pretention or parking hassles. It's gaudy and boozy at this manly-man's steakhouse where everyone seems to be having a great time. Openings: Dinner nightly , making it accessible for both special occasions and impromptu celebrations. The atmosphere is described as "Vegas, baby," with its large photo montage of Sin City wrapping around the upper wall of the piano bar. The drinks are strong and pricey , but still competitive with comparable LA establishments. At The Stonehaus, One of my favorite spots in Westlake area! Amazing ambiance with delicious wine and pizzas! The best part is the property, relaxing environment with grapes growing all around you! You're paying for an experience that simply doesn't exist in urban LA: it has views unique to Conejo Valley. The patio extends into the vineyard creating an easy going and laid back environment .Mastros TOStonehausBoccaccioLA Equivalent$350$85$120$450$0$500Average Dinner Cost (2 people)

Source: OpenTable, Yelp Reviews, March 2026

Is the Conejo Valley Restaurant Scene Actually Worth the Drive from Downtown LA?

The numbers don't lie. Within a half hour drive from West LA, I made the short trek to Conejo Valley a region which consists of Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village (border of Ventura & LA county). I was delightfully surprised to taste some of most delicious entrees & beers I've had in awhile , all using fresh, local ingredients . What sets this area apart is the combination of quality and atmosphere. From local 'Farm to Table' cuisine, trendy Gastropubs, to your All-American Classic Steakhouses, Conejo Valley boasts a diversity of cuisine. And this is without the stuffiness and pretentiousness of some of LA's restaurants; just locals and travelers here to enjoy life and relax over good food and a tasty cocktail . For those interested in exploring beyond fine dining, the valley also offers some of the best breweries and wine bars in the region. Boccaccio's exemplifies this approach. First, there's a menu of traditional favorites, including filet mignon, lobster tail, and wild-caught salmon. Place these in the heart of serene views of Westlake Lake, surrounded by the Santa Monica Mountains . The lakeside setting is something you simply cannot replicate in urban Los Angeles. Each bite is enhanced by our serene setting at Westlake Lake, a private lake nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains and surrounded by elegant residences. Locals often arrive by sailboat for a special lunch or romantic sunset supper at Boccaccio's, and viewing the docks, boats and waterfront make every meal here truly an experience to remember . The culinary scene here has matured significantly. Conejo Valley's dining and local attractions scene continues to grow and evolve, with several restaurants and experiences opening or reopening under fresh new concepts over the past several months. Now is a great time to discover what's new and explore recently refreshed spaces throughout the area .

What Makes Mastros, Stonehaus, and Boccaccio Stand Out in the Conejo Valley?

Each restaurant offers something unique that justifies the drive from anywhere in LA. Mastro's brings Vegas-level entertainment to suburbia. Mastro's Steakhouse in Thousand Oaks consistently impresses with its "wonderful service" and "amazing food." Patrons appreciate the "top-notch" experience, highlighted by perfectly cooked steaks and attentive staff. The elegant atmosphere, live music, and special touches for celebrations make it a favorite for special occasions . The service quality here rivals anything in Beverly Hills. In all my years of dining out, I have never received a personal phone call from a manager the day after a visit , simply to express gratitude for our business. That alone says everything about Mastro's commitment to their guests. Our server, Wesley, was absolutely exceptional . The Stonehaus offers something completely different: a genuine winery experience in the heart of suburbia. The Stonehaus is a charming establishment located in Westlake Village, California. It's part of the Westlake Village Inn and offers a unique experience featuring a winery, coffeehouse, and restaurant all in one. Guests can enjoy wine tasting, artisanal coffee, delicious food, and a beautiful outdoor setting with vineyard views . What I love about The Stonehaus is its flexibility. This is simply the best place I know of for casual/relaxed cup of Joe in the morning, breakfast, lunch, light supper or rendezvous for a glass of wine. Set in a vineyard, add a little live music and some twinkling stars for a perfect casual evening out! Did I mention "casual?" Boccaccio's provides the romance factor. The ambiance at Boccaccio's is a blend of elegance and relaxation, making it an ideal spot for various occasions, whether it's a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a business meeting. The outdoor patio, which overlooks the lake, provides a picturesque setting, especially during sunset, enhancing the dining experience with its natural beauty .

How Do Home Prices and Restaurant Quality Correlate in Westlake Village?

There's a direct connection between dining quality and home values here. According to recent data: The median sales price for homes is approximately $1.67 million. The average sales price is closer to $2.58 million, depending on the neighborhood and property type . These prices reflect buyers who expect and value quality amenities, including dining. When I'm working with buyers from Manhattan, Santa Monica, or Beverly Hills, they often worry about "settling" for suburban dining. The reality is different. Westlake Village, located on the edge of Los Angeles County bordering Ventura County, has emerged as one of the most sought-after real estate markets in Southern California. Known for its quiet, master-planned layout, access to nature, and high standard of living, the city has seen a surge in demand, especially from buyers relocating from Los Angeles and other dense urban centers . The dining scene directly supports these premium valuations. It represents more than just an up and coming hub for luxury real estate, its the center of a lifestyle shift among Southern California buyers who are prioritizing space, stability, and long-term livability . The market data shows buyers are willing to pay for this lifestyle. Prices remain relatively flat, up 3% year-over-year, but bouncing between 1.1M-1.2M annually. → Median home price: $1,116,250 for the broader Conejo Valley, while Westlake Village commands a significant premium. What's driving this is the complete package: great schools, safety, natural beauty, and yes, dining that rivals urban markets. The median household income is nearly $189,000, well above both state and national averages. The area is primarily owner-occupied and attracts a mix of families, retirees, and professionals . These are households that value quality dining and are willing to support it. For those considering the investment potential, the dining scene is one of many factors that make building wealth through real estate in this area particularly attractive.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Conejo Valley Restaurant Scene

Do I need reservations for Mastro's Thousand Oaks?

Absolutely. Mastro's Thousand Oaks opens for dinner most evenings: Mon, Thu and Sun 5:00 PM, 9:00 PM, and Fri, Sat 5:00 PM, 10:00 PM . Given their popularity and OpenTable Diners' Choice winner for 2025 status, reservations are essential, especially for weekends.

What's the parking situation at these restaurants?

Unlike LA restaurants, parking is rarely an issue. on Saturday night, we drove 30 miles to Thousand Oaks, to dine at Mastro's Steakhouse. After valet parking (reasonable $6), we entered the establishment . Most locations offer either free parking or low-cost valet service.

Is the food quality actually comparable to high-end LA restaurants?

In many cases, it's better. The steaks are all first-rate cuts of meat. The bone-in versions like the veal porterhouse have the most flavor . The advantage here is sourcing: many restaurants work directly with local farms and have less overhead than prime LA locations, allowing them to invest more in ingredients and service.

How does the wine selection compare to LA restaurants?

It's exceptional, particularly at The Stonehaus. Winery has good selection of wines from all across CA and the world. Perfect place for listening to live music and or for the night cap . The proximity to wine country and local vineyards gives these restaurants access to selections you won't find in urban areas.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Westlake Village?

Davis Bartels and the DB Real Estate Group have helped nearly 1,000 families navigate the local market since 2009. Whether you're exploring your options or ready to make a move, reach out for a no-pressure conversation about your goals.

Contact Davis: davisbartels.com