Le Chène

What was once a country estate is now a pricey restaurant specializing in French cuisine. The word "Le Chêne" translates to "the oak," named for the abundance of centennial oaks in the area. The rustic stone building has been standing since the early 1900s, first named "The Rock House" and then "Castle Oaks Garage." It has operated as a restaurant since the 1990s when Juan Alonso converted the garage to kitchen and dining room and established an adjacent vineyard. A huge oak was incorporated into the extended building, making it blend perfectly with the natural Santa Clarita surroundings. (Submitted by Christine Peeples)