Discover the Best Food In Santa Barbara with FOODS.EDU.VN’s ultimate guide, from fresh seafood to innovative culinary creations. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, our expertly curated list will lead you to the most delicious dining experiences this vibrant city has to offer, including exploring local cuisine and culinary delights.
1. Appetizers/Tapas: Loquita
Loquita offers a transporting experience, making locals feel like tourists in their own town with its vibrant setting and delicious Spanish-inspired cuisine. Their mission focuses on creating a welcoming environment that feels like a second home, where guests can enjoy thoughtfully prepared food and impeccable service inspired by Spanish flavors. This fosters connection, celebration, and brings people together. According to Sophia Ramos, spokesperson, this commitment to quality and atmosphere sets Loquita apart, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Spain in Santa Barbara.
Must-Try Tapas:
- Gazpacho Blanco: Soft boiled egg, sherry vinegar caviar, crispy leek, chive oil
- Pulpo a la Gallega: Grilled Spanish octopus, confit potatoes, tri-color aioli
2. Bagel Shop: Jack’s Bistro & Famous Bagels
Jack’s Bistro & Famous Bagels has dominated the local bagel scene since 1995, with locations in Milpas and Carpinteria. Raissa S. describes it as “the closest to N.Y.-style bagels we can get in S.B.” The variety offered, including 19 kinds of bagels and 10 types of cream cheese, provides a total of 190 different flavor combinations. They also boast a full breakfast and lunch menu, with offerings like sausage hash and Greek wraps, plus a top-notch catering service.
3. Bakery: Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro
Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro is widely considered the best bakery in town. Kendra S. asks, “Is there even another contender in town? Renaud’s is the best, hands down.” The croissants are a standout item, with Thomas H. insisting they are the “Best croissants outside of Paris.” Renaud Gonthier, President, says their authenticity sets them apart: “We are the only true French pastry shop in Santa Barbara. The quality, recipes, and work methods are authentic to what can be found in the top pastry shops in France.”
4. Barbecue: Shalhoob’s
Shalhoob’s is celebrated for its barbecue, focusing on serving the community and employing great people. LJ Shalhoob enjoys serving a local customer a tri-tip sandwich, hearing it’s the best in town, and then paying an employee (who happens to be that customer’s nephew) with the same money. He emphasizes local economics and putting smiles on both customers’ and employees’ faces, making people feel seen and respected.
5. Breakfast: Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery
Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery has been a part of Santa Barbara for over 30 years, offering one-of-a-kind pastries and nutritious food every day. According to Alison Hardey, the Hardey family has worked hard to make it a place where you can enjoy simple, wholesome meals made from natural ingredients. The menu reflects what the family likes to eat, focusing on meals that are good for the body and soul. They have won awards for lifetime achievement and been called the ‘comfort clubhouse’ in positive reviews.
6. Breakfast Burrito/Burrito: Super Cucas
Super Cucas is praised for offering the best food for your money. Geno M. exclaims, “OMG! If you haven’t been here and you live within 20 miles … c’mon, man! This is by far the BEST food for your money … it’s absolutely amazing.” Jacob G. recommends their amazing vegan options, including beans, rice, guacamole, and plant-based meats like soyrizo, soy chicken, and soy beef. The downtown location has good vibes and outdoor seating, and they also offer groceries and fresh produce.
7. Burger: Third Window Brewing Co.
The Smashburger Phenomenon
Third Window Brewing Co. is known as the local trendsetter for the smashburger movement. Angela R. says, “It’ll blow your socks off. It’s my favorite whenever I am craving a new burger.” Mark M. describes the Wagyu patties as practically transcendent and magical, consistently excellent. Customers also enjoy the spacious patio and fantastic beer selection. The owners describe their mission as a journey of continuous improvement, with everything being an iteration and better than the last time.
8. Carpinteria Restaurant: Little Dom’s Seafood
Little Dom’s Seafood is gearing up to open its deck for crawfish boils, Summer BBQ Series, pig roasts, and wine dinners. Owner Warner Ebbink and Executive Chef Brandon Boudet are excited about the upcoming events. The restaurant offers fresh and local seafood prepared in their raw bar, pizzas made in their wood-fire oven, and California-Italian classics. They also have a breakfast and lunch menu and nightly specials like linguine and clams, osso buco, and cioppino.
9. Chicken Wings: Sama Sama Kitchen
Sama Sama Kitchen gained stardom for its wings with a 2021 Michelin Bib Gourmand Award. Ruben G. finds them “So flavorful and yummy,” while Angela R. says they are “By far the best wings” and “sticky good.” The menu offers two types: Signature Wings with tamarind-soy BBQ sauce, cilantro, and lime, and Vietnamese Wings with fish sauce, lime, herbs, pickled Thai chili, and sesame. Customers can also opt for the Half & Half option.
10. Chinese Restaurant: China Pavilion
China Pavilion, an evergreen winner, is known for its authentic food. Serving modern Chinese cuisine as well as authentic Szechuan dishes, including a spicy peppercorn-flavored hot pot. The restaurant does dim sum on the weekends, and serves up a Christmas Day menu every year. The prices have remained reasonable, especially for families looking for a nice meal out.
11. Chocolate Company: See’s Candies
See’s Candies is dedicated to their customers, from making the best candy to providing the best service. According to Pat Egan, president and CEO, every step they take is about their customers. They aim to bring joy and ensure customers receive the best-quality candy and service. The shops in Santa Barbara and Goleta greet customers with a smile and offer a sample of delicious, American-made candy.
12. Clam Chowder/Oysters/Seafood Restaurant: Brophy Bros.
Brophy’s is a triple winner, serving New England–style clam chowder with a consistently high standard of hearty, creamy flavor. Neal R. calls it “The perfect starter in the perfect spot,” and Rachel S. says, “No other place in town can compare to the quality and deliciousness.” Their menu includes scampi, sea bass, and fresh oysters, as well as Oysters Rockefeller with rich butter sauce and bread crumbs.
13. Corner Store: Santa Cruz Market
Santa Cruz Markets offer fresh produce and a full-service meat department, serving as a hometown alternative to mega-market chain stores. They provide hard-to-find Hispanic items, fresh bread delivered by local bakeries seven days a week, Coinstar machines, and friendly service.
14. CSA: Farm Cart Organics
Farm Cart Organics is committed to building a sustainable, healthy, local food system. According to owner Katherine Lesh, they have been doing this for 12 years. Over the next few years, they will be working to support and nourish the farms that really need them, bringing the underserved and underprivileged small farmers’ crops of Santa Barbara and Ventura counties to local schools and food banks.
15. Cupcakery: Crushcakes & Cafe
Crushcakes & Café is located in a very old house with a ghost-like energy. Owner Shannon Gaston shares a story about strange occurrences, such as items moving around and disappearing. On one occasion, cake plates shattered into pieces, leading Gaston to joke that the ghost was angry and needed a cupcake.
16. Doughnut Shop: Hook & Press
Hook & Press is celebrated for its inventive flavors and fresh ingredients. Kendra S. describes their doughnuts as “The best doughnuts I’ve ever had, from a local, family-run business that is a fantastic success story.” Owner John Burnett is honored to be named Best Doughnut Shop for the sixth year in a row and is pleased that customers have embraced their coffee service and breakfast menu.
17. French Restaurant: bouchon
bouchon faces the same accounting, advertising, insurance, payroll, permitting, and tax responsibilities as other businesses. Owner Mitchell Sjerven emphasizes that many people presume serving guests is the extent of what a restaurant operator does, but in reality, operating a restaurant requires understanding how to run a business, not just cook.
18. Fresh Fish Market: Santa Barbara Fish Market
Santa Barbara Fish Market is located in the harbor of its namesake town, being the first receiver of the majority of the seafood offloaded on the docks. According to CEO Laszlo Nemeth, you can buy the same fresh seafood right then and there. They have opened another location at The Plaza in Goleta, offering a full menu of hot seafood options in addition to cold and raw bar items.
19. Fried Chicken Sandwich: The Honor Bar
The Honor Bar offers an excellent fried chicken sandwich with the perfect amount of seasoning, crunch, and juiciness. Their version includes a buttermilk-fried breast, baby Swiss, and a spicy slaw lightly seasoned with bacon, best enjoyed in one of the Montecito joint’s cozy booths.
20. Frozen Yogurt Shop: Mission Street Ice Cream & Yogurt
Mission Street Ice Cream & Yogurt is grateful to be voted Best Frozen Yogurt Shop. The team expresses joy in seeing customers make them a part of their day, whether for date nights, after-school treats, or lunch meetings. They appreciate their patrons’ loyalty to their small business.
21. Gluten-Free Options/Wedding Cake Shop: Lilac Patisserie
After being diagnosed with celiac disease, pastry chef and cake decorator Gillian Muralles opened Lilac Pâtisserie in 2015 with her husband, Alam. The bakery serves a full breakfast and lunch menu and has become Santa Barbara’s go-to destination for gluten-free fare. They make all of their flour blends in-house and never compromise on taste, texture, artistry, or quality.
22. Goleta Restaurant: Jane at the Marketplace
Jane at the Marketplace is named after the Huston family matriarch, who loved to travel. Photos of Jane adorn the restaurant, depicting her adventures around the world. Mark and Margaret Huston explain that her love of family, friends, and food drew their family into the hospitality business. The restaurant offers a combination of American bistro fare with European influences.
23. Gourmet Grocer/Health Food/Nutrition Store/Salad Bar: Lazy Acres Market
Lazy Acres Natural Market has been committed to keeping it natural since opening in Santa Barbara in 1991. They offer fresh, organic California-grown produce, sustainably sourced meats and seafood, conscious beauty and supplements, and more. They also donate to local nonprofits through their Envirotokens program when customers use reusable shopping bags. According to Cyndi Darlington, they have donated over $13,000 back into the community since starting the program in summer 2023.
24. Ice Cream Shop: McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams
McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams is obsessed with quality. CEO Michael Palmer explains that it’s challenging to set their company’s product apart in the ice cream business, as many people view ice cream as just ice cream. However, they lean into making the highest-quality products, an ethos shared by everyone who works there.
25. Indian Restaurant: Flavor of India
Flavor of India has stood the test of time, grilling skewered meat to orange-tinted perfection and breads to a golden sublimity since 1991. Bita Kainwal of the family-run business finds satisfaction in seeing customers happy and satisfied with their meal and service.
26. Isla Vista Restaurant: Freebirds World Burrito
Freebirds World Burrito has been feeding hungry college students and softening hangovers since 1987. Owner Mark Orfalea named it after the Lynyrd Skynyrd song. They offer made-to-order Monster Burritos, regular burritos, nachos, quesadillas, and other good-quality, reasonably priced Mexican grub every day of the week until 11 p.m.
27. Italian Restaurant: Via Maestra 42
Via Maestra 42 opened in 2000, showcasing authentic Italian products supplied to restaurants in the area as All Italia Imports since 1993. Owners Georges and Nicole Bitar aim to provide an unforgettable dining experience, steeped in simplicity and warmth. They pride themselves on consistency, using only the highest-quality ingredients, organic when possible, in preparing their traditional Italian dishes.
28. Late-Night Eats: The Blue Owl
The Blue Owl has cultivated a community that comes back time and again, making the space feel like a living room away from home. Owner Nadia Ajlouni says they have become a reliable source for healthy food and live entertainment, in addition to serving the late-night crowd.
29. Lompoc Restaurant: Floriano’s Mexican Food
Floriano’s Mexican Food is planning on acquiring a small food truck to attend local events and festivals, and cater private events. According to Antonio Rodriguez, they also plan to introduce pancakes, waffles, and French toast to their breakfast menu, slowly expanding their breakfast offerings at year’s end.
30. Mediterranean Food: Zaytoon
Zaytoon is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Niki Hight says to check your camera roll and remember all the special moments year after year you sat surrounded by your loved ones under the stars. They are grateful to be a part of so many special milestone moments, celebrating each and every one.
31. Mexican Restaurant/Salsa: Los Agaves
The lines at Los Agaves speak to its popularity, offering a perfect combination of tried-and-true Mexican favorites alongside more inventive dishes. Carlos Luna opened the first location on Milpas Street in 2008. Their menu includes steaming molcajetes draped with grilled cactus and the super-spicy Camarones a la Diabla made with plump, wild-caught shrimp.
32. Montecito Restaurant: Bettina
Bettina slings Neapolitan-style pizzas that stick to your ribs and linger in your mind. According to owner Rachel Greenspan, their dough is 100 percent naturally leavened sourdough and usually ferments for a minimum of three days, giving it a beautiful texture and flavor. They are opening a second location in Carpinteria, called Tina’s, which will be a fast casual version of Bettina with a similar menu, as well as a small retail component with wine and provisions.
33. Noodle Bar: Empty Bowl Gourmet Noodle Bar
If Empty Bowl’s Jerry Lee could try his hand at another profession, he would be a pilot. He loves to look at things from every angle and see the whole picture, which translates to being a restaurant owner. Even after 10 years of running Empty Bowl, new situations come up all the time that require attention and looking at things from a different perspective.
34. Pizza: Rusty’s Pizza
Rusty’s Pizza has remained a local treasure, known for its distinct tomato sauce, good service, architecturally varied and interesting buildings, and family-friendly vibe. Owners Roger and Carol Duncan opened Rusty’s Roast Beef in Isla Vista in 1969, but soon realized there wasn’t a pizza place in town and made the shift to pizza.
35. Place to Buy Bread: Oat Bakery
Oat Bakery believes that good bread is healthy bread, using whole grains, local produce from the farmers’ market, and superfoods like oats, chia seeds, and flaxseeds to make their bread the healthiest and most nutritious it can be. Louise and Lou Fontana explain that their bread is all organic and handmade and baked in small batches during the day to keep their employees happy and well-rested.
36. Produce Stand/Greengrocer: Santa Barbara Certified Farmers’ Market
The Saturday morning farmers’ market has moved to the intersection of State and Carrillo streets. General Manager Sam Edelman assures that they look forward to providing everyone with the familiar quality experience they have been accustomed to for decades. The other weekly markets in Goleta, Montecito, Carpinteria, and Solvang remain unchanged.
37. Sandwich/Takeout: South Coast Deli
Richie at South Coast Deli emphasizes that many in the hospitality business grow to be empathetic, compassionate, and genuine people who want to be treated the way they treat others. Their goal is to always be the best at what they do and maintain the best experience for their guests.
38. Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant: S.Y. Kitchen
Executive Chef Luca Crestanelli says that hospitality is in their blood at S.Y. Kitchen. They deliberately choose the highest-quality ingredients and strive to deliver the best possible experience for all of their customers.
39. Steak House: Lucky’s
Lucky’s Steakhouse opened in 2000 along Coast Village Road, originally constructed as the Montecito Bungalows back in 1926. Gene Montesano, along with Jimmy Argyropoulos and Herb Simon, took over the business and gave it the makeover it deserves. The location once again serves its community as Lucky’s: Montecito’s second living room.
40. Stellar Service / Restaurant Wine List: The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch
The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch has a staff that always manages to be amazingly attentive without ever hovering. Director of Food and Beverage Andrew Caine expresses gratitude for the support and recognition. This summer, The Stonehouse acquired 138 bottles of Château d’Yquem wines dating back to 1811. Sommelier Tristan Pitre describes the collection as a collection of art, unique and speaking to both the wine lover and the history lover.
41. Sidewalk Cafe/Patio: La Playa Azul Cafe
La Playa Azul Café still feels like a secret hiding in plain sight after almost half a century in business. Owner Delia Elias is grateful to the community of Santa Barbara for supporting them for 47 years and looks forward to seeing their regular customers and meeting new ones. Their lovely front patio is often comfortably full but rarely crowded when the outdoor heaters warm up for their 3-6 p.m. happy hour on Tuesdays through Sundays.
42. Sunday Brunch / Bloody Mary / Happy Hour / Restaurant with a View: The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach
The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach has achieved the quadruple crown, with wins across four categories. General Manager Katie Collins considers herself one of the few lucky people who actually does what they love, greeted with smiles and the smell of saltwater every day, not to mention regular whale sightings and world-class sunsets.
43. Sushi Restaurant: Arigato Sushi
Before becoming a sushi chef, Arigato Sushi chef and owner Bill Kaneko had dreams of becoming an actor in martial arts movies. He found happiness working part-time at a restaurant and has since provided countless diners with fresh and fileted happiness at Arigato, which has anchored its downtown block of State Street for nearly four decades now.
44. Tacos: Lilly’s Taqueria
Lilly’s Taqueria owner Jose Sepulveda carries on his family tradition, sharing what an authentic taco should be. He was taught by his dad and strives to share those traditions through their menu, finding it gratifying to hear great feedback and see clean plates.
45. Vegan Options/ Vegetarian Options / Veggie Burger: The Natural Cafe
The Natural Café has served the freshest, tastiest, most affordable food on the Central Coast to the healthiest, happiest customers for 32 years. Owner Kelly Brown considers it an honor. They have perfected their salads, sandwiches, and pastas, offering hearty, flavorful, customizable options at fair prices.
46. Thai Restaurant: Your Choice
Your Choice chef Kathy Dao learned the art of Thai cuisine from Sukanya Sukavivatanachai, who co-founded Your Choice with Aungkoon in 1989. With Kathy’s background in Vietnamese cooking, they are committed to honoring traditional Thai dishes while also highlighting her culinary skills and creativity. Piti Sukavivatanachai says they recently hosted their third block party with DJ Javier, Mindgarden, and Canto Vision, and it was a resounding success.
Understanding Santa Barbara’s Culinary Scene
Santa Barbara offers a diverse culinary landscape influenced by its coastal location, agricultural abundance, and cultural mix. Fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and a vibrant community of chefs contribute to a rich and varied dining experience. The city’s commitment to sustainability and quality ingredients makes it a standout destination for food lovers.
Key Culinary Influences
- Mediterranean Flavors: Drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean, many Santa Barbara restaurants incorporate olive oil, fresh herbs, and seasonal vegetables into their dishes.
- Mexican Heritage: With a strong Mexican influence, Santa Barbara boasts numerous taquerias and restaurants serving authentic Mexican cuisine, often featuring family recipes passed down through generations.
- Farm-to-Table Movement: The city’s proximity to fertile farmland supports a thriving farm-to-table movement, with chefs sourcing ingredients directly from local farms.
- Seafood Abundance: Situated on the coast, Santa Barbara offers an abundance of fresh seafood, from locally caught fish to oysters and shellfish.
Exploring Diverse Food Categories in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara’s food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. From farm-fresh breakfasts to innovative dinners, the city caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular food categories.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Start your day with a hearty breakfast or leisurely brunch at one of Santa Barbara’s top spots. Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery is a local favorite, offering classic breakfast dishes and freshly baked pastries. Cajun Kitchen Café serves up flavorful Cajun-inspired breakfast fare, while The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach is renowned for its Sunday brunch with stunning ocean views.
Casual Dining and Quick Bites
For a quick and satisfying meal, Santa Barbara offers numerous casual dining options. Super Cucas is praised for its affordable and delicious burritos, while South Coast Deli is a go-to spot for sandwiches and takeout. Freebirds World Burrito is a popular choice for college students, serving customizable burritos and other Mexican favorites.
Fine Dining and Special Occasions
Celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a luxurious dining experience at one of Santa Barbara’s fine dining establishments. The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch offers stellar service and an extensive wine list, while bouchon is known for its authentic French cuisine. Lucky’s Steakhouse provides a classic steakhouse experience in a sophisticated setting.
International Cuisine
Explore the world through Santa Barbara’s diverse international cuisine scene. China Pavilion serves authentic Chinese and Szechuan dishes, while Flavor of India offers flavorful Indian cuisine. Via Maestra 42 provides an unforgettable Italian dining experience, and Zaytoon serves delicious Mediterranean fare in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Seafood Restaurants
Given its coastal location, Santa Barbara is home to numerous excellent seafood restaurants. Brophy Bros. is a triple winner, serving fresh oysters and New England-style clam chowder. Santa Barbara Fish Market offers a wide selection of fresh seafood, and Little Dom’s Seafood in Carpinteria is known for its California-Italian classics.
Must-Try Dishes in Santa Barbara
To truly experience Santa Barbara’s culinary scene, be sure to try some of the city’s must-try dishes. Here are a few recommendations:
- Tri-Tip Sandwich at Shalhoob’s: This barbecue joint serves up a mouthwatering tri-tip sandwich that locals rave about.
- Croissants at Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro: These croissants are considered the best outside of Paris, with a flaky and buttery texture.
- Smashburger at Third Window Brewing Co.: This burger is a local trendsetter, known for its perfectly smashed Wagyu patties.
- Tacos at Lilly’s Taqueria: These authentic tacos are made with traditional family recipes and are a must-try for taco lovers.
- Clam Chowder at Brophy Bros.: This New England-style clam chowder is hearty and creamy, with a consistently high standard of flavor.
- Fried Chicken Sandwich at The Honor Bar: This sandwich is a classic done right, with a buttermilk-fried breast, baby Swiss, and spicy slaw.
Santa Barbara’s Best Food: A Year-Round Guide
Santa Barbara’s food scene shines year-round, but certain seasons bring unique culinary experiences. Here’s what to expect:
Spring
Spring brings fresh produce to the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers’ Market. This is the perfect time to enjoy dishes that highlight seasonal vegetables like asparagus, artichokes, and peas. Many restaurants create special menus to showcase these ingredients.
Summer
Summer is ideal for enjoying seafood and outdoor dining. The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach and La Playa Azul Café are great choices for enjoying the warm weather and scenic views. Little Dom’s Seafood in Carpinteria offers crawfish boils and BBQ series.
Fall
Fall brings harvest festivals and the opportunity to enjoy hearty dishes. S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez Valley is a great place to experience fall flavors. Look for restaurants offering seasonal specials like pumpkin ravioli or roasted root vegetables.
Winter
Winter is perfect for cozying up with comfort food. Brophy Bros. clam chowder is a must-try, and Lucky’s Steakhouse offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. China Pavilion is a great choice for a family meal during the holiday season.
Santa Barbara Culinary Events and Festivals
Santa Barbara hosts several culinary events and festivals throughout the year. These events provide a unique opportunity to sample local food and drink and to meet chefs and producers.
- Santa Barbara Wine + Food Festival: Held annually, this festival showcases the best of Santa Barbara’s wine and food scene.
- California Avocado Festival: Celebrating the region’s famous avocados, this festival features avocado-themed dishes and activities.
- Santa Barbara Restaurant Week: During Restaurant Week, participating restaurants offer prix fixe menus, providing an affordable way to try new restaurants.
- Old Spanish Days Fiesta: This annual celebration includes food booths offering traditional Mexican dishes.
Tips for Dining in Santa Barbara
To make the most of your dining experience in Santa Barbara, keep these tips in mind:
- Make Reservations: Popular restaurants can get busy, especially during peak season. Make reservations in advance to ensure you get a table.
- Explore Different Neighborhoods: Santa Barbara’s diverse neighborhoods offer a range of dining options. Explore downtown, Montecito, and the Funk Zone to discover hidden gems.
- Check Out Happy Hour Specials: Many restaurants offer happy hour specials, providing a great way to sample their menu at a discounted price.
- Visit the Farmers’ Market: The Santa Barbara Certified Farmers’ Market is a great place to find fresh, local ingredients and to support local farmers.
- Try Local Wines: Santa Barbara is located in a renowned wine region. Pair your meal with a local wine for a complete culinary experience.
Santa Barbara Food Trends
Staying up-to-date with Santa Barbara’s food trends can enhance your dining experience. Here are a few trends to watch for:
- Plant-Based Cuisine: With a growing emphasis on health and sustainability, plant-based cuisine is gaining popularity in Santa Barbara. Restaurants like The Natural Café offer a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.
- Sustainable Seafood: As awareness of overfishing and environmental concerns grows, sustainable seafood is becoming increasingly important. Restaurants like Santa Barbara Fish Market prioritize sourcing seafood responsibly.
- Craft Beverages: Santa Barbara’s craft beverage scene is thriving, with numerous breweries, wineries, and distilleries producing high-quality products.
- Global Flavors: Santa Barbara’s diverse culinary scene reflects a growing interest in global flavors. Restaurants like Sama Sama Kitchen offer Southeast Asian cuisine, while Los Agaves serves authentic Mexican dishes.
Q&A about Best Food In Santa Barbara
Here are some frequently asked questions about the best food in Santa Barbara:
What are the must-try restaurants in Santa Barbara?
Must-try restaurants in Santa Barbara include Loquita for Spanish tapas, Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery for breakfast, Shalhoob’s for barbecue, and Brophy Bros. for seafood.
Where can I find the best tacos in Santa Barbara?
The best tacos in Santa Barbara can be found at Lilly’s Taqueria, known for their authentic and flavorful tacos made with traditional family recipes.
What are some good options for vegan or vegetarian food in Santa Barbara?
For vegan and vegetarian options, The Natural Cafe is a great choice, offering a variety of plant-based salads, sandwiches, and burgers.
Where can I find the best brunch in Santa Barbara?
The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach is renowned for its Sunday brunch with stunning ocean views, making it a top choice for brunch in Santa Barbara.
What are some restaurants with a great view in Santa Barbara?
The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach offers stunning ocean views, making it a perfect spot for enjoying a meal with a view in Santa Barbara.
Where can I find the best pizza in Santa Barbara?
Rusty’s Pizza is a local favorite known for its distinct tomato sauce and family-friendly atmosphere, while Bettina offers Neapolitan-style pizzas with a sourdough crust.
What are some good options for late-night eats in Santa Barbara?
The Blue Owl is a reliable spot for late-night eats in Santa Barbara, offering healthy food and live entertainment in a cozy atmosphere.
Where can I find the best ice cream in Santa Barbara?
McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams is a top choice for ice cream in Santa Barbara, known for its high-quality ingredients and unique flavors.
What are some good options for gluten-free food in Santa Barbara?
Lilac Patisserie is a go-to destination for gluten-free fare in Santa Barbara, offering a variety of delicious gluten-free pastries and dishes.
What are some good options for fresh seafood in Santa Barbara?
Brophy Bros. and Santa Barbara Fish Market are excellent options for fresh seafood in Santa Barbara, offering a wide selection of locally caught fish and shellfish.
Conclusion: Discovering the Best Food in Santa Barbara with FOODS.EDU.VN
Exploring the best food in Santa Barbara is a culinary adventure that promises delightful discoveries at every turn. From the Spanish-inspired tapas of Loquita to the fresh seafood at Brophy Bros., and the comforting flavors of Rusty’s Pizza, Santa Barbara’s diverse dining scene offers something for everyone.
At FOODS.EDU.VN, we’re passionate about guiding you through the best culinary experiences Santa Barbara has to offer. Whether you’re seeking the perfect brunch spot, authentic Mexican tacos, or innovative plant-based cuisine, our expertly curated list will lead you to the most delicious and memorable dining experiences.
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