Restaurants

Delicious Santa Barbara Restaurants

With more than 470 different Santa Barbara restaurants to choose from, you’ll find the perfect spot to enjoy, from five-star dining to mom-and-pop cafés to the burger joint voted Best Tasting in the United States. You’ll find memorable meals here that are sure to delight — no matter your taste.

From California-centric interpretations of Mediterranean flavors to spicy regional Mexican cuisine, you’ll find plenty of great food. Seafood lovers will delight in tasting the catch of the day, fresh from our own waters off the Channel Islands. And no matter where you choose to dine, there’s likely to be a selection of local wines grown in one of the nearby AVAs. Taking advantage of fresh ingredients paired with local wines and beers, you’re sure to discover something delicious here that you won’t find anywhere else.

Can’t decide where to eat first? Get recommendations for a few must-try restaurants in Santa Barbara to help you start planning.

Farm-to-Table Dining

Treat yourself to a farm-to-table dinner in Santa Barbara you won’t soon forget. The area has some of the best weather year-round, which makes for bountiful harvests in our fields and vineyards. Our restaurant’s creative chefs are sourcing from daily farmers markets that feature beautiful local produce and fish markets situated adjacent to the Santa Barbara Harbor for the freshest seafood. These wonderful local ingredients build the foundation for incredible dishes and an unforgettable dining experience. If you’re wondering what wine or local craft beer to pair with your meal, just ask your server — they’re likely a trained sommelier or cicerone and can offer insights into a fantastic local discovery.

Where to Eat in Santa Barbara

Splurge-worthy fine dining, off-the-beaten-path taquerias, or family-friendly restaurants with an oceanview — you’ll find a variety of dining experiences in Santa Barbara, depending on what you’re in the mood for. Continue reading this page to discover featured local restaurants, articles packed with recommendations and insights, and more to help you plan your next delicious visit to Santa Barbara.

Restaurants in Santa Barbara


Chad’s Restaurant

The restaurant is currently owned and managed by the original founders' grandson, Chad Stevens. Chad's continues the family tradition established by Chad's grandfather Sam. Enjoy family dining from a family run business.



Shoreline Cafe

Meet us at the Beach!  Put your toes in the sand or relax on our shaded deck while enjoying their casual beach fare.  Located just North of the Santa Barbara Harbor on Leadbetter Beach they serve Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner seven days a…


costa Kitchen & Bar

Drawing inspiration from Old World coastal Italian cuisine with a garnish of Middle Eastern influence, costa Kitchen & Bar is a celebration of worldly flair and California charm: light, clean and fresh menus, with fare strong in substance and…


Benchmark Eatery

BENCHMARK eatery is uniquely situated in the heart and soul of Santa Barbara’s business and cultural arts district. With a 360 degree bar and outdoor patio, Benchmark is fast becoming a gathering hub for all of downtown. It’s…


Loquita Santa Barbara

Loquita serves authentic Spanish food including hot and cold tapas, wood-fire grilled seafood and meats, and seasonal paella. The Mediterranean climate and terroir of Santa Barbara County mirror that of Spain, making the translation of locally…


Broad Street Oyster Co.

Seafood, Eat It: Broad Street Oyster Co. showcases Oysters, World Famous Lobster Rolls, and much, much more! Largest outdoor patio in Santa Barbara with 38 ice cold beer taps and loads of natural wine! Open Everyday 11:30 PM -12:30 AM


Additional Experiences


10 Must-Try Santa Barbara Restaurants
So many restaurants, so little time. The 10 must-try Santa Barbara restaurants for the time-strapped foodie.
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