The American Riviera
Photo credit: Carter Hiyama
Discover a collection of Santa Barbara restaurants on the beach, from casual café staples to elevated fine dining. These restaurants-with-a-view promise unforgettable dining experiences that blend delectable cuisine with the beauty of The American Riviera®. Explore the captivating ambiance, expertly curated dishes and exceptional service that make these beachfront eateries an integral part of Santa Barbara’s vibrant restaurant scene.
Indulge in the pinnacle of luxury dining at Caruso’s at Rosewood Miramar Beach, nestled on the breathtaking Miramar Beach in Montecito. This Michelin-starred (including one Michelin Green Star for sustainability) culinary haven takes you on a world-class gastronomic journey amidst an elegant seaside setting where impeccable service, opulent surroundings and an exquisite menu crafted by acclaimed chef Massimo Falsini await. Delight in seasonal creations that are also pleasing to the eye like the melt-in-your-mouth Santa Barbara bluefin ahi tartare or the perfectly charred Pacific octopus.
Photo credit: @carusos via Instagram
Discover Reunion Kitchen + Drink along Santa Barbara’s vibrant East Beach. This charming eatery offers a warm and inviting ambiance for both the senses and the palate. Feast on a hearty brunch of mouthwatering favorites such as the indulgent prime steak and eggs or the sweet French toast entrée. For dinner, enjoy signature dishes like the slow-braised short ribs that fall off the bone or the refreshing poke bowl. Complemented by an extensive drink menu and a beachside locale, Reunion Kitchen + Drink invites you to gather with friends and family and enjoy a seaside meal on one of the most iconic beaches in the area.
Experience the epitome of coastal bliss at Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach, nestled just steps away from the sun-kissed sands of Arroyo Burro Beach. Immerse yourself in a captivating experience where the ocean breeze mingles with the delicious aromas of fresh seafood. Indulge in a menu bursting with culinary delights, like the decadent pan-roasted crab cakes to the rich and creamy lobster and truffle mac and cheese. The Boathouse offers a captivating blend of seaside ambiance and haute cuisine that will leave you with indelible memories.
Photo credit: @sb_boathouse via Instagram
Located at Rosewood Miramar Beach—on the beach, of course—is Miramar Beach Bar. This captivating bar offers a chic and relaxed atmosphere with serene views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for sipping a refreshing cocktail or noshing on seafood tacos after a day of soaking up the sun. Sample one of its signature concoctions, the Purple Sky, a bubbly gin drink complemented by a splash of fresh grapefruit, or opt for a selection from the margarita list, like the smokey Miramar Bell. Miramar Beach Bar is truly where beachfront serenity meets sublime elegance.
Nestled on the bluff overlooking the stunning Haskell’s Beach, Angel Oak at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara in Goleta offers an indulgent, fine dining experience. The restaurant combines picturesque ocean views with a menu that utilizes the diverse bounty the region has to offer. Savor bites from the raw bar menu such as the yellowtail crudo, try hot seafood entrée selections like the sea scallops and Maine lobster tagliatelle or opt for the 30-day, dry-aged New York strip. Complement your meal with a selection from its robust wine list, featuring both local and international vintages. Angel Oak promises a memorable meal at one of Santa Barbara’s premier luxury resorts.
Photo credit: @ritzcarltonbacarasb via Instagram
At Shoreline Beach Café, you can quite literally put your toes in the sand at Leadbetter Beach as you enjoy a meal of fresh seafood and other coastal cuisine. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking coastal views while digging your fork into appetizing dishes like the succulent and spicy seared ahi, the tangy Baja-style shrimp tacos or the flavorful Shoreline salad made with fresh local produce. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a leisurely brunch or simply a refreshing cocktail by the shore, Shoreline Beach Café provides a “come as you are” type of atmosphere at any time of day—perfect for families seeking a nourishing pre-beach day or after a full day of exploring Santa Barbara.
Photo credit: @kesslerramirez via Instagram
Brophy Bros. is a Santa Barbara institution. Its harborside location coupled with fresh local seafood makes it an excellent place to watch the sun go down and salute to the evening. On The Alley, Brophy Bros.’ fast-casual sister restaurant (also located in the harbor), offers burgers, tacos and clam chowder that you’re able to take to the sand and watch the tide roll in. Opt for open-air dining at Anchor Rose, equipped with unbeatable harbor views and cocktail list that’ll quench your thirst on a warm Santa Barbara day. With its inviting ambiance and coastal charm, this waterfront gem creates the perfect setting to indulge in a delectable selection of small plates and cheers to a vacation well spent.
Toma Restaurant & Bar, one of Santa Barbara’s revered Italian restaurants, is located just across the street from Santa Barbara Harbor and a short walking distance from many of Santa Barbara’s waterfront hotels. Just down the street is Chad’s Café, a beloved breakfast and lunch joint that serves up old-school diner vibes, killer eggs benedict and across-the-street views of West Beach.
On the corner of State Street and Cabrillo Boulevard is Jeannine’s Restaurant and Bakery, one of four locations in the Santa Barbara South Coast. Dine on the savory flavors of the rajas breakfast tacos or satisfy your sweet tooth with the lemon poppyseed pancakes. With just a walk across State Street you’ll end up at Bluewater Grill, which sets the seaside tone with a nautical ambiance and inventive seafood dishes.
Get your fix of elevated Japanese cuisine at Oku. Between the creative selection of sushi rolls and warming bowls of authentic Japanese-style ramen, this ocean-adjacent delight makes for a perfect night out. A meal at Flor de Maíz’s elevated menu of Mexican cuisine offers a unique dining experience, from its delicious, creative cocktails—specifically its margaritas made with fresh ingredients—to thoughtfully creative plates (literally, the food is served on pink salt blocks, but the food is an inventive blend of coastal California and Mexican fare).
Santa Barbara FisHouse offers classic American cuisine for any occasion. From pasta to sesame-wonton crusted mahi mahi, a stop at this iconic Santa Barbara restaurant is a must during your next vacation.
Costa Kitchen & Bar inside Mar Monte Hotel serves coastal-inspired cuisine, inviting guests to savor the flavors of the sea and Convivo at Santa Barbara Inn entices guests to relish in the beautiful outdoor setting paired with flavorful cuisine ranging from creative pasta dishes to a decadent seafood medley.
Though they may not all be beachfront, explore these other must-try restaurants in Santa Barbara during your next stay.
