Restaurants

Delicious Santa Barbara Restaurants

With more than 450 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


The Dining Room at El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel

A sublime dining experience is guaranteed at El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel. Playing host to some of the best restaurants in southern California, our passion for artisanal ingredients and exceptional flavors matches the region’s culinary…


The Stonehouse

Set inside a 19th century citrus packing house on the grounds of the storied San Ysidro Ranch, the Stonehouse Restaurant, recently named the #1 Restaurant in Santa Barbara by OpenTable exudes the rustic romance of its historic setting. Whether…


Hitching Post 2 Restaurant & Winery

The Hitching Post specializes in Red Oak-Fired Santa Maria Barbecue of perfectly grilled meats, seafood and local farmed vegetables. Visit the famous bar where locals and visitors enjoy conversation, local wines and our Hartley Ostini Hitching Post…


Bouchon Santa Barbara

The original “Santa Barbara Wine Country” restaurant, bouchon santa barbara searches for the freshest, most local ingredients available.  The wine list features local treasures that complement the seasonal, ingredient-driven…


Bettina

Bettina is a cozy neighborhood restaurant serving naturally-leavened, Neapolitan-style pizza made with seasonal California ingredients. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just grabbing a spritz at the bar, we’re committed…


McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams

McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams was founded in Santa Barbara, CA, in 1949. Hailed as the "best in the world" by TIME Magazine, McConnell's continues to follow the standards they set long ago. Ice creams made from scratch, using the finest local,…


The Chase Restaurant and Lounge

The Chase Restaurant and Lounge is a Santa Barbara landmark for over 37 years serving the best authentic New York style Italian food in the most romantic atmosphere in the city. The Chase is perfect for all occasions. This restaurant is a MUST SEE…


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.
Learn More