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.
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.
Lucky Penny, located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, features innovative artisanal pizzas from a wood-burning oven, with locally sourced garden fresh salads, handmade sweet treats, beer, wine and the ever-popular Frosé. The…
Paloma — a true neighborhood restaurant in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. Rooted in over a century of local history, Paloma is a warm and welcoming space where the rhythms of the seasons shape the menu and every ingredient tells a…
Brass Bear Brewing is a family-owned, locally-rooted spot proud to call Santa Barbara home. We have two locations designed to fit whatever kind of gathering you’re dreaming up—our lively Funk Zone location in the heart downtown and our…
Helena Avenue Bakery is a homestyle artisan bakery and kitchen that brings together wholesome, homemade specialties using the highest quality ingredients found along the Central Coast. We offer rustic, organic breads, handmade seasonal pastries…
A classic American bistro with breathtaking ocean views. Dine bistro-style on a selection of classic dishes or cozy up by the outdoor fire pit with a specialty cocktail.
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…
A warm Santa Barbara welcome and modern culinary adventure awaits. Inspired by the fresh coastal flavors of Santa Barbara, CAYA Restaurant welcomes everyone to “Come As You Are” for a modern culinary adventure paired with a mood as…
The Lark, named for the sleek overnight Pullman train of the Southern Pacific Railroad that serviced Santa Barbara from 1910 -1968, is situated in the heart of the Funk Zone, a vibrant arts and entertainment district near the Waterfront in downtown…
Since 1939, Arnoldi's Cafe has been a beloved Santa Barbara tradition, serving authentic Italian cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and warm hospitality in a one-of-a-kind historic setting. Whether you're gathering with family, celebrating a special…
