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 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…


Angel Oak

Angel Oak is a modern steak and seafood restaurant showcasing the culinary talents of Chef Josh Kellim. The diverse menu includes classic steakhouse dishes under a certified Kobe and dry-aged beef program, as well as locally-sourced fare such as…


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…



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


The Club & Guest House at UCSB

The Club & Guest House welcomes guests to dine, stay, meet and gather in an architectural icon—recently renovated and expanded—in the heart of the UC Santa Barbara campus. The facility offers an all-inclusive guest…


Anchor Rose Restaurant

The Anchor Rose Restaurant & Lounge at the Santa Barbara Harbor is Santa Barbara's only waterfront rooftop restaurant and bar. Come enjoy lunch or dinner at the harbor, have one of their signature cocktails and experience some of Santa…


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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