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 Lark

A shared dining experience featuring artisanal and seasonal ingredients celebrating the abundant bounty of the Central Coast.  OUR STORY The Lark, named for the sleek overnight Pullman train of the Southern Pacific Railroad that serviced Santa…



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…


Frog Bar & Grill at Glen Annie Golf Club

Frog Bar & Grill at Glen Annie Golf Club is one of Santa Barbara’s most popular dining venues. Our first class restaurant & bar is housed in award winning architecture and features spacious patios, three fireplaces and an elegant…


On The Alley

Located in the bustling Santa Barbara harbor, On The Alley provides a fresh and delicious counter-service menu, including some favorites from it's sister restaurant, Brophy Bros. OTA is perfect for that quick…


The Bistro

Breakfast, Dinner, Cocktails – The Bistro Has It All Whether you are meeting with colleagues, sitting down with family or craving a snack on the go, The Bistro has what you need. Choose from a full menu brimming with options from healthy to…


The Set

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 and ocean views. Reserve your spot at one of their s’mores fire pits and…


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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