Living in Santa Barbara offers a vibrant culinary and dining scene. Perhaps you’re a local seeking new flavors, a visitor exploring the city’s gastronomic offerings, or even searching for apartments for rent or homes for sale in Santa Barbara. This Redfin article will share 6 Santa Barbara restaurants that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you hungry for more.
Join us as we uncover elegant fine dining establishments to charming cafes and vegan havens. This is your opportunity to immerse yourself in the culinary tapestry of this enchanting town. Let’s get started.
1. Blackbird Restaurants
Located in the Hotel California in Santa Barbara, Blackbird offers a culinary experience combining elegance and a modern twist. The restaurant boasts a diverse menu featuring an array of delectable options. One standout item is the 1925 Cocktail, a beautiful blend of mezcal, lime, chartreuse, maraschino luxardo, and hickory smoke. Additionally, Blackbird presents the Sea Urchin plate, a delicacy for seafood enthusiasts.
2. Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach
The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach is a picturesque waterfront restaurant that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the Boathouse provides a delightful dining experience. The menu showcases a variety of options to satisfy all palates. Start your day with their signature breakfast, a scrumptious plate of crab, poached eggs, and a delightful hollandaise. Their benedicts are a popular choice for brunch or lunch, featuring classic favorites with a Boathouse twist. During dinner, indulge in their freshly shucked oysters dipped in cocktail sauce.
3. L’antica Pizzeria Da Michele
Nestled in downtown Santa Barbara on State Street, L’antica Pizzeria Da Michele captures the essence of Neapolitan cuisine. The restaurant is renowned for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, cooked perfectly in a traditional stone oven. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the inviting aromas of freshly baked dough and the ambiance of the dining area. Owned by Francesco Zimone, who hails from Naples, Italy, this eatery stays true to its roots. One must-try pizza is the Diavola, featuring a harmonious blend of flavors from tomato, dior di latte, pecorino, and basil.
4. Handlebar Coffee Roasters
Handlebar Coffee Roasters, with two locations in Santa Barbara, is a haven for coffee aficionados seeking a delightful cup of joe. Handlebar Coffee Roasters has you covered whether you’re in a hurry or prefer to relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Grab a to-go cup of their meticulously crafted coffee and a delectable pastry, or immerse yourself in the bustling and social ambiance as they offer an abundance of seating options.
5. Mesa Verde Restaurant
Among the mix of Santa Barbara restaurants, discover Mesa Verde Restaurant, a vegan culinary gem that delivers vibrant Mediterranean flavors. This plant-based eatery offers a diverse menu that includes brussel mushroom tacos, Impossible meat-filled burritos, and other masterfully crafted dishes that showcase the versatility of plant-based ingredients.
6. Alessia Patisserie and Cafe
Alessia Patisserie and Cafe is a delightful culinary haven in Santa Barbara that offers a taste of Europe. This charming establishment caters to breakfast and brunch enthusiasts with various delectable options. Start your day with their flavorful quiches, each boasting a buttery crust and a delightful combination of savory fillings. If you prefer eggs, their omelets are perfect, prepared with skill, and accompanied by a selection of delectable ingredients.
