Best American Restaurants in Santa Barbara
Price
- $30 and under
- $31 to $50
- $50 and over
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Top Rated
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Award-winning
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20 restaurants available nearby
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See what locals rave about
- JJudyCincinnati / Dayton •5 reviews5.0Dined 4 days agoWe had a great dinner at Barbareno. Fresh and creative ingredients, good wine, and great service in a cute cozy atmosphere! Both indoor and outdoor seating. Great for a date night or dinner with friends.More infoBarbareñoPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara•4.8
- MMolllyVIPLos Angeles •27 reviews5.0Dined 6 days agoLove Gala. Always treated well. Bronzino always a winner. A tad pricy… but it’s SB…. Fun & tasty cocktails. Service is A+ A tad loud.More infoGalaPrice: Expensive• European• Santa Barbara•4.8
- LLisa MarieVIPPalm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •21 reviews5.0Dined on Jan 1, 2025Finch & Fork in Santa Barbara offers a vibrant and refined take on California cuisine, making it a standout spot for locals and visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of downtown, the restaurant blends a relaxed coastal vibe with modern elegance, perfect for everything from casual brunches to celebratory dinners. The menu is a true showcase of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their King Salmon, served with gigante beans, piquillo peppers, and marble potatoes, is a perfectly balanced dish that highlights the chef’s attention to detail. Equally impressive is the Short Rib Pappardelle Pasta, featuring tender braised short rib, wild mushroom soffritto, and a luscious touch of crème fraîche. The wine list is thoughtfully curated, offering a range of options to suit the diverse menu. Pairing recommendations from the attentive staff are spot-on, ensuring the meal is elevated to an unforgettable experience. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a mix of modern design and rustic touches that make the space both stylish and comfortable. Service is attentive and genuinely welcoming, creating an atmosphere where you can linger over a meal without feeling rushed. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a quality meal, Finch & Fork delivers on all fronts. It’s a gem in Santa Barbara’s culinary scene and well worth a visit.More infoFinch & ForkPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Barbara•4.5
- RRickPalm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •2 reviews5.0Dined on Dec 29, 2024Noise level was high which affected conversation but the music was excellent.More infoRoyPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara•3.3
- EElizabethVIPSan Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews5.0Dined on Dec 28, 2024I love this place; have been several times. I’ve only had dinner at the bar, so can’t speak to table service, but the bartenders work hard, and are funny, attentive and very knowledgeable about wines. The atmosphere is lively and sophisticated. Did I mention the food??? Pizza is amazing here. NY steak & frites is fantastic. Enjoy!More infoIntermezzo By Wine CaskPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara•4.6
Discover best American restaurants in Santa Barbara
Discover the essence of American cuisine along the scenic Central Coast in Santa Barbara, California, where a diverse array of restaurants offers a taste of the nation's culinary diversity. From the comfort of historic settings to the fresh breeze of seaside dining, each restaurant in Santa Barbara ensures a unique and memorable dining experience. These establishments pride themselves on using locally-sourced ingredients, reflecting the rich agricultural bounty of California and the freshness of the Pacific Ocean. Patrons can expect a variety of dishes ranging from expertly prepared seafood to classic American comfort foods, all served with a touch of Californian flair. The dining scene in Santa Barbara is vibrant and eclectic, catering to both casual diners and gourmet aficionados. Whether you're seeking a cozy bistro ambiance or a luxurious meal with ocean views, Santa Barbara's restaurants promise an enchanting culinary journey that celebrates the spirit of American dining.