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Best Californian Restaurants in Santa Barbara

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12 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Intermezzo By Wine Cask restaurant
1. Intermezzo By Wine Cask
4.7
Exceptional(1783)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 6 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara, Intermezzo by Wine Cask stands out as a pinnacle of Californian cuisine, infused with a delightful Mediterranean twist. Patrons consistently praise its "fabulous food" and the "wonderful Alaskan halibut and new filet Mignon dish," testament to the innovative culinary spirit of Executive Chef Mossin Sugich. The restaurant's atmosphere is frequently highlighted as a major draw, with reviews noting the "beautiful outdoor courtyard" and the "high-end rock n roll in a modern classy setting." This local gem, beloved for its "killer pizza" and expertly curated wine list, delivers a dining experience that epitomizes the freshness and creativity expected of Californian fare. Whether it's the "best pizza" or the innovative "Filet 'John’s Way'", Intermezzo by Wine Cask captures the essence of California's rich gastronomic culture.
A photo of Finch & Fork restaurant
2. Finch & Fork
4.6
Exceptional(1764)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 24 times today
Finch & Fork in Santa Barbara is a treasure trove of authentic American cuisine, reflecting the rich, local bounty of the area. This restaurant captures the essence of the region with dishes that are both inventive and deeply rooted in local flavors. Patrons rave about the impeccable service and the culinary delights, with one saying, "The food...soooo good. Everything was plated beautifully," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to excellence. From the “delicious and fresh” mussels to the “perfectly prepared” scallops and pork chops, Finch & Fork ensures every dish celebrates American culinary traditions with a modern twist. This spot is not just a meal; it's a vibrant, flavorful journey through the heart of American dining.
A photo of Bouchon - Santa Barbara restaurant
3. Bouchon - Santa Barbara
4.8
Exceptional(5437)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 26 times today
Bouchon in Santa Barbara is a beacon of French culinary excellence, where quality ingredients and masterful preparation converge to create a truly authentic French dining experience. Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, Bouchon prides itself on a menu that harmonizes locally sourced produce and seafood with the finest regional wines, embodying the essence of Santa Barbara 'Wine Country Cuisine'. Guests consistently rave about their experiences, noting dishes like the "phenomenal steak tartare" and "best duck ever," as well as the "outstanding service" that makes every occasion special. Whether celebrating a milestone or enjoying a casual evening out, Bouchon promises an unforgettable meal, emphasizing that every bite and sip offers "out-of-this-world" flavors that are as authentic as they are delightful. As one diner summed it up, "Amazing food and amazing service. Top notch experience from appetizers to desserts."
A photo of Blackbird restaurant
4. Blackbird
4.1
Excellent(166)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 11 times today
Nestled in the vibrant Funk Zone of Santa Barbara, Blackbird is a beacon of lounge cuisine, renowned for its exquisite and beverage-forward atmosphere. This establishment stands out with "inventive cocktails" crafted by the legendary mixologist Devon Espinosa and a menu that beautifully complements the local, sustainable ingredients of the Central Coast. Patrons rave about the "delicious and beautifully presented" dishes, from the Halibut to the Risotto, and the "friendly service" that makes every visit memorable. Blackbird transforms the conventional dining experience with its unique ambiance, highlighted by sleek brass fixtures and a nod to Alfred Hitchcock’s classics, making it a must-visit for an exceptional lounge dining adventure.
A photo of Barbareño restaurant
5. Barbareño
4.8
Exceptional(1880)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 23 times today
Barbareño in Santa Barbara stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, masterfully blending locally-sourced ingredients with innovative culinary techniques. Patrons rave about the authenticity and creativity of the dishes, describing their dining experiences as "utterly delicious" with "innovative flavor combinations." Known for capturing the essence of Central Coast flavors, Barbareño impresses with dishes like the memorable Tri-tip and beans and the fresh Halibut caught in local waters served sashimi style. The restaurant is celebrated not just for its food but also for its ambiance and exceptional service, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of contemporary American fare in Santa Barbara.
A photo of Opal Restaurant & Bar restaurant
6. Opal Restaurant & Bar
4.8
Exceptional(1759)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 30 times today
Opal Restaurant & Bar in Santa Barbara is celebrated for its exceptional Fusion / Eclectic cuisine that creatively melds global influences with American regional flair. Dishes like the "delicious" Herb Grilled Filet Mignon and the unique Duck Confit Pizza showcase the kitchen's culinary prowess. Reviewers rave about the "amazing food" and the "outstanding" fresh bread, underscoring the quality and variety that Opal consistently delivers. Additionally, the attentive service and vibrant ambiance contribute to a dining experience that is both "perfect" and memorable. As one enthusiastic diner put it, Opal is "the best bang for your buck if you want a refined but laid-back dinner." This gem of Santa Barbara continues to impress locals and visitors alike with its blend of innovation and tradition in every dish.
A photo of Toma Restaurant & Bar restaurant
7. Toma Restaurant & Bar
4.8
Exceptional(5494)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 36 times today
Toma Restaurant & Bar in Santa Barbara is a treasure trove of Mediterranean flavors, delighting diners with its authentic Italian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Located along the scenic Cabrillo Blvd, this waterfront bistro offers a romantic ambiance and a menu that celebrates Santa Barbara's seasonal bounty. Reviewers rave about the "best seafood pasta" and praise the freshness of ingredients, highlighting the "tuna cones appetizer" and "rigatoni with spicy sausage" as must-tries. The glowing testimonies underscore not only the quality but also the authenticity, with one guest noting it’s the "best Italian we've had outside of Italy." Whether it's the handcrafted cocktails or the attentive service, Toma consistently provides a culinary experience that is both delightful and distinctly Mediterranean.
A photo of Arnoldi's Cafe restaurant
8. Arnoldi's Cafe
4.7
Exceptional(763)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 12 times today
At Arnoldi's Cafe, the oldest Italian restaurant in Santa Barbara, the essence of authentic Italian cuisine is celebrated with every dish served. Nestled conveniently in the heart of Santa Barbara, this gem offers a culinary journey with its "delicious and well-crafted" dishes that resonate with the heritage of Italian cooking. Diners rave about the "perfect" Chicken Parmesan and the "rich and hearty" lasagna, highlighting the quality and comfort of their meals. The restaurant is not only lauded for its food but also for its vibrant ambiance, featuring two bocce courts and a picturesque patio for an immersive dining experience. Arnoldi's is a cherished venue where every meal is a festivity and "every visit is a blast," making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian fare in a delightful setting.
A photo of Lilac Montecito restaurant
9. Lilac Montecito
4.7
Exceptional(144)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Montecito
Booked 9 times today
Lilac Montecito, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Montecito in Santa Barbara, epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its innovative and health-conscious menu. Praised for its "exceptional food that just happens to be gluten-free," this restaurant offers a delightful fine dining experience that caters to all, regardless of dietary constraints. Guests rave about the freshness of dishes like the "perfectly cooked Branzino" and the creative "Yellowtail Crudo starter." The ambiance is described as "first class," with an atmosphere that complements its high-quality meals. Lilac Montecito stands out not just for its dedication to gluten-free options but for its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients, making it a culinary gem in California's dining scene.
A photo of LOCAL Montecito restaurant
10. LOCAL Montecito
4.7
Exceptional(270)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Montecito
Booked 18 times today
LOCAL Montecito is a gem in the heart of Montecito, celebrated for its mastery of Contemporary American cuisine. The restaurant's commitment to local ingredients shines through in dishes that are both innovative and bursting with flavor. Guests rave about the "insanely good" Ahi Crudo and the perfectly cooked Branzino and Lamb Bolognese, highlighting the restaurant's ability to elevate classic American dishes with a modern twist. The ambiance, featuring enchanting outdoor seating with heated patios and a firepit, complements the culinary experience, making LOCAL a must-visit for those seeking exceptional food in a vibrant, welcoming setting. According to one glowing review, it's the "BEST RESTAURANT IN SANTA BARBARA," where the inventive seasonings and fresh, high-quality ingredients leave a memorable impression, ensuring every meal is a celebration of contemporary American excellence.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • terreVIP
    California Central Coast •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Absolutely one of our favorite places to dine in Santa Barbara. Their menu has something for everyone. Great prices and a nice selection of wines. Located in the heart of downtown.
    More info
    Opal Restaurant & BarPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    •
    4.8
  • CynthiaVIP
    California Central Coast •49 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    I have Christmas lunch with my dear sister & our 95 dear Mom every year…..we had a great experience at the Finch & Fork this year. Wonderful attentive server, Jamey & most delicious food. Thank you!
    More info
    Finch & ForkPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Barbara
    •
    4.6
  • JohnnyVIP
    California Central Coast •77 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Great experience at Intermezzo. Staff was very accommodating over a few dietary restrictions and the food was delicious. Shrimp pasta was excellent as was the Filet Mignon with pepper cream sauce. We will be back again. Definitely recommend.
    More info
    Intermezzo By Wine CaskPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    •
    4.7
  • Neysa
    California Central Coast •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Bouchon provided a meaningful and special dining experience. All staff were polite and attentive, food was expertly prepared and absolutely delicious, and the atmosphere was pleasant, especially with holiday music playing in the background. Santa Barbara is fortunate to have this treasure!
    More info
    Bouchon - Santa BarbaraPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    •
    4.8
  • Brian
    California Central Coast •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 14, 2024
    The highlight of our meal was the lamb Al pastor with fermented corn flatbread. Flavors on point. Staff was friendly and knowledgeable in food and beverage. Very attentive to our table. Excellent atmosphere! Will be back!
    More info
    BarbareñoPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    •
    4.8

Discover best Californian restaurants in Santa Barbara

Discover the essence of Californian cuisine along the scenic Central Coast in Santa Barbara, where diverse dining options capture the local flavor with a creative twist. Santa Barbara's restaurant scene thrives on its ability to blend fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with innovative culinary techniques, offering an array of dining experiences that cater to both casual diners and gourmet enthusiasts. From intimate bistros tucked away in historic landmarks to vibrant, beachfront eateries, each establishment presents a unique interpretation of Californian and Mediterranean influences, complemented by extensive wine lists featuring regional favorites. The dining ambiance ranges from the rustic charm of family-friendly spots to the sophisticated elegance of oceanfront venues, ensuring an unforgettable culinary journey for every palate. Notably, the commitment to using fresh produce and sustainable seafood is evident across these restaurants, enhancing each dish's freshness and flavor. Embrace the local dining culture where quality and creativity meet, making Santa Barbara a must-visit destination for food lovers exploring the richness of Californian cuisine.

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