Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Santa Barbara
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- $30 and under
- $31 to $50
- $50 and over
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See what locals rave about
- GGeoffLondon •3 reviews5.0Dined 1 day agoTwelve of us (family and friends) had a Christmas Buffet celebration at Finch and Fork. The whole experience was exceptional. We were made to feel welcome by a very professional and friendly team who clearly wanted us to enjoy ourselves - which we did - and enjoy a wide selection of food offerings. The buffet stations were refreshed as needed and our table was comfortable and not squashed in at all. We requested some number changes in the run up to the 25th and were accommodated readily. We all felt that the buffet was great value at $110 for Christmas Day in Santa Barbara.More infoFinch & ForkPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Barbara•4.6
- CCharlotParisOrange County •1 review5.0Dined 3 days agoVery delicious food, great server named coke webt above and behind with his kindness and recommendations. Everything came out delicious. Will come back againMore infoBarbareñoPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara•4.8
- DDavidCalifornia Central Coast •1 review5.0Dined 3 days agoI had concerns due to reading a few reviews stating the food was overstated and some waiters could be rude, but that wasn’t our experience. The ambience, as most reviews share, was magical. I expected that, but wow, the food was incredible! The steak was literally the best I’ve ever had. They provided gluten free rolls that were also the best I’ve ever had. And the service was impeccable. One of my best dining experiences to date and thankfully so since it was our 20th wedding anniversary. 10/10!More infoStonehouse at San Ysidro RanchPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara•4.8
- JJodiCalifornia Central Coast •1 review5.0Dined on Nov 29, 2024I have always loved Roy restaurant as my family has been going there for many years. You know the food has to be good as the restaurant is still going since 1993. Roy gets his produce from the farmers market and prepares them so well. I bet his restaurant has lasted so long because he is there cooking in the kitchen. He provides a good variety of food from steak to seafood to Italian dishes. I love the potato cakes, he makes great purée soups, and yummy deserts. I went there for Thanksgiving dinner the place was full, the waitress was personable and we had a great meal and Roy made incredible cranberries. You can’t go wrong with whatever you order.More infoRoyPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara•3.8
- JJimSan Francisco Bay Area •54 reviews4.0Dined on Oct 3, 2024We've eaten here a few times, and the service and food are always good. Yes, it's a casual place and the menu is somewhat limited, but everything is fresh, well prepared and the staff makes sure everything is exactly right I had the chicken salad which had EVERYTHING in it and my wife had the turkey sandwich which was piled high with meat and vegies. The wine selection was good and fairly priced. I would recommend the goat tree for lunch or a casual dinner. (yes, they have heaters if it gets cold and you're seating outside)More infoGoat Tree RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara•4.4
Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Santa Barbara
Discover the essence of contemporary American cuisine along the scenic California Central Coast in Santa Barbara. Renowned for its innovative culinary scene, Santa Barbara offers a delightful array of dining experiences that creatively fuse local ingredients with American traditions. Each restaurant in this locale captures the fresh, vibrant flavors of the coast, emphasizing sustainable and locally-sourced produce that elevates every dish. The dining atmosphere across these establishments varies from casual and inviting to sophisticated and elegant, ensuring an option for every occasion and taste. From expertly crafted pastas and seafood to meticulously curated wine lists and artisan cocktails, the restaurants here promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Moreover, the region is praised for its excellent service and inviting ambiances, making it a prime destination for food enthusiasts. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Santa Barbara's contemporary American dining scene offers a unique blend of taste, creativity, and culinary excellence, making every meal a memorable experience.