Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. California Central Coast

Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Santa Barbara

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

5 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Intermezzo By Wine Cask restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1783)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Santa Barbara
Booked 7 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 Toma Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5494)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Santa Barbara
Booked 34 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 Goat Tree Restaurant restaurant
4.4
Awesome(452)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Santa Barbara
Booked 6 times today
Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, just a stone's throw from the beach, Goat Tree Restaurant is a Mediterranean gem celebrated for its authentic and vibrant flavors. This culinary haven is renowned for crafting dishes with a Mediterranean flair, like the sumptuous Shakshuka and the delectable Faroe Island Salmon, which one reviewer hailed as "possibly the best salmon dish we've ever been presented." Guests rave about the "amazing" lemon ricotta pancakes and the freshness of the ingredients, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to quality. The charming al fresco seating and the restaurant's proximity to the Funk Zone add to its allure, making Goat Tree a must-visit for anyone craving a true taste of the Mediterranean in Santa Barbara.
A photo of Convivo restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2132)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Santa Barbara
Booked 40 times today
Convivo in Santa Barbara is a true gem for those seeking a unique twist on Italian cuisine. Dubbed ‘Nomad Italian’ by Chef-Owner Peter McNee, Convivo offers a menu that, while infused with global influences, remains deeply rooted in Italian traditions. The restaurant is celebrated for its small plates, housemade pastas, and wood-fired pizzas, all of which showcase the freshest local produce and seafood. Patrons rave about the "amazing service and even better pizza" and the "delicious and creative" food, with one noting it as the "best Margarita Pizza I have ever tasted." Set in the picturesque Santa Barbara Inn with stunning ocean views, Convivo is not just a meal; it’s a spectacular dining experience where every dish tells a story of culinary excellence and innovation.
A photo of Terra at The Steward Hotel restaurant
3.7
Very Good(37)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Goleta
Booked 4 times today
Indulge in food that nourishes and delights at Terra, located inside The Steward Hotel in Santa Barbara. Experience organic and local California cuisine for breakfast and dinner. Local legend celebrates The Steward’s location as the originator of avocado toast. Lunch items are available at our marketplace, perfect for enjoying a picnic in a lush garden setting.Executive Chef Augusto Caudillo brings a wealth of culinary expertise and local knowledge to the heart of Santa Barbara. Graduating from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, he honed his skills in various kitchens, including Fess Parker Wine Country Inn and Lucky’s Steakhouse. Caudillo's passion for food began at a young age, growing amid a large family where meals were a cornerstone of connection and memory-making. Drawing inspiration from both Californian and Mediterranean traditions, Caudillo's dishes offer a tantalizing blend of aesthetics and nutrition — a testament to his love of crafting memorable experiences.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Julia
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    My friend and I had an excellent experience! From the Ambiance, our amazing server to the delicious cocktails and the exquisite food! It was beyond our expectations! We’ll be back!
    More info
    SY KitchenPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Ynez Valley
    4.9
  • Kim
    West Palm Beach •38 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent service from the hostess to the bus person. Very low key, quiet, with delicious food and wine. My sister and I stayed at the Beachside Inn next door so this was a lovely way to end a day I’d sightseeing. We recommend the swordfish (special), seafood pasta, all of the salads, and the chocolate torte for dessert. Fantastic wine list.
    More info
    Toma Restaurant & BarPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • 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
  • ClaireVIP
    Los Angeles •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    It was my second time dining at Convivo . We sat outside on the patio, which I highly recommend. You can see the ocean across the street with the Christmas lights it was very festive It was a continuous celebration for our anniversary. Our waiter was fabulous. He was extremely attentive and very friendly and professional. The food was absolutely delicious. I had their flatbread pizza which was super yummy and my husband had the steak which was delicious.  I will say that the inside of the restaurant has a little bit to be desired in atmosphere, but if you’re looking for extremely good food and wonderful service, we had that !!!! Sit on the patio ;-) 
    More info
    ConvivoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Barbara
    4.7
  • Jim
    San Francisco Bay Area •54 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Oct 3, 2024
    We'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 info
    Goat Tree RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara
    4.4

Discover best Mediterranean restaurants in Santa Barbara

Explore the vibrant Mediterranean dining scene along the California Central Coast in Santa Barbara, where culinary excellence meets scenic beauty. Renowned for its diverse and flavorful Mediterranean options, this region offers a delightful array of restaurants that skillfully blend local ingredients with traditional Mediterranean techniques. Each establishment emphasizes sustainability, utilizing fresh, locally sourced produce and seafood, ensuring a taste of the region in every bite. The dining experience in Santa Barbara is enhanced by picturesque settings—from ocean views to cozy, chic interiors—that promise an unforgettable ambiance. Patrons can expect not only a feast for the tastebuds but also an engaging atmosphere that makes each meal a special occasion. Whether you're craving an intimate dinner by the waterfront or a lively family-style gathering, Santa Barbara's Mediterranean eateries provide a unique culinary journey that catifies both residents and visitors alike. The overall dining scene in Santa Barbara is a testament to the area's commitment to high-quality, memorable meals, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo