Best Southern American Restaurants in Carpinteria

10 restaurants available nearby

1. Lucky's

4.8

Exceptional(2867)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Montecito

Booked 43 times today

Lucky's, located in the heart of Montecito, Santa Barbara, has firmly established itself as a premier Steakhouse destination. Renowned for its USDA Prime steaks, this restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience, with guests frequently praising the "best steaks and sides in the 805." Diners consistently celebrate not only the quality of the meat, which is always cooked to perfection, but also the cozy ambiance and the exceptional service that makes every visit memorable. One review glowingly states, "The best steakhouse on the west coast," highlighting both Lucky's culinary prowess and its vibrant atmosphere. Whether it's for a casual dinner or a special occasion, Lucky's promises an exceptional Steakhouse experience with every visit.

A photo of Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch restaurant

2. Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch

4.8

Exceptional(2587)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Santa Barbara

Booked 29 times today

Nestled in the scenic Santa Barbara, Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch offers a steak dining experience that is as exquisite as its surroundings. Renowned for its "outstanding" Steak Diane, the Stonehouse provides a culinary journey that guests describe as "magical" and "perfect." The steak's presentation is "fantastic and fun to watch," ensuring that each meal is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Coupled with the restaurant's Grand Award-winning wine program, every steak dish is perfectly complemented, enhancing the flavors and overall dining experience. Diners consistently praise the ambiance, service, and food, making Stonehouse a must-visit for steak lovers seeking a memorable meal in an enchanting setting.

3. Lilac Montecito

4.7

Exceptional(139)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Montecito

Booked 7 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.

4. Stella Mare's

4.8

Exceptional(2282)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Santa Barbara

Booked 31 times today

Stella Mare's, nestled between Montecito and Santa Barbara, stands out as a beacon of American cuisine excellence. Housed in a historic Victorian overlooking the Bird Refuge, it offers a unique blend of comfort and sophistication. Diners consistently rave about the authentic American flavors, with one guest mentioning, "the food was great, probably the best onion soup I have ever had" and another lauding the "wonderful service and great food." The ambiance is frequently described as "charming" and "quaint," perfect for any dining experience. Stella Mare's commitment to quality and authenticity in their American offerings makes it a must-visit destination in Santa Barbara.

5. LOCAL Montecito

4.7

Exceptional(261)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Montecito

Booked 13 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.

6. Anchor Rose

3.8

Excellent(86)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Santa Barbara

Booked 3 times today

Nestled on the picturesque Santa Barbara harbor, Anchor Rose is celebrated for its exceptional seafood offerings and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Diners rave about the freshness and authenticity of dishes like the Chile Rellenos con Camarones, with one patron exclaiming the shrimp were "firm and big," and the Sea Bass, described as "fantastic." Complementing its culinary delights, the restaurant's atmosphere is lauded for its laid-back, yet elegant vibe, making it a prime location for both locals and tourists. The seamless blend of superb service, top-notch seafood, and an inviting ambiance ensures Anchor Rose stands out as a premier dining destination in Santa Barbara.

7. San Ysidro Ranch

5.0

Exceptional(0)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Montecito

For over a century, San Ysidro Ranch has been a haven for those seeking tranquility amidst the captivating landscapes of Santa Barbara. This historic hideaway effortlessly weaves together natural beauty, romantic heritage, and classic luxury, welcoming discerning travelers to experience a retreat like no other. In the heart of this timeless escape, experience indulgence through Afternoon Tea, where an enticing array of tea sandwiches, seasonal scones, and house-made pastries promise to elevate your senses. As the day transitions to night, immerse yourself in a clandestine world within our speakeasy, where crafted cocktails and an intimate ambiance transport you to a bygone era. San Ysidro Ranch invites you to become part of its storied history, where the past meets the present in an atmosphere of natural beauty, culinary delights, and timeless moments.

A photo of Moby Dick Restaurant restaurant

8. Moby Dick Restaurant

4.4

Awesome(265)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Santa Barbara

Booked 2 times today

Nestled on the picturesque pier of Santa Barbara, Moby Dick Restaurant is a true gem for burger aficionados. While renowned for its fresh seafood, the burgers at Moby Dick stand out with their sizzling, juicy flavors, earning rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. Diners have praised the restaurant for its “excellent service” and the “great food," particularly highlighting the burger as a must-try item. With its stunning ocean views and a vibrant atmosphere, Moby Dick offers more than just a meal—it provides an exceptional dining experience where every burger bite is complemented by the breathtaking backdrop of Santa Barbara’s shoreline. Whether you’re craving a classic burger or something uniquely crafted, Moby Dick promises a memorable gastronomic journey.

A photo of Goat Tree Restaurant restaurant

9. Goat Tree Restaurant

4.0

Excellent(452)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Santa Barbara

Booked 1 time 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.

10. The Set

3.8

Excellent(10)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Santa Barbara

Booked 5 times today

Enjoy the ocean view and cozy up by the fire pits at Santa Barbara’s best sunset-watching spot. The Set serves a delightful selection of dishes and specialty cocktails for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Explore OpenTable

Carpinteria

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in Carpinteria

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

10 restaurants available nearby

1. Lucky's

2. Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch

3. Lilac Montecito

4. Stella Mare's

5. LOCAL Montecito

6. Anchor Rose

7. San Ysidro Ranch

8. Moby Dick Restaurant

9. Goat Tree Restaurant

10. The Set

Explore OpenTable