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Best Romantic Restaurants in Santa Barbara

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16 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Intermezzo By Wine Cask restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1784)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 18 times today
Intermezzo by Wine Cask New Menu by Executive Chef Mossin SugichModern American cuisine with a Mediterranean twist
A photo of The Black Sheep SB Brasserie restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(718)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary French / American • Santa Barbara
Booked 33 times today
A locally owned and operated, modern-classic California-French Pub. We serve elevated, eclectic, locally sourced Cuisine paired with incredible wines and craft beer. We are NOW OPEN for SUNDAY BRUNCH 10am-1:30pm. Located in Old Town Santa Barbara on 18 East Cota Street, the building boasts a rich history of French restaurants and saloons dating back over a century. We are open for Dinner Wed-Sun from 5PM. We are known for our incredible family style tasting menu’s where multiple dishes are presented to your table for each course.
A photo of Chase Restaurant restaurant
3.4
Very Good(792)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Chase Restaurant is a romantic Italian eatery in Santa Barbara. With its classic elegant decor and intimate interior bar, it creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for romantic dinners. As one reviewer mentioned, 'Cutest little restaurant ever, always come here for date night/special occasions.' The restaurant's global wine list and custom cocktails complement the rich flavors of their classic Italian fare, adding to the romantic ambiance.
A photo of Toma Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5497)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Booked 34 times today
Toma Restaurant and Bar a waterfront bistro, located along Santa Barbara's picturesque Cabrillo Blvd. Experience Santa Barbara waterfront's most romantic restaurant. Savor exquisite Italian and Mediterranean inspired dishes from Santa Barbara's seasonal bounty, supporting our local fisherman, farmers, foragers and food artisans. Pour over local and Italian wines along with a full bar of handcrafted cocktails and spirits. Enjoy warm and attentive service while dining window side with a view of the enchanting Santa Barbara harbor.
A photo of Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2633)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Barbara
Booked 37 times today
The Stonehouse, located in a beautiful 19th-century citrus packing house, offers an unparalleled dining experience. Guests can unwind in a relaxing lounge with full bar service or enjoy the ambiance of the separate dining room, complete with a crackling fireplace and world-class views. Chef Matthew Johnson creates evocative regional cuisine, utilizing fresh herbs and vegetables from the Ranch’s organic chef’s garden. The Stonehouse boasts the only Grand Award-winning wine program in Central California, ensuring an unparalleled selection of wines to complement your meal. For a unique twist, visit the restaurant's speakeasy for before or after dinner drinks, where you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, nostalgic setting.
A photo of Bouchon - Santa Barbara restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5439)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 30 times today
Bouchon in Santa Barbara is a romantic restaurant that's perfect for an intimate evening. With its warm and inviting ambiance, excellent wines, and fresh, local ingredients, it creates a cozy, romantic vibe that reviewers have praised. The restaurant's French influence and beautiful Santa Barbara location add to its charm. One reviewer mentioned the restaurant's attention to special occasions, like anniversaries, which makes it a perfect choice for a romantic dinner.
A photo of Olio e Limone Ristorante restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2548)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Booked 31 times today
Olio e Limone Ristorante, located in downtown Santa Barbara's ARTS District, serves artisanal Italian cuisine. Meaning “oil and lemon” in Italian, their restaurant’s name reflects husband-wife team Alberto and Elaine Morello’s philosophy: rely on the integrity of the ingredients and quality of the preparation to provide Santa Barbara diners “simply sophisticated” Italian cuisine served in an inviting atmosphere with European hospitality. Start with eggplant souffle, then tuck into a plate of house made duck ravioli or Sicilian spaghetti with bottarga. And be sure to take home a bottle of their own olio, an organic extra-virgin olive oil made from Sicilian olive varieties. Bonus: their contemporary Italian breakfast, lunch & retail spot Olio Bottega, and authentic pizzeria next door at Olio Pizzeria. Private dining in the Cucina Room for up to 40 guests.
A photo of Ca' Dario Ristorante restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1807)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Booked 28 times today
"Anything grilled is divine, and the rest of the menu is delectable at this charming Italian restaurant in Santa Barbara known for its excellent execution of simple pasta, meats and other classics. A fantastic wine list with many available by the glass; its a local favorite, so reservations are a must."
A photo of The Harbor Restaurant restaurant
3.7
Very Good(30)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Santa Barbara
Booked 10 times today
International Coastal Cuisine with Local Ingredients. Located on Santa Barbara's famous Stearns Wharf, the Harbor Restaurant is a 12,850-square-foot establishment on two floors that can seat 500 guests. Valet parking is available during dinner service. The restaurant features upstairs casual dining with an outdoor ocean view patio while the downstairs features a proper bar with craft cocktails, an exceptional dining room with international dishes featuring local ingredients, and two private event spaces including an 80+ person room and a private dining room for 20 guests.
A photo of Arnoldi's Cafe restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(763)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Booked 15 times today
Oldest Italian restaurant in Santa Barbara! We have two bocce courts on our patio with outdoor dining. Lots of pasta, appetizers, salads, chicken dishes and homemade desserts...Italian wine and local wine on our wine list...indoor or outdoor seating. We are a true local's secret and kid friendly. Open for dinner 7 days a week! We also host rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, and large birthday parties.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • ElizabethVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I 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 info
    Intermezzo By Wine CaskPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    4.6
  • AdamVIP
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •88 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Wonderful Christmas evening meal—best ever! The prix-fix selections were spot-on and delicious. The service was far and above what is typical of dining out on a holiday; everyone involved at Black Sheep, from the hostess to each and every server made the experience special. Thanks Black Sheep for a great Christmas dining experience!
    More info
    The Black Sheep SB BrasseriePrice: Expensive• Contemporary French / American• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • DKxx
    Portland / Oregon •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We stumbled upon this charming restaurant on a layover night in Santa Barbara and were pleasantly impressed by the welcoming, friendly and professional staff. Impeccable service and a creative menu complemented by a well curated wine list.
    More info
    Toma Restaurant & BarPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • David
    California Central Coast •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    I 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 info
    Stonehouse at San Ysidro RanchPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • Lisa
    California Central Coast •52 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 13, 2024
    The Caesar Salad was fresh and the dressing was a tasty surprise. The Veal Milanese breading was crispy and paired nicely with the buttery, cheesy fettuccine. My friends both enjoyed their Spinach Ravioli and Pappardelle Vodka. Topped it off with us all sharing the Warm Lava Cake...delish!
    More info
    Chase RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Santa Barbara
    3.4

Discover best romantic restaurants in Santa Barbara

Discover the allure of Santa Barbara's romantic dining scene, nestled along the picturesque California Central Coast. Here, you’ll find a variety of eateries that specialize in creating the perfect ambiance for a romantic evening. Each restaurant boasts a unique charm, featuring settings that range from cozy, intimate interiors to breathtaking views that enhance the dining experience. The cuisine is as diverse as the scenery, with options that highlight fresh, local ingredients and menus crafted to complement the romantic atmosphere. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable night out, these restaurants cater to every desire with exceptional service and attention to detail. Santa Barbara's dining scene truly stands out by offering an enchanting blend of culinary excellence and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for lovers seeking a romantic getaway. Experience the magic of a romantic dinner in this idyllic coastal setting, where every meal is a celebration of love and gastronomy.

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