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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Goleta

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6 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Timber's Restaurant restaurant
1. Timber's Restaurant
4.4
Awesome(123)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Goleta
Booked 5 times today
Timber's Restaurant is an American food outlet which serves fast-food as well as seafood options. The restaurant has a sunny ambience and classic interiors which are very relaxing. The waiting staff at the restaurant is very friendly and cooperative. Timber's Restaurant offers live music for entertainment as well as television and free Wi-Fi. It is a good place to dine at with family and friends (child friendly atmosphere). Timber's Restaurant has a full alcohol bar and serves delicious food. Some of the popular cuisine options include steaks, grilled varieties, burgers, sandwiches, fried chicken, pizza, nachos and tacos. The restaurant also serves mouthwatering dessert options and non-alcoholic beverages.
A photo of Angel Oak restaurant
2. Angel Oak
4.4
Awesome(1269)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steak • Santa Barbara
Booked 23 times today
The signature fine dining restaurant located at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, Angel Oak brings elevated California coastal cuisine to the perfect venue. The oceanfront restaurant offers a California Coastal steakhouse menu curated by Chef Diego Seitour.Complementing the Angel Oak dining experience is a premier cocktail program and exclusive wine cellar that houses the restaurant's 5,000-bottle collection. Marriott Bonvoy Members can earn points when staying with us. Please enroll here: https://www.joinmarriottbonvoy.com/uscanqr/s/EN/ch/sbarzFor parties with 8 guests or more a 26% service charge fee will be added to your final bill. For all guests there will be an 8.75% California State tax added to the final bill.
A photo of Finch & Fork restaurant
3. Finch & Fork
4.6
Exceptional(1755)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Barbara
Booked 25 times today
Here at Finch & Fork, we are inspired by the bounty of Santa Barbara's lush farms and rugged coastline. Our attitude is relentlessly local, influenced by the diverse culinary techniques of our neighbors, the subdued, natural colors of our fog-swept cliffs, and the glow of afternoon sunlight on our grapevines. Begin your day with a nourishing brunch or savor an evening of eclectic wines, ingredient-driven cooking, and good company. Finch & Fork is conveniently located on the corner of Carrillo and Chapala streets in the heart of Santa Barbara’s vibrant downtown. Complimentary valet parking for diners upon availability.
A photo of Ca' Dario Ristorante restaurant
4. Ca' Dario Ristorante
4.7
Exceptional(1792)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Booked 20 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 Chase Restaurant restaurant
5. Chase Restaurant
3.6
Very Good(792)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Chase Restaurant is a Santa Barbara gem, offering a classic Italian dining experience since 1979. Customers rave about the superb food, with dishes like Chicken Piccata and Eggplant Parmigiana earning high praise. The atmosphere is described as warm and romantic, with an elegant decor. Reviews consistently highlight the excellent service and the excellent value for money. The restaurant is also commended for its global wine list and custom cocktails. It's definitely worth the drive!
A photo of Louie's California Bistro restaurant
6. Louie's California Bistro
3.9
Excellent(729)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Barbara
Booked 1 time today
Intimate and exclusive due to it's limited seating, Louie’s California Bistro has long been touted as one of Santa Barbara's favorite local secrets. Unconcerned with flashy food trends, the focus at Louie's has always been to take local ingredients and make them shine, often through classic style cooking and recipes. Add in Central Coast wines and a table on the historic wrap around veranda and you have the makings for a truly enjoyable dining experience. Louie's resides within a local landmark: The Upham Hotel. The Upham, built in 1871, is California's longest continuously operating hotel and is one of Santa Barbara's oldest buildings, having survived the earthquake of 1925.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Fredvip
    Los Angeles •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We make it a point to visit SY Kitchen every time we’re in Santa Ynez. While most of our experiences have been enjoyable, our most recent visit on November 19th—coincidentally our 42nd anniversary—was truly exceptional. I savored one of the best vodka martinis I’ve had in years at the bar. The service was outstanding, with our server demonstrating professionalism, attentiveness, and a friendly demeanor. Each course was timed perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience. The food was exemplary, and the manager went above and beyond by checking on us three times to ensure everything met our expectations. It does leave us wondering, though—why is Nella Kitchen, under the same ownership, such a stark contrast in quality and service?
    More info
    SY KitchenPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Ynez Valley
    •
    4.9
  • Bill
    San Diego •19 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Nov 3, 2024
    I really enjoyed the location and atmosphere. There is history behind the structure. Read the menu. The food was prepared well. I will definitely plan another trip there when I can.
    More info
    Timber's RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Goleta
    •
    4.4
  • 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
    •
    3.6

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Goleta

Explore the vibrant dining scene of California's Central Coast, specifically in Santa Barbara and Goleta, where a selection of restaurants truly makes them "worth the drive." These dining spots capture the essence of the local culinary spirit, offering diverse menus that range from sophisticated gourmet options to comforting classics. Each restaurant in this carefully curated list stands out for its commitment to quality, innovative cuisine, and exceptional service, ensuring a memorable dining experience. The region itself is renowned for its scenic beauty and agricultural bounty, which is reflected in the fresh, locally-sourced ingredients featured in many of the dishes. Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a traveler eager to explore regional flavors, these restaurants promise to deliver not just a meal, but a journey through Santa Barbara and Goleta's rich gastronomic landscape. This selection is perfect for those looking to enhance their culinary adventures in a setting that is as extraordinary as the food.

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