7 of the Best Santa Barbara Restaurants
Do you consider yourself a foodie? Does the sound of sushi, tacos, pasta, or pizza make your mouth water? If so, bring a fork and your appetite to beautiful Santa Barbara, California. Located just 95 miles north of LA, this tiny beach town is home to an impressive restaurant scene – from old-school taquerias to luxurious French eateries. And since SB is situated in California’s Wine Country, you can pair your meal with the most delicious vino around! Here are our picks for the best Santa Barbara restaurants.
Some of the Best Santa Barbara Restaurants
1. Toma Restaurant & Bar
Consistently rated the #1 restaurant in the area, Toma serves up classic Italian cuisine with a fresh, modern twist. The historic building is located on West Cabrillo Boulevard and boasts romantic waterfront views that are perfect for date night. On the menu, you’ll find handcrafted flatbreads, pasta, seafood, and more, all made using locally-sourced ingredients. There’s even an extensive wine list to match.
2. Los Agaves
Enchiladas, chile relleno, and carne asada, oh my! Los Agaves Restaurant & Bar provides all of your Mexican favorites in a casual, hacienda-style space. There’s usually a line at all three Santa Barbara locations, but the wait is never very long. Once you’ve ordered at the counter, grab a table and enjoy fresh, hot tortilla chips alongside any of the 10 different options at their fresh salsa bar.
3. Bouchon Santa Barbara
If you’ve never had Californian-French cuisine, a trip to Bouchon is a must. This eatery utilizes organic, farm-fresh ingredients like fish from the Santa Barbara Channel and produce from the surrounding countryside. They also take into account how these flavors can be presented with local wines.
Pro Tip: Start your meal with a California farmstead cheese plate of three different kinds of cheese, served with housemade crackers, sliced apple, candied walnuts, and a dried fruit compote. You can thank us later!
4. Yoichi’s
Yoichi’s is a dining experience unlike any other. Patrons of this East Victoria Street restaurant are there for kaiseki – the upper echelon of Japanese eating. A multicourse meal is prepared in a pure and meticulous way to show off the true essence of each ingredient. You’ll find everything from wagyu beef and miso black cod to eel wrapped tofu on the menu.
5. The Lark
With talked-about food and an outdoor patio with a fireplace, it’s no surprise The Lark is one of the hardest reservations in town. This stunning new-age restaurant is situated smack in the heart of The Funk Zone, Santa Barbara’s artsiest neighborhood. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of shared platters and small plates, with ingredients derived from the farm, ranch, and ocean.
6. Brophy Bros
No trip to Santa Barbara is complete without fresh, locally-caught seafood. And that’s exactly what you’ll get at Brophy Bros! Grilled filets, hearty sandwiches, and sumptuous shellfish dominate the menu at this local hotspot. Whether you sit at the clam bar or grab a table outside, you’ll love the fun, lively atmosphere and beautiful views of the harbor. Don’t forget to order a bowl of Brophy’s New England clam chowder – it’s to die for!
7. Cajun Kitchen Cafe
Looking for a quick, casual place to dine? Head to the Cajun Kitchen for traditional Cajun-Creole fare. This bustling, family-owned eatery serves up comfort with bowls of gumbo, jambalaya, etouffée, and more. (Plus, it’s all super affordable!) Bring in the family for a hearty, delicious meal during your stay in SB.
Book Your Stay at the Cheshire Cat Inn
Now that you know about the best Santa Barbara restaurants, it’s time to start planning your trip! Our bed and breakfast is the perfect place to unwind after a day of indulging. You can reserve a guest room or suite in the Main House, Eberle House, or Coach House, or choose from one of our spacious cottages. You’ll even enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast and wine hour each day! To start your culinary adventure, check our availability and make your reservations. We look forward to having you!
