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Best Californian Restaurants in Santa Barbara

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12 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Intermezzo By Wine Cask restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1788)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 6 times today
Intermezzo by Wine Cask in Santa Barbara stands out as a beacon of quality American cuisine, infused with a delightful Mediterranean twist. Under the inspired guidance of Executive Chef Mossin Sugich, the restaurant crafts dishes that are both "fantastic" and "delicious," earning it rave reviews from diners. The cozy, romantic patio atmosphere is perfect for any occasion, from intimate dinners to festive celebrations. Guests frequently praise the "attentive service" and "excellent" food, noting the memorable flavors of their seasonal offerings. Whether you're indulging in a decadent brunch or savoring a meticulously prepared dinner, Intermezzo promises an "incredible experience" worth revisiting.
A photo of Finch & Fork restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1781)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 11 times today
Finch & Fork offers a remarkable Contemporary American dining experience in the heart of Santa Barbara, showcasing the best of local farms and coastline bounty. This charming establishment has earned high praise for its "delicious food with unique flavors" and "impeccable service," making it a standout choice for both locals and visitors. The menu is a testament to ingredient-driven cooking, delighting diners with dishes like the stellar mussels and divine scallops. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by the attentive manager and staff, ensures a memorable dining experience that "never disappoints." Finch & Fork is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of Barbareño restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1895)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 23 times today
Barbareño stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine in Santa Barbara, capturing the essence of Central Coast flavors with exceptional authenticity. The restaurant's dedication to showcasing local traditions and specialties is evident in every dish, making it a "not-to-be-missed local experience." Diners rave about the inventive and flavorful offerings, such as the succulent Santa Maria TriTip, which evokes nostalgic memories for many. Guests consistently praise the "fantastic food and the staff," highlighting the knowledgeable and attentive service that makes each visit unforgettable. Barbareño's commitment to quality ingredients and creative culinary artistry ensures a delightful dining experience that is both unique and memorable.
A photo of Blackbird restaurant
3.8
Excellent(171)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 2 times today
Nestled in Santa Barbara's vibrant Funk Zone, Blackbird excels in Lounge cuisine with a distinctive flair. Praised for a "memorable meal" experience, it combines inventive cocktails by the renowned Devon Espinosa with dishes that honor Central Coast's bounty. The restaurant’s ambiance, marked by striking brass fixtures, offers a captivating nod to Alfred Hitchcock’s timeless thrillers. Guests rave about the "beautifully presented" dishes and "friendly service," making it a standout choice for both casual outings and special occasions. Whether you're savoring the exquisite risotto or indulging in the famed mezcal cocktail "1925," Blackbird provides a culinary adventure not to be missed.
A photo of Bouchon - Santa Barbara restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(5449)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 25 times today
Bouchon in Santa Barbara is a beacon of authentic French cuisine, where "the food is unsurpassed" and embodies traditional French flavors with a modern twist. Their dedication to using "fresh, local ingredients" ensures that every dish is prepared with the utmost care and quality, making it a standout dining experience. Diners rave about the "spectacular duck" and the "amazing" French onion soup, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to excellence. With a relaxed, inviting ambiance and a wine list that expertly complements the cuisine, Bouchon is a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of France in California. Bon Appétit!
A photo of Opal Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1774)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 20 times today
Opal Restaurant & Bar in downtown Santa Barbara is a shining example of top-tier American cuisine with a delightful California twist. Praised for its "exceptional service" and "impeccable ambiance," this local favorite offers an eclectic menu that beautifully marries American Regional flavors with creative global influences. Standouts include the Herb-Grilled Ribeye Steak and the delightful Wild Mushroom Risotto. Diners rave about the "generous portions" and the award-winning wine list, further enhancing the dining experience. With its welcoming staff and consistently "delicious food," Opal Restaurant & Bar ensures every visit is a memorable celebration of American culinary excellence.
A photo of Toma Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5508)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 38 times today
Toma Restaurant & Bar, nestled along Santa Barbara's stunning waterfront, is a beacon of exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. This charming bistro is celebrated for its "outstanding" dishes that blend Italian and Mediterranean influences with fresh, local ingredients. Diners rave about the "fantastic" swordfish and "to die for" lasagna, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. The ambiance is described as "romantic" and "warm," with window-side tables offering enchanting views of the harbor. With a curated selection of local and Italian wines, Toma ensures a complete Mediterranean experience that is "better than any Italian meal" some have had in Italy itself.
A photo of Arnoldi's Cafe restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(767)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 7 times today
Arnoldi's Cafe in Santa Barbara masterfully blends authentic Italian flavors with the vibrant essence of Californian cuisine. Known for its "amazing food, service, and ambiance," this beloved local spot is a true testament to the culinary diversity that defines Californian dining. The menu is thoughtfully curated to highlight fresh, local ingredients, perfectly complementing its extensive selection of Italian and local wines. Diners rave about the "delicious meal" experiences, with standout dishes like the salmon and beef ravioli. Offering a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, Arnoldi's Cafe is not only a dining destination but a cherished community gem, making every visit memorable and delightful.
A photo of Lilac Montecito restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(152)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Montecito
Booked 7 times today
Lilac Montecito excels in Contemporary American cuisine by blending European and Californian influences with locally-sourced ingredients, crafting dishes that are both innovative and comforting. Diners rave about the "unmatched quality" of its offerings, highlighting the fresh, not overly processed food that is a hallmark of authentic Contemporary American dining. The Branzino, praised as "the best in town," and the standout cauliflower dish exemplify their commitment to flavor and quality. The entirely gluten-free menu is a testament to their inclusivity and creativity, ensuring all guests enjoy a "delicious and healthy" meal. With an inviting ambiance and attentive service, Lilac Montecito promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of LOCAL Montecito restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(274)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Montecito
Booked 7 times today
LOCAL Montecito shines as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, celebrated for its “superb” dishes that seamlessly blend local ingredients with innovation. Nestled in the heart of Montecito, the restaurant offers “delicious flavors” that repeatedly exceed expectations. Diners rave about the “fantastic cocktails” and standouts like the Yellowtail Crudo and Miso Salmon, which reflect both creativity and authenticity in their preparation. The inviting indoor-outdoor ambiance, enhanced by heated patios and a cozy firepit, provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. With attentive service and a menu that is “always pretty much perfect,” LOCAL Montecito is a must-visit culinary gem.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • JanetVIP
    San Diego •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Wonderful food, service and ambience. The menu is fantastic!!
    More info
    Opal Restaurant & BarPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • Judy
    Cincinnati / Dayton •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We had a great dinner at Barbareno. Fresh and creative ingredients, good wine, and great service in a cute cozy atmosphere! Both indoor and outdoor seating. Great for a date night or dinner with friends.
    More info
    BarbareñoPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • Marcia
    Los Angeles •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    The food was amazing! Both my boyfriend and I started with the onion soup, which was cheesy and savory. I had the duck which was tender and extremely flavorful. My boyfriend had the filet that was also tender and juicy with a great pepper sauce. We were both extremely full, but opted for a scoop of lemon berry ice cream which was a perfect way to end the meal.
    More info
    Bouchon - Santa BarbaraPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    4.9
  • Lisa MarieVIP
    Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •21 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Finch & Fork in Santa Barbara offers a vibrant and refined take on California cuisine, making it a standout spot for locals and visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of downtown, the restaurant blends a relaxed coastal vibe with modern elegance, perfect for everything from casual brunches to celebratory dinners. The menu is a true showcase of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their King Salmon, served with gigante beans, piquillo peppers, and marble potatoes, is a perfectly balanced dish that highlights the chef’s attention to detail. Equally impressive is the Short Rib Pappardelle Pasta, featuring tender braised short rib, wild mushroom soffritto, and a luscious touch of crème fraîche. The wine list is thoughtfully curated, offering a range of options to suit the diverse menu. Pairing recommendations from the attentive staff are spot-on, ensuring the meal is elevated to an unforgettable experience. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a mix of modern design and rustic touches that make the space both stylish and comfortable. Service is attentive and genuinely welcoming, creating an atmosphere where you can linger over a meal without feeling rushed. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a quality meal, Finch & Fork delivers on all fronts. It’s a gem in Santa Barbara’s culinary scene and well worth a visit.
    More info
    Finch & ForkPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Barbara
    4.5
  • ElizabethVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 28 Dec 2024
    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

Discover best Californian restaurants in Santa Barbara

Discover the essence of Californian cuisine along the scenic Central Coast in Santa Barbara, where diverse dining options capture the local flavor with a creative twist. Santa Barbara's restaurant scene thrives on its ability to blend fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with innovative culinary techniques, offering an array of dining experiences that cater to both casual diners and gourmet enthusiasts. From intimate bistros tucked away in historic landmarks to vibrant, beachfront eateries, each establishment presents a unique interpretation of Californian and Mediterranean influences, complemented by extensive wine lists featuring regional favorites. The dining ambiance ranges from the rustic charm of family-friendly spots to the sophisticated elegance of oceanfront venues, ensuring an unforgettable culinary journey for every palate. Notably, the commitment to using fresh produce and sustainable seafood is evident across these restaurants, enhancing each dish's freshness and flavor. Embrace the local dining culture where quality and creativity meet, making Santa Barbara a must-visit destination for food lovers exploring the richness of Californian cuisine.

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