Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. California Central Coast

Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Santa Barbara

Price
Regions
Areas
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating options
Accessibility

3 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Olio e Limone Ristorante restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2544)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Santa Barbara
Booked 28 times today
Olio e Limone Ristorante, nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara's vibrant ARTS District, is a gem for those seeking authentic and artisanal Italian cuisine. Co-owned by Alberto and Elaine Morello, this restaurant epitomizes the essence of Italian cooking with its philosophy of using simple, high-quality ingredients. The menu features exquisite dishes like house-made duck ravioli and Sicilian spaghetti with bottarga, praised for their sophisticated simplicity. Patrons rave about their experiences, highlighting the "simply sophisticated" Italian fare and exceptional service. One diner celebrated, "This is without a doubt, the best Italian restaurant in the Santa Barbara area." From the inviting atmosphere to the European hospitality, Olio e Limone ensures a memorable dining experience, reflecting the true spirit of Italian cuisine.
A photo of Convivo restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2132)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Santa Barbara
Booked 40 times today
Convivo in Santa Barbara is a true gem for those seeking a unique twist on Italian cuisine. Dubbed ‘Nomad Italian’ by Chef-Owner Peter McNee, Convivo offers a menu that, while infused with global influences, remains deeply rooted in Italian traditions. The restaurant is celebrated for its small plates, housemade pastas, and wood-fired pizzas, all of which showcase the freshest local produce and seafood. Patrons rave about the "amazing service and even better pizza" and the "delicious and creative" food, with one noting it as the "best Margarita Pizza I have ever tasted." Set in the picturesque Santa Barbara Inn with stunning ocean views, Convivo is not just a meal; it’s a spectacular dining experience where every dish tells a story of culinary excellence and innovation.
A photo of Thario's Kitchen restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(35)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Carpinteria
Booked 7 times today
Cosy European Restaurant Made with Love by the Pacific OceanOpening at 3:00 PM

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Constance
    New York City •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Excellent service and excellent food. Quiet, able to have wonderful conversation Will definitely recommend and dine again soon!
    More info
    Olio e Limone RistorantePrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Santa Barbara
    4.7
  • ClaireVIP
    Los Angeles •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    It was my second time dining at Convivo . We sat outside on the patio, which I highly recommend. You can see the ocean across the street with the Christmas lights it was very festive It was a continuous celebration for our anniversary. Our waiter was fabulous. He was extremely attentive and very friendly and professional. The food was absolutely delicious. I had their flatbread pizza which was super yummy and my husband had the steak which was delicious.  I will say that the inside of the restaurant has a little bit to be desired in atmosphere, but if you’re looking for extremely good food and wonderful service, we had that !!!! Sit on the patio ;-) 
    More info
    ConvivoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Barbara
    4.7
  • Daniel
    Los Angeles •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 13 Oct 2024
    Sat outside in the patio, great seating. Noise level very low; could sit and talk with family without difficulty. Service excellent, very attentive. The food took a little longer than expected to be served. Good quality made up for it. Highly recommend this retaurant to others.
    More info
    Thario's KitchenPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Carpinteria
    4.8

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Santa Barbara

Discover the charm of contemporary Italian cuisine along the scenic Central Coast of California in Santa Barbara. Renowned for its fusion of innovative and traditional Italian flavors, Santa Barbara offers a diverse array of dining options that cater to lovers of refined and artful culinary experiences. Each restaurant in this area showcases a unique twist on classic Italian dishes, incorporating local ingredients and creative cooking techniques to elevate every meal. From artisanal pasta dishes to expertly seasoned seafood, the menus reflect a deep respect for culinary craftsmanship. Santa Barbara itself is a vibrant dining destination, where the culinary scene is as dynamic as its beautiful coastal setting. Here, contemporary Italian eateries blend seamlessly with the laid-back, sophisticated atmosphere of the city, making it a perfect spot for both casual diners and gourmet enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner spot or a festive gathering place, Santa Barbara's Italian restaurants promise an unforgettable dining experience with every visit.

Explore OpenTable

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Impressum
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable International Ltd. Alphabeta Building, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo