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Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Santa Barbara

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5 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Intermezzo By Wine Cask restaurant
1. Intermezzo By Wine Cask
4.8
Exceptional(1767)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Santa Barbara
Booked 6 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara, Intermezzo by Wine Cask stands out as a pinnacle of Californian cuisine, infused with a delightful Mediterranean twist. Patrons consistently praise its "fabulous food" and the "wonderful Alaskan halibut and new filet Mignon dish," testament to the innovative culinary spirit of Executive Chef Mossin Sugich. The restaurant's atmosphere is frequently highlighted as a major draw, with reviews noting the "beautiful outdoor courtyard" and the "high-end rock n roll in a modern classy setting." This local gem, beloved for its "killer pizza" and expertly curated wine list, delivers a dining experience that epitomizes the freshness and creativity expected of Californian fare. Whether it's the "best pizza" or the innovative "Filet 'John’s Way'", Intermezzo by Wine Cask captures the essence of California's rich gastronomic culture.
A photo of Toma Restaurant & Bar restaurant
2. Toma Restaurant & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(5470)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Santa Barbara
Booked 44 times today
Toma Restaurant & Bar in Santa Barbara is a treasure trove of Mediterranean flavors, delighting diners with its authentic Italian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Located along the scenic Cabrillo Blvd, this waterfront bistro offers a romantic ambiance and a menu that celebrates Santa Barbara's seasonal bounty. Reviewers rave about the "best seafood pasta" and praise the freshness of ingredients, highlighting the "tuna cones appetizer" and "rigatoni with spicy sausage" as must-tries. The glowing testimonies underscore not only the quality but also the authenticity, with one guest noting it’s the "best Italian we've had outside of Italy." Whether it's the handcrafted cocktails or the attentive service, Toma consistently provides a culinary experience that is both delightful and distinctly Mediterranean.
A photo of Goat Tree Restaurant restaurant
3. Goat Tree Restaurant
4.0
Excellent(452)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Santa Barbara
Booked 1 time today
Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, just a stone's throw from the beach, Goat Tree Restaurant is a Mediterranean gem celebrated for its authentic and vibrant flavors. This culinary haven is renowned for crafting dishes with a Mediterranean flair, like the sumptuous Shakshuka and the delectable Faroe Island Salmon, which one reviewer hailed as "possibly the best salmon dish we've ever been presented." Guests rave about the "amazing" lemon ricotta pancakes and the freshness of the ingredients, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to quality. The charming al fresco seating and the restaurant's proximity to the Funk Zone add to its allure, making Goat Tree a must-visit for anyone craving a true taste of the Mediterranean in Santa Barbara.
A photo of Convivo restaurant
4. Convivo
4.7
Exceptional(2124)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Santa Barbara
Booked 26 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 Terra at The Steward Hotel restaurant
5. Terra at The Steward Hotel
4.1
Excellent(37)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Goleta
Booked 2 times today
Indulge in food that nourishes and delights at Terra, located inside The Steward Hotel in Santa Barbara. Experience organic and local California cuisine for breakfast and dinner. Local legend celebrates The Steward’s location as the originator of avocado toast. Lunch items are available at our marketplace, perfect for enjoying a picnic in a lush garden setting.Executive Chef Augusto Caudillo brings a wealth of culinary expertise and local knowledge to the heart of Santa Barbara. Graduating from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, he honed his skills in various kitchens, including Fess Parker Wine Country Inn and Lucky’s Steakhouse. Caudillo's passion for food began at a young age, growing amid a large family where meals were a cornerstone of connection and memory-making. Drawing inspiration from both Californian and Mediterranean traditions, Caudillo's dishes offer a tantalizing blend of aesthetics and nutrition — a testament to his love of crafting memorable experiences.

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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 3 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
  • Michael
    California Central Coast •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Charming, smaller restaurant across the street from the beach. Excellent food. Good service. Highly recommended. Popular with the locals.
    More info
    Toma Restaurant & BarPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Barbara
    •
    4.7
  • Barbaravip
    California Central Coast •28 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 14 Nov 2024
    Outstanding, as always. The food was wonderful - the oysters Rockefeller are just so delicious. I wish they would add another slice or two to the bread we ordered. Two pieces for two people - one piece per person - is a little skimpy. The wine list is wonderful and the cocktails, perfect! And the service couldn't have been more spot on. Than you Mia - you are delightful. We will be back soon.
    More info
    Intermezzo By Wine CaskPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    •
    4.8
  • Randi
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •50 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 12 Nov 2024
    Would definitely recommend this restaurant. Pizza was great and special seasonal fish entree was shared among three of us. Fish was spectacular. Great wine list too. Service was excellent. Very beautiful restaurant interior and outdoor patio spectacular (we had breakfast on the patio the next morning). Best restaurant breakfast- food was very fresh and well-prepared.
    More info
    ConvivoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Barbara
    •
    4.7
  • Jim
    San Francisco Bay Area •54 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on 3 Oct 2024
    We've eaten here a few times, and the service and food are always good. Yes, it's a casual place and the menu is somewhat limited, but everything is fresh, well prepared and the staff makes sure everything is exactly right I had the chicken salad which had EVERYTHING in it and my wife had the turkey sandwich which was piled high with meat and vegies. The wine selection was good and fairly priced. I would recommend the goat tree for lunch or a casual dinner. (yes, they have heaters if it gets cold and you're seating outside)
    More info
    Goat Tree RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara
    •
    4

Discover best Mediterranean restaurants in Santa Barbara

Explore the vibrant Mediterranean dining scene along the California Central Coast in Santa Barbara, where culinary excellence meets scenic beauty. Renowned for its diverse and flavorful Mediterranean options, this region offers a delightful array of restaurants that skillfully blend local ingredients with traditional Mediterranean techniques. Each establishment emphasizes sustainability, utilizing fresh, locally sourced produce and seafood, ensuring a taste of the region in every bite. The dining experience in Santa Barbara is enhanced by picturesque settings—from ocean views to cozy, chic interiors—that promise an unforgettable ambiance. Patrons can expect not only a feast for the tastebuds but also an engaging atmosphere that makes each meal a special occasion. Whether you're craving an intimate dinner by the waterfront or a lively family-style gathering, Santa Barbara's Mediterranean eateries provide a unique culinary journey that catifies both residents and visitors alike. The overall dining scene in Santa Barbara is a testament to the area's commitment to high-quality, memorable meals, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

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