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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Santa Barbara

American food and cocktails

You want a classic American meal paired with a well-made cocktail.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Rodeo Room image 1
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Cocktail bar

Small cocktail bar with speakeasy vibe and 1930s decor offers an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Popular music plays while guests enjoy artisanal mixology and late-night food options. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio.

Chicken wings stand out as a highlight here. The menu also features buffalo chicken egg rolls, meatballs, and a burger, all prepared well. Fried chicken and waffles are good but not exceptional.

Cocktails here are premium and consistently on point. Drinks like the Laid Back cocktail come across as fresh and inspiring.

People are saying

"The food here is really impressive and not just typical bar food."

"I found the cocktails here to be fantastic and inspiring."

"The American food, especially the chicken wings, is fantastic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with special deals.

2

The kitchen stays open until 11pm for late-night dining.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for quick service.

02
Brass Bear Uptown image 1

Brewpub offers mountain views from both indoor and outdoor patio seating, creating a laid-back, warm atmosphere. A dedicated family zone with a play area keeps children entertained while adults enjoy crafted cocktails and local beers. The space balances casual dining with scenic relaxation, making it suitable for both brunch and private events.

Grilled cheese features two-year aged cheddar, Jack, and Parmesan for a buttery, toasty, and savory bite. French fries come loaded with tender, flavorful meat. The hamburger is pricey but delicious, and the mac and cheese with lobster stands out as fantastic.

Crafted cocktails feature Maple Leaf, Espresso Martini, and guava mojito options. Specialty drinks like the skinny marg serve well for events and casual sipping by the fireplace nook.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing; Emily helped bring my vision to life."

"The specialty cocktails were big crowd pleasers."

"The American Food here, especially the grilled cheese, is a total wow factor."

Good to know

1

Brass Bear Uptown is suitable for hosting private events and weddings.

2

They only offer valet parking, and street parking is limited.

3

Happy hour runs at specific times, which can be confusing.

03
Brass Bear Funk Zone image 1

Outdoor seating with cozy patio, vegetation surroundings, and dog-friendly areas creates a relaxed vibe. Live music and mid-2000s rap and R&B add to the fun atmosphere. Family-friendly features include a supervised play area and games for all ages.

Grilled cheese sandwiches stand out with gourmet meat options like tritip and the Funk Zone style. Pairing them with homemade hot sauces and beers adds a solid flavor boost.

Mezcal margarita and paper plane stand out as signature cocktails. Drinks include mezcal and tequila options, with special and unique cocktails crafted on request.

People are saying

"The beer here is always amazing, especially the IPAs."

"You have to try their grilled cheese; it's amazing."

"The specialty cocktails here were excellent and delicious."

Good to know

1

Public parking is available behind the brewery, but it may require a fee.

2

Brass Bear Funk Zone is family-friendly with a fenced area for kids' activities.

3

Reservations are recommended for hosting events, especially for larger groups.

04
Holdren's Steaks & Seafood image 1

Old-school steakhouse with dark leather decor and a dimly lit, tight interior featuring a large bar and booths. Atmosphere is vibrant and lively, often loud with TVs but no obnoxious music. Outdoor seating offers a comfortable patio ideal for people watching.

Mac and cheese comes with butter shells and a light cheese sauce, not thick or goopy. The Cobb salad stands out as fresh and well-balanced. Main dishes include Mesquite Grilled Salmon with garlic mashed potatoes and BBQ Baby Back Ribs with a baked potato.

Perfect cocktails come with a mix of good flavors and balance. They pair well with appetizers and steaks, adding to the overall great atmosphere.

People are saying

"I had a steak, and it was perfectly cooked."

"The cocktails here were perfect."

"The American Food ribs here just fell off the bone."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 8pm daily.

2

Special entrees for $21 available during early bird seating from 4-6pm.

3

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

05
Tee-Off Restaurant and Lounge image 1

Old school pub with dim lighting and leather booths creates a casual, relaxed vibe. Noise levels vary from quiet to very loud depending on crowd size and events. Frequented by diners seeking classic cocktails and hearty American fare in a nostalgic steakhouse setting.

Prime rib stands out with its medium rare, tender, and juicy qualities, often served on the bone in generous portions. Other American dishes include a Bacon Bleu Burger, Fried Chicken, Pork Chop, and Sirloin Steak, all prepared with care and flavor.

Classic cocktails come in a vast menu with a solid wine list. The setting includes old school leather booths that add to the vibe.

People are saying

"The Prime Rib was cooked to perfection, tender, juicy, and flavorful."

"The prime rib here is tender, juicy, and flavorful."

"You'll love the vast cocktail menu here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekend nights.

2

All-you-can-eat prime BBQ ribs night is on Wednesdays for just over $20.

3

Happy hour at Tee-Off Restaurant and Lounge runs on Fridays with discounted drinks.

06
Harry's Plaza Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Spacious American restaurant with old-school steakhouse vibe and red leather booths creates a retro speakeasy atmosphere. Energy stays lively with a classic full bar serving strong martinis and cocktails. Crowd leans toward retirees and families enjoying a traditional, comfortable setting.

Prime rib stands out with perfect cooking and rich flavor. Fried chicken on Fridays is crispy without excess grease. Clam chowder comes in a sourdough bread bowl, and meatloaf specials appear at lunch.

Cocktails come with very generous pours and pack a strong punch, often equal to about four normal drinks. They serve potent, stiff cocktails that stand out for their strength.

People are saying

"It's got this cool, old-school vibe with classic red booths."

"I loved the all-you-can-eat deal for under a dollar."

"You get really generous, stiff cocktails here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups.

2

The all-you-can-eat deal is available for under a dollar.

3

The cafe has a private back room suitable for large gatherings.

07
Rare Society image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse offers a beautifully decorated interior with a dog-friendly outdoor patio that brings lively energy. The atmosphere is loud and vibrant, not suited for quiet or intimate dining. Guests enjoy excellent steak and bourbon selections alongside creative cocktails.

Philly cheesesteak stands out with its out of this world delicious taste and shines during happy hour. Fried chicken also impresses as the best fried chicken around.

Great recommendations and knowledgeable staff make the cocktails stand out. Drinks are super yummy and well crafted.

People are saying

"The steak here was cooked very well and tasted buttery."

"The cocktails here were excellent and solid."

"The American Food here, especially the steaks, is delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Oysters are $1 each on Mondays, a great deal for seafood lovers.

08
Honor Bar image 1
New American restaurant

Outdoor patio with Adirondack chairs and fireplace creates a cozy, elegant vibe. Atmosphere blends timeless charm with lively social energy, especially during busy times. Space attracts a well-dressed crowd who enjoy people watching and casual yet refined gatherings.

Prime rib French dip sandwiches come with Au jus and usually hit the right doneness. Burgers and fried chicken sandwiches stand out, often paired with their house coleslaw that adds a crisp touch.

Cocktails come expertly crafted with options like the Jackrabbit and a carefully prepared Martini. Sitting by the fireplace adds a cozy vibe while the manager offers personalized recommendations.

People are saying

"I thought the burger was truly excellent, juicy, and well-balanced."

"I thought the cocktails were great, especially the Jackrabbit."

"The burgers and prime rib French dip are amazing American Food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours to avoid long waits.

2

Parking in Lower Montecito can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Expect a waiting line for the bar area during busy times.

09
The Anchor Rose image 1
Restaurant

Harbor views dominate the setting with outdoor patios and a balcony overlooking boats and paddle boards. Music often plays live, creating a loud atmosphere that can clash with the otherwise joyful vibe. Indoor and patio seating offer options for enjoying the scenic waterfront.

Clam chowder stands out with a bread bowl that gets high marks, though its seafood flavor varies. Baby back ribs and sirloin steak come with well-cooked vegetables and get consistent praise.

Great cocktails pair well with fresh shrimp and perfectly cooked calamari. The spot suits a romantic sunset with a drink and appetizer.

People are saying

"The steak and scallops at these dinner spots were cooked to perfection."

"The American Food seafood pasta here is amazing."

"You can enjoy cocktails with great harbor views from the rooftop."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily with discounted drinks and food.

2

Reservations are not required and no upfront fees are needed for group bookings.

3

The restaurant is dog friendly, allowing pets in certain areas.

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