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Top picks in Santa Barbara

Bar lunch spots

A midday break at a bar provides a quiet transition between the morning and the rest of the day.

Based on 592 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Brass Bear Uptown image 1
Brass Bear Uptown image 2
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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.

Outdoor patio offers unobstructed mountain views with a full bar and a good selection of craft beers and wines. High backed bar seats provide comfortable spots to enjoy drinks.

Lunch features Brass burgers and churros for dessert. The spot suits casual gatherings like graduation lunches.

People are saying

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

"The bar staff were all amazing and very helpful."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot were so attentive and kind."

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.

02
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.

Atmosphere feels like an old-time bar with classic NYC style vibes. The bar serves strong drinks and offers a charming, tavern-style setting with big portions.

Lunch offers a variety of hearty options like Meatloaf Special, spaghetti with meatballs, and Cobb salad. The spot also serves Martini lunches alongside satisfying soups and garlic bread.

People are saying

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

"I had a great lunch here; everything was delicious."

"The bar service here is really friendly and attentive."

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.

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.

Offers a diverse drink selection beyond the usual wine focus nearby. Provides options for a half or full bar and allows venue booking for events.

Lunch hours offer a relaxed vibe with fewer crowds on weekdays. Saturdays bring a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying beers alongside your meal.

People are saying

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

"The staff's service and drinks were incredible."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is great 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
Dargan's image 1
Irish pub

Brick-walled interior with authentic Irish decor creates a warm, lively atmosphere. Multiple seating areas include a bar with pool tables and a quieter dining section, separated by a sliding door. Frequented by friendly patrons, the place fills with noise during sports events shown on numerous TVs, offering traditional Irish drinks and meals.

Warm, brick-walled interior with a Guinness for Strength mural creates an authentic Irish pub vibe. The bar offers a wide variety of Irish brews and serves traditional meals like Bangers & Mash and Shepherd's Pie. It gets lively late on weekends with a packed, rocking atmosphere.

Lunch offers a quiet atmosphere with few patrons during late hours. Staff aim to serve quickly, fitting meals into a 30-minute break window.

People are saying

"This pub serves delicious, authentic Irish food and hearty stews."

"This bar offers an authentic Irish pub experience with traditional food."

"This lunch spot has fresh and tasty food."

Good to know

1

Karaoke takes place on Thursday nights starting at 10pm.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with drink and appetizer specials.

3

The pub offers traditional Irish music and dancing on Thursday evenings.

05
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.

Quick and excellent service keeps the bar moving even when busy. The atmosphere draws a crowd looking to snack, sip, and be seen, with standout items like the fried chicken sandwich and chicken salad.

Excellent sandwiches and delicious lunch fare make this a reliable spot for a midday meal. The service is top-notch, and it works well for a late lunch to avoid crowds.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's crispy chicken sandwich is amazing."

"I've never had a French Dip this good; the meat was like butter."

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.

06
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.

Open rooftop bar welcomes dogs and offers great harbor views. Bartender Billy provides awesome service.

Lunch offers a good selection from the regular menu, with entrees suitable for happy hour, lunch, or dinner. Service by Billy adds to a pleasant, casual experience.

People are saying

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

"Billy at the bar was awesome."

"Billy made the lunch experience an absolute pleasure."

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.

07
Moby Dick Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers gorgeous marina views and ample indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is laid-back and family-friendly, with outdoor areas shaded and comfortable. Music and a small TV add to the casual vibe, making it suitable for both casual meals and romantic dates.

Seating at the bar offers a perfect view of the oyster bar and the ocean from the pier. The menu is concise with tasty food that is reasonably priced, and the staff is very friendly.

Lunch offers excellent dishes that invite repeat visits. Tables are available quickly even for a late lunch, making it easy to enjoy a good meal without waiting.

People are saying

"The sunset view from the restaurant was amazing."

"This lunch spot has amazing views of the water."

"The bar seating has a perfect view of the ocean."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from 3 pm to 5 pm with affordable appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers 90 minutes of free parking for diners.

3

Outdoor seating is not accessible during lunch hours.

08
La Cantina Bar & Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with indoor/outdoor seating and multiple TVs showing football creates a lively, sports-friendly atmosphere. The space combines heated patios and a cool bar vibe, attracting families and sports fans alike. Fresh, welcoming environment features beautiful decor and a casual, local cantina feel.

A full bar offers more than just beer and wine, serving beautiful cocktails that taste amazing. The spot has a cool bar vibe and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Lunch service runs with just a waiter and manager on Saturdays, which makes it slow. Plans exist to return for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are beautiful and taste amazing."

"The food here is artfully displayed and tantalizes the taste buds."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was friendly and good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is daily from 3:00-5:30 pm with a special menu.

2

The restaurant offers gluten-free options, but check with staff for preparation.

3

Parking is available in the Vons shopping center lot.

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