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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Barbara

Bars

A bar that feels like a destination in its own right, rather than just a place to wait for a table somewhere else.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
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01
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Small cocktail bar with 1930s decor offers an intimate, cozy vibe and premium cocktails. Guests enjoy artisanal mixology and dog-friendly patio seating. Service stays attentive even when packed, creating a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

A cozy dark bar with a 1930s vibe offers premium cocktails and impressive food beyond typical bar fare. Service stays attentive even when packed, and bartenders create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"The drinks here are fantastic and really creative."

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
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Old woody design and a tin ceiling create a cozy atmosphere with dim lighting. Friendly staff and lively energy make it welcoming, while classic cocktails and a limited menu featuring standout salmon complement the relaxed vibe. Occasional baseball and 80s music add to the charm.

A welcoming and vibrant atmosphere greets you with a lively vibe and friendly staff. The bar offers an impressive selection of well-priced cocktails alongside a solid food menu featuring standout dishes like salmon.

People are saying

"The bar staff is so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required for drop-in visits.

2

The bar is open late on weekends, making it a good late-night spot.

3

Expect a limited but well-prepared menu with a focus on quality.

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English-style dive bar offers a cozy atmosphere with three TVs showing soccer matches that draw lively crowds. Friendly bar staff serve a solid selection of draft beers including great English options. Outdoor seating and a dog-friendly policy make it welcoming for all.

An ornery bar keep keeps the good times flowing with a solid selection of draft beers and a great selection of English beers. The bar staff is the friendliest in town, making it easy to meet people and sit for hours without feeling the need to leave.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are the friendliest in town."

Good to know

1

The New Year's Eve celebration starts at 4pm Pacific Time.

2

Expect large crowds on weekend nights, especially during events.

3

Drinks are reasonably priced for the quality offered.

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French restaurant shines with romantic atmosphere and classy decor. Cocktails have a French twist and patio is perfect for drinks. Service is consistently great, matching the cozy and mellow vibe.

Cocktails start the visit with a French-leaning twist. The patio offers a lovely spot to enjoy drinks. Service stays great throughout the experience.

Good to know

1

Bar Lou closes at 3pm and reopens at 5pm.

2

Happy Hour is available on Fridays with special pricing.

3

The menu features a limited selection but is well curated.

05
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Former motorcycle shop turned bar offers eclectic decor and a pool table for fun. Enjoy a lovely beer and wine selection in a chill, cash-only spot with friendly staff and a relaxed vibe.

Offers a lovely selection of beer and wine with a calm, convivial atmosphere. Features a pool table, couches, and secluded tables alongside friendly, genuine staff.

People are saying

"I considered this my favorite bar in all of Santa Barbara."

Good to know

1

Elsies Tavern is cash only.

2

Parking on de la Guerra could be limited; consider side streets.

3

They have an ATM available for cash withdrawals.

06
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Rustic, classy space with an outdoorsy vibe and live jazz music energizes weekends. Friendly bar staff like Martha and Matthew ensure great service, while mornings bring a unique bakery touch. Intimate layout fits about 70, perfect for relaxed, casual chats.

Staff at the bar are friendly and professional, with Martha and Matthew providing helpful service. The bar also operates as a bakery during the mornings.

People are saying

"Martha at the bar was so friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

The venue accommodates up to 70 guests for events.

3

Small decorations like vases and photo stands are allowed.

07
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Cozy spot with a warm vibe and fresh pasta shines for food lovers. Italian DOCG wines elevate the experience for wine fans. Bartenders create a lively atmosphere at the bar, perfect for drinks and chats.

More than a typical wine bar, it offers a lively spot with engaging bartenders behind the counter. Sitting at the bar provides a great atmosphere for enjoying drinks and conversation.

People are saying

"The bar owner personally greets everyone like an old friend."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The menu features fresh pastas and locally sourced ingredients.

3

Expect a wait for a table during peak dining hours.

08
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Lively tiki bar offers excellent drinks and a friendly crowd in an open space with Nightmare Before Christmas decor. Outdoor seating is perfect for people watching. Service can slow when busy but prices stay reasonable.

An amazing tiki bar with excellent drinks and reasonable prices. The bar area feels open and nice, though service slows down during busy times.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so knowledgeable and friendly."

Good to know

1

There is no happy hour at this establishment.

2

The bar shares a space with Broad Street Oyster Company.

09
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Cozy seating and an intimate atmosphere make this cocktail bar a great spot for relaxing. Enjoy jukebox tunes and pool tables for fun nights out. Clean space with reasonable drink prices keeps locals coming back.

Offers a jukebox, pool tables, and karaoke nights on Thursdays. Clean and comfortable after a post-COVID makeover. Allows bringing outside food with drink purchase.

People are saying

"The bar has pool tables and a jukebox."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 10pm.

2

You can bring outside food as long as you purchase drinks.

3

The bar does not serve food, only drinks.

10
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Original brick walls and natural edge wood tables create a rustic atmosphere perfect for a chill vibe. Friendly folks behind the bar make it a fun local home brew bar. Dog-friendly patios add a community feel where pets are welcome.

Original brick walls and natural edge wood tables create a wicked awesome ambience. Friendly folks behind the bar make it a fun local home brew bar and a nice break from strolling the boulevard.

People are saying

"The bar staff here really take their time for you."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Live music performances occur on weekends, starting at 8pm.

3

The comedy show ticket costs $10 per person.

11
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Casual eatery with large outdoor seating and a fenced kids' play area welcomes families and pets. Locally owned pub serves craft beers and local wine with heated decks and indoor bar seating. Quirky decor adds to the laid back and cozy vibe.

Locally owned pub offers a good selection of craft beers and local wine. Seating includes a heated front deck, indoor bar and tables, plus a covered back deck and tented area. Orders go through the bar with food brought out, and staff respond when flagged down.

People are saying

"I loved the bar's good selection of local beers."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour deals are available with weekly specials.

2

They sometimes host tap takeovers by local breweries.

3

Vegetarians should be cautious due to cross-contamination in food preparation.

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British-themed pub offers a raw vibe with old wooden decor and funny memorabilia. Friendly bartender Nicole adds to the welcoming bar feel. Quiet, polite crowd enjoys limited indoor and outdoor seating, often bringing their own food or grabbing late-night hot dogs outside.

A cozy bar with a friendly bartender named Nicole creates a welcoming vibe. The atmosphere feels raw and unpretentious, making it easy to relax and enjoy.

People are saying

"I found this bar to be the best spot in town."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

2

Trivia night is a serious competition, attracting many local teams.

3

Customers can bring their own food since no food is served on-site.

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Cocktail bar blends classy lounge with energetic dance floors featuring world-class DJs and an epic sound system. Lounge offers reserved seating and bottle service for about 60 guests. Large outdoor area shines with professional lasers and lighting.

A lounge with reserved seating and bottle service makes nights easy and enjoyable. It fits about 60 guests comfortably and draws music lovers together for a lively night out.

People are saying

"Shasta made our after-party epic with amazing drinks and quick service."

Good to know

1

Reggaeton night happens every Friday from 10pm to 2am.

2

Expect a packed dance floor during popular events.

3

Be cautious of pickpockets, especially on the dance floor.

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Open air patio with a palm tree roof creates a lively, upscale vibe. Bar offers an exceptional tequila selection and handcrafted cocktails alongside tasty happy hour dishes. Music brings a local Mexican feel, making it perfect for fun and relaxation.

A huge selection of drinks fills the bar, including margaritas and happy hour dishes. A palm tree growing out of the roof adds to the wonderful atmosphere while the staff accommodates with options like delicious mocktails.

People are saying

"This bar has an amazing tequila selection and knowledgeable bartenders."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

3

The restaurant opens at 11:00 AM daily, but check for holiday hours.

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Red music-themed bar shines with live piano performances and a sing-along vibe. Small space offers booth seating and patio tables for a cozy feel. Friendly crowd enjoys mixed cocktails and food from next door.

Live music fills the space with great entertainment and a sing-along vibe. The bar offers responsive service and allows ordering food from next door.

People are saying

"This piano bar always features amazing live talent."

Good to know

1

The Red Piano does not serve food, but you can bring your own.

2

Reservations are recommended to secure a seat, especially on busy nights.

3

Thursdays feature comedy night from 7-10 pm in the outdoor venue.

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Corner spot with plenty of outdoor seating offers a relaxed vibe. Full bar shines with great bourbon selection and strong cocktails. Atmosphere blends youthful energy and cool bar feel, perfect for small groups and easy chats.

A full bar offers a great bourbon selection and a variety of drinks. The bar serves quality, interesting food and has a vibrant, inviting vibe that encourages conversation.

People are saying

"JP's charm and expert drink suggestions made the bar feel like a celebration."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food and drink specials, making it a great time to visit.

2

Eureka! is dog friendly, allowing pets on the outdoor patio.

3

Parking is available at the public lot next to the restaurant.

17
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Californian restaurant offers a dog-friendly patio and a busy weekend breakfast scene. Bar serves mimosas and Bloody Marys with easy seating. Welcoming vibe draws families and locals, plus easy parking adds to the relaxed feel.

Full bar serves mimosas and Bloody Marys alongside breakfast. Bar seating is easy to find with a local favorite vibe.

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during weekend brunch hours, especially after 9am.

2

Parking is available but can be limited during busy hours.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, allowing pets to join outdoor diners.

18
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Mexican restaurant offers a lively, sports-friendly atmosphere with multiple TVs and heated patios. Full bar serves beautiful cocktails alongside beer and wine, blending a cool bar vibe with a family-friendly setting. Fresh decor and casual cantina feel make it welcoming for all.

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.

People are saying

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

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.

19
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Restaurant blends old-fashioned Parisian style with SoCal vibes in a cozy, elegant space featuring high ceilings and arched windows. Full bar offers wide drink selection with fair prices, and bartender Jess gives great recommendations. Music sets a chic, welcoming mood.

A full bar offers a wide selection of drinks with fair prices. Bartender Jess provides exceptional care and knows the menu well, giving great recommendations on food and wine.

People are saying

"The staff here make you feel so welcomed and important at the bar."

Good to know

1

The parking fee is $3 per hour after the first 75 minutes.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy nights.

3

Happy hour runs from 5 to 6 PM with special menu items.

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Dive-bar vibe shines with two pool tables and a jukebox. Live music and karaoke bring energetic entertainment and a lively atmosphere. Friendly staff make it a chill spot to play, socialize, and enjoy rock tunes.

A dive-bar vibe sets the tone with two pool tables in excellent condition and a jukebox. Staff treat everyone like family, creating a chill spot to play pool, have fun, and make friends.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best bar in Santa Barbara."

Good to know

1

Karaoke is held every Saturday night starting at 9pm.

2

Open mic night takes place every Monday at 8pm.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with loud music during peak hours.

21
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Brewery offers locally brewed beers and casual food like tacos. Live music and board games create a chill, social atmosphere. Bartenders Joey and Joey provide great service despite uncomfortable metal bar chairs.

A lively spot with both indoor and outdoor seating, featuring metal bar chairs that are notably uncomfortable. Bartenders Joey and Joey deliver great service, creating a friendly atmosphere where everyone feels at ease.

People are saying

"I thought the beer at the bar was really good."

Good to know

1

Craft pints are available for $5 on selected beers.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The venue is dog friendly, allowing pets in outdoor areas.

22
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Small bar offers well-kept pool tables and a full bar with great cocktails. Live music fills a clean, beautiful lounge with a cool social vibe. Space includes a dance floor and patio seating for versatile hangouts.

A full bar serves great cocktails alongside a pizza oven that makes excellent crusts. Live music plays in a clean, beautiful lounge with a cool social vibe.

People are saying

"The bar has great, well-made drinks at average prices."

Good to know

1

Live music events occur regularly, enhancing the bar's vibrant atmosphere.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food and drinks offered.

3

The bar offers pool tables for entertainment.

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Upscale dive bar offers a friendly vibe and great prices. Comfortable seating suits small groups. Humorous patrons create a lively atmosphere. Popular neighborhood spot with a plentiful selection of drinks but no food options.

An upscale dive bar with a friendly vibe and great prices. The bar seats small groups comfortably, making it a solid neighborhood spot.

People are saying

"This bar's crowd is friendly and makes you feel like a regular."

Good to know

1

Prices are considered great for drinks and cocktails.

2

The lounge is a good spot for watching sports events.

3

The atmosphere is described as friendly and welcoming.

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Brick walls and authentic Irish decor create a warm, lively vibe. Multiple seating areas include a bar with Guinness mural and pool tables plus a quiet dining section. Frequented by friendly patrons, it fills with noise during sports events and serves traditional Irish meals like Bangers & Mash.

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.

People are saying

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

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Space buzzes with live music and a lively dance floor that spills outdoors. Staff offer quick service with a friendly touch, while the bar serves tempting food but average cocktails. Stylish decor and art create a neighborly vibe that draws a young crowd seeking fun and flavor.

Staff show a neighborly vibe and provide quick, helpful service. Bar food is enticing and live music plays on some nights, though cocktails are less impressive.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are super nice and friendly."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 11 pm, so arrive before then for food.

2

Menu items are marked with V for vegetarian, which can be confusing.

3

Vegan options are limited; staff training on dietary needs is lacking.

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Dive bar buzzes with friendly crowd and karaoke setup. TVs mix sports and baking shows for a casual feel. Espresso martinis with fresh espresso keep regulars coming back.

Small dive bar with a karaoke setup and a friendly crowd including regulars and bartenders. People often sit at the bar for long stretches, creating a laid-back vibe.

People are saying

"I found it to be a fun, awesome little dive bar."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

2

No food is available at Tiburon Tavern.

3

Expect a casual dive bar atmosphere with a fun vibe.

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