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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 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated July 2026
01
Rodeo Room image 1
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Cocktail bar

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

"It's a super cool, relaxed spot with a great atmosphere."

"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
Press Room image 1

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."

"It's the ultimate spot to watch live sports like soccer."

"This pub has a great selection of UK beers."

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.

03
Riviera Bar image 1

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 food here is delicious, especially the tallow fries and calamari."

"I enjoyed the expertly crafted cocktails here."

"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.

04
Dusk Bar image 1

Small, modern bar offers expertly mixed mezcal cocktails and phenomenal oysters in an intimate, moody setting. Live music on Tuesdays adds a relaxed atmosphere perfect for conversation. Open, airy design shifts to cozy at night, making it inviting and packed.

Unique selection of sotol and raicilla spirits stands out. Expertly mixed mezcal cocktails and phenomenal oysters complement a cozy, intimate vibe.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are masters and make great drinks."

"I love the wide variety of artisanal tequilas and mezcals they offer."

"The bartenders here are so welcoming and skilled."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers BOGO oysters, providing good value on select days.

2

Live music occurs every Tuesday evening at Dusk Bar.

3

Expect a 5-minute wait during peak hours on Fridays around 6pm.

05
The Good Lion image 1
Cocktail bar

Intimate cocktail bar shines with specialty cocktails and a speakeasy vibe. Cozy seating offers street views and lively jazz fills the air. Perfect for social evenings near a historic theater.

Dimly lit and cozy, the bar offers specialty cocktails with prices often lower than restaurants. Seating options include the bar, booths, or tables with street views, creating a comfortable atmosphere with high-quality service.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are expertly crafted and beautifully presented."

"It's a dimly lit, cozy speakeasy vibe, perfect for date spots."

"The cocktails here are inventive and well-executed."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers two free drinks if you ask for 'Jenna and The June Bugs.'

2

During peak times, the bar can become crowded and hard to find a seat.

3

Finding the bar is easy with plenty of covered parking directly behind the venue.

06
Elsies Tavern image 1

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."

"I found the outdoor seating to be a cool, hip, and rare spot."

"I found this cafe to be the best in the mornings."

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.

07
Whiskey Richards image 1
Live music venue

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

"The karaoke and crowd here are lively."

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

"The live music here makes you feel like family."

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.

08
Corks n' Crowns Tasting Room and Wine Sales image 1

Small wine bar shines with live music and a cozy fireplace for chill nights. Friendly staff add to the welcoming vibe while outdoor patio offers laid-back seating perfect for people watching.

Cozy and small, this bar offers varied seating with a bar, indoor tables, and fireplaces. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, creating a welcoming vibe.

People are saying

"The wine here has a super warm and chill vibe."

"It's a cozy place with a fireplace and couches to snuggle on."

"The bar staff are so sweet, friendly, and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Tasting flights are available for $20, offering three samples.

2

Parking can be limited; consider public lots along Cabrillo.

3

The venue is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your pets.

09
The Tully image 1
Karaoke bar

Karaoke bar with a friendly bartender and a pool table for fun. It has a chill atmosphere perfect for casual drinks. Also a local music venue where neighbors gather to socialize.

Neighborhood bar vibe with a friendly bartender named Jessie. Offers a typical local pub experience.

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 10pm.

2

The venue is popular for watching football games on weekends.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with local bands performing regularly.

10
De la Vina lounge image 1
Cocktail bar

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.

11
The Red Piano image 1
Piano bar

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

"I loved the talented entertainers at this piano bar."

"You can join locals dancing to all sorts of music."

"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.

12
Santa Barbara Wine Collective image 1

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 found the perfect wine and was a great host."

"The food and wine pairings here are spot on."

"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.

13
Aperitivo image 1
Wine bar

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

"I enjoyed the Italian wine and delicious food."

"This place offers creative, delicious northern Italian-inspired food and spritz for a perfect date spot."

"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.

14
The Cliff Room image 1
Cocktail bar

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."

"We had a blast night for karaoke; it was a lively environment."

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.

15
The Pickle Room image 1
Cocktail bar

Small space with intimate red lighting and a handful of booths creates a homey, old-school vibe. Strong drinks and premium cocktails blend dive bar charm with upscale energy. Jazz music performances add a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.

Strong drinks and a dive bar vibe define this small spot with a handful of booths. It offers old-school charm and friendly service in a cozy neighborhood setting.

People are saying

"You've got to try the pickletini; it's the best I've ever had."

"You have to try the Reuben egg rolls; they were amazing."

"You have to try the Reuben egg rolls; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

The bar serves food until midnight on weekdays and 1am on weekends.

3

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

16
EOS Lounge image 1
Cocktail bar

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."

"The nightlife here is amazing, with attentive staff and surprising touches."

"The atmosphere here is so chill, with a warm welcome and refined elegance."

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.

17
Yellow Belly Tap image 1

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

"The outdoor seating is great for enjoying delicious burgers and craft beers."

"I enjoyed the excellent selection of beers on tap."

"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.

18
Augie's of Santa Barbara image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

"Hector was the best server for our Mexican food."

"I enjoyed the delicious, hand-crafted cocktails."

"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.

19
Old Kings Road image 1

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.

20
Uptown Lounge image 1

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."

"The pizza crust here is amazing."

"I thought the live music was great and enjoyable."

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.

21
Test Pilot image 1
Cocktail bar

Small cocktail bar blends old school tiki vibe with modern twists and refined decor. Moody lighting and 90s hip hop create an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere that livens up late at night. Located in the funk zone, it offers affordable drinks and welcomes guests to bring their own food.

Upscale tiki bar offers great affordable drinks in a classy yet relaxed atmosphere. Located in the funk zone, it welcomes guests to bring their own food and delivers off the charts tiki vibes.

People are saying

"The craft cocktails here are incredibly well balanced and delicious."

"It's a cool place with a fun vibe and great drinks."

"Their signature cocktails are crafted with care and taste delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect heavy crowds on weekend nights, leading to longer wait times.

2

The bar allows outside food from the taco truck nearby until 11pm.

3

The bathroom is located at the back, which can be crowded.

22
SB Biergarten image 1
Beer garden

Spacious beer garden offers a German beer hall vibe with indoor and outdoor seating surrounded by greenery. Cozy fire pits create a warm atmosphere, while lively crowds bring energy. Perfect for an easy early evening stop with classic TV shows and casual bar food.

German beer hall vibe offers a unique change from typical bars. It serves beer and bar food and works well for an easy early evening stop.

People are saying

"I loved the great beer selection here."

"The smash burgers here are excellent and taste homemade."

"The bar has a great selection of craft beers."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

2

SB Biergarten is dog friendly, allowing pets in outdoor seating areas.

3

Parking is easy and free, with options for valet or public lots nearby.

23
Tiburon Tavern image 1

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

"The karaoke here is awesome fun with a super friendly DJ."

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

"I found it to be a solid 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.

24
Sportsman Lounge image 1

Cowboy theme meets dive bar with pool table for casual fun. Crowd is friendly and relaxed, mixing regulars and newcomers. Offers affordable prices and a good beer selection for a chill night out.

Dive-style vibe blends with a more upscale feel at the new spot. Friendly crowd, pool table with league play, and great drinks keep the atmosphere chill and fun.

People are saying

"The pool table here has a great, upscale vibe."

"I thought this bar had a great dive bar feel."

"I enjoyed the good beer selection and knowledgeable bartender."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays, but not on weekends.

2

No food is available except for bagged chips.

3

The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

25
Shaker Mill image 1
Cocktail bar

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."

"The cocktails here were great."

Good to know

1

There is no happy hour at this establishment.

2

The bar shares a space with Broad Street Oyster Company.

26
Wildcat Lounge image 1

Lounge shines with huge patio and three seating areas perfect for drinks and dancing. Happy Hour from 4 to 8 pm offers great deals and jello shots on the lively patio bar. Friendly, LGBTQIA-friendly vibe with energetic DJs and interactive drag shows.

Happy Hour runs from 4 to 8 pm with round-the-clock drinks and a lively patio bar offering jello shots. The bar features three seating areas including a lounge, dancefloor, and a gated outside space, making it a popular spot for drinks and dancing.

People are saying

"This bar is a fun spot with interesting people and great vibes."

"I enjoyed the fun and memorable dancing here."

"Arrive before 9 PM for the friendly, spacious nightclub atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The cover charge is $7, providing access to a lively atmosphere.

2

Happy Hour runs from 4-8 PM with free food available.

3

Karaoke night is every Monday, starting at 10 PM.

27
Brass Bear Uptown image 1

Enjoy mountain views from indoor and outdoor patios while sipping on craft beers and cocktails. A family zone with a play area keeps kids busy, making it perfect for casual dining or 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.

People are saying

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

"I loved the outdoor patio's beautiful mountain views and sunset."

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

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.

28
Eureka! image 1
American restaurant

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

"I enjoyed the delicious burgers."

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

"The kids menu was awesome, my baby loved the chicken tenders."

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.

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