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Bars with live music in Santa Barbara

The hum of a live band makes a drink at the bar feel like a proper night out.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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Updated May 2026
01
Dusk Bar image 1
Dusk Bar image 2
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Small, modern bar with an open, airy design that shifts to an intimate, moody vibe at night. Live music on Tuesdays creates a relaxed, low-pressure atmosphere for conversation and drinks. The space feels inviting and packed, with no screens and a focus on expertly mixed cocktails and fresh seafood.

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

Live music on Tuesday creates a relaxed, low-pressure vibe. It fits well whether grabbing a quick drink or staying for a few hours.

People are saying

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

"The bartenders here are so welcoming and skilled."

"The live music on Tuesday was a nice touch."

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.

02
Whiskey Richards image 1
Live music venue

Live music venue with a dive-bar feel and two pool tables creates a lively atmosphere filled with friendly locals. The space offers karaoke and rock music, drawing a crowd that enjoys energetic entertainment and socializing. Noise levels can be high, adding to the vibrant, bustling vibe.

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.

Live music features fantastic bands that create a lively atmosphere. Karaoke adds an interactive element, making it a spot for both listening and singing along.

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.

03
The Red Piano image 1
Piano bar

Red music-themed bar centers on live piano performances that create a lively, upbeat atmosphere. Small space with booth seating and patio tables hosts a friendly, fun crowd enjoying mixed cocktails and music from a talented duo.

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.

Live music runs from afternoon into the night with a focus on jazzy blues. The atmosphere supports brilliant performances that draw a lively crowd.

People are saying

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

"This piano bar always features amazing live talent."

"I found the live music here to be great."

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.

04
Corks n' Crowns Tasting Room and Wine Sales image 1

Small wine bar offers live music every night and a cozy fireplace with couches for relaxing. Outdoor patio and wrap-around decking provide laid-back seating perfect for people watching. Atmosphere balances warm, chill vibes with occasional rowdiness when packed.

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.

A live singer creates a warm and chill vibe that enhances every drink. Music sets a relaxed but elevated tone while people enjoy drinks by the fire.

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 live music creates a great, warm vibe here."

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.

05
SOhO Restaurant & Music Club image 1

Live music fills an intimate venue with exquisite sound quality and clear acoustics. A decent-sized dance floor hosts energetic salsa and bachata nights alongside talented house bands and DJs. Video monitors in various sections offer views of the stage, enhancing the friendly, lively atmosphere.

Jazz plays on the 4th Sunday with a setup that includes video monitors letting you watch the stage from the bar and outdoor seating. Front bar seats gather band members and new arrivals, though sound could improve by moving loudspeakers forward.

Intimate setting offers great live shows with a focus on Salsa and Bachata dancing. Friendly staff enhance the experience, making it a go-to venue for live music.

People are saying

"I loved the jazz performances at the bar on Sunday afternoons."

"I found it to be an amazing venue for live music."

"The food here was really good."

Good to know

1

Cash is the only accepted payment method at the door for cover charges.

2

A minimum spend of $15 per person is required for seating.

3

The venue hosts live jazz performances on the 4th Sunday of each month.

06
Uptown Lounge image 1

Small bar with two pool tables and live music creates a relaxed, social vibe. Crowd is diverse and enjoys well-kept pool tables and a full bar with quality drinks. Space includes a dance floor and patio seating, making it a versatile spot for hanging out.

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.

Live music features a full band setup with performances like the group Last Light. The venue supports a full bar and accepts both cash and credit cards.

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.

07
Night Lizard Brewing Company image 1

Original brick walls and natural edge wood tables create a rustic atmosphere with plenty of seating for a chill vibe. Live music and board games keep energy mellow and engaging, while dog-friendly patios invite a community feel with pets 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.

Live music happens regularly on the patio, creating a pleasant atmosphere. Events often include trivia nights alongside performances, with updates shared on Instagram.

People are saying

"I loved trying all the unique and experimental beers here."

"This local spot has a friendly atmosphere and fun conversations."

"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.

08
Longoria On State image 1

Winery offers stylish indoor and outdoor tasting rooms with a modern, inviting atmosphere. Live music and a hidden back patio create a relaxed, social vibe. The space suits events and casual visits, drawing people who enjoy exceptional local wines.

Wines rate between 7 and 9.2 out of 10, showing strong quality for an off-strip spot. The bar stays open late, letting you enjoy a glass after dinner in spots like the back patio or by the fireplace.

Live music happens regularly with a live band performing. The atmosphere includes community events and other entertainment like trivia and karaoke.

People are saying

"The wine here is delicious and divine."

"I enjoyed the live music during my visit."

"I loved the local wines at this bar, especially the All-Red flight."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

2

Karaoke night happens every Friday, starting at 8pm with no cover charge.

3

Wine tasting flights are available, featuring both red and white options.

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.

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

Live music happens often, creating a steady flow of live performances. The presence of music adds a lively and engaging atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"Billy at the bar was awesome."

"I was pleasantly surprised with the live music."

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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Santa Barbara, California

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