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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Barbara

Bread lunch spots

A crusty loaf of bread is the foundation of a satisfying midday meal.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
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Updated May 2026
01
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Restaurant

Restaurant shares space with a coffee shop, featuring an open cook area and airy design with long windows overlooking the sidewalk. Atmosphere stays casual and chill, with Bob Marley music adding to the vibe. Dog-friendly patio invites relaxed dining alongside a garden setting.

Offers a quick and healthy lunch option in a casual setting. Ideal for those seeking a fast meal without sacrificing quality.

Pita bread stands out with its fluffy, pillowy texture and feels homemade. It arrives hot and flavorful, making the pita sandwiches a good size and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food, especially the chicken shawarma, is packed with flavor."

"The chicken shawarma sandwich for lunch is packed with flavor."

"The pita bread is fluffy, hot, and pillowy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, making it easy for walk-ins.

2

The dog-friendly patio allows you to bring your pup while dining.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during midday on weekends.

02
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 1

Large, airy dining space offers both indoor and dog-friendly outdoor patio with heating. Warm, welcoming atmosphere features Punjabi music that energizes the setting. Clean, spacious environment complements authentic Indian cuisine known for standout dishes like butter chicken and korma.

Lunch offers a thali special with salad, butter chicken, rice, and naan, providing a great variety. Prices stay incredible for sampling many dishes, and service can be special and attentive.

Warm, soft naan bread stands out with its freshness and irresistible texture. A gluten-free lentil substitute offers a notable alternative.

People are saying

"The food recommendations from Joban were excellent."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was great, especially from Joban."

"The bread here is fantastic and served by attentive staff."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available daily from 11am to 3pm.

2

Expect a casual dining atmosphere with no strict dress code.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

03
California Pasta Sandwich & Salads image 1

Outdoor seating dominates the space, offering a cozy patio with tables in a small alley near the embankment. The atmosphere feels quiet and inviting, suitable for relaxed meals or a first date. Music plays softly, enhancing the pleasant environment without overwhelming conversation.

Quick service and consistently excellent food make it a solid choice for lunch. Menu items are absolutely delicious, fitting well for office breaks or a shopping trip stop.

Garlic butter bread comes out super fragrant and toasty. Extra bread is often given without charge. The bread pairs well with seafood pasta and spicy dishes.

People are saying

"The pasta here is amazing, fresh, and perfectly balanced."

"This lunch spot has delicious pasta and sandwiches."

"The garlic bread is so tasty and fragrant."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms inside the establishment.

2

The nearest restroom is a two-minute walk above Panda Express.

3

The restaurant is open in the evening, unlike most other places.

04
Mission City Sandwich Shop image 1

Sandwich shop with 80's metal music and fun, quirky wall art creates a hip, clean atmosphere. The place fills up quickly, drawing a crowd that appreciates high-quality, flavorful sandwiches with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Offers to-go lunch options suitable for eating at nearby spots like the beach. Current lunch service process may face challenges with sustainability.

Bread stands out with its crunchy outside and soft inside texture. Rolls like hoagie and pretzel are fresh and fluffy, chosen to complement the sandwich fillings well.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were the best I've ever eaten."

"The bread here is so soft and fresh, with a nice crunch."

"This lunch spot was a classic from here."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during busy weekends, especially on holidays.

2

The total cost for two sandwiches and a side is around $40.

3

Vegetarian options are limited, with no hot vegetarian sandwiches available.

05
Sam's To Go image 1
Sandwich shop

Classic hole-in-the-wall sandwich shop with loud music and an eclectic crowd. The space feels beautiful despite its simplicity and includes a TV with remote control for patrons. Offers a huge, varied menu with affordable prices and high-quality ingredients that set a strong standard for sandwiches.

Attention to detail turns simple lunches into a memorable culinary journey. Options range from quick sandwiches to large orders with over 40 lunch boxes prepared for groups.

Wheat bread stands out with its fresh ingredients and really lifts the chicken club sandwich. The bread overall is soft and flavorful, making sandwiches enjoyable.

People are saying

"I questioned why I would go to fast food places when I could get a great burger here."

"The sandwiches here are phenomenal, especially the pastrami."

"The bread here is so fresh, it makes the whole sandwich."

Good to know

1

The menu at Sam's To Go is huge and varied.

2

They offer daily specials for added value.

3

There are a few parking spots in the back.

06
D'Angelo Bread image 1

European-style bakery with handmade products and visible real ovens creates a cozy atmosphere. Counter order setup includes relaxed outdoor seating in an alley patio. Locals frequent the spot for its quality bread and coffee.

Lunch offers a solid choice with fresh bread and a relaxed setting. The spot serves straightforward meals that fit well into a midday break.

Freshness stands out with freshly baked sourdough and dense seed breads like Rudolph Steiner. Options include raisin, olive, and focaccia breads, all flavorful and affordable.

People are saying

"The bread here is so fresh and delicious."

"I thought the coffee here was the best in Santa Barbara."

"I found the sandwiches at this lunch spot delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy at the nearby public lot.

2

You can sit inside or outside.

3

Expect no wait times during weekday mornings.

07
Bree'Osh Bakery Cafรฉ Santa Barbara image 1

French-inspired cafรฉ offers cozy indoor and shaded outdoor seating with a laid-back, charming atmosphere. The space feels modern and bright, welcoming both dogs and children. Fresh, high-quality pastries and breads complement the calm, comfortable vibe.

Casual outdoor patio seating offers a relaxed spot for lunch. The menu includes salmon salad, pizza, and avocado toast, served until 1:30 pm.

Freshness stands out with olive bread available only on weekends and gluten-free banana bread options. Baguettes and loaves show solid quality, and bread pudding adds a sweet twist.

People are saying

"I thought the bread here was fresh and good."

"I thought the breakfast sandwiches here were very good."

"I'd return for this Lunch Spot; the quality and flavors surpassed expectations."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited to street parking, which can be tough.

2

The cafรฉ serves lunch until 1:30 pm, making it a good early stop.

3

Outdoor seating is available, but it can be noisy due to traffic.

08
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.

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.

Bread comes in a bread bowl that holds chowder well and stays sturdy. Staff offer extra small pieces to soak up broth, showing attention to detail.

People are saying

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

"Billy made the lunch experience an absolute pleasure."

"The bread bowl was a great starter."

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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