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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Barbara

Cocktail and dinner spots

A long dinner followed by a few cocktails is the standard for a slow, deliberate evening.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Small cocktail bar with speakeasy vibe and 1930s decor offers an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Popular music plays while guests enjoy artisanal mixology and late-night food options. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio.

Cocktails here are premium and consistently on point. Drinks like the Laid Back cocktail come across as fresh and inspiring.

Offers late night dinner options with drinks. Food suits a late meal and fits well for nearby hotel guests.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be fantastic and inspiring."

"Their old fashioned cocktails are scrumptious and amazing."

Good to know

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Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with special deals.

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The kitchen stays open until 11pm for late-night dining.

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Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for quick service.

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Restaurant combines old-fashioned Parisian style with SoCal vibes in a space featuring high ceilings and arched windows. Atmosphere feels cozy and elegant, balancing intimacy with openness through semi-private layout. Music plays at a comfortable volume, enhancing a chic yet welcoming mood.

Creative wine cocktails stand out here, offering unique flavors beyond standard drinks. Non-alcoholic options are also tasty and thoughtfully crafted.

Dinner offers a world class menu with consistently excellent food. The apero early dinner prix fix provides great value. The owner personally greets guests and oversees the experience.

People are saying

"The food for dinner spots was amazing and delicious."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

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

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Reservations are recommended, especially for busy nights.

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

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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.

Cocktails come with very generous pours and pack a strong punch, often equal to about four normal drinks. They serve potent, stiff cocktails that stand out for their strength.

Offers a satisfying dinner experience suitable for family meals or private dates. Serves consistently good food and drinks, making it a reliable spot for evening dining.

People are saying

"You get really generous, stiff cocktails here."

"I celebrated Christmas dinner here and it was the very best."

Good to know

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Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups.

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The all-you-can-eat deal is available for under a dollar.

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The cafe has a private back room suitable for large gatherings.

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Bright, intimate space with fun decor and patio dining options creates a lively atmosphere. Loud energy fills both inside and outside areas, welcoming diners and dogs alike. Focus on high-quality Mexican cuisine with thoughtful ingredient choices sets it apart from typical offerings.

Cocktails stand out with beautiful presentation and thoughtful details. The Paloma cocktail features a rose petal garnish that adds a unique touch.

Dinner offers an incredible variety with many options across the menu. Making a reservation ahead of time is common due to its popularity for evening meals.

People are saying

"I thought this was something special, a truly magical dinner spot."

"The cocktails here were a standout."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to ensure a table.

2

The menu is limited but features high-quality, fresh ingredients.

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Expect a unique twist on traditional Mexican dishes, not typical tacos or burritos.

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Outdoor courtyard offers beautiful patio with propane heaters and romantic lighting, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. A large bar complements the modern, elegant design. Margaritas and cocktail flights stand out as popular drink choices.

Outstanding cocktails stand out here, crafted with care and flavor. Drinks consistently impress alongside the delicious food.

Dinner here suits special occasions like weddings and birthdays. The spot works well for both romantic dinners and group celebrations.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have delicious food and magic with flavors."

"I found the cocktails to be good and refreshing."

Good to know

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The restaurant charges $10 for bottled water and $10 for tostadas.

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Expect an additional $15 charge on your card without explanation.

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The menu offers vegetarian options and local vegetables.

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Open air patio overlooks a busy street with palm tree roof feature and beautiful bar. Atmosphere blends upscale fun with a local vibe, energized by music that evokes Mexico. Known for an exceptional tequila selection and handcrafted cocktails, it attracts those seeking a lively yet classy setting.

Handcrafted and artisanal cocktails stand out with a fantastic selection of tequila and mezcal. Drinks like the Beso de Verano deliver delicious flavors alongside a great atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The service here is amazing; the staff really goes above and beyond."

Good to know

1

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

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Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

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

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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.

Creative cocktails balance strong alcohol without overpowering the flavors. Drinks like the Paloma and passionfruit margarita look beautiful and taste amazing.

Salmon, halibut, and cheese enchilada dinners feature prominently on the menu. Meals suit groups, with options to share and enjoy a variety of dishes.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and provides great service for dinner spots."

"The cocktails were beautiful and tasted amazing."

Good to know

1

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

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

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Parking is available in the Vons shopping center lot.

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Old school pub with dim lighting and leather booths creates a casual, relaxed vibe. Noise levels vary from quiet to very loud depending on crowd size and events. Frequented by diners seeking classic cocktails and hearty American fare in a nostalgic steakhouse setting.

Classic cocktails come in a vast menu with a solid wine list. The setting includes old school leather booths that add to the vibe.

Dinner features prime rib cooked to perfection and beef BBQ ribs available on Wednesdays with a full dinner option. Drinks and salads come quickly, and meals arrive promptly after the first course.

People are saying

"The prime rib here is tender, juicy, and flavorful."

"You'll love the vast cocktail menu here."

Good to know

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Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekend nights.

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All-you-can-eat prime BBQ ribs night is on Wednesdays for just over $20.

3

Happy hour at Tee-Off Restaurant and Lounge runs on Fridays with discounted drinks.

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French restaurant offers a romantic, cozy atmosphere with a quiet, mellow vibe and classy metropolitan decor. A lovely outdoor patio adds to the intimate setting. Music complements the warm and convivial mood throughout.

Cocktails feature French-leaning flavors and craft techniques with a focus on bourbon. Service includes engaged and helpful staff guiding choices.

Outdoor patio offers a relaxed setting for dinner. Cocktails and dinner feature delicious flavors and a dry dinner option exists. Reservations are honored with timely seating in the dining room.

People are saying

"The dinner here is unbelievable, especially the pasta with uni."

"I found the cocktails and vibes here to be great."

Good to know

1

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

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Happy Hour is available on Fridays with special pricing.

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The menu features a limited selection but is well curated.

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Elegant restaurant with well-appointed decor and a noisy atmosphere when busy. Offers a limited vegetarian menu alongside meat and seafood options. Patio seating welcomes pets, and nearby wine bar adds to the experience.

Late reservations are possible, even on busy nights. The spot offers a great drink selection and consistently enjoyable dinners for groups of various sizes.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the oysters."

Good to know

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Reservations are not required, but expect a 30-minute wait during busy hours.

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The restaurant offers daily specials at a great price.

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Expect limited kid-friendly options, mainly fruit and dry focaccia.

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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.

Great cocktails pair well with fresh shrimp and perfectly cooked calamari. The spot suits a romantic sunset with a drink and appetizer.

Hosts often choose this spot for rehearsal dinners. Arriving early allows enjoying dinner with a sunset view.

People are saying

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

"You can enjoy cocktails with great harbor views from the rooftop."

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.

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The restaurant is dog friendly, allowing pets in certain areas.

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