Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Barbara

Salad and date spots

A relaxed meal over a shared salad is the right pace for getting to know someone.

Based on 788 Opinions
+785
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Tamar image 1
Tamar image 2
Tamar image 3
View all
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.

Salads feature fresh ingredients like gem lettuce and pickled cabbage with vibrant textures. Dressings include a house-made sumac vinaigrette and sauces like amba tahini and green minty spicy sauce, adding bold flavors.

Sharing plates like the lamb kofta and labneh dip suits couples with different tastes. Options include chicken shawarma and falafel, though preferences vary.

People are saying

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

"The gem salad here is fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned."

"I really enjoyed the chicken shawarma sandwich."

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
The Black Sheep Restaurant + Bar image 1

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.

Salads feature fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Options include a beet salad, a roasted peach salad, and a farmers market salad, all noted for their distinct taste.

Offers a romantic atmosphere ideal for special dates and celebrations. Suitable for both intimate evenings and large gatherings.

People are saying

"The tasting menu offered great value and was plenty of food."

"The French food, especially the coq au vin, has a rich, delicious sauce."

"The tasting menu here is plenty of food and amazing."

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.

03
Petrini's Italian Restaurant - Santa Barbara image 1

Old-fashioned Italian restaurant with red and white checkered tables and historic Italian photos creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Locals gather for classic thin-crust pizza and traditional dishes in a relaxed, inviting setting. Prices remain reasonable, supporting a welcoming vibe for families and groups.

Hearty salads come with homemade dressings and pair well with garlic bread or breadsticks. The Caesar salad serves multiple people and offers a satisfying portion size.

Pasta dishes like vegetarian lasagna and stroganoff pasta stand out here. The meals come in generous portions that get finished every time.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious and sublime."

"The #2 salad used to be piled high with toppings."

"The atmosphere for Date Spots here is so warm and cozy."

Good to know

1

Most menu items cost between $15 and $20, offering good value.

2

Expect a line for takeout during lunchtime, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant serves large portions, suitable for sharing.

04
The Brewhouse image 1
American restaurant

Industrial decor sets a casual, come-as-you-are vibe with outdoor patios and distinct seating areas. Friendly energy fills the space, welcoming families and locals alike, often accompanied by live local music. The spot stands out for being dog friendly with a special menu for furry companions.

Salads feature different lettuces and generous portions of chicken and bacon in the Cobb salad. Side salads come with a homemade honey mustard dressing that adds great flavor.

Plenty of options for sharing, like a club sandwich and a smash burger that get good feedback. Large salads and hearty sandwiches, including a tri tip sandwich, offer satisfying choices for couples.

People are saying

"The beer here is great and flavorful."

"The smash burgers and fish and chips are cooked perfectly."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful with the salad."

Good to know

1

The Brewhouse is dog-friendly and offers a special menu for pets.

2

Free parking is available in the rear of The Brewhouse.

3

Happy hour includes a cheeseburger and a beer for $14.

05
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.

Salads feature fresh ingredients with options like salmon and blackened chicken. The Caesar salad stands out with creamy dressing and a well-coated presentation.

Outdoor seating offers a sunset view over downtown, creating a nice atmosphere for dates. The menu includes spicy shrimp that is decent, and the overall vibe feels fancy and suitable for a first date.

People are saying

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

"I loved the salmon Caesar salad with its amazing dressing."

"The pasta and salads here are delicious, perfect for Date Spots."

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.

06
Honor Bar image 1
New American restaurant

Outdoor patio with Adirondack chairs and fireplace creates a cozy, elegant vibe. Atmosphere blends timeless charm with lively social energy, especially during busy times. Space attracts a well-dressed crowd who enjoy people watching and casual yet refined gatherings.

Salads feature unique combinations like the macho salad with dates, goat cheese, avocado, and corn bread croutons. Chicken appears often, paired with greens and a light vinaigrette.

Cozy, dark bar vibe creates an intimate setting for dates. Menu offers burgers, chicken ball pasta, and a salad with goat cheese and dates for main courses.

People are saying

"I thought the burger was truly excellent, juicy, and well-balanced."

"The salads here are fresh and the service is outstanding."

"The Macho Salad is a unique and favorite date spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours to avoid long waits.

2

Parking in Lower Montecito can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Expect a waiting line for the bar area during busy times.

07
Holdren's Steaks & Seafood image 1

Old-school steakhouse with dark leather decor and a dimly lit, tight interior featuring a large bar and booths. Atmosphere is vibrant and lively, often loud with TVs but no obnoxious music. Outdoor seating offers a comfortable patio ideal for people watching.

Salads come with ample bacon and blue cheese in the Half Wedge, offering rich toppings. The Cobb salad stands out as well-crafted and satisfying.

Outdoor seating sets a relaxed tone for anniversary dinners. The menu features sea bass, prawn linguini, and a 16 oz steak with shrimp combo that pairs well with sides and salads, all at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"I had a steak, and it was perfectly cooked."

"The steak combo options here are amazing for a date."

"I split a Caesar salad with my steak and shrimp combo."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 8pm daily.

2

Special entrees for $21 available during early bird seating from 4-6pm.

3

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

08
Brass Bear Uptown image 1

Brewpub offers mountain views from both indoor and outdoor patio seating, creating a laid-back, warm atmosphere. A dedicated family zone with a play area keeps children entertained while adults enjoy crafted cocktails and local beers. The space balances casual dining with scenic relaxation, making it suitable for both brunch and private events.

Salads come with an amazingly simple dressing that tastes great. Portions like the BBQ chicken salad are large enough for two meals and pair well with other items like chicken wings.

People are saying

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

"The salads here have great mountain views."

"The staff made planning our Date Spots smooth and stress-free."

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.

09
RH Firehouse Grill at RH Montecito image 1

Restaurant blends luxurious furniture with a serene backdrop of rolling hills creating a calming, relaxing atmosphere. Guests find the space gorgeous and inviting, with an outdoor patio offering wonderful views. The vibe suits those seeking a peaceful dining experience in an elegant setting.

Salads feature Chinese chicken and grilled veggie with shrimp options, both noted for their flavor. The menu also suggests a choice between chicken or avocado and chickpeas at the same price.

Branzino stands out as a notable dish, praised for its flavor though it takes some effort to eat. The banana split dessert offers a unique twist, tasting similar to creme brulee.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the shrimp, is delicious and a favorite."

"You have to try the Lobster Roll; it's an absolute delight."

"I enjoyed the delicious Chinese chicken salad."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand since the restaurant just opened.

2

Valet parking is available, but consider street parking at nearby shopping centers.

3

A 4% service charge is added to all bills, noted in fine print on the menu.

10
Brass Bear Funk Zone image 1

Outdoor seating with cozy patio, vegetation surroundings, and dog-friendly areas creates a relaxed vibe. Live music and mid-2000s rap and R&B add to the fun atmosphere. Family-friendly features include a supervised play area and games for all ages.

Salads feature walnuts, blueberries, and blackberries for a unique mix. The large salad option is modest in size and serves as the main vegan choice.

Cocktails like the margarita and beers such as blood orange wheat ale and golden bear IPAs offer a nice variety. Skewers serve as a great snack to share during a date.

People are saying

"The beer here is always amazing, especially the IPAs."

"Emily was so responsive and flexible when planning our event."

"I loved their salad with walnuts and berries."

Good to know

1

Public parking is available behind the brewery, but it may require a fee.

2

Brass Bear Funk Zone is family-friendly with a fenced area for kids' activities.

3

Reservations are recommended for hosting events, especially for larger groups.

11
Bar Lou image 1
French restaurant

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.

Salads feature crisp textures and a mix of bitter and sweet flavors, like the Chicory and frisรฉe with asparagus. Some, like the tomato salad, could use more seasoning and added texture with herbs or chili crunch.

A great spot for couples with a menu featuring Steak Frites and a selection of red greenish wine. Offers a relaxed setting for appetizers and dinner, suitable for dates or small groups.

People are saying

"The French food here is stunning and flavorful."

"The pasta with uni is delicious, a must-try for Date Spots."

"The Chicory Salad was outstanding, crisp with a great mix of bitter and sweet."

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.

12
The Shop Brunch image 1
Brunch restaurant

Outdoor patio with pleasant seating and urban hillside views creates a laid-back, modern vibe. Casual ordering at the counter suits a chill brunch atmosphere with top-tier music enhancing the experience. The space feels local and relaxed, especially enjoyable on nice days.

Beet salad stands out as a tasty and pleasant surprise. The Lyon salad arrives greasy even when dressing is on the side, and the Cobb salad is also available.

Options include a vegetarian de la tigre with good flavor and portion size, and hearty dishes like the Chorizo Burrito and fried chicken Tugboat. Sharing plates works well for couples exploring different tastes.

People are saying

"The breakfast and brunch dishes here are beautifully presented and delicious."

"The avocado toast here is full of flavor and super satisfying."

"I found the beet salad to be amazing and tasty."

Good to know

1

There was no dedicated parking lot, and I had to park on the street.

2

You order and pay first then they seat you.

3

There was a 3% surcharge for credit card payments.

13
Moby Dick Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers gorgeous marina views and ample indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is laid-back and family-friendly, with outdoor areas shaded and comfortable. Music and a small TV add to the casual vibe, making it suitable for both casual meals and romantic dates.

Louie salad offers a classic, straightforward option with fresh ingredients. It pairs well with fried fish and hot crispy chips for a satisfying meal.

Special moments happen with personalized celebrations like singing happy birthday. The setting suits a romantic date with a great overall experience.

People are saying

"The sunset view from the restaurant was amazing."

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the oysters."

"The views here are fantastic, making the salad a great experience."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from 3 pm to 5 pm with affordable appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers 90 minutes of free parking for diners.

3

Outdoor seating is not accessible during lunch hours.

14
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.

Salads here come as part of meals like the lunch thali special and the tandoor salad dish. They taste refreshing and complement dishes like butter chicken well.

Pleasant ambiance creates a cozy setting for a date night. The atmosphere suits quiet conversations and relaxed dining.

People are saying

"The food recommendations from Joban were excellent."

"The service at these Date Spots was warm and welcoming."

"The server Joban was so nice and attentive."

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.

15
Azul Cocina Artesanal & Cantina image 1

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.

Salads include a blue bowl with salmon that comes slightly pink and a Caesar salad served alongside seafood dishes. The beets salad is less favored.

Cozy and warm back patio creates a great vibe for date night. Food impresses even a chef, and margaritas with small bites fit a relaxed evening.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The food at these Date Spots is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The chef makes magic with flavors in the salad."

Good to know

1

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

2

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

3

The menu offers vegetarian options and local vegetables.

16
Rare Society image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse offers a beautifully decorated interior with a dog-friendly outdoor patio that brings lively energy. The atmosphere is loud and vibrant, not suited for quiet or intimate dining. Guests enjoy excellent steak and bourbon selections alongside creative cocktails.

Caesar salad stands out with its rich flavor and crisp texture. Iceberg salad offers a crisp and fresh bite.

Happy Hour menu offers a great start for a date night. Denver wagyu cuts and dishes like shrimp scampi and miso glazed carrots add a sophisticated touch to the meal.

People are saying

"The steak here was cooked very well and tasted buttery."

"The cuts of meat here are insanely good for date spots."

"I had the best Caesar salad I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Oysters are $1 each on Mondays, a great deal for seafood lovers.

17
The Copper image 1
Italian restaurant

Outdoor courtyard with a historic water fountain creates a cute, relaxing patio atmosphere. Interior feels modern and airy but can be cold and lifeless. Warm, welcoming vibe outside contrasts with loud music and occasional distractions indoors.

Salads feature delicious sauces and dressing that complement each dish well. The beet salad and Caesar salad stand out as favorites among the three options available.

A cute atmosphere suits special dinners and date nights. Some find it great for a date, while others do not recommend it for that purpose.

People are saying

"I've never had pizza this good; it's next level."

"I enjoyed the delicious salad."

"It's a cute place with a perfect atmosphere for a date night."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during busy weekend evenings.

3

Pizzas are priced around $30, and wine glasses cost about $18.

18
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.

Caesar salad serves as a solid starter with fresh ingredients and classic flavors. Service can be slow, sometimes taking over 45 minutes to bring out salads.

Rosemary chicken with garlic mashed potatoes and Chilenero shrimp offer solid main dishes. Starters include a Caesar salad and clam chowder bread bowl, making for a varied date meal.

People are saying

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

"The Caesar salad was a great starter."

"The steak here is tender and flavorful for Date Spots."

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.

19
Augie's of Santa Barbara image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Salads come with fresh ingredients but sometimes include overripe tomatoes. Staff will accommodate requests like swapping rice for salad to avoid butter. The salads pair well with dishes like steak tacos.

Large portions and appetizing presentation make meals here satisfying for sharing. The menu includes vegetarian options and the service respects preferences without pressing on price.

People are saying

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

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

"I'd ask about the tomatoes before ordering the salad."

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.

Discover more

Santa Barbara, California

Area guide
Loading Map...