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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Santa Barbara

Dinner spots

Made for those who treat every evening meal as an opportunity to explore the local food scene.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 1
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 2
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 3
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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.

Food features authentic Indian flavors with excellent quality and exceptional taste. The dishes consistently deliver a strong sense of traditional Indian cuisine.

Dinner offers great value, especially the Dinner for Two combo priced at $60. Meals feature flavorful Indian tandoori dishes that make for a satisfying evening meal.

People are saying

"The food recommendations from Joban were excellent."

"I found the Butter Chicken to be fantastic and well made."

"Our 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.

02
Petit Valentien image 1
French restaurant

Small French bistro offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating with a quiet, intimate atmosphere that feels like dining in a European town. The place hosts a friendly, informal vibe ideal for social dinners or date nights. Weekends bring a unique twist with Ethiopian cuisine, adding variety to the experience.

Weekend lunches offer Ethiopian cuisine, a rare find in the area. French dishes serve up elegant flavors with consistently impeccable quality.

Social dinners happen in a beautiful setting with excellent roles and a shrimp dish with butter sauce that stands out. The food invites sharing and lively conversation.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, fresh, and perfectly seasoned."

"This Ethiopian Lunch Spot is incredibly good."

"The dinner spots here are amazing, especially the perfectly cooked pork."

Good to know

1

Making reservations is recommended before visiting.

2

Lunch offers a great deal at $18.

3

The menu changes every 2 weeks, so check for new items.

03
Tamar image 1
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.

Food here stands out for its freshness and high quality. Large portions of simple and delicious Mediterranean dishes make the meals both satisfying and flavorful.

Dinner here offers a chilled vibe that suits a relaxed evening. The food delivers good quality for a fast casual spot, making it a solid choice for a family meal.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The meats at these dinner spots are so flavorful and moist."

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.

04
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.

Food here is delicious and reasonably priced. The chef’s 4 course menu offers a generous amount of food with great quality and flavor.

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

"The food here is amazing, with flavors on spot and perfectly cooked."

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

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.

05
Silvers Omakase image 1
Restaurant

Small, intimate sushi counter with handcrafted Japanese dinnerware and artisanal finishes creates an elegant, modern atmosphere. Warm, approachable vibe with thoughtful personal touches and carefully curated sake pairings enhances the dining experience.

Food shows masterful craftsmanship with every dish meticulously designed and crafted. Carefully selected sake pairings enhance the harmonious and dynamic dining experience.

Dinner features freshest omakase style sushi with a focus on perfectly crafted courses. The experience feels unforgettable and well worth the money.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is expertly crafted and presented with meticulous attention to detail."

"The sushi here is the freshest I've ever experienced."

"The Dinner Spots here feature expertly crafted food and outstanding rice."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

The menu changes daily, reflecting seasonal ingredients and chef creativity.

3

Omakase experience is traditional and focuses on the chef's selection.

06
The Palace Grill image 1
Cajun restaurant

Space channels New Orleans style with unique decor and communal sing-alongs led by staff and veteran artists. Atmosphere stays fun and lively without being loud, blending classic warmth with engaging entertainment. Regulars enjoy authentic Cajun vibes that create a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

Food features flavorful Cajun dishes with well-presented plates that make even simple fish feel special. The menu offers consistently outstanding meals enjoyed over many years.

Dinner here offers a reliable reservation system with last-minute availability and a consistently amazing dining experience that draws repeat visits over many years.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious and wonderfully layered."

"The Bread Pudding is incredible and worth the wait."

"You have to try the bread pudding with the best bourbon sauce."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times.

2

The restaurant features a sing-along of 'What a Wonderful World' once or twice a night.

3

All diners are invited to join in the sing-along during the performance.

07
Yellow Belly Tap image 1

Casual eatery with large outdoor seating including a fenced-in kids' play area and dog-friendly patios. Atmosphere stays laid back and cozy, welcoming families and pets alike. Indoor space features quirky decor and comfortable seating options.

Food here is consistently delicious and creative, with portions that leave great leftovers. Options suit casual dinners, takeout, or dessert, and dining is available both indoors and outdoors with a family-friendly vibe.

Dinner offers perfect and delicious dishes with options for a light meal after a long day. The spot suits casual dinners, food to go, or a dessert and night-cap.

People are saying

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

"I thought the food here was great and tasty."

"I came here for dinner and everything was perfect and delicious."

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.

08
Mulligan's Cafe & Bar image 1

Bar and grill with patio seating overlooking a golf course offers a no frills atmosphere with an old school style vibe. The space feels comfortable and homey, attracting locals and golfers who enjoy relaxing with food and drinks. Outdoor tables come with blankets, enhancing the experience during cooler times.

Food offers great variety and comes in plentiful portions at an affordable price. The menu satisfies locals with consistently good and outstanding dishes.

Weekly specials include a dinner for two with main course, side, salad, and pie for $45. Sunday offers two dinners with dessert for $40. Menu features meatloaf, burgers, soups, salads, and fish tacos. The vibe suits a quick family dinner.

People are saying

"The Taco here feels like family, with such caring service."

"The outdoor seating has a great view of the golf course."

"I thought the food here was delicious."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served all day at Mulligan's Cafe & Bar.

2

They offer a special dinner for two for $45, including main course, side, salad, and pie.

3

Thursday features an all-you-can-eat ribs special.

09
Rodeo Room image 1
Cocktail bar

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.

Food here goes beyond typical bar fare with crispy Brussels, Pimento Queso, and Buffalo Chicken Eggrolls standing out. Quality stays consistent with related spots, making the food as impressive as the drinks.

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

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."

"Their old fashioned cocktails are scrumptious and amazing."

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.

10
Dom’s Taverna Santa Barbara image 1

Open kitchen creates a lively, vibrant atmosphere with a polished yet casual design. The space feels like a coastal Spanish ship, buzzing with energy and a full bar. Guests enjoy extraordinary flavors and innovative dishes in a warm, inviting setting.

Food here is consistently fresh and high quality with dishes that feel exciting and challenge expectations. The combination of great flavors and beautiful presentation stands out.

Dinner here offers a wonderful atmosphere for groups, even at peak times like Friday nights during holidays. The meals provide a memorable experience suitable for special occasions like birthdays.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, exciting, and genuinely good."

"You have to try the caviar cheesecake; it's a dream."

"The food at these dinner spots was incredible and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can fill up quickly.

2

Happy hour features a limited menu and runs from 5-7pm.

3

Expect the restaurant to get busy around 7pm, especially on weekends.

11
Yoichi's image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, minimally decorated space offers a quiet, intimate atmosphere with jazzy Studio Ghibli music setting a unique tone. Guests experience fresh, high-quality sushi and thoughtful kaiseki courses that highlight authentic Japanese flavors. Reservations are essential due to the table-side, personalized service in this cozy setting.

Food here is inventive and artfully arranged, showcasing authentic Japanese cuisine with impeccable quality. Service is attentive and knowledgeable, enhancing the fine dining experience.

Course dinners replace à la carte options, offering a private dining feel. Portions fill you up and include detailed explanations, making the experience informative and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The fine dining here shows incredible care in each artistic and tasty dish."

"The dinner spots here have meticulous preparation and delightful flavors."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is required due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Yoichi's is open only Thursday to Sunday.

3

The dining experience is a unique kaiseki style with multiple courses.

12
Siam Street Food image 1

Small, cozy restaurant with authentic Thai decor creates a warm, soothing atmosphere. Space feels intimate with efficient table arrangement, often filled with quiet conversation. Thai food documentaries play on TV, adding to the cultural vibe.

Authentic Thai flavors shine through every dish, with spot on chilies and tastes that transport you to Thailand. Service stays consistently amazing, matching the delectable food perfectly.

Strong aroma draws attention from the street. Dinner offers a satisfying experience with flavors that invite return visits.

People are saying

"The boat noodles here are rich, hearty, and packed with bold flavor."

"The food here is authentic and flavorful."

"The dinner spots here have amazing, fresh flavors."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge, but there is a public parking lot nearby.

2

The price for the Green Curry was higher on the menu, but it came out cheaper in reality.

3

The portions are a little smaller than what I normally see in local Thai restaurants.

13
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.

Food here stays hot and fresh with a focus on classic dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, pizza, and stroganoff. The flavors come through as immaculate and delightful every time.

Dinner here features great conversation and a friendly atmosphere. Service stands out with a server who feels like 10 years of therapy in one meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious and sublime."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and lasagna, is delicious."

"The food at these dinner spots is so delicious and fresh."

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.

14
Alma Fonda Fina image 1
Restaurant

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.

Food here blends high-end Mexican flavors from Mexico City to the coast with original Oxacan dishes. The chef shows clear passion, making the dining experience exquisite and excellent.

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

"The Mexican food here is incredible, especially the tacos."

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

"The food here is incredible, fresh, and flavorful."

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.

3

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

15
Edomasa Sushi Bar & Restaurant image 1

Small Japanese-style restaurant offers a calm, authentic vibe with a no-frills atmosphere that feels comfortable and homey. It attracts diners looking for generous sushi portions at affordable prices, with a menu reflecting genuine Japanese ownership and influence.

Food here is authentic Japanese cuisine with a clean, fresh taste and high quality ingredients. The deluxe sushi offers a great variety and portion size at a good price.

Dinner specials offer great value with generous portions and fresh sushi. The spot suits both date nights and group dinners.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I'd eat at this sushi spot again; it's my favorite."

Good to know

1

Edomasa is open late until 10:30 PM.

2

The restaurant is family-owned and emphasizes quality service.

3

Edomasa offers a variety of sushi and Japanese dishes.

16
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.

Food here stands out for its outstanding quality and prompt service, keeping wait times short. Staff customize menus to fit preferences, ensuring dishes meet expectations exactly.

Affordable dinners for groups around 40 people work well here. Staff are responsive, friendly, and accommodating when arranging events like rehearsal dinners.

People are saying

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

"The food and service were incredible, making the whole event amazing."

"Planning dinner events here is a breeze with their friendly staff."

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.

17
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.

Food stands out with delicious flavors and outstanding presentation. The menu suits events well, pairing great taste with a nice ambiance.

Hosts wedding rehearsal dinners and pre-wedding cocktails for groups around 50 people. Staff works closely to deliver exactly what is wanted for special occasions.

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."

"Emily made planning our Dinner Spots so easy and special."

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.

18
Harry's Plaza Cafe image 1
American restaurant

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.

Food here is consistently amazing with a solid, quality feel. Drinks come strong and generous, matching the delicious dishes well.

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

"It's got this cool, old-school vibe with classic red booths."

"I thought the food here was even better than expected."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups.

2

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

3

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

19
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.

Food features exquisite taste and presentation. Dishes deliver excellent quality and consistently great flavor.

Dinner features excellent steak options and a special anniversary menu offering great value. The Half Wedge salad includes ample bacon and blue cheese, complementing the meal well.

People are saying

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

"You can get a full dinner for $21 before 6 pm."

"The food here was fantastic and perfectly cooked."

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.

20
Meun Fan Thai Cafe image 1
Thai restaurant

Spacious dining room offers a clean, organized setting with romantic Thai songs enhancing the atmosphere. The vibe is pleasant and welcoming, attracting a mix of diners who appreciate house-made condiments and authentic flavors. Service is efficient, supporting both dine-in and quick takeout experiences.

Food features delicious dishes from appetizer to dessert with excellent quality and no MSG. The green curry stands out and can be made spicy on request.

Crab cheese and chicken satay with peanut sauce stand out as dinner options. The food is so delicious it invites repeat visits on the same day.

People are saying

"I thought the Thai food here was the best I'd ever tasted."

"The soup was delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the dinner food so delicious I went back the same day."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers fast pickup for online orders.

2

Prices at the restaurant are very reasonable for Thai cuisine.

3

Everything is made in-house, including eggrolls and chai.

21
Thai Bistro image 1
Thai restaurant

Minimalist decor creates a quiet and comfortable atmosphere with laid back energy and Santa Barbara sunlight filtering in. The space feels cozy and sparse, allowing for easy conversation among diners. Ventilation issues sometimes cause a smoky BBQ smell, but overall the vibe remains relaxed and homey.

Food features authentic Thai dishes like yellow curry, panang curry, and pad Thai. The flavors stay true to traditional recipes and offer a wonderful, delicious experience.

Cozy setting suits dinners with partners, friends, or family. Meals consistently come out delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"I loved the food here; everything I ordered was delicious."

"The Khao Soi Noodle Soup is fantastic and unique."

"The Pad Thai and mango sticky rice at this dinner spot were amazing."

Good to know

1

There was plenty of easy street parking available.

2

The prices at Thai Bistro were reasonable.

3

The amount of food I received for the price was good.

22
Bossie's Kitchen image 1

Small dining room and patio create a cozy, quaint atmosphere with warm touches like plants and string lights. The vibe is relaxed and comfortable, attracting locals who appreciate thoughtfully prepared, healthy options. Outdoor seating adds to the casual, enjoyable experience.

Food shows clear care and quality from start to finish. Dishes come out fresh and delicious, with attention to allergies and service.

Comfort defines the dinner experience here, with a cozy, low-key atmosphere suited for partners or friends. Some visits bring a lovely setting, while others show inconsistency in the dinner quality.

People are saying

"The food at this Local Spot is thoughtfully prepared and amazing."

"The food, especially the chicken pot pie, is amazing."

"The dinner spots here are really tasty and high quality."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early or expect to walk a block.

2

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor dining.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

23
Meet Up Chinese Cuisine 遇见音乐餐厅 image 1

Robot servers deliver food in a setting with retro '80s decor and a feminine interior. The atmosphere feels warm and inviting, suitable for dates or dinners with friends, though noise can carry off tile walls. Round tables with lazy Susans facilitate sharing dishes.

Sichuan cuisine stands out with authentic flavors and generous portions. Dishes like the eggplant offer a moderately rich, salty profile served hot every time.

The spot offers a friendly atmosphere ideal for dinners with friends. It suits celebrations well and serves both lunch and dinner options.

People are saying

"The authentic Sichuan flavors here are bold and beautifully balanced."

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious."

"I found the food here to be extremely delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

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

2

Parking is plentiful and free for restaurant patrons.

3

Expect higher prices for authentic dishes compared to Americanized options.

24
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.

French-leaning dishes offer creative flavors with generous portions. Small plates stand out as a fresh and distinguished choice compared to other local cuisines.

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 French food here is stunning and flavorful."

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

"The outdoor patio is lovely and has a beautiful setting."

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.

25
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.

Mexican food here features fresh, well-prepared flavors with great quality and presentation. The patio and lighting add to the overall outstanding dining experience.

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

People are saying

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

"The outdoor seating is so romantic with its fireplace and lights."

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

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.

26
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.

Mexican dishes here have excellent flavor and show clear care in preparation. The food feels authentic and every detail seems intentional.

People are saying

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

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"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.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

3

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

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