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Top picks in Santa Barbara

Soup Dinner Spots

The evening is cooling down and a bowl of soup is the only thing that sounds like a proper dinner. It is a quiet, restorative way to end the day.

Based on 616 Opinions
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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.

Soups here offer creamy curry with lime tang, coconut sweetness, and crunchy fried noodles. The Tom Yum with prawns and Tom Ka broth deliver rich, flavorful experiences with spicy and aromatic notes.

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

People are saying

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

"The Panang curry soup was fabulous and flavorful."

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.

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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.

Soups here include a vegetarian soup and an excellent dahl soup that are both full of flavor and comforting. The veggie soup pairs well with dishes like saag aloo and chana masala.

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

"Our server Joban was so nice and attentive."

"The soup here is so flavorful and authentic."

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.

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Steak house with old school decor and vintage Wild West photos creates a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere filled mostly with locals. The space feels relaxed yet lively, growing louder as it fills up. It stands out for its authentic charm and a welcoming, family-like vibe.

Split pea soup stands out with its bacon flavor and a taste that feels nostalgic and close to homemade. It pairs well with garlic bread and fresh salad, making it a comforting starter.

Dinner includes entrees like Grilled Chicken Breast and a steak and lobster combo. Meals come with soup, salad, and a side, paired with delicious cocktails.

People are saying

"I thought the split pea soup was the best I ever had."

"The dinner spots here are delicious, especially the steak and lobster."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour menu offers discounted drinks and food items.

2

Dinner entrees include soup, salad, and a side.

3

Parking is not available at the restaurant.

04
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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.

Cauliflower soup arrives piping hot with a rich flavor that stands out. Soups here use fresh ingredients and deliver strong, tasty profiles.

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 cauliflower soup here is a standout."

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.

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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.

Wonton soup and cabbage soup stand out with delicious flavors though the soup tends to be served a bit cooler than expected. Coconut soup has a strong sour tang that might not suit everyone.

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

"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.

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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.

Soups here stand out with minestrone as a favorite, showing a clear focus on hearty, flavorful options. The soups receive consistent praise for their taste and quality.

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

"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.

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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.

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

People are saying

"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.

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Chinese restaurant offers authentic dishes with generous portions and a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere. Loyal locals frequent the place, enjoying vegetarian options and specialties like orange chicken and twice-cooked pork. The ownerโ€™s personality adds warmth, making it stand out for genuine flavors and value.

Hot and sour soup stands out as a flavorful choice. Wonton soup varies, with some versions being unexpected. Warm wonton and various noodle soups offer tasty options.

People are saying

"I thought the hot and sour soup was one of the best."

Good to know

1

The lunch special menu offers great value for money.

2

There are many vegetarian options available, including vegan dishes.

3

Authentic dishes are recommended for the best experience.

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