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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Barbara

Expensive Food

A high-end meal that justifies the price through genuine quality rather than just an inflated bill.

Based on 616 Opinions
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01
Santa Barbara Farmers Market // Saturday image 1
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Car-free streets host a large farmers market with wide organic selection and fresh local produce. Talented buskers provide live music, creating a lively atmosphere for people watching. The market balances variety and compactness, making it easy to explore diverse vendors.

Fresh local food dominates with an amazing selection from around the area. The market offers a mix of healthy options and maintains consistent variety, quality, and prices over time.

People are saying

"I found an amazing selection of foods from all around the area."

Good to know

1

Parking can be limited during market hours.

2

Some sellers are cash-only, but there's a booth for cash or tokens.

3

The market features a wide selection of organic produce, seafood, and baked goods.

02
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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.

People are saying

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

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.

03
Bree'Osh Bakery Café Santa Barbara image 1
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French-inspired café 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.

Food comes fresh and tastes incredible with good coffee alongside. Catering includes delivery and setup help, making dining easy and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The food here, especially the bread and pastries, is always fresh."

Good to know

1

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

2

The café 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.

04
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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.

Food features delicious steak and eggs and a spicy chicken omelette. Bread and other items show a diverse selection with clean, quality flavors and friendly service.

People are saying

"The food here is seriously delicious and better than expected."

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.

05
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Restaurant inside a busy food court with noisy atmosphere and multiple TVs. Offers Asian fusion dishes like bibimbap and bulgogi melts with craftsmanship in preparation. Welcoming vibe with passionate staff and a spot known for its matcha drinks and unique flavors.

Creative Korean dishes blend traditional flavors with a twist, featuring Bulgogi Melt and Kimchi Arancini as highlights. Meats match traditional Korean BBQ quality, served hot and spicy with fresh, flavorful presentation.

People are saying

"The bibimbap here is top tier, with a perfect crispy rice."

Good to know

1

The stone bowl bibimbap is available for dinner service starting at 3 pm.

2

The restaurant is located inside a food court, affecting wait times and noise levels.

3

Expect crowds during peak hours, especially for dinner.

06
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Bright, airy space with high ceilings and colorful decor creates a relaxed, beachy vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating offer a trendy, inviting atmosphere popular for casual visits. Music and a full coffee bar add to the hip, clean environment.

Sugar-dusted donuts stand out as a favorite breakfast choice. The food and beverage offerings consistently impress with their quality and flavor.

People are saying

"The donuts here are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at La Arcada Plaza with street parking and a paid parking structure nearby.

2

Each donut costs $4.50.

3

Vegan options are available at Hook & Press Donuts.

07
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Mexican restaurant with cozy, warm atmosphere and tile tables creates a family-friendly, quiet vibe. The space feels like a diamond in the rough with beautiful decor and a chill energy. It attracts those seeking a relaxed dining experience with solid Mexican dishes.

Mexican food here is very delicious with plentiful portions. The dishes come out quickly and consistently have excellent taste.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and the portions plentiful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right outside the door.

2

Prices range from $10 to $25 depending on the order.

3

The portions are large and satisfying.

08
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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.

Food here is delicious and refreshing with a good choice of vegetarian options. The quality feels classic and the staff's knowledge helps with easy selection.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fantastic."

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.

09
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Hotel combines upscale casual rooms with loud live music from an on-site bar that plays until early morning. Location places guests in the heart of downtown with easy access to local attractions. Amenities include a cocktail and oyster bar and complimentary bike rentals for exploring the city.

Unbelievable food pairs with excellent service and cleanliness. Staff, including the general manager, engage personally, enhancing the dining experience.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the food and drinks experience amazing."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a partnership with Buttonwood Vineyard, offering a buy-one-get-one-free wine tasting.

2

The hotel is located within walking distance to the beach and downtown attractions.

3

Expect noise from weddings and events that may last until 1:00am.

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Building preserves Spanish colonial architecture with terra-cotta tiles and wrought-iron balconies. Atmosphere stays quiet and clean, with a friendly, dog-friendly vibe. Rooftop offers heated pool and 360° views, creating a peaceful retreat.

Food comes from local farms, ensuring fresh and tasty dishes. Presentation and drinks receive many compliments, especially at events like weddings.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Sunday to Thursday from 4-6 pm with free snacks.

2

A daily wine social occurs at 5 pm, offering complimentary wine.

3

Valet parking costs $50 per day, which is quite steep.

11
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown image 1
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Courtyard combines recent renovations with a mix of historical and modern architecture, featuring a central courtyard pool and rooftop terrace with panoramic views. The atmosphere is loud and lively, with noise from nearby streets, pool activity, and hallways. Rooms offer bright, light-filled spaces with convenient amenities like microwaves and USB ports.

Rooms impress with their quality, and food offerings stand out alongside friendly employees. Location near excellent food options means the hotel bar is rarely needed.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious with good portions."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located a few blocks from State Street, making it easy to explore.

2

The hotel is newly renovated and very clean.

3

Rooms are spacious and comfortable, ideal for families.

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Santa Barbara, California

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