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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Barbara's best

Pasta spots

You have a specific standard for pasta that doesn't leave room for compromise. You want a dish that respects the craft of the kitchen.

Based on 530 Opinions
+527
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Updated May 2026
01
California Pasta Sandwich & Salads image 1
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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.

Food comes out piping hot and flavorful with quick preparation and generous portions. The counter-order setup keeps dining relaxed without pressure on tipping.

Generous portions of seafood pasta like spicy shrimp and Cajun shrimp stand out. Unique dishes include Zucchini Avocado Pasta and a Thai-style pasta with fragrant spices and fresh vegetables.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the food to be amazing and delicious."

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.

02
Aperitivo image 1
Wine bar

Small space with a polished, warm vibe feels like a cozy European spot. Friendly greetings create a welcoming, intimate atmosphere. Focus on fresh pasta, Italian DOCG wines, and rotating menus featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Food features elevated Italian cuisine with dishes that change weekly. Highlights include a special with corn pudding, mozzarella, and truffle. The menu pairs well with a unique wine selection.

Fresh pasta takes center stage with perfectly cooked homemade noodles and excellent flavor combinations. Creamy sauces paired with crunchy bread crumbs add texture to the dishes.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the Italian wine and delicious food."

"The food here is delicious, especially the homemade pasta."

"The homemade pasta here is phenomenal and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The menu features fresh pastas and locally sourced ingredients.

3

Expect a wait for a table during peak dining hours.

03
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.

Rich, creamy, and flavorful pasta dishes stand out here. The Jambalaya Pasta and crawfish pasta offer bold, distinctive tastes alongside other well-prepared options.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the crawfish pasta to be superb."

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.

04
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.

Mushroom ravioli stands out as a flavorful choice. Classic dishes like lasagna and baked penne pasta also feature prominently, alongside pasta with sausage and spaghetti with meatballs.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious and sublime."

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

"The pasta here is amazing and served piping hot."

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.

05
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.

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.

Short rib pasta offers a unique taste experience with fresh homemade pasta made in-house. Pomodoro and other pastas come with delicious sauces that pair well with proteins and plants.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious and fantastic."

"I found the pasta here to be delicious."

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.

06
Presto Pasta image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a casual, comfortable space with a fast-food vibe and lively atmosphere filled with happy diners. Generous portions and affordable prices attract those seeking quick, budget-friendly meals. Garlic bread stands out as a popular item among the menu.

Food comes out quick and is consistently delicious with reasonable prices.

Offers affordable pasta with quick service and hot, filling dishes. Menu includes Cajun shrimp penne, ravioli with marinara creme, and creamy pesto with whole pine nuts.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I found the pasta dishes to be delicious."

"I thought the garlic bread was exceptionally good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant operates on a food service model where customers order at the counter.

2

Parking during lunch can be a little challenging.

3

The meal is served quickly, making it great for a quick bite.

07
Roy image 1
Italian restaurant

Low-key retro space with live local music and walls adorned by local art creates a cozy, laid-back vibe. The bar features an iconic Jolly Tiger sign, adding a touch of local history. It attracts a locals-only crowd seeking a relaxed atmosphere and late-night dining.

Food features excellent quality and locally sourced ingredients. Dishes like homemade bread and spaghetti carbonara come well prepared and consistently delicious.

Fresh, homemade pasta stands out here, especially the spaghetti carbonara and ravioli. The pasta has a fantastic texture and flavor that beats dried versions.

People are saying

"It's a great little bar with a cozy atmosphere and live music."

"I found the food here to be delicious and well prepared."

"The pasta carbonara here is the best Iโ€™ve ever had."

Good to know

1

Roy is open late, making it a good option for dinner after 9pm.

2

Parking is available in Lot 2 behind the restaurant with free 75-minute parking.

3

The menu features local farmer vegetables and organic products.

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Santa Barbara, California

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