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Local picks

Salad and food spots in Santa Barbara

A meal should be defined by fresh greens, not just whatever happens to be on the menu.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Alma Fonda Fina image 1
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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.

Salads feature a delicious endive salad and a very good Caesar salad.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"The endive salad was delicious and a must-try."

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.

02
Saint Bibiana image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizza restaurant offers chill vibe with quaint seating and free arcade games. Atmosphere stays mellow and casual, with a quiet, tucked-away feel. Pizzas feature fire-roasted crusts and fresh toppings, making food a standout.

Salads feature thinly sliced pear, cinnamon-coated squash, and balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh mix. Roasted cauliflower salad offers a tangy and creamy flavor profile.

Lemon mushroom pizza stands out as a food highlight. Garlic knots and other dishes offer elevated comfort food in a cozy, modern setting with good value under $100.

People are saying

"I thought this pizza was one of the best I've ever had."

"The food here is amazing, especially the flavorful pizza."

"I found the pizza and salad to be outstanding."

Good to know

1

Saint Bibiana does not have high chairs for children.

2

One pizza is enough for two people.

3

Saint Bibiana is a small space with limited seating.

03
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.

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

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

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.

04
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.

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

People are saying

"The food recommendations from Joban were excellent."

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

"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.

05
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.

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.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious and sublime."

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

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

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.

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.

Food stands out for its consistent excellence and exceptional quality. Service matches the food with attentive staff enhancing the dining experience.

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 food here is amazing, especially the French dip."

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
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.

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

People are saying

"The French food here is stunning and flavorful."

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

"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.

08
Santa Barbara Fish Market image 1

Seafood market offers fresh local fish with a variety of oysters, uni, and poke. Outdoor patio seating provides a beautiful ocean view to enjoy meals. Atmosphere feels lively and inviting, with early hours and quick sell-outs indicating high demand.

Salads feature fresh seaweed and a clean sesame flavor. The salmon poke salad melts in your mouth with a nice balance of tastes.

Freshness stands out with seafood's fresh taste that feels authentic and unprocessed. Patio space offers a relaxed spot to enjoy a variety of delicious options that are consistently good and filling.

People are saying

"I found the seafood here to be super fresh, tasting like it was still from the sea."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The uni here is so sweet, it's still moving when shucked."

Good to know

1

Sea urchin availability depends on stock, so call to confirm before visiting.

2

Certain products are only available early in the morning.

3

They offer to-go food such as seared fish and poke.

09
Little Bird Kitchen image 1

Family-friendly spot sits in a busy public market corner with a chill, welcoming vibe. Menu features flavorful chicken sandwiches, crispy onion rings, and fresh salads that appeal to all ages. Prices lean higher but portions are generous, making it a solid choice for casual meals.

Salads feature fresh ingredients like kale with cranberries, mango, and almonds. Options include a Greek salad and a Caesar salad, both well-liked for their flavors.

Food shows clear care in preparation with delicious comfort options served in a lively public market setting.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken sandwich here was the best I've ever had."

"I craved the chocolate malted and planned to return for another."

"You have to try the chocolate malted; it's the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located in a public market with various dining options.

2

You can take food to go and enjoy it at nearby parks or the beach.

3

They offer a kids menu, making it family-friendly.

10
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.

Outstanding food includes top-notch enchiladas paired with excellent brewed beer and local wine.

People are saying

"The beer here is great and flavorful."

"The food here is delicious and solid."

"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.

11
Jill's Place Restaurant image 1

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.

Salads come fresh and often paired with nostalgic sides like split pea soup and garlic bread. The fried chicken salad stands out as a delicious lunch option.

Food here is consistently delicious and excellent with a focus on organic and humane ingredients. Meals come at a fair price and maintain a healthy quality.

People are saying

"It's a comfortable local spot with a welcoming, regulars feel."

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The fried chicken salad was delicious."

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.

12
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.

Food features high quality ingredients and impeccable presentation. The dining experience feels relaxing with a warm atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The food here is well prepared and full of flavor."

"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.

13
Happy Cat Eats image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor seating with stunning beach views and sun umbrellas creates a casual, friendly atmosphere. The space is small but not crowded, featuring games like corn hole and a sand pit for entertainment. Music plays loudly, adding energy to the otherwise relaxed vibe near the pier.

Salads here range from super tasty Caesar to decent tempura chicken options. Some salads, like the one with fried chicken, can be watery.

Food here is consistently quick and easy with a focus on being delicious and affordable. The menu offers a variety of options that satisfy different tastes while maintaining great quality.

People are saying

"I loved the outdoor seating right across from the beach."

"The food here is delicious and unique."

"I enjoyed the salads; they were super tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and there is usually no wait.

2

The restaurant has outdoor seating and a kidโ€™s menu.

3

Parking is limited, but a parking deck is two blocks away.

14
Rusty's Pizza Parlor image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant offers large seating areas and a family-oriented, kid-friendly vibe with old school video games in the back. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, suited for groups and family outings. Known for consistently good New York-style pizza with a thick, crusty base and a well-stocked salad bar.

Fresh vegetables fill a well stocked salad bar with a wide variety of options. Lettuce is always green but limited to iceberg, and toppings stay pretty usual.

Food here is consistently good with excellent service. The menu offers great pizza options that satisfy most tastes.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best in town."

"I thought the food here was good."

"The salad bar has a great variety of fresh options."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs under $15 and provides the best value in town.

2

The restaurant can accommodate 13 people without any issue.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but online payment options may not include cash.

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.

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

People are saying

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

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

"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
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.

Food offers incredible quality with unique options. Breakfast and brunch items stand out as delicious and flavorful with quick service even when busy.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

17
Intermezzo by Wine Cask image 1
New American restaurant

Courtyard setting with beautiful decor and perfect lighting creates a romantic atmosphere that balances upscale and relaxed vibes. Indoor and outdoor spaces feel engaging and intimate, suitable for special occasions or casual dining. Walls display unique photography, adding character to the venue.

Food here stands out for its exquisite quality and includes dishes like the lobster salad sandwich. The menu pairs well with plentiful, reasonably priced drinks around the mid $20s range.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, especially the lobster salad sandwich."

"I had a fantastic, special dining experience here."

"The Brunch menu bursts with thoughtful flavor."

Good to know

1

Sunday brunch is a popular event at INTERMEZZO.

2

Reservations are recommended for brunch to secure a table.

3

The Gold Room can accommodate up to 88 guests for private events.

18
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.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the excellent selection of beers on tap."

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

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.

19
Chuck's of Hawaii image 1

Dark interior with dim lighting and old school dining style creates an elegant yet noisy atmosphere. A self-service salad bar complements the juicy, perfectly cooked steaks. Outdoor seating feels uninviting and lacks thoughtful design, contrasting with the lively indoor bar area.

Free flow salad bar offers amazing variety with enough choices to build a salad you like. It stands out as a highlight alongside meals, providing a fresh and satisfying addition.

Food offers great value and tastes delicious. Dishes consistently come out excellent and satisfying.

People are saying

"I thought the salad bar was a really good idea and it was fresh."

"The food here is delicious, especially the steak and seafood."

"I thought the salad bar was a really good idea and it was fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait to be seated during peak hours.

3

Parking is available for free off State Street and behind the building.

20
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.

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."

"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.

21
Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro image 1

Bakery offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating under blooming trees and red tile roofs. Atmosphere stays relaxed and intimate, with a view of nearby shops and art galleries. Known for excellent French-style pastries and croissants, it provides a quiet spot for breakfast and brunch.

Salads come lightly dressed and often accompany quiches or sandwiches. Lettuce quality varies, sometimes appearing old and unwashed.

Food here is consistently delicious with good pastries. Ordering on the phone is easy and staff bring the food directly to you.

People are saying

"Their croissants are flaky, buttery, and just like France."

"I thought the food was delicious and consistent."

"I ordered the quiche with a lightly dressed French salad."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect busy times during weekends.

2

The outdoor seating area is available for customers with well-behaved dogs.

3

A drip coffee and croissant combo costs around ten dollars.

22
Tee-Off Restaurant and Lounge image 1

Old school pub with dim lighting and leather booths creates a casual, relaxed vibe. Noise levels vary from quiet to very loud depending on crowd size and events. Frequented by diners seeking classic cocktails and hearty American fare in a nostalgic steakhouse setting.

Steaks stand out with excellent quality and flavor. Food portions are generous and the overall food quality remains consistently good.

People are saying

"The Prime Rib was cooked to perfection, tender, juicy, and flavorful."

"Our waiter Chris provided excellent service for our date spot."

"The food here is amazing, especially the prime rib."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekend nights.

2

All-you-can-eat prime BBQ ribs night is on Wednesdays for just over $20.

3

Happy hour at Tee-Off Restaurant and Lounge runs on Fridays with discounted drinks.

23
Habit Burger & Grill image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Outdoor seating offers a sunny, comfortable patio in a busy downtown area with tight seating. The atmosphere feels family-friendly and attracts a diverse crowd including locals and tourists. Burgers stand out with a homemade, delicious flavor that many find impressive.

Salads come with finely shredded iceberg lettuce and small amounts of egg and chicken. Some have brown avocado on top and lack expected ingredients like bacon or enough blue cheese. Chicken tastes like it is not freshly prepared.

Food here is consistently great and reasonably priced with a menu that satisfies a variety of tastes. Outdoor dining adds a nice touch, making meals enjoyable in a relaxed setting.

People are saying

"I thought the hamburger here was good and tasty."

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

"I loved their chicken Caesar salad."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 75 minutes in the adjacent garage.

2

The restaurant has plenty of seating both inside and outside.

3

Finding a clean, available table can be challenging during busy hours.

24
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.

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

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

"The food here is delicious and fantastic."

"I enjoyed the delicious salad."

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.

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