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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Barbara

Italian food spots

A long meal centered around handmade pasta and slow-simmered sauces is the definition of comfort.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
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Updated May 2026
01
Olio Bottega image 1
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Restaurant

Cozy spot with a warm vibe and authentic Italian touches. Pasta shines with rich flavors, and the bocca di rosa sandwich features moist focaccia and pistachio spread. Small market area adds charm for browsing Italian goods.

Pasta stands out with rich flavors and great texture. The bocca di rosa sandwich features focaccia that stays moist and a tasty pistachio spread. Lasagna comes out solid and satisfying.

People are saying

"I thought the pork belly sandwich was the greatest I ever had."

"I loved the authentic Italian pizza here; it tasted just like Europe."

"The Italian food here is wonderful, and the service is the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early for lunch.

2

Expect a limited pizza selection later in the day as they sell out quickly.

3

Outdoor seating is available and provides a comfortable dining experience.

02
California Pasta Sandwich & Salads image 1

Cozy patio seating creates a quiet, inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxed meals or dates. Italian dishes shine with spicy shrimp pasta and homemade lasagna, offering rich flavors and generous portions. Soft music adds to the pleasant vibe without overpowering conversation.

Pasta dishes feature perfect fish and vegetable ratios and generous portions at good prices. Options like the spicy shrimp pasta and homemade lasagna showcase rich, comforting flavors with house-made sauces and creamy textures.

People are saying

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

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

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the fresh pasta."

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.

03
Petrini's Italian Restaurant - Santa Barbara image 1

Old-fashioned Italian spot offers classic thin-crust pizza and lasagna in a cozy, family-friendly setting. Red and white checkered tables and historic photos add charm. Prices stay reasonable, making it perfect for groups seeking traditional dishes and a relaxed vibe.

Classic Italian dishes like lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, and chicken picatta feature prominently. Pizza, risotto, and baked penne pasta also appear alongside desserts like tiramisu.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious and sublime."

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

"It's a real old school American Italian place."

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.

04
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Wine bar

Cozy spot with a warm vibe offers fresh pasta and Italian DOCG wines. Friendly greetings enhance the intimate feel. Seasonal dishes like gnocchi in pesto and lardo bruschetta highlight local flavors.

Fresh, homemade pasta stands out with perfect cooking and excellent flavor combinations. Dishes like gnocchi in pesto and seasonal lardo bruschetta offer soft textures and memorable tastes.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the Italian wine and delicious food."

"This place offers creative, delicious northern Italian-inspired food and spritz for a perfect date spot."

"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.

05
Brass Bear Funk Zone image 1

Outdoor seating with a cozy patio and dog-friendly areas sets a relaxed vibe. Pesto pasta with a spicy sauce offers a unique Italian twist, while a supervised play area keeps kids entertained. Live music and mid-2000s rap create a fun atmosphere for all ages.

Pesto pasta comes with a spicy sauce that adds a unique kick. Pasta salad offers a fresh way to enjoy pesto, appealing even to kids. Steak pairs well with these dishes for a solid Italian meal.

People are saying

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

"I loved the cozy, dog-friendly outdoor patio with vegetation."

"The Italian food here is amazing, and the service is super friendly."

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.

06
The Copper image 1
Italian restaurant

Outdoor courtyard with a historic water fountain offers a relaxing vibe. Italian dishes shine with fresh homemade pasta and rich short rib flavors. Inside feels modern but can be cold, while outside is warm and welcoming.

Short rib pasta offers a unique taste experience with rich flavors. Fresh homemade pasta pairs well with proteins and plants, complemented by delicious sauces and dressings on pasta and salad.

People are saying

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

"The atmosphere here is perfect for a romantic date night."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and pasta, is 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.

07
Gino's Sicilian Express image 1
Pizza restaurant

Old school pizza shop with a cozy, East Coast vibe offers thin crust pizza and marinara sauce that drives flavor. Paninis like chicken parmesan and chicken pesto shine alongside cannolis for a sweet finish. Small, tight space feels like a New York local spot.

Marinara sauce stands out and drives the flavor in dishes. Paninis come with options like chicken parmesan and chicken pesto. Cannolis offer a sweet finish, and Caesar salads come with plenty of dressing and Parmigiano cheese on the side.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was amazing and delicious."

"I found the calzone here to be huge and totally hit the spot."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza, was absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating options, so arrive early.

2

Takeout is recommended due to the small size of the restaurant.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $10-$15.

08
Presto Pasta image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant serves affordable pasta with quick service in a lively, casual space. Popular dishes include Cajun shrimp penne and chicken Alfredo paired with Caesar salad. Generous portions and garlic bread make it a budget-friendly spot for fast, tasty meals.

Offers quick service with affordable pasta options and a variety of sauces and pasta types. Dishes like Cajun shrimp penne, chicken Alfredo with Caesar salad, and ravioli with marinara creme stand out for their flavor and presentation.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I found the pasta dishes to be delicious."

"I enjoyed the delicious Italian food here."

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.

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Santa Barbara, California

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