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Local picks in Santa Barbara

Lunch spots

A lunch spot that respects your limited time without making you feel like you are eating at a fast-food assembly line.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 1
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 2
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 3
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Large, airy space with dog-friendly patio and Punjabi music creates a lively vibe. Lunch features a thali special with butter chicken and naan, offering great variety at low prices. Service is attentive, making it a warm, welcoming spot for authentic Indian food.

Lunch offers a thali special with salad, butter chicken, rice, and naan, providing a great variety. Prices stay incredible for sampling many dishes, and service can be special and attentive.

People are saying

"The food recommendations from Joban were excellent."

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

"The service at this Lunch Spot was great, especially from Joban."

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.

02
Bossie's Kitchen image 1

Cozy dining room and patio with string lights create a relaxed vibe. Outdoor seating makes it a great lunch spot for a half sandwich and side. Locals enjoy the healthy options in a quaint, comfortable setting.

Outdoor seating on the patio offers a relaxed spot for lunch. The menu features a half sandwich and side option, making it a cozy, low-key choice for midday meals with friends or partners.

People are saying

"The food at this Local Spot is thoughtfully prepared and amazing."

"The citrus salad with local produce and salmon is so good."

"The BLT at this Lunch Spot is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early or expect to walk a block.

2

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor dining.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

03
Tamar image 1
Restaurant

Enjoy a quick and healthy lunch in a casual spot with an open cook area and airy design. Chill vibes flow with Bob Marley tunes and a dog-friendly patio set in a garden. Perfect for fast meals without losing quality.

Offers a quick and healthy lunch option in a casual setting. Ideal for those seeking a fast meal without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food, especially the chicken shawarma, is packed with flavor."

"The gem salad here is fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned."

"The chicken shawarma sandwich for lunch is packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, making it easy for walk-ins.

2

The dog-friendly patio allows you to bring your pup while dining.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during midday on weekends.

04
Maravilla image 1
Retirement community

Beautiful grounds with Santa Barbara-style architecture create a peaceful setting. Lunch serves delicious dishes that fill you up and end with wonderful cookies. Residents enjoy musical entertainment and diverse activities in cozy spaces.

Lunch offers delicious dishes that leave you feeling very full. The meal often ends with wonderful cookies for dessert.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and superb."

"I had a delicious lunch here."

Good to know

1

Maravilla hosts special events like a fall luncheon on November 21.

2

Various levels of care are available, including independent and assisted living.

3

Residents can create their own activities to enhance community engagement.

05
101 Deli image 1
Restaurant

Family-owned deli shines with affordable prices and a clean setting. Quick takeout and fresh ingredients make it a top lunch spot for nearby workers. Perfect for fast, casual meals with vibrant flavors.

Offers quick takeout options and suits those working nearby. Serves as a reliable spot for daily lunch visits.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the fish in the rolls, is so vibrant."

"The people at this Lunch Spot are so friendly and welcoming."

"I found the breakfast burritos really great."

Good to know

1

They offer breakfast burritos, sandwiches, soup, sushi, snacks, and beverages.

2

The food is affordable with good prices.

3

The family-owned establishment is very clean.

06
Alma Fonda Fina image 1
Restaurant

Bright, intimate space offers patio dining and a lively vibe. High-quality Mexican dishes make it a weekly lunch spot. Loud energy welcomes diners and dogs, creating a fun, casual atmosphere.

Food impresses enough to return for lunch. Many make it a weekly lunch and dinner spot.

People are saying

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

"I thought this was something special, a truly magical dinner spot."

"I found the food here excellent and made it my weekly lunch spot."

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.

07
Little Alex's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with heated dog-friendly patio offers a casual vibe for lunch and more. Fresh, local Mexican food shines with fish tacos and specialty meats. Large TVs and a small bar create a lively spot perfect for midday meals.

Outdoor patio offers a delicious lunch experience. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it draws repeat visits for midday meals.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here tastes so fresh, especially the tacos."

"The patio is quiet and relaxing, perfect for lunch."

"I thought the lunch spot here was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day from 3-6pm with good food and drink options.

2

There is plenty of free parking available at the new location.

3

The new location offers both indoor and outdoor seating for guests.

08
Olio Bottega image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot with a warm vibe offers fantastic sandwiches and European-style pizza. Perfect for family gatherings or a solid midday meal. Small market area adds authentic Italian charm.

Lunch features fantastic food with options that satisfy groups, including family gatherings. The menu suits those seeking a pick me up or a solid midday meal.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the food at this lunch spot was fantastic."

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.

09
Saint Bibiana image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizza spot serves fire-roasted crusts with fresh toppings in a chill vibe. Lunch feels upscale casual with relaxed patio seating. Free arcade games add fun to the quiet, tucked-away atmosphere.

Casual lunch feels a bit upscale here with a relaxed patio and available indoor seating. Offers a refreshing break without a high price tag.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the rich and delicious cookie here."

"The pizza here is so delicious, especially the lemon mushroom."

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.

10
Dutch Garden Restaurant image 1
German restaurant

Outdoor seating under mature trees offers a scenic mountain view perfect for lunch. Enjoy hearty dishes like schnitzel in a casual, homey setting. Live music and a pet-friendly patio create a lively, inviting atmosphere with a European biergarten vibe.

Outdoor seating offers a beautiful setting for lunch. The menu includes schnitzel and other hearty options that make for a wonderful midday meal.

People are saying

"I appreciated the great beer selection."

"I thought the German food here was as authentic as you can get."

"This lunch spot's schnitzel sandwich is a meal I'll return for."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right out front, but it fills up quickly.

2

The restaurant is pet friendly, allowing guests to bring their pets.

3

The restaurant offers generous portions, often leading to leftovers.

11
Tacos Pipeye image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco spot shines with handmade tortillas and a great salsa bar. Fast service suits a quick lunch, especially the 3 taco special for $11. Casual vibe and cold beer make it a relaxed, funky place to enjoy well-priced tacos.

Fast service and a casual setup make it easy to grab a quick lunch. The 3 taco special for $11 offers a filling meal without fuss.

People are saying

"The handmade tortillas make this Mexican food a standout."

"The salsa bar here has a great variety, from mild to spicy."

"This lunch spot's tacos have flavorful fillings and solid, handmade tortillas."

Good to know

1

They offer a 3 taco special for $11, which is great for lunch.

2

The 4x12 deal provides excellent value for tacos.

3

There are limited tables, so most people order to-go.

12
ShangHai Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Enjoy authentic dishes with generous portions in a quiet, family-friendly spot. Lunch offers a special menu with great value like pork mushu for $11.95. Warm service and vegetarian options make it a local favorite.

Lunch features a great special menu with options like the pork mushu lunch priced at $11.95. Seating includes access to the lunch, take-out, and dinner menus.

People are saying

"I loved the vegetarian menu; the flavors were incredible."

"This lunch spot has fantastic dan dan noodles and fresh ingredients."

"I thought the Szechuan food here was authentic, especially the mapo tofu."

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.

13
RH Firehouse Grill at RH Montecito image 1

Luxurious furniture and rolling hills create a calming atmosphere perfect for lunch. Enjoy tasty flavors in a setting that suits both casual and business meals. Outdoor patio offers wonderful views for a peaceful dining experience.

Lunch offers a pleasant ambiance with beautiful surroundings. Meals come with tasty flavors suited for casual or business settings.

People are saying

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

"The Brunch food was as lovely as the breathtaking setting."

"This Lunch Spot has delicious food that's all good."

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.

14
Brass Bear Uptown image 1

Enjoy mountain views while dining on Brass burgers for lunch. Kids love the family zone with a play area, letting adults relax with crafted cocktails. Perfect for casual gatherings and scenic relaxation.

Lunch features Brass burgers and churros for dessert. The spot suits casual gatherings like graduation lunches.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing; Emily helped bring my vision to life."

"I loved the outdoor patio's beautiful mountain views and sunset."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot were so attentive and kind."

Good to know

1

Brass Bear Uptown is suitable for hosting private events and weddings.

2

They only offer valet parking, and street parking is limited.

3

Happy hour runs at specific times, which can be confusing.

15
California Pasta Sandwich & Salads image 1

Outdoor seating creates a cozy patio perfect for relaxed meals or a first date. Quick service and delicious food make it ideal for lunch breaks. Soft music adds to the quiet, inviting atmosphere without overpowering conversation.

Quick service and consistently excellent food make it a solid choice for lunch. Menu items are absolutely delicious, fitting well for office breaks or a shopping trip stop.

People are saying

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

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

"This lunch spot has delicious pasta and sandwiches."

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.

16
Petit Valentien image 1
French restaurant

Small French bistro offers cozy seating and a quiet atmosphere perfect for social dinners or dates. Lunch includes an $18 special deal providing great value. Weekends feature Ethiopian cuisine, adding a unique twist to the menu.

Lunch features a special deal priced at $18. The offer provides a great value for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, fresh, and perfectly seasoned."

"This Ethiopian Lunch Spot is incredibly good."

"It's a perfect cozy place with a romantic atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Making reservations is recommended before visiting.

2

Lunch offers a great deal at $18.

3

The menu changes every 2 weeks, so check for new items.

17
Honor Bar image 1
New American restaurant

Outdoor patio with Adirondack chairs and a fireplace offers a cozy, elegant vibe. Excellent sandwiches and top-notch service make it a great lunch spot. Well-dressed crowd enjoys people watching and lively social energy.

Excellent sandwiches and delicious lunch fare make this a reliable spot for a midday meal. The service is top-notch, and it works well for a late lunch to avoid crowds.

People are saying

"I thought the burger was truly excellent, juicy, and well-balanced."

"The salads here are fresh and the service is outstanding."

"This lunch spot's crispy chicken sandwich is amazing."

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.

18
Sam's To Go image 1
Sandwich shop

Classic hole-in-the-wall shop offers a huge menu with high-quality ingredients. Loud music and an eclectic crowd create a lively vibe. Perfect for lunch with over 40 lunch boxes ready for groups, making every meal a memorable journey.

Attention to detail turns simple lunches into a memorable culinary journey. Options range from quick sandwiches to large orders with over 40 lunch boxes prepared for groups.

People are saying

"I questioned why I would go to fast food places when I could get a great burger here."

"The sandwiches here are phenomenal, especially the pastrami."

"The bread here is so fresh, it makes the whole sandwich."

Good to know

1

The menu at Sam's To Go is huge and varied.

2

They offer daily specials for added value.

3

There are a few parking spots in the back.

19
Harry's Plaza Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Spacious American restaurant with red leather booths offers hearty lunch options like Meatloaf Special and Martini lunches. Retro steakhouse vibe blends with a lively bar serving strong martinis. Crowd includes retirees and families enjoying a classic, comfortable setting.

Lunch offers a variety of hearty options like Meatloaf Special, spaghetti with meatballs, and Cobb salad. The spot also serves Martini lunches alongside satisfying soups and garlic bread.

People are saying

"It's got this cool, old-school vibe with classic red booths."

"I loved the all-you-can-eat deal for under a dollar."

"I had a great lunch here; everything was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups.

2

The all-you-can-eat deal is available for under a dollar.

3

The cafe has a private back room suitable for large gatherings.

20
Dargan's image 1
Irish pub

Brick walls and authentic Irish decor create a lively yet warm vibe. Quiet dining area suits a quick lunch with fast service. Multiple TVs and pool tables keep the atmosphere fun during sports events.

Lunch offers a quiet atmosphere with few patrons during late hours. Staff aim to serve quickly, fitting meals into a 30-minute break window.

People are saying

"This pub serves delicious, authentic Irish food and hearty stews."

"It's a low-pressure place to just have fun and chill."

"This lunch spot has fresh and tasty food."

Good to know

1

Karaoke takes place on Thursday nights starting at 10pm.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with drink and appetizer specials.

3

The pub offers traditional Irish music and dancing on Thursday evenings.

21
Sushi Teri - Santa Barbara Japanese Restaurant image 1

Small sushi spot shines with fresh, high-quality sushi and a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor patio with space heaters makes dining pleasant. Perfect for post-workout lunch or casual family meals with a variety of options.

A popular choice for a post-workout lunch, it serves well for casual family meals too. The spot offers a reliable and straightforward lunch experience with a variety of options.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fresh seafood, especially the shrimp tempura, was the best I ever had."

"The sushi here is always fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and mostly on the street, which can be challenging.

2

Expect minimal wait times, especially on weekdays.

3

Prices are reasonable, especially for the quality of sushi offered.

22
Sushi Bar 29 image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot offers fresh sushi and a cozy vibe with dim lighting. Lunch specials and happy hour make it great for midday meals. Easy parking and quick service add to its appeal for couples and groups.

Lunch includes specials that are available for both take out and dine in. Happy hour also runs alongside lunch options.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fresh and executed beautifully."

"The staff here is so cheerful and helpful."

"It's a great casual lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. with lunch specials available.

2

Parking at the restaurant is easy and accessible.

3

Expect a very short wait time even during rush hours.

23
Rosales Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers fresh salsa and flavorful dishes like huevos rancheros. Lunch is quick and efficient, perfect for a fast meal. Cozy inside but expect loud street traffic outside.

Lunch service runs smoothly and efficiently even at peak hours. Meals come out quickly, making it easy to fit in a quick lunch before other activities.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be the best in Santa Barbara."

"The food at this lunch spot is delicious and freshly made."

"I found the food to be simple and authentic."

Good to know

1

Prices may differ from those listed on the website.

2

Expect small portions relative to the high prices.

3

The restaurant does not offer its own delivery service.

24
Meet Up Chinese Cuisine 遇见音乐餐厅 image 1

Robot servers bring lunch specials featuring beef and broccoli with spring rolls and rice. Retro '80s decor and a warm, feminine interior create a cozy vibe. Round tables with lazy Susans make sharing easy, perfect for dates or friends.

Lunch specials come with beef and broccoli, a spring roll, and a choice of fried or steamed rice. The menu offers affordable and filling options that stand out for quality and value.

People are saying

"The authentic Sichuan flavors here are bold and beautifully balanced."

"The robots serving Chinese food were a blast to watch."

"This lunch spot's food is amazing, especially the rice."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available daily from 11am to 3pm.

2

Parking is plentiful and free for restaurant patrons.

3

Expect higher prices for authentic dishes compared to Americanized options.

25
Brass Bear Funk Zone image 1

Enjoy cozy patio seating surrounded by greenery and dog-friendly spots. Lunch is calm on weekdays but lively on Saturdays with beers and music. Families love the supervised play area and games for all ages.

Lunch hours offer a relaxed vibe with fewer crowds on weekdays. Saturdays bring a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying beers alongside your meal.

People are saying

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

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

"The food at this Lunch Spot is great and delicious."

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.

26
Taqueria Santa Barbara image 1
Taco restaurant

Affordable tacos shine with vegetarian options like rajas and nopales, perfect for a quick lunch. Casual vibe with sticky tables keeps it low-key downtown. Pineapple salsa adds a flavorful touch to fresh meat tacos and tortas.

Tacos stand out as a tasty and inexpensive lunch option. The spot stays fairly quiet during lunch hours, making it a convenient downtown stop.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is piled high with meat."

"I thought the shrimp burrito with guacamole was worth the extra cost."

"The tacos at this Lunch Spot are delicious and a good size."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $2.50 each for carnitas or chicken.

2

Daily specials offer great deals on tacos and burritos.

3

The building is very clean and well-maintained.

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