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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 739 Opinions
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01
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 1
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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 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
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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 people at this Lunch Spot are so friendly and welcoming."

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.

03
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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

"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.

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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

"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.

05
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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

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

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.

06
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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

"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.

07
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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

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

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.

08
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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

"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.

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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 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.

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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 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.

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Small Mexican spot offers authentic cuisine in a cozy atmosphere with familiar faces behind the counter. Lunch specials like chicken enchiladas draw a busy crowd, so expect waits or order to go. Limited seating adds to the family-run vibe.

Lunch features solid specials like chicken enchiladas and grilled veggie burritos. Expect a busy lunch rush with possible waits or the option to order to go.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's burritos are huge and tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is small with limited seating.

2

During the lunch rush, there might be a wait for a table or the need to order to go.

3

The daily specials at Lito's come with rice, beans, and a drink.

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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

"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.

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Cozy Mexican spot shines with outdoor seating under lush succulents, perfect for a relaxed lunch. Enjoy traditional family recipes in a lively yet comfortable vibe. Dog-friendly policy adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

Outdoor seating offers a nice open air setting for lunch. Lunch hours are low key with no waiting.

People are saying

"The service at this Lunch Spot is fast and friendly."

Good to know

1

Rose Cafe retains outdoor seating options from COVID.

2

Seating can be cramped when it's busy.

3

During lunch time, there is usually no waiting.

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Pier offers breathtaking ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for lunch. Visitors enjoy fishing off the dock and exploring hands-on marine exhibits that kids love. Casual dining and souvenir shops add to the relaxing vibe.

Lunch comes with ocean views right from the pier. The spot offers a pleasant atmosphere to hang out and enjoy meals like those at the shellfish company.

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 90 minutes at Stearns Wharf.

2

There are various shops and restaurants with ocean views on the wharf.

3

Visitors can walk to Stearns Wharf from nearby hotels.

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Old-fashioned diner shines with classic 1950s look and cozy booths. Hearty, traditional American meals offer generous portions perfect for lunch. Warm, family feel and natural light create a retro atmosphere ideal for casual stops.

Hearty, traditional American breakfast and lunch fare comes in generous portions. The menu suits a quick breakfast or lunch stop with casual, satisfying options.

People are saying

"This lunch spot feels like a genuine step back in time."

Good to know

1

Parking is mostly street parking and often timed.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so expect potential wait times.

3

Prices are reasonable for breakfast, but some items may feel overpriced.

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Harbor views shine from outdoor patios and a balcony with boats below. Lunch features a solid menu with happy hour entrees and casual service by Billy. Live music adds energy but can get loud, mixing with the joyful waterfront vibe.

Lunch offers a good selection from the regular menu, with entrees suitable for happy hour, lunch, or dinner. Service by Billy adds to a pleasant, casual experience.

People are saying

"Billy made the lunch experience an absolute pleasure."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily with discounted drinks and food.

2

Reservations are not required and no upfront fees are needed for group bookings.

3

The restaurant is dog friendly, allowing pets in certain areas.

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Patio seating and a quiet atmosphere make it a relaxed setting. French-style pastries like croissants shine with quality. Lunch options focus on fresh bakery items but can be mediocre at times.

Offers great breakfast and lunch options with a focus on fresh bakery items. Lunch quality varies, sometimes coming off as mediocre.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's selection and quality were just mediocre."

Good to know

1

They do a small sale after 3:30 for some of their pastries.

2

Renaud's Bakery offers outdoor and indoor dining options.

3

Self-ordering stations are available for convenience.

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Classic 50s diner style offers a cozy, lively vibe with booths and outdoor seating. Family-friendly and dog-friendly spaces make it welcoming. Low prices and a salmon burger shine for lunch, blending American and Mexican flavors.

Low prices and a wide variety of options make lunch here appealing. The salmon burger with side salad stands out as a solid choice among the delicious burgers available for a sit-down meal.

People are saying

"This place is great for lunch."

Good to know

1

Farmer Boy serves breakfast all day until closing at 2pm.

2

Parking is free and readily available near the diner.

3

Lunch prices are very affordable, making it a great value.

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Outdoor courtyard shines with romantic lighting and propane heaters, perfect for lunch or casual outings. Large bar offers cocktail flights and margaritas in a modern, elegant setting. Atmosphere feels calm and inviting for any occasion.

Lunch offers a gorgeous outdoor dining area that stands out. Meals suit both casual day-offs and special occasions with a consistently great all-around experience.

People are saying

"The presentation of the food at this Lunch Spot is stunning."

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.

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Outdoor patio and backyard seating offer a cozy atmosphere perfect for a relaxed lunch. Handmade tortillas and a salsa bar bring authentic Mexican flavors to generous portions. Service is slow, so enjoy the chill vibe and take your time.

Mexican dishes define the lunch menu with consistent quality. Service runs a bit slow, so plan for a relaxed lunch pace rather than a quick stop.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding with good portions and reasonable prices."

Good to know

1

Tortas cost $7 on Thursdays.

2

Daily specials include oysters on weekends.

3

Happy hour offers exceptional values on select items.

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Dining room shows 1970s decor with a lively vibe full of college students. Fast lunch service offers generous portions and solid midday specials. Authentic Chinese dishes like Kung Pao and Mu Shu Chicken stand out for flavor.

Fast lunch service offers a variety of lunch specials with generous portions. Lunch sets include an entree, rice, and sides, making it a solid spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"I loved going to this lunch spot for the lunch special."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located in a strip mall with plenty of free onsite parking.

2

The menu offers a generous variety of items, especially during lunch specials.

3

Portion sizes are reasonable, with three people able to share four dishes.

22
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Sandwich shop buzzes with 80's metal music and quirky wall art. Offers fresh, bold sandwiches perfect for a quick lunch. To-go options suit beach trips but watch for sustainability challenges in lunch service.

Offers to-go lunch options suitable for eating at nearby spots like the beach. Current lunch service process may face challenges with sustainability.

People are saying

"This lunch spot was a classic from here."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during busy weekends, especially on holidays.

2

The total cost for two sandwiches and a side is around $40.

3

Vegetarian options are limited, with no hot vegetarian sandwiches available.

23
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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 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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Mexican restaurant offers a lively, sports-friendly atmosphere with multiple TVs and heated patios. Lunch can be slow due to limited staff but features a casual, local cantina feel. Beautiful decor and a cool bar vibe make it great for families and fans.

Lunch service runs with just a waiter and manager on Saturdays, which makes it slow. Plans exist to return for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The service at this Lunch Spot was friendly and good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is daily from 3:00-5:30 pm with a special menu.

2

The restaurant offers gluten-free options, but check with staff for preparation.

3

Parking is available in the Vons shopping center lot.

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