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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Santa Barbara

Lunch spots with salad

You want a lunch that is light, fresh, and easy to eat.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 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 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 found the food here excellent and made it my weekly lunch spot."

"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
Tamar image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant shares space with a coffee shop, featuring an open cook area and airy design with long windows overlooking the sidewalk. Atmosphere stays casual and chill, with Bob Marley music adding to the vibe. Dog-friendly patio invites relaxed dining alongside a garden setting.

Salads feature fresh ingredients like gem lettuce and pickled cabbage with vibrant textures. Dressings include a house-made sumac vinaigrette and sauces like amba tahini and green minty spicy sauce, adding bold flavors.

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.

03
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.

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."

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

"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.

04
Dutch Garden Restaurant image 1
German restaurant

Outdoor seating under large, mature trees offers a scenic mountain view and a European biergarten vibe. The atmosphere feels homey and casual, with live music enhancing the lively, friendly energy. Pet-friendly patio welcomes both people and pups, creating a relaxed, inviting setting.

Salads here feature a house-made bratwurst sausage paired with German potato salad and sauerkraut. The potato salad stands out as a farmer's market on a plate with fresh, vibrant ingredients.

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."

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

"I can't wait to return to try their salad."

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.

05
Little Alex's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with ample outdoor seating and a heated dog-friendly patio offers a casual, relaxed atmosphere away from busy streets. Indoor area features a small bar and large TVs showing sports, creating a lively vibe that can get loud. Frequented for fresh, local Mexican food with standout dishes like fish tacos and specialty meats.

Salads include a taco salad and a tostada salad that is smaller and less filling. Side salads come small and sometimes miss expected ingredients like avocado.

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."

"I loved the cute bar seating and great outdoor patio."

"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.

06
Bossie's Kitchen image 1

Small dining room and patio create a cozy, quaint atmosphere with warm touches like plants and string lights. The vibe is relaxed and comfortable, attracting locals who appreciate thoughtfully prepared, healthy options. Outdoor seating adds to the casual, enjoyable experience.

Salads feature local produce and fresh ingredients like perfectly cooked salmon. Options include a rotating market salad with farmers market picks, a citrus salad, and a standout peach salad.

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."

"Their chicken pot pie is an amazing American Food classic."

"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.

07
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.

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.

08
California Pasta Sandwich & Salads image 1

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.

Salads feature fresh ingredients with options like salmon and blackened chicken. The Caesar salad stands out with creamy dressing and a well-coated presentation.

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.

09
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.

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."

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

"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.

10
Brass Bear Uptown image 1

Brewpub offers mountain views from both indoor and outdoor patio seating, creating a laid-back, warm atmosphere. A dedicated family zone with a play area keeps children entertained while adults enjoy crafted cocktails and local beers. The space balances casual dining with scenic relaxation, making it suitable for both brunch and private events.

Salads come with an amazingly simple dressing that tastes great. Portions like the BBQ chicken salad are large enough for two meals and pair well with other items like chicken wings.

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."

"The salads here have great mountain views."

"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.

11
Brass Bear Funk Zone image 1

Outdoor seating with cozy patio, vegetation surroundings, and dog-friendly areas creates a relaxed vibe. Live music and mid-2000s rap and R&B add to the fun atmosphere. Family-friendly features include a supervised play area and games for all ages.

Salads feature walnuts, blueberries, and blackberries for a unique mix. The large salad option is modest in size and serves as the main vegan choice.

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."

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

"I loved their salad with walnuts and berries."

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.

12
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.

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."

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

"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.

13
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.

A hidden gem for lunch with a spot that works well for groups. The vibe suits a casual crew lunch setting.

People are saying

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

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and made with quality ingredients."

"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.

14
The Anchor Rose image 1
Restaurant

Harbor views dominate the setting with outdoor patios and a balcony overlooking boats and paddle boards. Music often plays live, creating a loud atmosphere that can clash with the otherwise joyful vibe. Indoor and patio seating offer options for enjoying the scenic waterfront.

Caesar salad serves as a solid starter with fresh ingredients and classic flavors. Service can be slow, sometimes taking over 45 minutes to bring out salads.

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

"The steak and scallops at these dinner spots were cooked to perfection."

"The Caesar salad was a great starter."

"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.

15
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.

Interesting breakfast and lunch options include a fish and chips dish that can be shared.

People are saying

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

"I tried the breakfast burritos; they never tasted greasy."

"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.

16
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.

Lunch costs around $150 with slow service near the end of lunch hours. Requests like skipping basil on a pizza cause delays despite the restaurant being generally slow during lunch.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the delicious salad."

"I loved grabbing a table at this cute outdoor lunch spot."

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.

17
Moby Dick Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers gorgeous marina views and ample indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is laid-back and family-friendly, with outdoor areas shaded and comfortable. Music and a small TV add to the casual vibe, making it suitable for both casual meals and romantic dates.

Louie salad offers a classic, straightforward option with fresh ingredients. It pairs well with fried fish and hot crispy chips for a satisfying meal.

Lunch offers excellent dishes that invite repeat visits. Tables are available quickly even for a late lunch, making it easy to enjoy a good meal without waiting.

People are saying

"The sunset view from the restaurant was amazing."

"This lunch spot has amazing views of the water."

"The views here are fantastic, making the salad a great experience."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from 3 pm to 5 pm with affordable appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers 90 minutes of free parking for diners.

3

Outdoor seating is not accessible during lunch hours.

18
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.

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 food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The chef makes magic with flavors in the salad."

"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.

19
Giovanni's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Old building with arcade games and outdoor seating creates a family-friendly and relaxed vibe. The atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, suited for casual dining and socializing. Large pizza slices and a variety of toppings add to the laid-back experience.

Large antipasto salads come loaded with meat, cheese, and fresh ingredients. Salads often serve as a hearty side with pizza and wings, offering a generous portion size.

Offers a casual lunch atmosphere with options suitable for both lunch and dinner. Includes a spot to play video games during lunch breaks.

People are saying

"I thought Giovanni's Pizza had the best pizza."

"The antipasto salad here is really large and loaded with meat."

"You can play video games at this Lunch Spot and grab a drink."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is available, offering discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Delivery and takeout options are available for convenience.

3

Parking is available next to the building for easy access.

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