Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Food spots in North State

Made for those who value consistent access to quality meals within their immediate surroundings.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Petrini's Italian Restaurant - Santa Barbara image 1
Petrini's Italian Restaurant - Santa Barbara image 2
Petrini's Italian Restaurant - Santa Barbara image 3
View all

Old-fashioned Italian spot offers classic thin-crust pizza and spaghetti and meatballs with fresh, hot flavors. Cozy, family-friendly vibe shines through red and white checkered tables and historic photos. Prices stay reasonable, making it great for groups.

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."

"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.

02
Little Alex's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean spot with fresh homemade Mexican food and quick, friendly service. Outdoor heated patio is dog-friendly and perfect for casual dining. Indoor bar with large TVs creates a lively, social vibe ideal for sports fans.

Fresh homemade Mexican food comes out quickly with friendly service. Vegetarian breakfast options and good quality make it a solid choice for a quick bite.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here is fresh, homemade, and 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.

03
Farmer Boy image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Classic 50s diner style offers a cozy atmosphere with farm-to-table freshness in every dish. Family-friendly and dog-friendly spaces create a welcoming vibe while meals arrive quickly with outstanding quality.

Food features farm-to-table freshness with dishes cooked to order. Meals arrive quickly and consistently deliver excellent taste and outstanding quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with large portions."

"The breakfast service here is so friendly and fast."

"It's a classic old-school diner with a fantastic atmosphere."

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.

04
Taqueria La Unica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with authentic tacos and a fresh salsa bar. Cozy outdoor seating features a fireplace and heat lamps. Lively vibe with traditional music makes dining festive and fun.

Tacos stand out with authentic Mexican flavors and large portions that remind of Mexico City. The food pairs well with delicious horchata and offers great value for the price.

People are saying

"The salsa bar here is fresh and offers a great range of heat and flavor."

"The outdoor seating is amazing with a warm fireplace."

"The food here is so flavorful, especially the tacos."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2.95 tacos, making it a popular choice.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers during weekdays.

3

The restaurant is very clean, even during busy hours.

05
Brass Bear Uptown image 1

Brewpub offers mountain views and a family play area for kids. Food shines with delicious flavors and great presentation. Guests enjoy a laid-back atmosphere perfect for brunch or private events.

Food stands out with delicious flavors and outstanding presentation. The menu suits events well, pairing great taste with a nice ambiance.

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."

"It's casual with an amazing mountain view from the patio."

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.

06
Renaud's Bakery image 1

Patio seating offers a quiet atmosphere perfect for relaxing. French-style pastries like croissants deliver amazing taste and quality. Indoor space has decorative touches but can feel warm, balancing comfort with style.

Food features very good quality and amazing taste. Offers both outdoor and indoor dining options.

People are saying

"I found the pastries here to be out of this world."

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

"I found the food here to be amazing."

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.

07
The Daily Grind image 1

Cafe serves amazing food and a large drink selection in a laid back setting. Both locals and visitors enjoy the outdoor seating with their dogs. Breakfast is available all day, adding to the mellow vibe.

Offers a large selection of drinks and food items. The food is consistently tasty and amazing.

People are saying

"The coffee here is really good."

"I thought the breakfast burritos here were excellent."

"The food here is top notch and tasty."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available nearby.

2

Indoor and outdoor seating options are available.

3

Breakfast is served all day, with great options.

08
Chubbies Hamburgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small shop serves juicy burgers and excellent fries that stay hot and fresh. Seating is comfortable in a clean, low-key space. Parking is limited but usually available, making it easy to visit.

Food stays consistently hot and excellent with perfect quality that meets expectations every time.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best I had."

"The American food here, especially the cheeseburgers, is amazing."

"The food here is pretty good and always excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, but there are usually spaces available nearby.

2

The burgers are priced under $20 for two people, offering good value.

3

Online ordering is available, which might save time during busy hours.

09
Peet's Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers consistent quality coffee and good food that pairs well. Seating is comfy and atmosphere is unique and cool. Less busy than chains, perfect for a quiet chill.

Food includes good quality items that pair well with the coffee. The menu complements the great atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was excellent and smooth."

"I thought the coffee here was good."

"I'd call ahead for the Cafe's hours; they weren't truthful."

Good to know

1

The cafe closes at 3:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect limited seating as the cafe can get crowded.

3

Prices are higher than average, similar to Starbucks.

10
Spudnuts and Bagels image 1

Donut shop serves insanely fluffy bagels and fresh homemade food with a comforting touch. Mornings buzz with unmatched energy creating a lively vibe. Prices stay inexpensive while quality remains excellent.

Food here is fresh and homemade with a comforting touch. The owner prepares meals with care, making each bite feel special.

People are saying

"These bagels are insanely fluffy and delicious."

"I loved the breakfast croissants and tasty donuts."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Spudnuts and Bagels opens at 5am.

2

A breakfast sandwich and one regular donut cost $15.

3

They offer a variety of options like bagels, sandwiches, and boba smoothies.

11
Harry's Plaza Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Spacious American spot with a retro speakeasy vibe and red leather booths offers strong martinis and generous drinks. Food is consistently amazing with a solid, quality feel. Crowd includes retirees and families enjoying a traditional, comfortable setting.

Food here is consistently amazing with a solid, quality feel. Drinks come strong and generous, matching the delicious dishes well.

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 thought the food here was even better than expected."

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.

12
Gelson's Santa Barbara image 1

Spacious store offers fresh produce and authentic pastries in a lively deli setting. Food bar serves organic, grass-fed options alongside quick, healthy meals. Large ice cream selection adds a sweet finish to a high-end grocery experience.

Freshly prepared foods stand out with a wide selection of organic, grass-fed, and specialty items. The food bar offers quick, healthy options alongside high-quality deli and baked goods.

People are saying

"I loved the high quality food and grocery items here."

"The grocery store staff are always super helpful and pleasant."

"I tried the authentic European style pastries from the bakery."

Good to know

1

Gelson's offers a unique wine tasting experience on select days.

2

Prices at Gelson's are generally higher than other local grocery stores.

3

The store is known for its cleanliness and well-stocked shelves.

13
Presto Pasta image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian spot serves quick, delicious food with generous portions at affordable prices. Casual, lively vibe feels like fast food but with real flavor. Garlic bread is a popular favorite among diners.

Food comes out quick and is consistently delicious with reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I found the pasta dishes to be delicious."

"I thought the garlic bread was exceptionally good."

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.

14
Trader Joe's image 1
Grocery store

Modern decor and wide selection make shopping easy and pleasant. Food is healthy and affordable, with many snacks and drinks to choose from. Friendly staff and prepared samples add to the cheerful atmosphere despite tough parking.

Offers a wide range of healthy, affordable food with good quality. Food choices are diverse and abundant, including snacks and drinks.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and diverse."

"The staff at this grocery store are super friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

Parking at Trader Joe's is difficult; street parking is recommended.

2

Trader Joe's offers a wide selection of fresh and organic products.

3

Prices at Trader Joe's are generally affordable compared to other grocery stores.

15
Bristol Farms image 1
Grocery store

Bright store offers freshly prepared foods and a huge bakery with multiple take-out areas. Standout meat counter and fresh seafood from Alaska ensure quality. Ample parking and aisles named after local streets make shopping easy and inviting.

Freshly prepared foods and premade options fill the shelves with a top notch selection. Healthy snacks, non-dairy alternatives, and a juice bar add variety to the quality offerings.

People are saying

"This grocery store is gorgeous, clean, and well-stocked with gourmet products."

"The staff at the Juice Shop are super nice and helpful."

"I found the food selection to be marvelous and always fully stocked."

Good to know

1

Bristol Farms offers a senior discount every Tuesday.

2

Expect higher prices compared to other grocery chains in the area.

3

The store has a wide variety of organic and specialty food products.

16
Lemon Tree Inn image 1

Courtyard with heated pool and lush gardens offers a peaceful, private setting. Rooms have balconies with garden views and stay quiet despite central location. On-site restaurant serves delicious food like burger and chowder with outdoor seating overlooking the courtyard.

Food here is consistently delicious and offered at a reasonable price. Dishes like the burger with fries, chowder, and caprese salad stand out alongside fantastic service.

People are saying

"The beds here are so comfortable, you'll sleep soundly."

"The rooms have patios or balconies overlooking the pool."

"The food here is absolutely delicious and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for guests at the hotel.

2

The hotel has a bar and restaurant on site.

3

Rooms are clean and comfortable.

17
El Sitio Restaurant - De La Vina image 1

Mexican restaurant serves authentic street tacos with generous portions in a lively setting. Mixteco favorites and a salsa bar add variety. Bustling lunchtime vibe makes it a great spot for flavorful, affordable meals.

Generous portions and authentic flavors define the Mexican food here. The dishes offer excellent taste at reasonable prices in a lively setting.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was simply marvelous."

"I found the carne asada burrito here to be my favorite."

"You have to try their choriqueso, adobada, and carnitas tacos."

Good to know

1

A burrito now costs $16.

2

Lunchtimes are packed, making seating challenging.

3

The menu offers a variety of options, including vegetarian choices.

18
Rudy's Restaurant Upper State image 1

Counter-order setup and basic dining create a casual vibe. Food offers large portions and crunchy tacos with fresh ingredients. Prices are slightly lower than local spots, attracting fans of classic gringo Mexican flavors.

Food features generous portions and fresh ingredients with a focus on crunchy tacos. Meals come fast but include table service with utensils and napkins.

People are saying

"The food here is generally good and the portions are huge."

"I loved their salsa bar with so many options."

"I believed the Rudy's Beef Taco was the only taco I needed."

Good to know

1

Expect larger food portions than average at Rudy's.

2

A $1.50 surcharge applies to meals containing eggs.

3

Chips are no longer included with meals; expect to pay extra.

19
O NIGIRI & SUSHI image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy space offers fresh sushi served with care by a skilled chef. Intimate seating and a sushi bar create a warm atmosphere perfect for families. Menu includes diverse Japanese dishes, making it a casual spot with inviting vibes.

Food features delicious sushi and fresh ingredients with a focus on great service from the staff and sushi chef.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and tastes amazing."

"The fish here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The sushi and rolls here are so fresh and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has been open for over 20 years.

2

The menu offers a wide variety of sushi options.

3

The original owner has returned to manage the restaurant.

20
Loreto Plaza image 1
Shopping mall

Strip mall buzzes with local businesses and French pastries. Coffee and fresh salads offer quick bites. Parking is tough near popular shops.

Good coffee pairs with hot food and a salad bar. Options include deli items and fresh salads.

People are saying

"I loved the nice bookstore here."

"The parking available here is really good."

"The seafood food here was delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging near Loreto Plaza, especially during busy times.

2

Loreto Plaza offers a variety of local businesses, including a bookstore and supermarket.

3

Harry's Plaza Cafe is known for its dinner service and vibrant atmosphere.

21
Backyard Bowls image 1
Aรงaรญ shop

Acai shop serves fresh bowls with many add-ons. Young staff prepare food quickly but wait times vary. Parking is easy, but seating is limited and eating from large cups can be tricky.

Food quality stays consistently good with fresh preparation. The kitchen often has young staff actively making the dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the food quality here was good."

Good to know

1

There is limited seating available, so plan accordingly.

2

Ample free parking is available nearby.

3

Prices for bowls start around $18, which may be considered high.

22
Five Points Shopping Center image 1

Open layout offers mountain views and ample free parking despite a busy, chaotic lot. Food options range from authentic Chinese dishes at Mandarin Palace to fast and slow food with coffee. Variety of stores include pharmacy, pet supplies, and grocery, covering many needs.

Offers a variety of food options including fast food, slow food, and coffee. Chinese dishes at Mandarin Palace are authentic and reasonably priced with decent discounts available.

People are saying

"This mall has a great mix of stores and restaurants."

"I found lots of parking available; it was a breeze."

"The Chinese food here is awesome and authentic."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of free parking available at the shopping center.

2

The shopping center has a variety of stores including CVS, PetCo, and Big 5.

3

Parking can be chaotic during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

23
Grocery Outlet image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery store offers great prices on meats, cheeses, and organic produce. Atmosphere feels depressing with loud music and limited ambiance. Selection is smaller but includes bargains on staples like rice and frozen meat.

Food costs much less here than in other stores, with about 95 percent cheaper prices. Offers include fresh produce, natural foods, and good deals on rice, canned food, and frozen meat.

People are saying

"I found this grocery store had many great deals on seasonal items."

"I found fantastic deals on food, much cheaper than other stores."

Good to know

1

A $5 donation during the food drive gives you $5 off a future purchase of $25 or more.

2

Grocery Outlet offers prices that are generally lower than nearby grocery stores.

3

There is no public restroom available for customers at Grocery Outlet.

24
La Cumbre Plaza image 1
Shopping mall

Outdoor shopping offers beautiful courtyards and fun games like a giant chessboard. Fresh food options include demo stations for tasting before buying. Ample parking and walkable layout make visiting easy and relaxed.

Lots of freshly made food fills the food court and local outlets. Demo stations let you try dishes before ordering, adding to the variety of great dining options.

People are saying

"I found this mall to be a great place to shop and grab lunch."

"I found ample parking available nearby."

"I found lots of great food choices and dining options here."

Good to know

1

They still hold the cars and coffee event in the parking lot.

2

I found abundant parking at La Cumbre Plaza.

3

Everything is walkable from one parking spot at La Cumbre Plaza.

25
Tee-Off Restaurant and Lounge image 1

Old school pub offers a casual vibe with dim lighting and leather booths. Steaks are excellent quality and portions are generous. Noise varies from quiet to loud, fitting both relaxed dinners and lively events.

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.

Discover more

North State, Santa Barbara

Area guide
Loading Map...