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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in SB Downtown

Date spots with outdoor space

Spending time together under the open sky turns a standard evening into something memorable.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
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Updated May 2026
01
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French restaurant

Small French bistro offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating with a quiet, intimate atmosphere that feels like dining in a European town. The place hosts a friendly, informal vibe ideal for social dinners or date nights. Weekends bring a unique twist with Ethiopian cuisine, adding variety to the experience.

Small, cozy setting creates a great atmosphere for a date night. Suitable for intimate dinners with a small group of friends.

A beautiful outdoor dining area offers a pleasant spot to sit. The patio provides comfortable seating with a nice atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The French food here is amazing, especially the duck confit."

"I loved this spot; it was my favorite in town."

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.

02
Superior Court Of California County Of Santa Barbara image 1

Spanish Colonial Revival architecture defines the courthouse with historic murals and exquisite tile carvings. Gardens and a large lawn create an elegant yet intimate atmosphere, often hosting weddings and ceremonies. A 360-degree observation deck atop the tower offers panoramic views of the city, sea, and mountains.

Courthouse offers a classic celebration setting for couples. Appointments can be set up easily for weddings or ceremonies.

Beautiful gardens surround the courthouse, offering well maintained outdoor spots. The area suits photography and outdoor ceremonies with its gorgeous architecture visible both inside and out.

People are saying

"The panoramic views from the clock tower are breathtaking."

"The courthouse gardens are beautiful and well-maintained."

"The courthouse's architecture and gardens make it a fairytale setting for date spots."

Good to know

1

The courthouse is free to visit.

2

Parking is free on side streets within a 2-3 minute walk.

3

Getting upstairs in the tower is free.

03
Goodland Waffles and Melts image 1

Coffee shop offers cozy indoor and spacious outdoor seating with a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. It attracts many people who come to study or work quietly while enjoying handpicked fruit waffles and a mix of sweet and savory options.

Waffles stand out as a top choice for a date brunch, with the complete waffle earning strong praise. The mosaic melt offers a different option but tends to be soggy and less impressive.

Big patio offers plenty of room for seating. Both front and back outdoor spaces look really pretty and attract lots of people enjoying the patio and fresh air.

People are saying

"I thought the waffles here were the best I've ever had."

"I've never had a waffle this amazing before."

"The outdoor space here is really pretty and big."

Good to know

1

The parking lot offers 75 minutes of free parking.

2

Expect long lines on Sundays, especially during brunch hours.

3

Free street parking is available four blocks away.

04
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.

Cozy and warm back patio creates a great vibe for date night. Food impresses even a chef, and margaritas with small bites fit a relaxed evening.

Beautiful patio offers a romantic and secluded vibe with propane heaters keeping it comfortable. String lights enhance the stunning outdoor atmosphere perfect for enjoying food at night.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The outdoor patio is so romantic, especially with the fireplace and lights."

"The food at these Date Spots is delicious and beautifully presented."

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.

05
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.

Pleasant ambiance creates a cozy setting for a date night. The atmosphere suits quiet conversations and relaxed dining.

Outdoor seating offers a welcoming atmosphere with views of State Street. The space features excellent ambiance and options for dining outside.

People are saying

"The food recommendations from Joban were excellent."

"The service at these Date Spots was warm and welcoming."

"I enjoyed dining at the outdoor tables, it's great for people watching."

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.

06
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.

Outdoor seating offers a sunset view over downtown, creating a nice atmosphere for dates. The menu includes spicy shrimp that is decent, and the overall vibe feels fancy and suitable for a first date.

A nice outside area offers seating in the sun. The space suits people watching with a friendly atmosphere and options for indoor and outdoor dining.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor seating is great, offering sun and shade."

"The pasta and salads here are delicious, perfect for Date Spots."

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.

07
Intermezzo by Wine Cask image 1
New American restaurant

Courtyard setting with beautiful decor and perfect lighting creates a romantic atmosphere that balances upscale and relaxed vibes. Indoor and outdoor spaces feel engaging and intimate, suitable for special occasions or casual dining. Walls display unique photography, adding character to the venue.

Classy dining area suits a first date or special occasion. It fits well for a romantic date night or celebratory dinner with a great meal.

A beautiful patio hosts events like cocktail hours and ice cream carts. Plenty of heaters and heat lamps keep the outdoor space warm on chilly nights.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, especially the lobster salad sandwich."

"It's the perfect balance of upscale and relaxed for date spots."

"The outdoor patio is romantic at night with heat lamps."

Good to know

1

Sunday brunch is a popular event at INTERMEZZO.

2

Reservations are recommended for brunch to secure a table.

3

The Gold Room can accommodate up to 88 guests for private events.

08
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.

A cute atmosphere suits special dinners and date nights. Some find it great for a date, while others do not recommend it for that purpose.

Dog-friendly patio offers a fun vibe with sunbrellas for shade and a refreshing spritz on hot days. Outdoor seating areas, including a cute courtyard, create a relaxing and pleasant ambiance.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a cute place with a perfect atmosphere for a date night."

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.

09
Kimpton Canary Hotel image 1

Building preserves Spanish colonial architecture with terra-cotta tiles and wrought-iron balconies. Atmosphere stays quiet and clean, with a friendly, dog-friendly vibe. Rooftop offers heated pool and 360ยฐ views, creating a peaceful retreat.

Welcoming staff offer early check-in when rooms are ready. The setting suits celebrations like birthdays and quiet weekends. Some tech issues with casting to TVs may affect iPhone users.

Outdoor seating includes great reservations arranged by staff. A farmers market sets up right outside on Saturday mornings. The hotel sits just a block from State Street, a lively outdoor shopping and dining area.

People are saying

"The rooftop pool was inviting and stunning."

"The staff here makes it a special place for Date Spots."

"The rooftop pool offers a beautiful view and heated water."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Sunday to Thursday from 4-6 pm with free snacks.

2

A daily wine social occurs at 5 pm, offering complimentary wine.

3

Valet parking costs $50 per day, which is quite steep.

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Santa Barbara Downtown, Santa Barbara

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