Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown SB

Food spots

Made for those who want the entire culinary spectrum of the city at their fingertips.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 1
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 2
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 3
View all

Large, airy space offers dog-friendly patio and indoor seating with heating. Authentic Indian dishes like butter chicken deliver exceptional taste. Punjabi music adds a warm, welcoming vibe that energizes the dining experience.

Food features authentic Indian flavors with excellent quality and exceptional taste. The dishes consistently deliver a strong sense of traditional Indian cuisine.

People are saying

"The food recommendations from Joban were excellent."

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

"I highly recommend the garlic naan; it's light and pillowy."

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
Riviera Bar image 1

Old woody design and a tin ceiling create a cozy atmosphere. Friendly staff and 80s music add to the lively energy. Delicious dishes and classic cocktails make for a great dining experience.

Food features delicious dishes with consistent quality across the menu. Cocktails complement the great food well, creating a lively dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the tallow fries and calamari."

"I enjoyed the expertly crafted cocktails here."

"This local spot has such a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required for drop-in visits.

2

The bar is open late on weekends, making it a good late-night spot.

3

Expect a limited but well-prepared menu with a focus on quality.

03
Petit Valentien image 1
French restaurant

Small French bistro with cozy seating and a quiet atmosphere feels like a European town. Weekend lunches serve Ethiopian cuisine, rare in the area, alongside elegant French dishes. Friendly vibe suits social dinners and date nights.

Weekend lunches offer Ethiopian cuisine, a rare find in the area. French dishes serve up elegant flavors with consistently impeccable quality.

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.

04
Olio Bottega image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot with a warm vibe and authentic Italian touches. Enjoy fantastic sandwiches and European-style pizza alongside a small market of Italian goods. Lunch shines with high-quality pasta and unique market items.

Food features authentic Italian flavors with simple, high-quality ingredients. The lunch menu offers fantastic pasta and unique items available in the market section.

People are saying

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

"I loved the authentic Italian pizza here; it tasted just like Europe."

"The food here is fantastic and wonderful."

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.

05
Dom’s Taverna Santa Barbara image 1

Open kitchen fuels a vibrant atmosphere with a polished, casual design. Dishes offer extraordinary flavors and innovative presentation that excite the palate. Full bar and warm setting make it a lively spot for food lovers.

Food here is consistently fresh and high quality with dishes that feel exciting and challenge expectations. The combination of great flavors and beautiful presentation stands out.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, exciting, and genuinely good."

"You have to try the caviar cheesecake; it's a dream."

"The cocktails here are amazing, creative, and balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can fill up quickly.

2

Happy hour features a limited menu and runs from 5-7pm.

3

Expect the restaurant to get busy around 7pm, especially on weekends.

06
California Pasta Sandwich & Salads image 1

Outdoor seating creates a cozy patio perfect for relaxed meals or a first date. Food arrives piping hot with generous portions and quick service. Soft music adds to the quiet atmosphere, making it easy to enjoy conversation.

Food comes out piping hot and flavorful with quick preparation and generous portions. The counter-order setup keeps dining relaxed without pressure on tipping.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the food to be amazing and delicious."

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
Seoulmate Kitchen image 1

Busy food court spot serves creative Korean dishes like Bulgogi Melt with fresh, spicy flavors. Noisy atmosphere buzzes with multiple TVs and passionate staff. Known for unique matcha drinks, it offers a welcoming vibe and craftsmanship in preparation.

Creative Korean dishes blend traditional flavors with a twist, featuring Bulgogi Melt and Kimchi Arancini as highlights. Meats match traditional Korean BBQ quality, served hot and spicy with fresh, flavorful presentation.

People are saying

"The matcha drinks here are beautifully presented and top tier."

"The Bulgogi here is tender and packed with rich, savory goodness."

"The bibimbap here is top tier, with a perfect crispy rice."

Good to know

1

The stone bowl bibimbap is available for dinner service starting at 3 pm.

2

The restaurant is located inside a food court, affecting wait times and noise levels.

3

Expect crowds during peak hours, especially for dinner.

08
Santa Barbara Farmers Market // Saturday image 1

Car-free streets host a large farmers market with fresh local food and wide organic selection. Talented buskers add live music, creating a lively atmosphere for people watching. Market balances variety and compactness, making it easy to explore diverse vendors.

Fresh local food dominates with an amazing selection from around the area. The market offers a mix of healthy options and maintains consistent variety, quality, and prices over time.

People are saying

"This market has a huge variety of fresh produce and baked goods."

"I found tons of organic produce and healthy foods here."

"I found an amazing selection of foods from all around the area."

Good to know

1

Parking can be limited during market hours.

2

Some sellers are cash-only, but there's a booth for cash or tokens.

3

The market features a wide selection of organic produce, seafood, and baked goods.

09
Los Arroyos Downtown Mexican Restaurant image 1

Unassuming Mexican spot offers authentic flavors with a spicy kick and fresh ingredients. Open dining and a lively salsa bar create a vibrant vibe that shifts from quiet to loud. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly parklet, perfect for pet owners.

Authentic Mexican food shines here with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The dishes often carry a spicy kick while staying true to traditional tastes.

People are saying

"The carne asada tacos are flavorful, tender, and smoky."

"The salsa bar has so many fresh, tasty choices."

"The Arroyo Molcajete food was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is dog friendly if you sit in the parklet dining area.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during peak hours.

3

The paid parking lot is the best option for parking.

10
Azul Cocina Artesanal & Cantina image 1

Outdoor courtyard shines with romantic lighting and propane heaters for a calm vibe. Mexican dishes impress with fresh flavors and great presentation. Enjoy margaritas and cocktail flights at the large, modern bar for a complete experience.

Mexican food here features fresh, well-prepared flavors with great quality and presentation. The patio and lighting add to the overall outstanding dining experience.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor seating is so romantic with its fireplace and lights."

"The Kahlua flan is creamy and the perfect end to the meal."

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.

11
Intermezzo by Wine Cask image 1
New American restaurant

Courtyard setting with romantic atmosphere blends upscale and relaxed vibes perfectly. Food shines with lobster salad sandwich and drinks priced around mid $20s. Unique photography on walls adds character to intimate indoor and outdoor spaces.

Food here stands out for its exquisite quality and includes dishes like the lobster salad sandwich. The menu pairs well with plentiful, reasonably priced drinks around the mid $20s range.

People are saying

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

"I had a fantastic, special dining experience here."

"The Brunch menu bursts with thoughtful flavor."

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.

12
Oakberry Acai Bowls &Smoothies | Santa Barbara image 1

Bright plants and vines create a cozy atmosphere with peaceful music. Hot, humid air contrasts with fresh fruit and cold dishes. Customers love customizable acai bowls and easy online ordering.

Food features fresh fruit and cold dishes served in a hot, humid setting.

People are saying

"The acai bowl here is delicious and refreshing."

"The food here is delicious and the fruit is fresh."

"I had a very good berry smoothie."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; expect to walk 0.4 miles if the lot is full.

2

Prices for bowls start at $16, which may be considered high.

3

Customers can fully customize their orders with a wide range of toppings.

13
Kimpton Canary Hotel image 1

Building shows Spanish colonial architecture with terra-cotta tiles and wrought-iron balconies. Food is fresh from local farms and praised for presentation and drinks. Rooftop has a heated pool and 360° views, creating a peaceful retreat with a dog-friendly vibe.

Food comes from local farms, ensuring fresh and tasty dishes. Presentation and drinks receive many compliments, especially at events like weddings.

People are saying

"The rooftop pool was inviting and stunning."

"It's so dog friendly; the staff was lovely to pets."

"The food here is incredible and delicious."

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.

14
Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro image 1

Cozy seating under blooming trees creates a relaxed vibe. French-style pastries shine with consistent flavor. Easy phone orders and attentive staff make dining smooth and pleasant.

Food here is consistently delicious with good pastries. Ordering on the phone is easy and staff bring the food directly to you.

People are saying

"Their croissants are flaky, buttery, and just like France."

"I enjoyed my cappuccino on the nice patio with my dog."

"I thought the food was delicious and consistent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect busy times during weekends.

2

The outdoor seating area is available for customers with well-behaved dogs.

3

A drip coffee and croissant combo costs around ten dollars.

15
The Copper image 1
Italian restaurant

Outdoor courtyard with a historic water fountain offers a relaxing vibe. Food is delicious and refreshing with solid vegetarian choices. Inside feels modern but can be cold, while outside is warm and welcoming despite loud music.

Food here is delicious and refreshing with a good choice of vegetarian options. The quality feels classic and the staff's knowledge helps with easy selection.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here is delicious and fantastic."

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.

16
La Arcada Plaza image 1
Shopping mall

Cozy Spanish style plaza offers life-sized sculptures and a water fountain with a turtle, creating a quiet and classy atmosphere. Boutiques and art galleries invite exploration while delicious food complements peaceful dining and shopping vibes.

Delicious food pairs well with a peaceful atmosphere. The area offers great vibes for dining and shopping.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful European-style mall with great shops and restaurants."

"I enjoyed the good food available here."

"You'll find little boutiques everywhere here."

Good to know

1

La Arcada Plaza features a variety of shops and restaurants to explore.

2

Expect to find unique boutiques and art galleries throughout the plaza.

3

There are several dining options available, including casual eateries and fine dining.

17
The Pickle Room image 1
Cocktail bar

Small space with intimate red lighting sets a homey vibe. Jazz music performances bring lively, nostalgic energy. Food is top notch quality and pairs well with premium cocktails for a solid dining experience.

Food here is consistently delicious with top notch quality. Drinks complement the menu well, making the overall dining experience solid.

People are saying

"You've got to try the pickletini; it's the best I've ever had."

"You have to try the Reuben egg rolls; they were amazing."

"You have to try the Reuben egg rolls; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

The bar serves food until midnight on weekdays and 1am on weekends.

3

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

18
Hook & Press Donuts image 1

Bright, airy space with high ceilings and colorful decor creates a relaxed, beachy vibe. Sugar-dusted donuts shine as a favorite breakfast choice. Indoor and outdoor seating add to the trendy atmosphere perfect for casual visits.

Sugar-dusted donuts stand out as a favorite breakfast choice. The food and beverage offerings consistently impress with their quality and flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the donuts were spectacular."

"I had the best breakfast sandwich I ever tasted."

"The donuts here are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at La Arcada Plaza with street parking and a paid parking structure nearby.

2

Each donut costs $4.50.

3

Vegan options are available at Hook & Press Donuts.

19
Bruxie image 1
Restaurant

Chicken and waffles shine with moist, well-seasoned chicken and savory waffles. Burritos add tasty variety. Atmosphere is chill and outgoing with loud music and kid-friendly touches like coloring pages and balloons.

Food features tasty burritos and delicious dishes overall. Chicken and waffles appear, but lean toward other spots for soul food style.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good and tasty."

"I thought the coffee was pretty tasty and some of the best."

"The chicken in the Chicken And Waffles is juicy and crisp."

Good to know

1

Parking can be an issue if you don't use the parking garage.

2

You can bring in beer from the neighboring store.

3

Expect to pay and tip immediately after ordering.

20
SOhO Restaurant & Music Club image 1

Live music fills an intimate venue with exquisite sound and clear acoustics. Energetic salsa and bachata nights light up a decent-sized dance floor. Food pairs well with music, especially when dining near the stage with fabulous performers.

Food here is consistently good and pairs well with the live music. Dining near the stage offers a great venue experience with fabulous performers.

People are saying

"I loved the jazz performances at the bar on Sunday afternoons."

"I found it to be an amazing venue for live music."

"The food here was really good."

Good to know

1

Cash is the only accepted payment method at the door for cover charges.

2

A minimum spend of $15 per person is required for seating.

3

The venue hosts live jazz performances on the 4th Sunday of each month.

21
Sushi Bar 29 image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot shines with fresh sushi and chalkboard specials. Cozy, dim lighting sets a casual vibe perfect for couples or groups. Food comes fast, tastes great, and offers good value with easy parking nearby.

Food arrives promptly and tastes consistently delicious. The menu includes desserts that match the quality of the main dishes, all offered at a good value.

People are saying

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

"The staff here is so cheerful and helpful."

"The food here is delicious and tasted very good."

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.

22
Eureka! image 1
American restaurant

Corner spot with plenty of outdoor seating offers a relaxed vibe and easy chats. Burgers shine with fresh, flavorful taste and quick service. Wide whisky range and strong cocktails make it perfect for late-night drinks and happy hour specials.

Food arrives incredibly fast with fresh, flavorful American-style dishes. Burgers stand out, and happy hour offers great drink and food specials.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious burgers."

"JP's charm and expert drink suggestions made the bar feel like a celebration."

"The food here is delicious and really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food and drink specials, making it a great time to visit.

2

Eureka! is dog friendly, allowing pets on the outdoor patio.

3

Parking is available at the public lot next to the restaurant.

23
Little Bird Kitchen image 1

Family-friendly spot offers flavorful chicken sandwiches and crispy onion rings in a lively public market. Generous portions and fresh salads make it great for casual meals. Prices are higher but match the quality and welcoming vibe.

Food shows clear care in preparation with delicious comfort options served in a lively public market setting.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken sandwich here was the best I've ever had."

"This burger is so flavorful and perfectly balanced."

"You have to try the chocolate malted; it's the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located in a public market with various dining options.

2

You can take food to go and enjoy it at nearby parks or the beach.

3

They offer a kids menu, making it family-friendly.

24
Gino's Sicilian Express image 1
Pizza restaurant

Old school pizza shop offers thin crust pizza and affordable prices with a cozy, East Coast vibe. Sicilian and Italian dishes bring authentic flavors in a tight, inviting space. Feels like a New York-style local spot with charming energy.

Food comes at an inexpensive price and stays consistently delicious. Sicilian and Italian dishes stand out with strong, authentic flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was amazing and delicious."

"I found the calzone here to be huge and totally hit the spot."

"I found the food here to be delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating options, so arrive early.

2

Takeout is recommended due to the small size of the restaurant.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $10-$15.

25
LOKUM image 1
Dessert shop

High ceilings and unique chandeliers create an otherworldly ambiance. Turkish coffee is served with warmth and elegance, paired with hand-crafted sweets. Outdoor seating offers a cozy space sheltered from the beach breeze, blending great taste with excellent hospitality.

Food shows clean quality and careful presentation, especially in Turkish coffee served with warmth and elegance. Dining combines high hygiene standards with excellent taste and hospitality.

People are saying

"I loved the traditional Turkish coffee; it's the best in the US."

"The baklava here is fresh, flaky, and melts in your mouth."

"The staff here is super friendly and willing to help with samples."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available near the shop.

2

The prices for desserts are on the higher side.

3

Credit cards are accepted for payment.

26
Goodland Waffles and Melts image 1

Cozy coffee shop offers handpicked fruit waffles and quick, high-quality food. Spacious outdoor seating suits those who want to work or study quietly. Friendly vibe makes it a great spot for both relaxation and productivity.

Food arrives quickly with excellent quality and pairs well with great coffee.

People are saying

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

"The coffee here is amazing and will bring me back."

"The coffee here is amazing and will be my go-to."

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.

27
Yona Redz image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic street food and a cozy atmosphere. Live music adds a relaxed energy perfect for late-night dining. Outdoor patio with heat lamps keeps guests comfortable.

Mexican street food stands out with authentic flavors and an extensive menu that blends traditional dishes with unique fusion options. The food consistently tastes delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here have such a good beef broth flavor."

"You have to try the birria ramen; it's worth the trip."

"I found the food here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

The lunch special with 2 tacos, consomme, rice, beans, and chips with salsa for $14 is a great deal.

2

Parking at Yona Redz is limited; expect to walk a few blocks.

3

Street tacos cost $2.50 each during Taco Tuesday.

28
CAJÉ Coffee Roasters image 1
Coffee roasters

Open-space design and a lush garden patio create an airy, inviting vibe. Greek inspired dishes offer fresh, flavorful ingredients that pair well with quality coffee. Soft music enhances a beautiful, relaxing atmosphere enjoyed by a diverse crowd.

Greek inspired dishes stand out with fresh, flavorful ingredients and clear care in preparation. Food pairs well with quality coffee in a relaxed setting.

People are saying

"Their signature coffee has a really unique and amazing flavor."

"The outdoor seating is really cute and pretty."

"The food here is amazing and tasted so good."

Good to know

1

Parking at CAJÉ Coffee Roasters can be challenging.

2

Dairy-free options are limited to almond or oat milk.

3

They offer reusable coffee mugs for customers who stay.

Discover more

Santa Barbara Downtown, Santa Barbara

Area guide
Loading Map...