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Best of Ventura

Salad dinner spots

A dinner spot that treats a salad as a main event rather than just a side dish you are forced to settle for.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
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Cafe Zack image 1
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Californian restaurant

Converted house with cozy indoor and outdoor spaces creates a romantic and intimate atmosphere. Patio features unique purse hooks and offers a quiet, comfortable dining experience. Lighting is dim, enhancing privacy but challenging for reading menus.

Salads include Caesar salad and Chicken Tostada Salad. Options come alongside dishes like baked Brie and seafood curry fettuccine.

Dinner here suits both special date nights and large family dinners. The wine selection stands out, with options for pairing and even purchasing by the case.

People are saying

"The food quality and care from the chefs were evident."

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

"The food here is delicious and incredible."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

The menu prices may differ from those listed online.

3

Allow at least 1 hour for lunch, or 1.5 hours if having dessert.

02
Zaytouna Bites - Bakery & Restaurant image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with affordable prices and beautiful decor. Atmosphere stays quiet and cozy, welcoming families and anyone craving comfort food. Music adds to the friendly and relaxed vibe.

Colorful pickled vegetables and a well-seasoned Mediterranean salad stand out. Fresh salad options like tabbouleh complement dishes like chicken shawarma.

Dinner offers high quality Middle Eastern dishes like Sujuk and falafel sandwich. Plates provide generous portions, enough for multiple meals at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"You have to try the chicken shawarma plate; it's amazing."

"I found the salad fresh and flavorful."

"I had a delicious Mediterranean meal at these dinner spots."

Good to know

1

The menu features a variety of authentic Mediterranean dishes made from scratch.

2

Prices are reasonable, making it a great option for lunch or dinner.

3

The restaurant can customize the spice level of dishes upon request.

03
Barrel 33 image 1
French restaurant

Garden oasis with rustic Italian design and mood lighting creates a warm, romantic atmosphere. Outdoor patio features heaters and blankets for comfort, enhancing the secret garden vibe. Space feels exclusive and cozy, perfect for relaxed, intimate dining.

Salads come with nuts, fruit, and vinaigrette, adding a fresh and textured mix. They pair well with other dishes like cheese plates and pasta, making for a balanced meal.

Last-minute tables are available, making it easy to dine spontaneously. The dinner offers a relaxing atmosphere that encourages guests to unwind and enjoy life.

People are saying

"Parfait's wine expertise and hospitality made the evening magical."

"The owner is an incredible host and server for dinner spots."

"The owner, Parfait, makes you feel like a dear friend."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to enter Barrel 33.

2

Barrel 33 is a 21+ only establishment.

3

Parking can be difficult to find near Barrel 33.

04
Lucky Thai Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant near the beach offers a quaint atmosphere with thrilling setup and beautiful views. The space feels clean and organized, creating a comfortable dining experience. Aromas from the kitchen fill the air, adding to the inviting vibe.

Salads feature crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing that keeps them light and refreshing. Papaya salad includes shrimp and crab but in smaller amounts than expected.

Casual dinners focus on simple Thai dishes served in a relaxed setting. Meals suit small groups or pairs looking for an easy evening out.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so flavorful and served hot."

"The Thai Salad is light, refreshing, with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on Friday evenings.

2

The restaurant offers a free appetizer on special occasions like Valentine's Day.

3

Portions are generous, making it a good value for the price.

05
Kuu Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant with intimate atmosphere and modern decor featuring cool murals. Vibe stays relaxed but lively, suitable for quiet dinners or date nights. Known for fresh, high-quality fish and comfortable seating with TVs playing games at a low volume.

Salads come as a side with meals like the dinner plate and lunch special. Options include seaweed salad and a simple salad served alongside sushi and other dishes.

Dinner features massive plates with several sides like pickled cucumbers and gyoza. The atmosphere suits date nights or special occasions.

People are saying

"I considered this the best sushi I had visited."

"The seaweed salad was fresh and tasty."

"I thought the dinner spots here offered the best sushi."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 8 PM until close with great prices.

2

Kuu Sushi offers a diverse menu including unique sushi rolls and ramen.

3

The restaurant stays open later than most, until 10 PM.

06
Casa Bella image 1
Steak house

Steak house with Spanish flair offers an upscale, romantic atmosphere featuring cozy seating and elegant dark colors. The vibe suits intimate dinners with a warm, welcoming mood. Cocktails like spicy mango margaritas complement perfectly grilled, well-seasoned steaks.

Salads feature fresh pear and avocado combinations that complement seafood dishes well. They come alongside rich options like lobster and shrimp, balancing the meal with light, crisp flavors.

Four-course dinners feature raviolis, pear salad, lobster bisque, and ahi appetizer. Entrees include rib eye and sea bass for a relaxing dinner experience.

People are saying

"The dinner here was spectacular, especially the sea bass."

"The Happy Hour food selections were great with many options."

"I found the salads here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20% service charge added to your bill automatically.

2

Happy hour offers full-size portions and drinks at reasonable prices.

3

Parking can be challenging; plan to arrive early.

07
Hill Street Cafe image 1
Family restaurant

Family restaurant offers a home-style vibe with a chill atmosphere and a dog-friendly outdoor patio. It stays quiet and relaxed, avoiding the usual crowd and cramped feel of typical breakfast spots. The place features a varied menu with affordable prices and popular bottomless mimosas.

Salads come in huge portions with a variety of options at the salad bar. The chicken taco salad and Cobb salad stand out for their size and flavor.

Dinner includes options for dine-in and takeout. Meals come alongside breakfast and lunch offerings, making it a flexible spot for evening meals.

People are saying

"The cafe's cinnamon French toast and chilaquiles were really good."

"I found the food here to be delicious with good flavor."

"I found the salads to be awesome and huge."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a dog-friendly patio for pet owners.

2

Expect no wait times during weekday mornings.

3

Breakfast is available at a great price.

08
Black Angus Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse offers a warm, friendly atmosphere with live music and a full bar featuring a variety of drinks. The interior feels bright and open, with multiple TVs for sports viewing. The vibe is relaxed and casual, attracting a mix of diners who enjoy classic steakhouse fare.

Salads come with shaved Parmesan in the Caesar and are served alongside fresh vegetable sides like asparagus and green beans. House salads appear as a standard option with meals.

Dinner offers include a 2 dinner deal with options to upgrade to a sampler and a campfire deal featuring two dinners, an appetizer, and dessert. Service is attentive and warm, enhancing occasions like birthday dinners.

People are saying

"The steak here is great, especially with the welcoming management."

"The service at these dinner spots is so kind and attentive."

"I thought the homemade salad dressing was made perfectly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is currently being discussed for weekend availability.

2

Brunch is served on weekends with a variety of options.

3

A BOGO special is available for dine-in and takeout on weekends.

09
Model Citizen image 1
Restaurant

Industrial chic design creates a laid-back atmosphere with casual music and a clean aesthetic. The space feels modern and swanky, attracting a young crowd and offering a fusion of American and French styles with a California touch.

Cucumber salad stands out with its fresh, crisp texture. It pairs well with dishes like sea bass and chicken schnitzel, adding a light, refreshing contrast.

Dinner here offers a fantastic meal experience with consistently excellent quality. The spot suits celebrations and casual dinners alike, making it a reliable choice for evening dining.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the steak tartare."

"The dinner here was delicious and excellent."

"I was obsessed with their Caesar salad with extra Parmesan."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table.

2

An automatic 18% service charge is added to all bills.

3

Entrees are priced between $30-35, so expect higher dining costs.

10
Black Bear Diner Ventura image 1
American restaurant

Woodsy cabin decor and teddy bear theme create a cozy, old-fashioned vibe with jukebox music adding a fun touch. Seating is spacious, keeping wait times low, and the atmosphere feels relaxed without being loud or crowded. Bear merchandise and a view of Ventura hills add unique character to the space.

The salad stands out with spicy crispy chicken on top, especially in the Cobb salad. Blue cheese dressing adds a sharp contrast to the fresh ingredients.

Dinner features solid comfort food with consistent quality. Management improvements show in holiday meals and handling busy family dinners with young kids.

People are saying

"The food at this diner is fantastic and the portions are large."

"The food here is wonderful and cooked to perfection."

"The service here is excellent and friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and accessible near the diner.

2

The wait to be seated is usually short, even during busy hours.

3

Expect large portions, which may be enough for two people.

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