As a city already boasting an exceptional climate and pristine beaches, the excellence of Santa Barbara’s food scene feels almost unfair. In this gem of a city two hours north of Los Angeles, there are plenty of longstanding classics like Bouchon Santa Barbara, The Lark, La Super-Rica Taqueria, and so many more. If you’re in the mood for something new, however, here are five other standouts on the American Riviera.
1. Bibi Ji
The lovechild of a celebrated chef (Jessi Singh of San Francisco and New York’s Babu Ji) and renowned sommelier/winemaker (Rajat Parr of Sandi Wineds), Bibi Ji serves reimagined Indian cuisine alongside a killer wine list. Pair your favorite vintage with the Santa Barbara uni stuffed with biryani (spiced rice).
2. Blackbird
The celebrated Hotel Californian on State Street has an in-house eatery worthy of its reputation in Blackbird. The restaurant marries old-world luxury and West Coast vibes, delivering obsessively seasonal dishes and craft cocktails with a Mediterranean twist.
3. Santo Mezcal
Creative Oaxacan cuisine in the heart of the Funk Zone—what could be wrong with that? Absolutamente nada. Developed by the creators of the well-loved Los Agaves Restaurants, this concept offers the opportunity to taste new flavors in a beautiful backdrop. Don’t miss the mezcal cocktails mixed with cold-pressed juices and fresh herbs.
4. Satellite
The heart and soul of Satellite is on the backside of the menu: It’s all about the wine. That’s never a bad thing, especially when paired with fresh-from-the-farm dishes. Snack on the crowd-favorite Cauliflower Powa, drizzled with parsley-coconut emulsion.
5. Loquita
Enjoy impeccably executed tapas, seasonal dishes, and standout gin and tonics at this Funk Zone favorite. Grab a table on the twinkle-lit patio, order a selection of small plates, and let the evening unwind, Iberian style.