Recommendations
Our favorite restaurants and activites to frequent in Santa Barbara, check em out!
DINNER
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This place focuses on using Santa Barbara sourced ingredients, crafted with a ‘gastronimic’ spin. Each dish is reflective of Santa Barbara in a unique way. Local cuisine that dreams big.
Barbareño
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Indulgent Spanish tapas and beautiful cocktails. The Mediterranean climate and terroir of Santa Barbara County mirror that of Spain, making the translation of locally sourced produce, meats and seafood an ideal match. One of our favorites is the Baya de Oro – goldenberry delight!
Loquita
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The Lark is located in the funk zone, owned by the creators of Loquita but more casual vibe with still fantastic food. Best part is that its walking distance to all the fun tasting rooms in SB, if you want to make a night of it.
The Lark
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La Paloma is located in a very very old building house in Santa Barbara. An original fresco from the 1920s depicting a Spanish scene painted on its walls makes this place special. Have a meal on the front porch or inside the little house. Delicious upscale Mexican fare.
La Paloma
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There is no more classic steakhouse in Santa Barbara than Lucky’s. This place is an institution. Their peppercorn steak is a masterclass on flavor. Steak and martinis forever. (in Montecito though)
Lucky’s Steakhouse
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Located very near the Courthouse- Secret Bao is an unexpected spot in SB with inventive pan asian cuisine. They have a crazy spin on Asian Italian food that is surprising and delicious. This place is great for those who like adventurous foods and a spicy palate.
Secret Bao
DRINKS
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This is our favorite winery in the Funk Zone. This wine bar is located in what used to be the old Santa Barbara Dive center where Alex learned to swim. Decor is funky and music is vibey- plus, DISCOUNTS:
Mention FOREVERFEST and get 3$ off a glass!
Muni Wines
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Brass bear is way in the back, behind SB Winery and has a large patio with fires and heaters to enjoy all the beers. They also have delciious bar food (Tri Tip Grilled Cheese!)
Brass Bear Brewery
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Loquita also has cocktails that can be described only as ART, and extremely delicious to boot. Try to nab a spot at the bar for these!
Loquita
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The is in the Funk Zone and is a cute Tiki bar that is completely decked out in the Tiki theme and even glasswear. All cocktails are Tiki related so don’t go there looking for something other than that. This is the spot for a Rum Punch or Pina Colada!
Test Pilot
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This spot on upper state is very moody and dimly lit, and makes excellent and experimental seasonal cocktails. Definitely recommend this spot if you enjoy an Old Fashioned type of drink, of which they have many variations.
The Good Lion
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This is kind of a divey bar but you come here for the view- located in the SB harbor, theres nothing better than having a drink and enjoying the sunset over the boats.
Endless Summer
LUNCH
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Super great spot for breakfast or lunch, with 4 locations in town you’re always near one of them. Favorites include the Turkey Berry Sandwhich and the Cobb Salad.
Jeanine’s Bakery
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Sandwhich heaven- every kind you can think of, done perfectly. Also has locations all over Santa Barbara so you’re never far from one. Classic SB spot. Marc has never ventured out from the Marin… consistent, that one.
Southcoast Deli
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This is not in the tourist blogs, this is OG SB. Best burritos in town, big as your arm, and the best cost per calorie this side of Los Padres National Forest. Don’t be afraid of greatness.
Super Cucas
BREAKFAST & COFFEE
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Best coffee in town, so says Marc (self proclaimed coffee aficionado). Very hip spot with a few locations in town. Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya not included.
Dune Coffee Roasters
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This is a great coffee shop that features excellent empanadas and breakfast burritos. Across the street they have a beautiful garden meant for sitting and sipping and taking it in, romantic coffee spot.
Dart Coffee
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This is a classic diner style breakfast spot with an excellent pot of coffee and best baked goods you’re gonna get in town. Breakfast is down the middle and delicious, bakery style. Don’t sleep on the eggs benny.