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Santa Barbara Restaurants

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Award winning restaurants in California Central Coast

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Check out diners' favorite restaurants in Santa Barbara

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Diners’ Choice Awards are based on where your fellow diners book, dine, and review. Only verified diners get to review restaurants on OpenTable, so our data doesn’t lie.

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Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch
Diners’ top pick
•
Price: Very Expensive
•
Contemporary American
•
4.8
(2,736)
The Stonehouse, located in a beautiful 19th-century citrus packing house, offers an unparalleled dining experience. Guests can unwind in a relaxing lounge with full bar service or enjoy the ambiance of the separate dining room, complete with a crackling fireplace and world-class views. Chef Matthew Johnson creates evocative regional cuisine, utilizing fresh herbs and vegetables from the Ranch’s organic chef’s garden. The Stonehouse boasts the only Grand Award-winning wine program in Central California, ensuring an unparalleled selection of wines to complement your meal. For a unique twist, visit the restaurant's speakeasy for before or after dinner drinks, where you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, nostalgic setting.
  1. A photo of Barbareño restaurant

    Barbareño

    Price: Expensive
    •
    Californian
    •
    4.9
    (1,958)
    At Barbareño we seek to help further shape and define Central Coast cuisine. We take our inspiration from traditions and specialties of our area, delicacies unique to our region, and the many outstanding purveyors with whom we are so fortunate to work. In all of our efforts, we hope to capture the essence of a particular place or local flavor, embracing the nuances that make our food and drink unique to our home.
  2. A photo of Tre Lune restaurant

    Tre Lune

    Price: Very Expensive
    •
    Italian
    •
    4.8
    (2,079)
    "Upbeat and comfortable, serving real-deal pastas and pizzas that make you feel like you're in Italy again." - ZAGAT 2010
    Fresh fish, veal scaloppini, osso buco, prime steaks, Kobe-beef burgers, organic salads, and house-made desserts.
    Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner-Cocktails.
    Award Winner of Italian wines list.
    Please call to make reservations.
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Secret Bao
Top-rated food
•
Price: Expensive
•
Asian
•
4.8
(717)
Contemporary Asian American Restaurant from Chefs Peter Lee & Felicia Medina.
"Consider the bao. Chinese in origin, it’s most easily described as a steamed bun filled with something savory. Yet, like the American concept of a sandwich, the bao exploded into a flexible format of untold bounds — served at any meal, filled with you-name-it, completely closed or wide open, with endless regional variants from across Asia and far beyond." - Matt Kettmann (SB Independent)
1 Block From State Street, Easy Parking, Public Lot Nearby, Free 75 Minute Parking, Walking Distance, El Pueblo Viejo Landmark District, Superior Court, Spanish Colonial Revival Courthouse, Santa Barbara Museum Of Art, Courthouse Gardens, Bell Tower, Bao, Food, Restaurant, Asian, American, New, Modern, Fried, Chicken, Octopus, Vegan, Vegetarian, Paleo, Friendly, Dog Friendly, Outdoor Patio, Heaters, Warm, Inviting, Hospitable, Modern Design
  1. A photo of Toma Restaurant & Bar restaurant

    Toma Restaurant & Bar

    Price: Expensive
    •
    Italian
    •
    4.8
    (5,588)
    Toma Restaurant and Bar a waterfront bistro, located along Santa Barbara's picturesque Cabrillo Blvd. Experience Santa Barbara waterfront's most romantic restaurant. Savor exquisite Italian and Mediterranean inspired dishes from Santa Barbara's seasonal bounty, supporting our local fisherman, farmers, foragers and food artisans. Pour over local and Italian wines along with a full bar of handcrafted cocktails and spirits. Enjoy warm and attentive service while dining window side with a view of the enchanting Santa Barbara harbor.
  2. A photo of Opal Restaurant & Bar restaurant

    Opal Restaurant & Bar

    Price: Expensive
    •
    Californian
    •
    4.7
    (1,840)
    We have inside and limited outdoor sidewalk dining. If you prefer to sit outside, please indicate that with your reservation request.
    To accommodate our second seating, early parties should plan for a maximum stay of 1.5 to 2hrs, depending on party size. Please call 805 966 9676 for more details.
    A popular local’s favorite, opal restaurant & bar’s Eclectic California Cuisine fuses creative world cuisine influences with American Regional touches, from a 14 oz. Herb-Grilled Ribeye Steak on Tuscan White Beans, to Fresh Pan-Seared Fish & Seafood, Homemade Pastas, Gourmet Pizzas, fresh Baked Breads, imaginative Salads, & Homemade Desserts.
    We have a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list, & a full bar with seasonal Craft Cocktails.
    Our entire dining room staff assists to take care of each table, enabling exceptional service in a warm engaging manner, properly nuanced to your mood & taste. Our staff genuinely cares about giving you the best possible experience!
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The 'O' Bar + Kitchen at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
Top-rated hospitality
•
Price: Expensive
•
Californian
•
4.6
(27)
Savor Coastal Californian cuisine on our beautiful Ocean Terrace with views of the Pacific
Marriott Bonvoy Members can earn points when staying with us. Please enroll here: https://www.joinmarriottbonvoy.com/uscanqr/s/EN/ch/sbarz
For parties with 6 guests or more a 26% service charge fee will be added to your final bill. For all guests there will be an 8.75% California State tax added to the final bill.
  1. A photo of Ca Dario Montecito restaurant

    Ca Dario Montecito

    Price: Very Expensive
    •
    Italian
    •
    4.8
    (932)
    Ca' 'Dario's newest restaurant on Coast Village Road promises the same authentic and fresh Italian cuisine as our other locations, now easily accessible for residents of Montecito!
    Enjoy outdoor dining on our covered patio, or indoor in our elegant dining room.
    We feature an adjustable roof that keeps out the rain and allows in the sun.
    Dogs are welcome (we ask that you limit the number to one per guest)
    ​
  2. A photo of The Bistro at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara restaurant

    The Bistro at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

    Price: Very Expensive
    •
    American
    •
    4.6
    (545)
    Named “Top 100 Best Al Fresco Dining Restaurants in America” by OpenTable, The Bistro offers a casual and relaxed atmosphere to dine and enjoy sweeping views of the coastline. Local produce and sustainable seafood highlight an acclaimed menu of traditional bistro favorites, including brick oven flatbreads, seasonal salads and the signature Santa Barbara burger.
    Please note that holiday reservations are only available for in-house guests. Room confirmation number is required to officially confirm your dining reservation during these times.
    Marriott Bonvoy Members can earn points when staying with us. Please enroll here: https://www.joinmarriottbonvoy.com/uscanqr/s/EN/ch/sbarz
    For parties with 6 guests or more a 26% service charge fee will be added to your final bill. For all guests there will be an 8.75% California State tax added to the final bill.
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Plow & Angel Speakeasy
Great vibe
•
Price: Very Expensive
•
American
•
4.4
(8)
For over a century, San Ysidro Ranch has been a haven for those seeking tranquility amidst the captivating landscapes of Santa Barbara. This historic hideaway effortlessly weaves together natural beauty, romantic heritage, and classic luxury, welcoming discerning travelers to experience a retreat like no other. In the heart of this timeless escape, experience indulgence through Afternoon Tea, where an enticing array of tea sandwiches, seasonal scones, and house-made pastries promise to elevate your senses. As the day transitions to night, immerse yourself in a clandestine world within our speakeasy, where crafted cocktails and an intimate ambiance transport you to a bygone era. San Ysidro Ranch invites you to become part of its storied history, where the past meets the present in an atmosphere of natural beauty, culinary delights, and timeless moments.
  1. A photo of RH Firehouse Grill at RH Montecito restaurant

    RH Firehouse Grill at RH Montecito

    Price: Very Expensive
    •
    American
    •
    4.7
    (118)
    The RH Firehouse Grill is an indoor-outdoor restaurant located at RH Montecito, The Gallery at the Old Firehouse. Enjoy a menu of signature salads and classics from our hearth in our courtyard restaurant, which seamlessly extends into a beautifully landscaped garden. Dine beneath the warm glow of handwoven pendants amid heritage olive trees, birds of paradise, a grand fireplace and cascading limestone fountains.
  2. A photo of Bouchon - Santa Barbara restaurant

    Bouchon - Santa Barbara

    Price: Expensive
    •
    Californian
    •
    4.7
    (5,527)
    We are delighted to have added additional outdoor seating but Santa Barbara nights are chilly so bring a sweater or light jacket!
    Fresh, local ingredients, prepared with care. Excellent wines that reflect the quality and character of our region and work in concert with the cuisine. Warm, inviting ambiance, service at a relaxed, leisurely pace. Santa Barbara ‘Wine Country Cuisine’ means we source our ingredients using an ‘as-fresh-and-as-local-as-possible’ approach, with fish from the Santa Barbara Channel and produce from the surrounding countryside. We then take into account how these flavors can be presented in concert with our local wines. We believe you’ll taste the difference. Bon Appètit!
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Arnoldi's Cafe
Great budget-friendly spot
•
Price: Expensive
•
Italian
•
4.8
(783)
Oldest Italian restaurant in Santa Barbara! We have two bocce courts on our patio with outdoor dining. Lots of pasta, appetizers, salads, chicken dishes and homemade desserts...Italian wine and local wine on our wine list...indoor or outdoor seating. We are a true local's secret and kid friendly. Open for dinner 7 days a week! We also host rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, and large birthday parties.
  1. A photo of Lilac Montecito restaurant

    Lilac Montecito

    Price: Expensive
    •
    Contemporary European
    •
    4.6
    (182)

    Welcome to Lilac Montecito. We offer an elevated bistro dining experience featuring some of our favorite foods that nourish the body and soul in a full-service dining ambiance. Our menu is inspired by European and Californian cuisine as well as locally-sourced ingredients for a fresh, delicious take on some classic entrees.
    Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  2. A photo of The Black Sheep SB Brasserie restaurant

    The Black Sheep SB Brasserie

    Price: Expensive
    •
    Contemporary French / American
    •
    4.7
    (762)
    Now featuring a full bar! Locally owned California-French brasserie in Old Town Santa Barbara, blending classic technique with bold, eclectic flavors. Housed in a historic space, we offer an elevated dining experience with a renowned family-style tasting menu, curated wines, craft beer, and full cocktail service. Open Wed-Sun from 5 PM—check daily for our specials!

Outdoor dining in California Central Coast

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See what locals rave about in Santa Barbara

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

Discover Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a true melting pot of cultures, and the culinary possibilities for you to enjoy in this coastal city are representative of the city’s incredible diversity. American options for steak lovers and vegetarians alike are available in sophisticated dining rooms as well as casual restaurants. With Santa Barbara's unique location close to the Pacific Ocean, you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes at your choice of elegant restaurants or cafes overlooking the coast. European eateries feature Mediterranean, French, and Italian options that will delight you. You can also enjoy dining at a Chinese, Japanese or Thai restaurant with an Asian vibe. You will never tire of the options available when you are in Santa Barbara.

Dining around Santa Barbara Hot Spots

Frequently asked questions

Celebrate special occasion at the best restaurants in Santa Barbara. Our customers recommend Bouchon - Santa Barbara, Holdren's Santa Barbara and Toma Restaurant & Bar

As of Apr 25, 2025 there are 64 restaurants in Santa Barbara. Filter by “outdoor dining”, “romantic” or “dog friendly”.

On OpenTable we support all cuisines. Find Italian, Californian, Asian, Steakhouse, Seafood and more. Use our filters to find exactly what you’re looking for and make your reservation today.

Yes! We partner with restaurants in Santa Barbara who deliver with Toast, Postmates, Uber Eats, Olo, ChowNow.

Yes, you can also see restaurants near you offering takeout.

Yes! OpenTable provides free, convenient and trusted options to book the best restaurants in Santa Barbara either on OpenTable or directly with the restaurant.

Yes, we partner with a third party to bring back menu information for restaurants near you.

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