The 25 best breakfast and brunch in Montecito

I absolutely loved this little spot in downtown Santa Barbara. We were seated outside right away on a beautiful Saturday morning for brunch. The staff were very friendly and attentive. We tried the deviled eggs as a starter which were very good. I also got a vanilla latte which was perfect and came with a little soft biscotti to nibble on. I had the Green Rancheros which has shrimp, eggs and crispy tortillas and it was very good and definitely filling. My husband got the lemon ricotta pancakes and raved about how good they were. I would definitely recommend this spot for a relaxed brunch in beautiful Santa Barbara.

In my experience, Scarlett Begonia has aspirations to be a little bit more than it is. It wants to be rustic but elevated, farm to table, cheffy but laid back. But in many ways it comes off as disorganized and uncaring. We dined on a Monday morning, and service was slow - perhaps they were busier than they expected. It happens. However, there was just an air of blasé about the whole experience. The plating was messy, just about everything we ordered was swimming in a bowl of thick sauce with no cohesion to the plating. The flavors were all fine - nothing that wowed me, but also certainly not bad. The surfaces of everything in the building were just kind of worn too, like even the paint didn't want to be there. If you have breakfast here, you'll have a fine time. But if you're charging $21 for scrambled eggs, they should be amazing - and these were just underwhelming.

We reserved a table for breakfast here for my husband, his parents, myself, and my tiny dog. The hostess was very welcoming and thoughtful. We sat outside and and enjoyed the detailed menu - there is one for dogs as well! I ordered quinoa oatmeal and was blown away by the textures and flavors. I had a bite of my husband's vegan breakfast patty and it was quite meaty tasting and delicious. Even my very picky, "meat and potatoes" father in law expressed surprise at his biscuits and gravy, especially noting their unusual yet delicately spiced gravy. Honestly, the menu seemed amazing and I was truly a bit sad that I didn't have the stomach capacity to try every single thing. Sigh! I would call these dishes upgraded classics. When we visit Santa Barbara again, this definitely makes our list for must eats.

Our family was on a road trip from the Los Angeles area and upon doing some research on the best brunch places around Santa Barbara on Reddit, Scarlett Begonia came up. Initially we made a reservation that we were an hour late for ah - thank God we were able to still be seated. Thank you to the Scarlett Begonia for accommodating us! Our family is composed of two parents, three mainly adult children, and two dogs. This place has been so welcoming. We ordered the following: *Lemon Ricotta Pancakes - delightful, a good amount of syrup and actual blueberries, the butter wasn’t overpowering at all despite its looks which elevated the whole taste *Steak sandwich w side salad - we chose to have the meat be medium rare (you are able to choose the level of how well you’d like your steak to be done), the side salad is a generous portion that made our whole family so happy *Beyond Meat sandwich w side fries - a good burger that wasn’t greasy and the fries ARE INCREDIBLE!!! *Green Rancheros - the best combination of vegetables, tacos, guacamole, and a fried egg *Lavendar latte (oat milk) - made in house *Mango Guava Kombucha - not made in house but a good quality one is provided Highlights: 🥰 the kindness of the service. They are thorough and do not rush their customers. We want to give a HUGE shoutout to Erin for checking in with us regularly and taking the extra steps to make sure we felt welcomed and seen - it made eating all the more enjoyable. Erin, thank you for being so kind to our dogs, getting to know how our day has been, providing us with the ketchup and Tabasco sauce, and ensuring we’ve had plenty of space for the dishes. Thank you also for the travel recommendations too. This level of service is a standard I notice the whole staff try to uphold. Truly this is what makes this a restaurant I’ll be sure to recommend to all my friends, family, and neighbor!! 🪻all the syrups are made in house - we were surprised to discover that the lavendar syrup was actually made by hand by pressing the lavendar flowers at Scarlett Begonia! The taste is noticeably different from other lavendar lattes that I’ve had. 🐶 if your dog(s) is able to be respectful to people, this is such a wonderful place to bring your dog(s)! We were so delighted to come across the menu offered for dogs specifically! Complimentary water and dog treats are also provided. There is seating in the patio that allows for a good amount of sunlight. 💛 the whole place is aesthetically well kept. I can tell there is routine, thoughtful and intentional maintenance all throughout this restaurant God bless you all!

Despite arriving for brunch at a very busy time, we were seated immediately and the service was excellent. Great red eyes and Smoked Salmon Benedicts. Lovely spot with art filled decor. A Santa Barbara fave

Came for Sunday brunch and sat outside with our dogs. We were seated partly in the sun and they kindly moved us to a shady table once another party left. Kudos to the hostesses and the waitstaff for being easy going about it. Nice strong pours for the wine and we enjoyed our biscuits and gravy, brown butter waffle and lemon ricotta pancakes. Service was efficient, friendly and accommodating. Definitely recommend

The Lemon ricotta pancakes are delicious and generous. The atmosphere is nice especially the patio at the back on a sunny day. However, I was surprised by the surcharge of 60 cents. When I inquired I was told that this was for using the credit card although this was not communicated by the server. It just showed up in my bill. Although it is a small amount, the principle of it bothers me a little. It was interesting to observe the menu for pets with line items like water..... free and other food items with a price line. I am sure dog owners must like this.

Cute lunch spot. Very instagramable. They had a line when we arrived but it went by fast. You need to order at the register before getting a table. I ordered Californian Egg Benedict, avocado toast with sunny side eggs (eggs were additional cost) and lilac salad. Food came out very fast and was very delicious.

Oh my goodness! I love this place. Friendly service. Amazing food. Great ambience. I had egg whites and the avocado toast. It was to die for! Delicious beyond words. Even if you don’t have to watch gluten, you really must try this place!

This place is like heaven for people like me who can't eat gluten! I make a point of stopping here every time I come through Santa Barbara. The food is great, the store itself is lovely, sitting inside is great and sitting outside on State Street is also beautiful. I can't speak for the dessert, but the meals they serve are delicious. I've had their sandwiches and their breakfast options, and have had nothing but great experiences. I even got breakfast to-go here one time on my way to the airport so I could have gluten-free breakfast on the other side of security while waiting for my flight. Worked out great!

A real French patisserie at the center of the picturesque Santa Barbara downtown. The place itself is nothing special, and the coffee is just ok, but the food and pastries are delicious! We had a chicken sandwich, breakfast sandwich and a slice of tiramisu, and everything was great. And, everything is gluten-free!

Wonderful café with a cozy atmosphere. They made me a whole chocolate cake with gluten-free ingredients. The cake was rich, moist, and absolutely delicious. Staff were kind, helpful, and attentive to special requests. Highly recommend for anyone looking for quality desserts in a welcoming place!

I was excited to try this spot. I will say I thoroughly enjoyed the lemon cheesecake, it was fantastic. However my breakfast was covered in oil and completely bland. I took it home because I refuse to waste and will make do but it was not appetizing. The bread was moist, not really toast and didn’t taste like anything even with butter. The potatoes were ok but still covered in oil. I tried to wave and ask for help when someone came outside to get a box but ended up having to go inside and asked a kind stranger to watch my bag. Don’t expect them to ask how it is or how you are. From other reviews it seems their sandwiches are great. I know I would return for a slice of cheesecake. Though the high prices are a consideration.

This FRENCH patisserie met my expectations! Precision made food and the tarts are amazing! I had a slice of NY lemon cheesecake and the sweetness is spot on - will definitely stop here again next time I’m driving through Santa Barbara

Really good food! Enjoyed the breakfast options, great fresh juice and coffee. No decaf, and the server was very short and rushed us to order drinks. Fruit cup was good but watermelon was mushy. Burrito was great and enjoyed the hashbrowns. Overall liked the food and fun location by the beach!

My wife and I really enjoyed our last day brunch here. Ww were seated immediately. We had an awesome waiter named Ben. He was very attentive, gave wonderful suggestions and his tableside manners was warm and welcoming. My wife ordered the Floretine omelet with home potatoes and pancakes. I ordered the corned beef hash plate with bacon. We both ordered a mimosa flight. Ben was very accomodating with our flavor substitutions. Everything came out hot and delicious. We both loved all of what we ordered. Lastly, the place and the Halloween setup is to die for. They really outdid themselves and we enjoyed the vibe!

Had an amazing breakfast at Chad’s in Santa Barbara, right on the beachfront. The view is unbeatable, and the vibe is perfect for a relaxed morning. The staff were warm and welcoming, making the experience even better. We ordered the Garden with hash browns, the corned beef hash with eggs, and a club sandwich with a side of pancakes — everything was delicious and the portions were generous. Highly recommend this spot for anyone looking for great food with a beautiful ocean view!

Definitely going to be a wait if you go here. But definitely worth it. Line seemed to move quick. Nice view of the ocean from patio seating. Food was really good and so was the service. Bloody marry was awesome lol. Definitely worth a visit for breakfast.

We stopped in here for brunch after reading all the good reviews and it definitely did not disappoint! Food was delicious and such a nice touch to have the basket of free mini muffins. The location is great with views out to the sea. Highly recommend a visit here but timing is key, we were lucky enough to get a table pretty much straight away but it was very busy after that. Even if you had to wait I would still say it's worth it!

Service was amazing! Food was great! But the view…spectacular. I love the vibes and you can never beat Santa Barbara. This establishment is highly recommended in my books! We ordered during lunch hours and during a local fiesta making it very packed but the line moved very quickly and servers were efficient!

The Belgian waffle was absolutely delicious, clearly made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The complimentary muffins were another highlight — hot, fresh out of the oven, and just as tasty 😋. Beyond the food, the staff really made the experience special. Everyone we interacted with was warm, attentive, and genuinely helpful, making sure we had everything we needed. Their friendliness added a personal touch that made the visit feel extra welcoming.

We had an amazing brunch at Jeannine’s! Our Havana latte was delicious! We tried Santa Barbara scrambled, tri tip sandwich, avocado toast and tuna melt sandwich were all good! We also had the coconut pineapple scone — best scone I’ve ever had. Service was excellent as well. I highly recommend this restaurant 👍🏽👍🏽

One of my all-time favourite places! Great for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, and a wide variety of Californian-style foods. They're also very adaptable for people with dietary restrictions or food intolerances. My only sad point is that they took the once-loved Californian omelette off the menu at some point, which was a shame because it was so delicious! The coffee and pastries are tasty and fresh, and the charm of the outdoor patio in the heart of Montecito is unbeatable. Great value for money, friendly staff, and consistently good food -- I've been coming here for more than 10 years and still have always found it lovely every time.

I love this place so much! The food and coffee are delicious, and the staff is incredible. They are so kind and cheerful. They truly brightened my day! I can’t wait to visit Montecito again. Jeannine’s will definitely be my first stop!

Honestly, the food is ok, but not worth the hype and long line. Normally I wouldn't bother to write a review here but what puts a bee in my bonnet is that at all of their locations they spill out and take over the whole plaza. Setting up tables in front of other businesses without permission is so unbelievably rude and greedy. I wish other patrons would take note of this and support more thoughtful businesses. I promise there's far better food and service elsewhere.

What an excellent place for breakfast! Located in peaceful and blissful Montecito this restaurant is always popular with the locals and tourists alike. Sometimes you see a long line of people waiting outside. It is worth the wait. Their food is very delicious and their service is quick. The only problem is that the diners want to hang out at the tables for longer because it’s such a fun place to see and be seen and people watch. If you wake up early you will get in without a problem. Try their breakfast and bakery goods. They also offer fun mimosas mixed with great bubbles. Inside the restaurant there is a beautiful vintage stained glass window. Do check it out as well.

Such good food! We decided to come back a second day for breakfast. The customer service is top notch! Loved everything about it.

Service is absolutely stellar. The vibes are high and as authentic as it gets. Food is a solid 4.9, best lobster benny I've had hands down. Atmosphere radiates, definitely recommend.

Went here recently with my family to celebrate my mother's birthday because we have been multiple times before and she expressed this was one of her favorite restaurants in Santa Barbara. Specifically the Brussels Sprouts! Sadly, the Brussels sprouts were no longer on the menu as they were our favorite dish, gone. Even the waiter agreed and was unsure why they removed them from the menu. However, that truly did not ruin our experience at all. We ordered quite a bit of things and enjoyed the night because everything was good! We ordered the deviled eggs, which were small and nothing too crazy, but a good option to share for the table! We also ordered the kung pao cauliflower. Now this dish, took us all by complete surprise and quite honestly, stole the show for the whole night. We legit ended up ordering 3 in total because of how good these were. The sauce, the crunch on the cauliflower, the little spice backed by sweet, this was some bomb cauliflower. Would ABSOLUTELY come back just for this dish truly. We all would! The Tomato Veloute, Pork Chop, Short Rib Pappardelle, Scallops and Catch of the Day were all very tasty and good options! Oysters are amazing. A great amount of liquor in them! My only suggestion would definitely be the broccolini. We each took 1-2 bites, just not good. It barely had any flavor and almost tasted like it was undercooked. Would not recommend it, but definitely does not overshadow the rest of the phenomenal dishes. Highly recommend it for a good night out with friends and family and you MUST get the Kung Pao Cauliflower. HAVE TO!

I would have never guessed this was part of a hotel 🏨😮! Such a fun spot for brunch 🥞✨. They had a unique twist on classic recipes 🍳🍠—everything was refreshing, tasty, and full of flavor 😋🌿. You can tell the ingredients are high quality and super fresh. Our server Erik was amazing 🙌—so attentive and kind. Big thank you to him for making the experience even better! 💙👏 Definitely a hidden gem I’d come back to! 🌟🍴

Great restaurant attached to the Kimpton Canary Hotel. Staff was excellent and friendly and the food was delicious. We had both a dinner there (the black cod in coconut curry was a great choice) and breakfast (definitely get the short rib sweet potato hash). Surprise highlight are the deviled eggs. We loved them so much we had them twice. And the foccacia bread is light, fluffy, and filled with delicious herbiness. Since we booked through Chase's The Edit program, we had credits toward both meals, which certainly made the cost more reasonable, but I would say that the restaurant is good enough that I would have happily paid full price.

We’re from out of town on our honeymoon and saw this restaurant on Google and it looked great! The Poblano burger I had was excellent. I typically eat fast (thanks military!) but this burger had so many layers of flavor to it. You have to dissect the taste of each bite. It’s complex and delicious. The fries were the perfect amount of crispy and salty, also complex in its flavor. Food came quickly from the kitchen! Jaime, our server was attentive and polite. The atmosphere is quiet, modern, and minimal

Finch & Fork restaurant is inside the Kimpton Canary Hotel; an IHG chain. It’s a great restaurant with great menu choices that satisfies all tastes. We had the 12 ounces steak 🥩; it was tender and delicious. The wild caught Salmon 🍣 was not fishy at all. The Caesar salad 🥗 was really tasty and fresh. Breakfast is (ok) for my taste. I had breakfast there because it was included. Otherwise, I wouldn’t go there for breakfast again. Thanks to Robert and Erick and his team for a great service 🙏🌹

Ordered room service from here at the Kimpton Canary Hotel. The service was quick and the food was phenomenal. I loved every single thing I tried. The bacon breakfast burrito was delicious and all the ingredients inside were cooked perfectly. The avocado toast was so flavorful and refreshing. The French fries had a perfect texture. The smoked salmon bagel was loaded and the salmon was very fresh. Not pictured is the OPP brunch cocktail and that was also a delicious, light cocktail to get your day started. I highly recommend this restaurant. Will definitely be back

My friend and I went to Finch and Folk for Happy Hour on Sunday. Sun-Thursday, their Happy hour is from 4-6. Drinks are $10. They also have menu items you can purchase. The bartender was friendly and helpful. We ordered deviled eggs and Mac 'n Cheese. The bar is beautiful and fully stocked. You can sit in the lounge area on comfy seats or at the bar. The bathrooms are located down the stairs, or by elevator. We had dinner reservations for 5 p.m. as we were going to see Nickel Creek at the Granada Theatre. My friend had Scallops and Peaches and Burrata Cheese. I had a dish with Cauliflower and Purple Potatoes. I spent around 30 dollars for dinner and my friend spent around 60 dollars for her dinner and dessert. Our waiter was fun. He had a wonderful personality and was a huge help in serving us and getting us out the door to our concert. The dining room is beautiful and well-appointed. Please see the attached photos.

We went on Wednesday for brunch and there were a few empty tables. We were lucky to snatch a parking spot next to the bakery. We ordered a pull-pork sandwich, cinnamon roll and a chocolate crossaint. Cinnamon roll was the best: outside layer was crunchy and warm, the frosting wasn't too sweet, the amount of frosting was more than enough foe the whole roll. Chocolate crossaint was alright: pastry was soft and fluffy, chocolate wasn't melted all the way. Pull-pork had a goof spicy kick to it but it was a little too salty for my taste. Staff were so nice, respectful and welcomed. Service was quick. Love their decoration. We would try to sit outside next time as the flowers in the flower box were lovey on a nice day. These seats got filled up real quick though. Bathroom was not the cleanest.

Very beautiful decor, and lots of birds chirping around. Food was good but pricey. The hashbrowns are worth every penny. The fried chicken breakfast sandwich is very good as well. The service was fast but it was not very clear it was Cafe service and so when asked if I needed anything and I asked for a fork, I was surprised by the employee's offended expression. I was not aware of the cutlery and water station and was left to find it on my own. Employees were hard to track down or speak to, other than at the register. Also the self bussing station was in the back of the room through a tight space with full tables of customers. Multiple bussing stations would have been nice, or more clearly labeled if I missed another one.

This bakery was crazy good. Although the line was atrocious at 10AM and took us around 35 minutes to order, the baked goods were unmatched. We were in line originally for their cinnamon rolls but they sell out within the first few hours of opening so I would recommend getting there early. However, we were able to snag a pre-made cinnamon roll kit and we baked it back at home. Everything was pretty expensive but so is everything in Santa Barbara so it didn’t phase us. Would highly recommend trying!

As someone with autoimmune issues that impact my diet, I was utterly thrilled to hear the majority of their baked goods are made from sourdough discard which is my saving grace for gluten-sensitive restrictions!! I will definitely be coming back to Santa Barbara specifically for HAB!! My husband, daughter and son-in-love shared the delectable buttery Chocolate Chip Cookie, scrumptious Passionfruit Poppyseed Muffin, the balanced sweet, savory and creamy Goat cheese Toast, and the creative Elvis Banana Bread which were all fabulous! My personal brunch item was the breakfast tacos on corn tortillas which were delightful with crispy bacon, a generous layer of cheese, and over easy eggs with just the right kick of spice and seasoning. The staff was very welcoming, accommodating, and informative. I wish I could order for delivery to the San Francisco Bay because I definitely would!!

We came for a breakfast bite and ended up with coffee, a healthy bowl, a breakfast sandwich and truly delicious cinnamon rolls. Very decadent and worth every bite. Not cheap but, it’s great ingredients and, hey, it’s Santa Barbara near the beach!

The cinnamon roll is one of the best one i ate for while, perfectly crispy outside soft inside and not too sweet, with the sweet sauce its so good Sandwich sourdough really good too Other bakery decent And the seatings and interior just nice and chill

We come here every time we are in Paso Robles. The raspberry croissant is so delicious! We love supporting family own businesses like this but especially when everything they make is tasty!

Absolutely amazing food. Will definitely be back next time we’re in town. Make sure to grab a dessert too!

I love this place for its atmosphere and delicious desserts. Love the breakfasts here, the eggs Benedict is delicious. The staff is friendly. Simple pleasant interior. The place is very popular and it is clear why. Highly recommend. I didn’t like that they don’t clean and wipe the tables, the new visitors have nowhere to sit!!!!

Incredible brunch/lunch food! Ham, cheese, and egg on croissant melts in your mouth! Egg, tomato, mushroom, cheese, and egg on thickly sliced sourdough is hearty and tasty. Side potatoes are perfectly soft inside with just the right texture skins outside. Seasoned with garlic or something. Outdoor patio seating is great for some sun.

Beautiful and delicious coffee & quiche. Outdoor seating plentiful and a couple tables inside. Staff was friendly and the service was super fast. Great quiet place to get breakfast and sit with friends. Well behaved dogs can sit outside with you.

Recently we’ve found ourselves craving a good French bakery and bistro. Personally I blame @jackvelasquez because he recommended this one to us and we found it to be c’est magnifique! 🇫🇷 They claim to offer “A taste of Paris…without the trip to France!” and I have to admit that a resemblance does exist. The croissant was warm, buttery, and flakey, and was filled with fresh and flavorful “copines.” The quiche was masterfully created because it focused its efforts on a limited number of powerful flavors that left the palate in want of nothing. Their coffee and tea offerings are not extensive, but we tried one of each and they were both excellent. I can’t claim to have even attempted to resist the urge to sample their bakery items and felt particularly drawn to their lemon meringue tart and chocolate eclair. Both of them offered decedent flavors and the gold flakes upon the later made us feel quite bougie. We tip our berets to you Jack, this was a great recommendation. 👨‍🎨 And that’s…Henry’s Take. #santabarbarafrenchbakery #santabarbarafrenchbistro

I decided to try the strawberries and cream since I was looking for something sweet and the reviews of the place seemed good but I was a little disappointed. The berries and cream I had tasted like onion. The flavor was not strong but somehow it seemed as if the whole dessert had come in contact with onion. Either prepared on a surface that had onion previously or the utensils used were not cleaned properly. I also had a box of macarons and it came with a black hair of about 2 inches in length, I did not take a picture of it but I did ask for a new box. Not everything was bad as I also bought a baguette which was good, orange juice, cappuccino, and the bomb dessert. Maybe on a different day, I won't have the same experience but as a first experience, I am not looking forward to coming here anytime soon, but when I do, I will update this review accordingly. I really hope the quality standards keep up.

First time experiencing this establishment. Found it on a morning walk on vacation in Santa Barbara. I ordered the Renauds omelette and a double espresso, and it was a fantastic meal and the omelette was prepared perfectly and served with nice fresh crispy around the edge baguette. I was not dressed the best but Bella who was working the register and walked to serve me at my patio table was fantastic and did not seem to mine my mismatched attire. Bella was 100 percent professional and extremely nice to me and the other customers she engaged with ahead of me in line. If I ever return to Santa Barbara I will surely revisit this restaurant again.

Hands down these were delicious pastries. We got the pistachio creme croissant and would recommend! We even got it again the next day and ordered additional croissants (Baklava, almond chocolate). The cafe does get quite busy with the small dining area filled, but there were also seating outside which the staff would bring out your order to you

Delicious pastries and lunch items. Desserts look and taste like works of art. Lunch order include avocado toast with smoked salmon, roast beef sandwich, and crab crepes. The only minor issue is sometimes service can be a bit slow.

My favorite brunch spot in Santa Barbara! Everything is always so delicious. Between my boyfriend and I, we’ve probably ordered everything on the menu and have never been disappointed. On top of everything being so yummy, the staff is so kind. We are always welcomed with a smile. If you’re in Santa Barbara, you can’t miss this spot for brunch.

If you’re in Santa Barbara you must visit Alessia. The croissant sandwich was delicious. We ordered vanilla oat milk cortados which were the best cortados we’ve ever had. And this fig honey dessert was perfection. The perfect way to start our Sunday. Thank you Alessia.

It was quite busy when we arrived but we were seated quickly and the food came out fast as well. You can either get a pastry to go or order and sit down. The food itself was fantastic!

Delicious! One dish can easily be shared by 2 people. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating. Outdoor seating is dog friendly.

I don't know where to start. Everything is delicious. There is outdoor seating along with tables and a large counter indoors. Although you still may need to wait for a seat.

Fresh, wholesome food for lunch or dinner. There are great options for vegans/vegetarians, and meat-eaters. I love that the produced is sourced locally from the Santa Barbara farmers market. Order at the counter, find a seat, and they will bring your food out to you. The house made lemonade is very refreshing, and the perfect amount of sweet (it’s not overly sweet at all!!!). I had the mezze plate, it was fresh, delicious, and it was enough for meals for me. The desserts are also unique and tasty (although I don’t believe they are vegan). Super fun to enjoy dining outside on State street. There are lots of prepackaged foods inside for purchase if you need something quick on the go. Parking is in the paid lot behind Victoria Court (free for the first 75 minutes). On weekend evenings it can be difficult to find a parking spot here since it’s shared with many businesses and restaurants. I look forward to coming back for lunch sometime.

We hosted a retreat for 140 MBA students here and they absolutely crushed it! The food was amazing with options for everyone (vegans, vegetarians, gluten-free folks — no one was left out). The staff was super friendly and kept everything running smoothly, even with a crowd this big. Everything came out on time, and our group left happy and full. Chef Carmen brought so many flavours, especially with the chicken! We all went for seconds. Highly recommend this spot if you’re planning a big group event — they made it easy and fun!

Light, fresh and creative food, executed flawlessly! Good outdoor seating too (there's more in the back if the front is full). The restaurant is in the middle of a very touristy area so we weren't expecting much, but ended up enjoying every bite. The sandwiches were extremely flavorful (with good veggie options) as was everything else - down to the seasoning on the housemade pickles. Next time we're in SB, this will definitely be on the itinerary.

The Daisy is to be loved, for it is entirely wonderfully delicious menu! We’ve gone to The Daisy 6 times and each meal has been fresh, interesting, tasty and healthy. The portions are a bit too big but I think the owners will work that one out. The atmosphere is comfortable, clean, hip and inviting. The staff are friendly, effective, professional, and efficient. The pricing is a bit high, but I get it—food inflation. I will definitely go back and I recommend that you go there too.

The Daisy is very spacious and airy. It felt really nice to settle down and wait for the food to arrive. We ordered at the counter, got a number and then a server brings the order. I ordered a BLT but asked them to hold the bacon and sub avocado, which they did. And my sandwich was so good! Great bread, heirloom tomatoes, big chunks of avocado, crisp little gem lettuce and a perfect aioli. All our food was delicious.

This little restaurant was very chic, clean modern but homey at the same time. A little pricey for what it was, but everything was fresh and tasty. It was raining outside so we sat inside at a communal high top table. I would definitely come here again, just prepared to pay a pretty penny for something as simple as roasted vegetables. Lol. Service was friendly and quick! A cute little place.

Super cute Mediterranean place off State Street! Delicious, super fresh and definitely Instagram worthy dishes to be found here! The surprise dish was their take on a Banh Mi and it was amazing! The bread, OMG the bread was the star, even the flat bread that came with my salad…perfection!! Highly recommend for a cute lunch out in Downtown Santa Barbara!

Really adorable shop and such a great pit stop between LA & SLO. All the touches are pink and gold even the utensils and flooded with sunlight...I loved it! It is even next door to a few cute stores & a market. ...my favorite was the post office!. I happened upon it at lunch time. I bet it is even better when just before or just after. They had so many different things I was afraid to ask all my questions with the line getting longer behind me. I have quite a few food allergies...so I just went safe. I really was hoping for a sweet treat. I think they even had grilled salmon! Food was good too! FYI so close to the beach! ...and zoo.

Merci Montecito used to be one of my favorite spots — especially for their white bean salad, which was not only delicious but also a rare gem for those of us who are plant-based or have food allergies. It paired perfectly with the kale salad (hold the cheese), and was one of the few offerings in town that felt thoughtfully crafted for everyone at the table. Unfortunately, that staple salad is no longer on the menu. In its place is a haricot vert and chickpea salad — which sounded promising — until I found out the vinaigrette (which is already tossed in and can't be on the side) contains egg. That makes it a no-go for vegans and anyone with egg allergies. Disappointing, but not the end of the world… except it kind of is when there’s little else on the menu that checks those boxes for plant-based protein. What really soured the experience, though, was the attitude at the register. When I politely asked about vegan or allergy-friendly options, the gentleman seemed annoyed and dismissive. Thankfully, another staff member stepped in and flagged the egg in the dressing — which could’ve been a serious issue for me due to allergies. It's essential to clearly identify ingredients and allergy triggers like egg or dairy — especially when dishes sound plant-based but aren’t fully. I’ve always believed a good café or restaurant should be welcoming and inclusive — especially in a community like Montecito where people have diverse dietary needs. I used to recommend Merci. Now, with the white bean salad gone, the lack of allergy transparency, and the disappointing customer service, I find myself looking elsewhere — even within the same shopping area (yes, even next door). The vibe has also shifted — it’s more crowded and less warm than it used to be. Our kale salad today was overdressed and just… not great. So, sadly, my previous glowing reviews need an update. This visit was a 3-star experience at best — more like a 2.5. I’ll keep checking in, hoping for the return of the white bean salad and, honestly, a little more patience and understanding for long-time customers. Until then, it’s a pass.

Merci is a fine place, quick stop and for adventurous palates. They are very unique meals, and unfortunately, mine was salty and no one asked about it. I was happy with the experience, I just expected a bit more since the place is a bit pricey. Portion is perfect, the eggs were about the best Ive had in a while. My meal was very overpowering, and salty. The reason of 4 starts, no one checked. Id come back for sure, if I am ever in the area. The ambiance is a bit loud since it’s tiny, but nothing to scare you away… go ahead and try this place, you won’t regret it.

The chicken payard with almond flour is one of the greatest meals on earth, the cookie dough to take home just perfect. Kale Salad amazing, Every item here is some of the best food I’ve had in my life. Straight up worth every penny. Fresh local delicious

Very hostile and rude man at the checkout (it seems others have had the same problem, with the same guy). I came in at a not especially busy time, and there was just one person ahead of me. When my turn came I asked for a cinnamon bun (not heated) and a fruit tart, for takeout. Both were siting right there, barely 2ft from the register, and I figured that he would simply put them in a bag and hand them to me. I paid, stupidly tipped 15%, and then waited. Without saying a word, he went on to serve someone else, disappeared for a bit, came back. I waited longer. There were no other customers at the register, but zero sign of me getting the two items. I realized that the way they do it is that even if you are getting a couple of muffins from the cabinet that require no preparation, they process the order as if you were at a table and had requested scrambled eggs. You go into the order line. So I asked him if someone could just pop the two items in a bag so I could leave. Oh boy, he did not like that! "you know there are others in front of you, also waiting". I said yes, but they are at tables, not standing here, and I am just asking for these two things in a bag! He made a series of sarcastic comments, furiously put two pastries in a bag (one of them not what I ordered) and slammed them down on the counter, telling me I "really needed to be more patient". It took him less than 12 seconds to do that, less time than it took me to pay and give him a tip. Instead he made me wait for no reason at all, in a space that is not large enough to have people waiting. So, in conclusion - they have a broken system (in fairness, not his fault), and an employee who clearly has none of the skills needed to be customer facing. Incidentally, I have been there many times and often noticed his attitude is of someone who would rather be doing something else.

It’s a perfect light bite for breakfast with their beautifully made coffee/hot drinks in the AM. Their lunch has been a favorite to take home or to enjoy with colleagues or friends at their location. Their chicken paillard are what dreams are made of. My favorite GF option in town. It’s perfect to share or as 2 meals. And other favorite are the duck legs, quiche, Jamon and butter sandwich, gigante beans and seasonal salad options.

This place is a favorite. In fact, they probably have the best chocolate chip cookies in town. Hands down

Very memorable and a wonderful experience. We loved it and really enjoyed our food. Bought some shortbread cookies to take home and wish we had bought more! Worth a trip for sure and excellent location across the street from the pier. We headed over there right after to walk around. The outside seating had plenty of shade and was very comfortable. 10/10 recommend, you can’t go wrong here!

When we arrived the line was long but it moved quickly and we were able to make it inside to order in about 15-20 minutes. The lady at the register was super nice and friendly. All our food was tasty! 😋 prices are reasonable given it’s right next to the beach and always inflated. The seating situation can be a bit tricky since everyone wants to sit outside. We opted for a table inside with no view because we wanted to be inside in AC. We didn’t feel rushed and enjoyed our meal. Everyone was personal and professional. The music was very random but not too loud.There is public parking across the street for 90 minutes. Will be coming back!

What a 'hidden' gem. With so many great places to visit in Santa Barbara, this is absolutely a must visit. Although not so physically hidden since it's right across from the beach/pier, you may overlook it as just a place to eat. It's more than that, really. The service you receive, right from being in line and the staff bringing out menu's, so the wonderful older lady working at the door, to the cash and waiting staff. Design wise, it's very cute and definitely has some beach vibes throughout it. It was one of the best places we ate during our time in all of California, and we will 100% return to eat here in the future. We waited roughly 10 minutes in the outdoor line, then another 10 in the indoor line, then about 20 minutes for our food. So it wasn't a quick process, but it was worth it.

This should be the first place you visit if you come to SB. Don't be afraid if you see a line, it goes by fast. You place your order at the counter inside and then go find an empty table with the food bring brought to you. At the door you are greeted by a wonderful older lady (I'm not sure if she's the owner or not). She gave us suggestions on what to order and was really nice. Everything we ordered was great, I had the lemon poppyseed pancakes... They were amazing! Mimosas are given in these little cute buckets. All in and all, it's a great place. Fast service, great food, and great views.

If you’re reading this, plz go here!! If you are daunted by the line, do not worry. You can order mimosas IN LINE. Here’s a tip, go across the street to the pier, find a lovely person selling fresh frutas con limón y tajin. Enjoy it while you wait in line as an appetizer before some of the best brunch you’ll have. The warm, fluffy veggie omelet with fresh avocado on top. Buttery, crispy potato hash brown along with some toast to complete the trifecta you need to get your day started. Toss on some ketchup or cholula and take your meal to the next level. Who is that lady greeting guests as they arrive? She is the sweetest!! 10/10, will be back if I’m ever in the area. It lives up to all the hype, so check it out!

A nice little breakfast place with ocean views if you are able to grab a table by the window. You need to order first and then grab a table of your choice. While ordering, all the pastries will really tempt you. They also have items to buy while you queue up to order. We had freshly squeezed orange juice, waffles and the Norwegian salmon benedict. The waffles were good, but we had to ask for maple syrup. The benedict was too creamy. They gave a good portion of smoked salmon, but the cream cheese and Hollandaise sauce made it extra creamy for me. The fresh bowl of fruit balanced it a bit, but would have the sauce on the side next time.

You go up to the counter to order, then they deliver your food and drinks to your table. We had breakfast. The latte was delicious. I highly recommend the waffle with eggs and bacon. Banana French Toast was on the sweet side. Great outdoor space. Gift shop inside.

This is such a cute place with such a welcoming and friendly team! Amanda took such great care of us and the food was soooo good (we had breakfast). The location is absolutely perfect (table right on the sand?? Yes please!) and the view is beautiful. We can’t wait to come back here! Highly recommend.

I've loved this place for many years. Casual, good food, service always seems great. A real Santa Barbara local feel. Fabulous views, one of the only places around where you can sit out, in the sun or under an umbrella, on the beach with your feet in the sand.

Great location on the beach! Sadly, the food was a huge let down. It was blah. We had Calamari and Red Snapper Ceviche both of them were just ok. Had steamed mussels and 2 of the mussels had beards still on them. "While not harmful, has a tough, stringy, and unappetizing texture that detracts from the dining experience". Yep! 2 of us had Sea bass and it was blah. The Poke and Salmon were so-so. We were all excited for the Sticky Rice but it was not true Sticky Rice. Yes, the rice stuck together, but it had no flavor. Key lime cheesecake for dessert looked like it was frozen, turned on a plate, thawed and had a swirl of something on it. It was ok. Skip the "Gelato". Even though it says it is made in Italy the only resemblance to Gelato is it is cold. It comes in and is served in a plastic container. It has a ton of unnecessary ingredients. It has a weird texture and taste. Dinner was $200 for 5 adults with no drinks. Very disappointing.

A surprise stop to avoid traffic on the 101. Limited free parking up front, plenty of paid public parking at the beach. Service was good. Great view of the beach. Heaters in the sitting area. There was plenty to choose from on the menu. We went with the ahi spiced poke special and clam chowder; both were good. I ordered the bloody Mary and a pacifico. Prices are beach prices. Expect between $18-28 a person, more with drinks. They did have restrooms. One thing to note is that there are steps up into the sitting area.

Beautiful restaurant right at the beach. They got a variety of different items on their menu. There is a different plate of fish special each day. Enjoy your food and drinks right at the beach or on their patio.

Nice, casual spot with good food and a good view of the water. So good, in fact, we came twice in two days — once for dinner and then again the next day for lunch. The Shoreline salad with goat cheese is yummy, so good that I had it both times. Added chicken and it was moist, unlike so many other places when you add grilled chicken to a salad. My husband enjoyed his fried chicken sandwich for dinner and a burger for lunch. Another in our party had nachos with chicken and really enjoyed them; she’s local to Santa Barbara and picked this spot because it’s a consistent favorite.

What a lovely find! Visited with a friend looking for a beach view on a visit from the Mid-West and Shoreline Beach Cafe delivered! They have a breakfast and lunch menu and you have the option of eating on their patio or beach! They serve Pepsi products and we paid $7 for 2 hours parking, as we didn’t see the free 90 minute parking. Food was prepared quickly, and served warm. Service was good! There is a cute beach seating area with lounge chairs to relax. A really nice hidden gem and you can’t beat the views!

Service was very friendly at the bar. Had a couple of different margaritas and they were fantastic.....you can really tell the difference when quality ingredients are used. For food I had the oysters stuffed with tuna, shrimp aquachile Negro and the crab enchiladas. All three were very delicious and would recommend anything that I ordered. The chips and salsa(2 different salsas) were also very good.

Santo Mezcal is a fantastic spot in Santa Barbara if you’re looking for authentic flavors with a modern, elevated touch. We started with chips and salsas, and each one had its own personality—the smoky salsa stood out, while the verde added a bright kick. The queso fundido with chorizo and poblano peppers came out bubbling hot in a skillet and was easily one of the highlights of the meal—gooey, flavorful, and perfect with tortillas. For the main course, the enchiladas were beautifully presented with a squash blossom and a fresh green salad on top. The flavors were layered and balanced—earthy mushrooms inside, a rich green sauce, and just the right touch of cream. Paired with rice and beans, it was both hearty and refined. Parking is valet only, but there are plenty of affordable public parking lots close by, so it’s easy to get in and out. Santo Mezcal combines traditional Mexican dishes with a creative twist, and everything feels fresh and thoughtfully prepared. Highly recommend if you’re in Santa Barbara!

They were out of duck carnitas and pork belly tacos! On the 4th of July long weekend of all times. I settled for the crispy tacos. It was good but I'd really rather have the pork belly tacos that the server recommended when we sat down. Oh well. Maybe next time. Service was good and attentive. Got a complimentary flan dessert for a birthday but no candle.

Came by around 4pm not too crowded, the food was delicious! I had the crab meat enchiladas and a Pacifico Michilada my server was Aldo and he was great on making recommendations and informed me to try out there breakfast during the weekends, the young lady that greeted me at door was also very informative and nice, I forgot her name 😓. But overall great experience and would recommend!

My cousin and I came here during a weekend getaway to see what all the hype was about—and it absolutely lived up to it! The service was super friendly, and the ambiance was cozy and welcoming. I had the Verde Enchiladas, my cousin had the Short Rib Tacos, and both were incredible. I also had a Mexican Mule that was perfectly made. Everything from start to finish was a 10/10. Highly recommend for lunch or dinner if you're in Santa Barbara!

We just arrived in Santa Barbara this morning and needed to grab a quick lunch before going to our scheduled Bellosguardo House tour. This place was delicious. The tortilla chips are out of this world, the guacamole is fantastic, the steak tacos are delicious and the cocktails were refreshing. The service and atmosphere were exceptional. We will be in town for five days and we will definitely be back to try more items.

Overly hyped and was extremely average. Service was mid, was given water in dirty glasses that still had lipstick residue from a previous customer! Absolutely not...try your luck at local food trucks...surely they're better than this

Swung by for a to-go order. Was great to have the side entrance as an alternative to a seated meal. Nice cafe with a solid food, seating (indoor and outdoor), and drinks (coffee, tea, and cocktails). Serving Brunch, Dinner and baked goods. No true gluten-free baked goods for those with Celiac due to likely cross-contamination.

Came to Santa Barbara for our one year wedding anniversary and the hotel that we stayed at had this restaurant for room service. Food is great! Decided to eat at the actual restaurant the following day and the food was consistently delicious. The shakshuka was flavorful and they were able to make the eggs scrambled for me since I dont eat it poached. Customer service is wonderful and the ambience is soothing for an early morning. Their small baked goods section is also scrumptious. Definitely recommend

Great atmosphere. State street in Santa Barbara. Went for brunch and had breakfast. $22 per plate includes coffee. Service was a little slow to start, but was fine after ordering. Ate outside on the open patio.

Love that they are so dog friendly here! We just stopped in for cocktails with our pup and we had a lovely time. I can’t comment on the food but the food I saw coming out of the kitchen looked yummy. Example. The ladies sitting near me split a burger that looked great! The kitchen also split it for them in advance which is always a nice touch. The hostess was extremely friendly and attentive as well. We will happily return for drinks and hopefully food next time :)

The food was okay. A bit too greasy. The service was really lacking. Not sure if they were terribly understaffed, but we had to try and find our waiter whenever we needed anything since they did not check on us at all. The food took forever to come out despite us ordering very simple dishes and I had a mimosa spilled all over me for which we were comped a hot chocolate. We had to ask if the sandwich that also got soaked in someone else’s mimosa could get comped too since it was ruined and they complied although that took forever to resolve too. Sitting there waiting forever with mimosa all over me wasn’t very fun. For the price and location it was a really underwhelming experience and we have been there multiple times with the same disappointing experience.

Disgusting service. We are a group of four looking for a place to eat breakfast in the town and to our displeasure we ended up stopping at the Goat Tree. The horror show started from the second we were getting seated. We waited at the seating desk where the host normally seats us but nobody came up, we had to walk up to one of the servers and ask for them to seat us. Once being seated our waiter dissapeared, we were brought water at one point, no one came up to us to take our order, no one checked in on us. It’s like we were ghosts and not there. After waiting for 30 YES THIRTY minutes we realized they forgot about us and weren’t gonna serve us. This is a extremely rare occurance where a server forgets about the customer and has maybe happened to me once in my many years of traveling. we were literally sitting there, in the blazing hot sun waiting for our server to come even talk to us or take our order. When were leaving and went to have a quick word with the group of waiter(s) at the podium (which were just standing there and chatting by the way) they just shrugged their shoulders and rolled their eyes and were acting all confused like they had no part in this I guess you don’t need any customers so that you can be this CARELESS!!!! Avoid this place like the plague!! Baffling, horrific service Who even runs this place??? The staff have a serious disciplinary problem Maybe the WORST service i have ever had the horror to come up on

This place was a good first try. We were seated right away with a table inside near the bakery window. We ordered the olives and mozzarella for starters. The steak and fries along with the pork belly rigatoni were our entrées. The steak was a great choice for the value. I highly recommend if this place if you're looking for quick and affordable

I usually don’t write reviews (which is why I lagged on making this one), but Backyard Bowls downtown definitely deserves it. Every time I come into town to visit family, it’s always a must for me - the food is consistently fresh, delicious, and exactly what I look forward to. On my most recent visit, I was helped by someone I believe was named Clarissa, and she went above and beyond to make sure I had a great experience. Excellent service and amazing food. I’ll keep coming back whenever I’m in town!

Service is average. Seating is tight. That being said, product is really wonderful, very tasty and value that matches the price.

Backyard Bowls is hands down one of the best spots in town. Every time I walk in, I’m greeted with fresh ingredients, friendly staff, and a vibe that instantly lifts your mood. Their support of the local community is something I truly appreciate. They don’t just serve food, they show up for people and causes that matter. Whether I need a healthy breakfast, a quick lunch, or just something that makes me feel good, Backyard Bowls always delivers. Plus, their bowls are so good they make you forget you're eating something healthy.

Big portions, delicious, one of the best acai bowls Ive eaten

Bowls were huge and delicious! The large is enormous for only a couple dollars more. The bowls are super tasty but I would say they should be served in a wider bowl so that more toppings can be enjoyed with the actually açaí underneath. It was quite busy on a Saturday morning so be prepared for a little wait. I think it’s worth it. Got the warrior bowl and Santa Barbara

The acai is alright, it’s SUPER runny and doesn’t taste like it’s worth $11 for the small. At least the fruit is fresh.. I’ve had cheaper and better acai elsewhere. Not to mention, I waited a bit more than 30 minutes for my acai bowl with barely any other people there as well. Take your money elsewhere. All the reviews talking about the wait time did NOT lie. Never coming back.

Small breakfast spot that gives huge portions. There are plenty of delicious options, particularly the acai bowls, and a create your own bowl feature as well. I got the power bowl with protein and it was very filling. Decorative seating area that gives off a chill vibe.

My favorite local diner with lots of the usual diner options but also some unique dishes such as the Eggs Benedict on mashed potatoes with side salad (in photo). Very friendly and efficient staff, never waiting for a refill on iced tea or coffee.

Very good prices, food, and service. Outdoor patio and dogs are allowed!

The food, the drinks, and service, and the vibes were chefs kiss. Went on easter with my partner and had a fantastic experience. Definitely coming back on my next visit to santa barbara!

The food was really good here, but the service, although friendly, was extremely slow. 🐢 We were there 1 hour and 45 minutes, after we were seated. And we didn't receive our sides or request for additional water until after we had finished eating.

Been going here for decades. Super solid place. Weekend breakfasts get busy, worth the wait.

We arranged a surprise birthday lunch for a girlfriend here. She loves to walk Shoreline and Cliff Drives every Monday. The food is always great, and the service quick, accurate, and friendly. I've been trying Tuna Melts all over town. Mesa Cafe wins. The Tuna Salad is not drowning in Mayonnaise, the Rye Bread is delicious, it was heated throughout, and mostly cheese on both sides. Yummmmmy !

Nice place to have breakfast and lunch. the staff is polite. inside is not beautiful, but outside is very nice, the atmosphere is calm, the summer veranda is a good place to relax. varied menu, average prices

Really lovely spot off the main drag in Santa Barbara! The team created a welcoming experience, and the food was spot on. Crispy home fries, golden brown toast, and the eggs were cooked to perfection! The Andouille sausage was delicious too. To top it off off, locally roasted Dune coffee was on tap and much appreciated!

Do you want the best breakfast/brunch in Santa Barbara? Go to the Cajun Kitchen. It’s not fancy but the food is delicious and generous in its portion size. The service is impeccable- often refilling my coffee and water. Also it didn’t take much time to have my food ready to enjoy. When I used to live here I often had breakfast here yet I didn’t venture past eggs and sausage. This time I wanted to order a meal that I can’t get easily where I live now on the east coast - huevos rancheros. Wow! I plan to return at least a couple of more times before heading back into near zero temps.

Servers were very friendly, and the outdoor seating was very nice. Fried chicken from the chicken and waffles was great, but the waffles were a bit floppy. Beignets were also great but the chocolate sauce was a bit lackluster. Overall still quite happy with the food though!

Great place for breakfast and lunch! Food was very good. We had the Blackened Salmon and the Corned Beef Hash with a side of French Toast. Very tasty and generous portions! Rather busy around 11am when we were there. There seemed to be only one server.

This place has huge portion sizes. I was told that my plate was on the smaller side, and I still thought it was massive lol. We also saw some guys ordering the biscuits, and it genuinely looked like they were bringing out to individual birthday cakes for each of them. The gumbo and jambalaya were awesome. Loved the amount of protein that they included in each of the dishes, and the cornbread went very well with them. I would definitely go back here if I lived closer. 10/10

The food was so good, we went 2 days in a row. The French Toast was my favorite. It was just regular French toast, but it was cooked perfectly! I also had the blackened salmon omelet. Sooooooo good! The salmon was also perfect. Not dried out! Definitely get there early because they get crowded!

Fast and friendly service, generous portions, good flavor. Menu is quite extensive. I’m looking forward to trying the jambalaya next time. If it’s as delicious as it sounds, I’ll definitely bump this up to 5 stars. 4 stars just because I found both the biscuit and cornbread and the eggs to be on the drier side. Also want to try the beignets next time! Bonus points for serving Dune coffee, another SB favorite

Took my daughter for her 14th birthday. We. Have been a big fan of cooking shows and I wanted her to have the experience of a Michelin star restaurant. They did not disappoint from the greeting at the door wishing my daughter a happy birthday and every staff member coming by the table wishing her a happy birthday. She choose the 6 course option. Form the examination of the courses to the presentation of the food on the plate all of it was a culinary experience like no other. The quality and freshness and presentation of each dish was exceptional. The flavor profiles were out of this world. The complexity of the flavors were complimenting each other from one dish to the next. We spent 3 hrs talking about every single bite. She had an endless smile on her face. Over all an unbelievable experience. All the way till the end when they brought her out a birthday desert in the shape of a mischlin star. She had to point that out to me.

Exquisite fine dining from beginning to end, truly a beautiful experience. Beautiful and creative dishes with bright vibrant flavors and gorgeous plating. The service was flawless, from small things like the timing of each plate to them pulling your chair out and finding a new napkin folded on your plate when returning from the restroom. Just lovely, and it was extra nice Massimo came out to our table and interacted with some of the guests.

A Michelin-starred restaurant. Overlooking the beach and ocean. Great innovative food, excellent service, and a fabulous dining experience. Expensive but well worth it.

Spent the weekend in the area and went to lark, honor bar, Stonehouse and San Ysidro Ranch, and here. If you’re debating between here and Stonehouse, go to Stonehouse. Hands down. Pros -stunning atmosphere on the ocean -primi course of veloutata was good -service is great - in my opinion not quite at the Michelin caliber, but still very good. For example, one of the servers put her fingers on the part of my water glass that my lips touched. Another example, when pouring my appetizer course, the soup splattered a bit on the side of the plate and also ended up on my skirt. However, everyone was very kind and polite. -they did not charge me for the things I did not eat as I found the main course and dessert really unpalatable. -yummy cocktails Cons -DONT order the carbonara expecting anything to look or taste like carbonara. It doesn’t. -portions are very small - pasta course is 4-5 small raviolis … pretty typical for this kind of restaurant but still have to flag -Steak is chewy and I was cutting through sinew and gristle. This opinion was shared by all 3 guests. -bread service was just ok. Comparatively to other Michelin restaurants, I would say it definitely was underwhelming. -pianist was ok but not great

Thank you for one of the most wonderful memorable evenings we have had in a long time! From the moment we walked into the hostess stand we were made to feel welcome. Your entire waitstaff, expertly helmed by Dan & Carlos, made our anniversary and my husband's birthday so special. We ate a ridiculous amount of delicious food. Each dish was more special than the last. Each morsel a special handcrafted gem. We cannot wait to return and try Massimo's newest creations.

Exceptional all around. You will have a difficult time finding a more satisfying, impressive dining experience in Southern California! Food is out of this world, service is perfect and the ambiance is so serene! They have a wonderful selection of local wines too.

This was my wife and my first time dining at a Michelin rated restaurant. It lived up to the hype and even exceeded it. From the moment we arrived we were greeted so warmly, and the service was truly the best I've ever received at any restaurant. Every single staff member was so kind and knowledgeable. Every course of dinner was phenomenal. The options offered on the fall menu were almost impossible to choose between, and everything was delicious. Very hopeful we are able to return soon, as this instantly became my favorite restaurant after our experience last night!

Lito's Mexican Restaurant is a grand slam for a Mexican style breakfast. I had the breakfast burrito with eggs and sausage. For a little extra charge I added cheese and beans but wish I didn’t for get to add potatoes. The burrito was delicious. I was brought out chips with read salsa while I waited which were fantastic. When my burrito arrived I was given a very taste green salsa as well. It must be a locals hot spot because the very friendly staff knew most of the customers by name. Seating is some what limited but I was able to get the last seat without waiting and the turn over is pretty quick. Everyone I saw had a different meal and they all were mouth watering. The potions sizes are huge and I didn’t see a single plate of food I would love to try on any of the customers tables.

Stopped in for a breakfast burrito on our way to Paso Robles. The burrito was fresh, salsa was so good and it was a small, quaint place for a quick bite! They were also preparing ribs for a catering event that day that smelt and looked delicious!

Cute little restaurant with friendly, fast service. Huge portions! We loved the breakfasts. Staff were very generous and fed 2 unhoused individuals. Very kind. Please support this restaurant that supports the community!!

Amazing chorizo breakfast burrito, and friendly staff. Also, I grabbed a blueberry muffin from their basket by the cashier, and it turned out to be the best dang muffin I’ve ever had. Sorry, mom!

Delicious menudo on weekends! It was a spicy and delicious hangover cure. Ordered online through their website and was a seamless pick up from the counter to the right.

I ordered the breakfast burrito with bacon and cheese. The first dozen bites were all egg and soft, mushy potato. When they put the filling in, they didn’t distribute the stuff through out so the first half of the burrito was just egg and potato. Once I got half way through, I got to the good stuff: thick cut, warm, crunchy bacon and cheese with the egg/potato mix. Tortilla was good but a tiny bit tough—not made to order fresh-but totally fine. I’d definitely order here again but will specifically request that they mix up the stuffing so it’s more equally distributed.

Lito's is amazing! The chorizo breakfast burrito is life-changing! 🤣 In all seriousness, it's really great. I got the chorizo breakfast burrito, and added cheese and potatoes. That, plus the spicy red salsa... Divine! 🤤😋 Unfortunately, it's my last day in Santa Barbara, but I'll absolutely be back here when I'm in the area next time! ☺️👍👍

I’ve always ordered the same thing. a BLTA & this time my bacon was raw. I ate half of it not realizing it was raw until the texture was weird. This is not okay as an employee they need to double check that it’s cook. I was very disappointed hoping I don’t get sick by this.

We came to get some breakfast. It was easy to find the restaurant and park right outside it. The place has a terrace with tables and umbrellas, the orders are made inside. Inside the interior is a bit outdated, but it was lovely and nicely decorated for Christmas. The place has a decent toilet. There were plenty of customers, also many workers, so the queue was moving fast. The selection of food was large. We ordered two breakfast bagels (one with egg and sausage another -Greek style with egg, spinach and feta cheese) and a tea. We paid 20+ usd. We first had to go to another counter and wait for our tea, then we went outside, sat at a table and waited for bagels. They arrived in 5-10 minutes - the waiter calls you by name. The bagels were tasty, I really liked the one with feta cheese. The bagels were wrapped in plenty of foil and packed in a paper bag: I’m not sure it was needed - we were not planning to eat on the go. Overall a nice and cozy place, pleasant time and good start of the day.

My son and I come here for a bagel every morning. The food is great but what makes this place special is the staff. Jacks has such a friendly, community vibe. My son is autistic and likes to run around. They’ve never once complained about him. They know his name and are super friendly to him. Randy the cashier even made some doodles of my son and I. I can’t say enough good things about the staff here. They’re the best.

Located down the street from our VRBO. Great service, coffee, and of course bagels! Our go-to: everything bagel/poppy seed with lox. Delicious!

bagels were amazing! had the bacon b-egg-l on a jalapeño cheddar bagel and dipped it in pesto cream cheese and it was delicious!! you can tell the bagels are fresh/homemade. my parents had the lox bagel which they said was amazing as well. service from the first younger employee was definitely lacking. she was extremely short and unhelpful when ordering but the second lady was so accommodating and helpful so that made up for it! will definitely be returning! 10/10 for the food :)

You can’t sit inside, you make an order, wait for a drink and look for a table outside, where they then bring you a package with your order. the menu is too large, it is very difficult to figure out when to come to the cafe for the first time. we ordered two bagels, one was vegan and absolutely not tasty. I also ordered a cappuccino and got just coffee in which they poured a little whipped milk, the taste of coffee was disgusting

Super friendly staff, one of the best bagels I’ve had (light and perfectly toasted), a great yogurt-fruit cup, and great coffee! What’s not to like?

Everything we got here was delicious. The peach tea was a standout but every coffee drink was well made and tasty. From a basic croissant to fancy cookies, the pastries were all phenomenal and in true French style. Service was a little slow in the middle of the afternoon when they were shorter staffed, but everyone was kind and helpful.

Excellent coffee. Excellent flaky croissant. Pretty slow service was. Maybe they were understaffed with only three people behind the bar. Good pastries but chocolate croissant was not as wonderful as I might have wished. For example, the full slugs or bars of chocolate were neither melted nor distributed so that half the croissant was plain in every bite and the chocolate part was like chewing a chocolate bar... as a former professional baker, that's just a bit amateur in an otherwise impressive operation

Very fresh pastries selection, quiet, French style, wonderful coffee selection

Some of the best food I have had in California, and I’m quite good already at finding this state’s most sustainable, delicious munchies. There are lots of reviews complaining about service and I honestly wouldn’t mind if you had to stand on one foot and order with your eyes closed, it would be worth it. Relax. You cannot miss anywhere on this menu and everything is ridiculously fresh. There’s a mini farmers market right nearby in fact. If you leave a bad review because you have an unreasonable request or don’t like your interaction with one staffer for one second, I don’t understand what you’re expecting. Perfection is an illusion. Chill. You’re in a beautiful place near the beach. Food was literally “wow” level. 5.1/5 stars. Michelin grade. Would teleport here daily if I could. Flavor, plate quality, portion - all on point. Not crazy expensive, not the cheapest. Reasonable for the area. Just lovely all around.

The sticky buns were incredible. Each layer was buttery, flakey, and sticky. They center of the sticky bun was the perfect balance of cripy on the outside and with a soft core. The sweetness was not overpowering. My daughter enjoyed her eclair she said it was too sweet.

Slow down and enjoy an afternoon coffee and almond croissant at this cool cafe with a French touch. Casual indoor and outdoor sitting. Tip: Come early as they close at 4pm!

Great coffee. Delicious pastries. Their outdoor seating area was enjoyable with a pleasant atmosphere.

Dusk is an excellent bar located within the Drift Hotel. We were extremely pleased that this was attached to our hotel, and we visited it multiple times during our stay. They have multiple happy hours and special nights during the week that allow you to get high-quality cocktails at a reasonable price. One of my favorites was the Oaxan old fashioned. We also got the whipped ricotta dish, which was incredible—a perfect bar snack. The bartenders were kind, particularly Will, and spent time telling us about the best spots in Santa Barbara. Overall, I highly recommend this bar and would come here even if we weren’t staying at the attached hotel.

What an amazing little gem. It’s a lobby bar of a hotel but doesn’t feel like it. Bartender is amazingly knowledgeable and super friendly, chef is superb! Happy hour oysters are out of this world, margaritas are delish. I will come back every time in SB.

Dusk is by favorite bar in Santa Barbara! The Mexican inspired cocktails and bar bites are incredible. The staff are extremely warm and the open concept and ambiance of the space make it so inviting for people walking on State street to pop in. John and Claudia are so kind and have made every experience at Dusk so special. My personal favorite cocktail to order is Fine Fine Fine - super refreshing and a little tart. But their Paloma is a close second! Don’t forget to check out their food to pair with your drinks… Their Laguna Bay oysters are so fresh and Tuna tostada is one of the best I’ve ever had. (I’m still dreaming about it!) I will keep coming back here. Love, love, love!

Chill vibey bar with good drinks. We came here on a Friday around 6pm and the wait time was only 5 mins or so after ordering. We ordered two mocktail drinks Lyer’ita and No Nada. The Lyer’ita was very tart and tasted like juice. The No Nada tasted like alcohol. My girlfriend was taking a break from alcohol and these were great alternatives. Great service and smaller relaxed bar for great conversations in the heart of downtown SB. Lyer’ita: 4/5 No Nada: 4/5

Dusk Bar at the Drift Hotel is hands-down one of the best spots in Santa Barbara to grab a drink and soak in the atmosphere. The space itself is beautiful—open, modern, and airy during the day, then intimate and moody at night. It manages to feel both elevated and approachable, making it perfect whether you’re stopping in for a quick happy hour or settling in for the evening. We tried - The Picante Amante, Dapper Dave, La Adelita, and Smoke 'Em If You Got 'Em were all phenomenal—balanced, bold, and beautifully crafted. Goose and Shiloh, behind the bar, were absolute masters. Their artistry transformed each cocktail into a sensory experience. Their craftsmanship made every sip feel intentional and the evening memorable. Goose and Shiloh are not only skilled mixologists but also genuinely personable and welcoming. They take the time to connect with guests and make you feel like a regular even on your first visit. We will be back soon!

The margaritas were amazing. The atmosphere was really nice. The bartender and the waiters knew their stuff. I would recommend that you order the chips and guac with your drinks, because that guac and those chips were on of THE BEST I've ever eaten. The only downside was that they didn't have any draft beer.

Damn!!! What a cocktail bar! ESPECIALLY if you love mezcal. But, as it always is, it's even more about the people. And in this case, it's all about Junior who was our bartender. Not to say we also didn't have a lovely conversation with Michael when Junior went on break! All in all, what a GREAT cocktail bar! (We didn't try the food this time)

This post is about sustainability only! ☺️ I was thrilled to see your participation in this awesome plastic-free initiative with the city of Santa Barbara. Being an oceanfront town, it only makes sense to help give back to this local ecosystem. By 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish, and it means a lot to me as a customer to support businesses that are doing what they can, with intention, to limit our everyday single use plastic habits. Especially businesses that benefit from their proximity to the ocean itself. I love that you provide real mugs and glassware to customers, and a dish bin to collect them when we are done. It makes it so much more enjoyable to sit on your lovely patio under the trees, and sip my coffee without making needless trash in the process. While it does seem like some customers having their beverages to stay are not choosing (or do not know about) the reuse program, it seems to me that you are promoting it well with signage. The discount for bringing my own cup is incredible too! Thank you again for being a good steward, and helping your customers to do so as well! It does not go unnoticed, and I hope more local cafés and restaurants here follow suit. As well as around the country. Keep up the great work! Also: genuinely great coffee :)

Very Santa Barbara vibes going on here. Young, chill and friendly staff. The espresso was nicely pulled and noticed the barista pulling a second shot cause the first one didn’t seem up to par. Heard about this place because of their recent barista champion and good to see the high standards throughout the entire staff.

Music in the background but able to have normal conversation. The Avocado toast was thick and soft. The avocado was a little sweet tasting and good. Came with tomatoes and sea salt on top. My wife got the dirty chai and I got a mocha. Chill environment with good food, drinks and service.

The coffee is excellent, the seasonal drinks are creative and fun. Let me tell you though: the almond butter toast with honey + banana might be one of the best things I’ve ever had. EVER. I completely forgot to take a picture. But go try it. Now.

Very nice coffee shop! It's in a great location, yet has plenty of space. The outdoor patio has comfortable seating with shade and plants all around, but was somewhat loud on my visit due to some people working nearby. The interior is spacious and has comfortable seating options as well. It was much quieter indoors than outdoors. The coffee quality was excellent. I got a cappuccino with their single origin espresso, which was very well made. I also highly recommend their espresso tonic. I visited around noon and got a chocolate croissant with my order, which I would not recommend as it was fairly stale. Perhaps it would be better earlier in the day. I did not try any of their seasonal drinks, but they were on the pricier side, which is to be expected for the area. I have also ordered beans from Dune in the past and I would highly recommend them as well.

If I could give this place a million stars everyday I would, ever since moving to Santa Barbaba I found dune and I have never been disappointed. It is truly the best coffee shop and it is so consistently good no matter what you order. The customer services is top knotch with the best manager and the two kindest girls Marley and Skylar!! I could not recommend this place more the coffee is the best and it’s always perfectly balanced. They treat every customer so well to ❤️

SPECIALTY DRINK SO GOOD I ORDERED A SECOND This coffee spot has a great little corner spot. Parking wasn't tough to find, it is in a walkable part of town, and the seating was ample when I went (which seemed to be a busy time, too). They had a Cinnamon Toast Crunch iced latte when I visited in September and I about lost my mind after the first sip, it was so good. I did, in fact, go up and order another one. I'd say the staff were reserved and not the warmest to walk up to, but that could be a personal preference bit for me. Outside of that, I really enjoyed this place and if I lived there would likely be there too much.

This review is about sustainability only! ☺️ I really appreciate that you offer for here, reusable coffee mugs to customers who are enjoying their drink to stay. By 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish, and it means a lot to me as a customer to support businesses that give me the dignity of a beverage without trash. Especially here in Santa Barbara, on this gorgeous ocean, it only makes sense to empower customers to not trash the very ecosystem that they benefit and learn from. I also really appreciate that you offered me a discount for bringing my own cup! That is a great way to incentivize positive, sustainable behavior from your customer base. So thank you for that! Looking around the room, it did seem that some customers are not clear on the availability of reusable mugs, as many were drinking out of throwaway, single use plastic ones. Perhaps it would be worth putting up a sign or having the barista explicitly ask the customer if they would like their beverage to stay? Kind of like the sign I saw at this other local coffee shop (included here) that is really making a point to encourage circular, sustainable behavior. Just some food for thought! Thank you again for your intentionality here, it does not go in notice. Much appreciated!

Nice place to have breakfast. Food is nothing special, but I liked the vibe of the place. Prices are high for the type of food and drinks that they offer.

Absolutely magnificent spot, the coffee is not only excellent, they also have signature coffees that are unique, delicious. Our first coffee stop in Santa Barbara, will come back tomorrow morning!

I’ve been to this coffee shop many times and usually enjoy their drinks, but I’ve had a consistent issue with one item, the Rosemary Thai Tea. I’ve ordered it twice now, and both times I received chai tea instead. The menu clearly advertises it as Thai tea, which is very different in both color and flavor. Thai tea is typically creamy and sweet, while chai is much spicier. It’s disappointing to see this happen at both this location and the one on Haley St., which makes me think it’s not just a one-time mistake but a labeling or recipe issue. I’d really appreciate it if they clarified or corrected the drink description to avoid confusion for future customers. Overall, the drink still tasted good. Just not what I expected based on the menu.

A lovely spot. Great Atmosphere and Vibes. Great coffee and food as well.

Cute outdoor place! I'd get the small chai with extra ice next time, less chai. & the avocado toast, no balsamic and I'd share it. I want to try the Matcha!

Tucked away in Santa Barbara, this coffee shop is truly a hidden gem. The "Burnout" latte was a delightful experience, with a perfect balance of flavors that made it a standout choice. The ambiance of the shop is cozy and charming, with a cute and welcoming vibe that makes you want to linger. Though we missed out on a sunny day, the atmosphere inside more than made up for it. I'm so glad we made this stop on our journey up north—definitely a must-visit spot for any coffee lover passing through!

Very good food and service. We had the grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup. The sandwich was excellent, but the tomato soup was very thick and the taste was less than average. We also had the avocado tartine which was very good. Their sour dough with sesame bread was excellent. Their cappuccino was very good. They serve lunch until 1:30 pm. It should be extended to 4 or 5 pm. Customers were coming after were 1:30 pm. By improving the tomato soup and extending the opening hour, this cafe would be one of the best in Santa Barbara.

A great spot for an early breakfast in Santa Barbara. We had the brioche, which was fantastic—fresh and flavorful. However, the coffee didn’t really stand out. A big plus is that they open early, making it a convenient stop, but parking can be a bit tricky and this place tends to be pricey. Other than that, it’s a great place to grab a bite in the morning!

I'm surprised it's so easy to get a seat on a Sunday morning. This place has amazing pastries and breads. Kitchen is a little slow for hot foods so just order pastries if in a rush. We ordered an omelette and avocado tartine which were both excellent. I recommend the Parisian ham in the omelette. The outdoor seating is well shaded and separated from the sidewalk which we enjoyed.

Absolutely amazing pastries. We have been on a bakery spree and this is one of the best ones in town. Went there 2x this week alone. Missed a picture of the bread pudding but it was our favorite!!

This is my favorite french bakery in Santa Barbara area. The owners are french and use only high end ingredients. My to-go is the Mushroom Croissant sandwich. But this time I tried something different, the Parmesan Role and it was delicious like everything.

AVOID THIS PLACE at all cost unless you want to get stale food plus a rude attitude!! We used come here all the time for their breads and pastries. And unfortunately since this July their quality has gone straight down. The pastries and bread are stale that you can tasted the significant difference. They claimed it was made fresh daily but the ones we got tasted funny, like they have gone bad. We immediately let an Asian staff know, and then she started a rampage on blaming us. And she said if we took a bite already, even if its taste has issues, they will not do anything about it. How are we supposed to know they tasted wrong if we did not take a bite?! That's a food safety issues. She then go on and tell us we can't expect them to be fresh!!! This is the EXACT WORDS she said. We spoke with the manager and she tried to pretend to be helpful but is pretty much giving us the same kind of take it or leave it attitude. Trust me totally WAY over hyped, there's so much more better options in the area.

A lovely place to meet friends for brunch. Their quiche is outstanding and some of the best in town. Delicious lattes, coffee, and homemade pastries. Their breakfast sandwiches are also very good. It’s not a quick grab and go spot, but a place you can Enjoy a wonderful breakfast and catch up with friends. Seating can be limited if the weather is poor and also if people set up like it is a “office coffee shop”. But kid and dog friendly and a wonderful breakfast stop!