Casual Dining
Casual dining in Santa Barbara offers a delightful culinary experience, blending the city’s coastal charm with diverse flavors. From local seafood joints serving up freshly caught delicacies to cozy cafes dishing out artisanal sandwiches and salads, there is something for every taste and occasion.
When you’re strolling along State Street or exploring the Funk Zone, you’ll find a variety of eateries offering laid-back vibes and delicious meals. With the perfect blend of relaxed ambiance and mouthwatering dishes, Santa Barbara’s casual dining scene has everything you could hope for.
Casual Dining in Downtown Santa Barbara
Secret Bao
Experience the fusion of Asian flavors and modern culinary creativity at Secret Bao. Their unique and innovative dishes will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Asian cuisine or looking to try something new, their menu has something for everyone.
Co-owner and co-chef Felicia Medina says, “We don’t put anything on the menu that we wouldn’t make for ourselves so know that everything that is on the menu is our A game, no fillers on this menu.”
The Palace Grill
The Palace Grill is located just off State Street at the corner of Haley and Anacapa. The restaurant offers a variety of authentic Louisiana specialties such as Jambalaya, Crawfish Etouffée, Soft Shelled Crab and Blackened Filet Mignon.
They pride themselves on their exceptional service and attention to detail. They like to have nightly staff and guest sing-a-longs to Louis Armstrong and Dean Martin songs. The Palace Grill draws inspiration from and strives to stay true to the culinary magic and diverse culture of the city of New Orleans.
Casual Dining in the Funk Zone
The Funk Zone is a unique mixture of arts, culture, business, and industry framed by
State St and Garden on the left and right, Montecito St and Cabrillo Blvd, top and bottom.
Shalhoob's Funk Zone Patio
Shalhoob Meat Company has been specializing in offering top-quality custom-cut meats and poultry to households and dining establishments in Santa Barbara since 1973. Located in the vibrant “Funk Zone” area, we witnessed the transformation of this district from an industrial zone to the current Art-lined Urban Wine Trail.
To adapt to this changing landscape, we made significant changes within our facilities. We revamped our expansive cutting room into a modern kitchen and transformed our concrete lot into a serene outdoor venue featuring bespoke tables and large rustic planters. Our latest enhancement is an alfresco dining spot named The Funk Zone Patio.
Casual Dining with an Ocean View
Boathouse at Hendry's Beach
The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach is a charming seaside restaurant located right next to the beach. With stunning ocean views and a relaxed beachfront atmosphere, the Boathouse offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including locally sourced fish and shellfish.
Guests can enjoy their meal on the outdoor patio overlooking the Pacific Ocean, or inside the cozy dining room with large windows that provide panoramic views of the beach. The Boathouse also offers a selection of cocktails, wines, and craft beers to complement the delicious menu. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night spot or a casual beachside lunch, the Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach is the perfect spot for a memorable dining experience.
Casual Dining on the Waterfront
The Santa Barbara Waterfront extends along Cabrillo Blvd encompassing three beautiful beaches, Stearns Wharf, the Harbor and Shoreline Park.
Brophy Bros. Clam Bar & Restaurant
Brophy Bros. Clam Bar & Restaurant is a beloved dining establishment located in the picturesque Santa Barbara Harbor. With its stunning waterfront views and relaxed beachside atmosphere, this spot welcomes guests to enjoy fresh seafood dishes in a casual setting.
The menu features a variety of seafood options, including clam chowder, oysters, grilled fish, and other local favorites. Known for their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and providing exceptional service, Brophy Bros. is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers looking for a taste of the California coast.
Casual Dining Uptown
Harry's Plaza Cafe
The history and charm of Harry’s Plaza Cafe in Santa Barbara have truly stood the test of time, providing a nostalgic and welcoming environment for both locals and visitors. With its extensive collection of photographs showcasing the city’s past, the restaurant offers a unique glimpse into the history of Santa Barbara.
Since its opening in 1968 by Harry Davis, the eatery has been a beloved spot for enjoying American comfort food, drinks, and good company. Under the ownership of John Scott since 2002, Harry’s Plaza Cafe has continued to thrive while embracing its original character and appeal.
Casual Dining in Montecito
Los Arroyos Montecito
Los Arroyos is an authentic Mexican restaurant with three locations: downtown Santa Barbara, Goleta and Montecito. They prides themselves on serving traditional Mexican cuisine using fresh and high-quality ingredients to create flavorful dishes.
The menu features a wide variety of options, including tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and house-made salsas. Guests can also enjoy refreshing margaritas and other specialty cocktails from the bar. Los Arroyos is a popular choice for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a taste of Mexico in the heart of Montecito.
Casual Dining in Summerland
Summerland is a charming coastal community just south of Santa Barbara. Known for its beautiful beaches, boutique shops, and stunning ocean views, it's is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The main street is lined with cozy cafes, art galleries, and antique stores, creating a laid-back and inviting atmosphere
Summerland Beach Cafe
Summerland Beach Cafe is a charming beachside eatery offering delicious and fresh coastal-inspired cuisine in a relaxed and scenic setting. They serve breakfast anytime in a Victorian house with indoor and outdoor seating just a block from the beach.
With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and friendly service, the cafe provides a delightful dining experience for locals and visitors alike. Treat yourself to mouthwatering dishes, refreshing beverages, and stunning views at Summerland Beach Cafe. Come and enjoy a taste of the California coast!
Casual Dining in Carpenteria
Zookers Restaurant
At Zookers Restaurant, you can savor a diverse menu emphasizing local organic produce, fresh fish, and high-quality, locally pasture raised beef, pork, and chicken.
They also offer daily chef specials, veggie options, and pasta dishes, all served in a relaxed atmosphere with a “farm to table” approach.
Zookers has been run by the same dedicated family owners for the past 25 years. The restaurant is conveniently situated near Highway 101 in Carpinteria, between Ventura and Santa Barbara.
Casual Dining in Goleta
Goleta is a city of 55,000 adjacent to Santa Barbara. It's a short drive from downtown Santa Barbara, north on the 101
The Nugget of Goleta
The Nugget of Goleta is a saloon style bar and grill. As the name suggests, it’s a western/Gold Rush themed restaurant with a cozy and welcoming ambience. The menu at the Nugget of Goleta features a variety of classic American dishes, from juicy steak and burgers to crispy fries and their weekend prime rib dinner. The bar offers an impressive selection of beers on tap and signature cocktails, perfect for enjoying with friends or family.
With a rich history dating back to its founding, the Nugget of Goleta has become a staple in the community. Besides American classics, they also offer fresh seafood and gluten-free options. With it’s extensive menu and unique atmosphere, the Nugget of Goleta is sure to provide a memorable dining experience.
Casual Dining in Isla Vista
Elubia's Kitchen
Elubia’s Kitchen in Isla Vista is a cozy and charming restaurant that offers a diverse menu of Latin American cuisine. Located in the heart of Isla Vista, this cafe is a popular spot among locals. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality, gluten-free ingredients to prepare their dishes.
From traditional tacos and burritos to unique signature dishes, Elubia’s Kitchen has something for everyone. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, friendly staff, and affordable prices, Elubia’s Kitchen is the perfect place to grab a satisfying meal in Isla Vista.