Family Style
Family-friendly Restaurants in Santa Barbara
Family-friendly restaurants in Santa Barbara, California, offer a warm and inviting dining experience. From casual eateries with kid-friendly menus to upscale establishments suitable for celebrating special occasions, this coastal city has a diverse range of options to please every palate.
Whether you’re craving traditional American comfort food, fresh seafood, or international cuisine, Santa Barbara’s family restaurants have something for everyone. With a focus on quality ingredients, friendly service, and welcoming atmospheres, these eateries provide the perfect setting for families to come together and enjoy a delicious meal in the beautiful surroundings of Santa Barbara.
Family Dining in Downtown Santa Barbara
The Palace Grill
The Palace Grill is located just off Santa Barbara’s famous State Street. They offer authentic Louisiana recipes like Jambalaya, Crawfish Etouffée, Soft Shelled Crab, Blackened Filet Mignon.
Their other specialties include Pastas, Salads, Gluten-Free dishes and delectable desserts. Come check it out y’all!
The Funk Zone
The Lark
The Lark restaurant takes its name from the elegant Pullman train that once connected Santa Barbara to the rest of California. is located in the bustling Funk Zone area of downtown Santa Barbara.
Embracing the city’s rich culinary offerings, their menus are thoughtfully crafted with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients from the Central Coast. Each dish is expertly prepared to showcase bold flavors that capture the essence of Santa Barbara, known as the American Riviera. The decor is a blend of urban chic and industrial charm, featuring vintage elements and repurposed materials that create a stylish yet laid-back atmosphere.
Kid Friendly with an Ocean View
Reunion Kitchen + Drink
Reunion Kitchen + Drink is located right on the beach. It’s a kid-friendly restaurant that offers a welcoming atmosphere for families looking to enjoy a meal together. This restaurant provides a diverse menu with options that cater to both children and adults. From classic comfort foods to healthier alternatives.
With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Reunion Kitchen + Drink ensures that each dish is not only delicious but also made with quality in mind. The restaurant’s vibrant ambiance, along with its attentive staff, makes it a great choice for families seeking a memorable dining experience in Santa Barbara.
Kid Friendly on the Waterfront
Brophy Bros.
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 kids’ menu features plates of cheese-covered pasta’ flaky fish and chips, or cheeseburgers and fries. Another plus for families is that Brophy Bros. is located next to the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, which is a fun place to take the kids.
Kid Friendly Uptown
Farmer Boy Restaurant
Farmer Boy has stood as a beloved eatery since its establishment in 1958. Their timeless diner, located on Upper State Street, has been popular with both locals and visitors, with its classic counter stools, cozy booths, and traditional homemade dishes that have remained unchanged since the beginning.
Its especially popular for breakfast with eggs prepared in any style, pancakes, chicken and waffles and flavorful chilaquiles. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, their burgers, sandwiches, and salads are sure to satisfy your cravings at any hour of the day.
Kid Friendly in Montecito
Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery
For more than three decades, the Hardey family has dedicated themselves to integrating Jeannine’s into the heart of Santa Barbara, ensuring it remains a destination for indulgent pastries and wholesome cuisine every day. Their accolades include prestigious lifetime achievement awards, glowing reviews labeling us the “comfort clubhouse,” and the title of one of the top breakfast and lunch destinations in the city. Jeannine’s is steadfast in its commitment to earning your patronage and eagerly anticipates catering to you for years to come.
Kid Friendly in Summerland
The Nugget of Summerland
The Nugget of Summerland is a saloon style bar and grill. As you can see from the picture, it’s a western/Gold Rush themed restaurant with a fun atmosphere kids love. 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. perfect for enjoying with friends or family.
Besides American classics, they also offer fresh seafood and gluten-free options. With it’s extensive menu and unique atmosphere, the Nugget of Summerland is sure to provide a memorable dining experience for the whole family.
Kid Friendly in Carpinteria
Teddy's By The Sea
Teddy’s By The Sea is a charming and welcoming restaurant. The interior is decorated in a nautical theme, with light blue walls, wooden tables, and seashell accents. They also have a spacious patio with lots of awnings and blue and white striped umbrellas to dine under and keep you cool.
The menu at Teddy’s By The Sea features a variety of dishes that will appeal to both adults and children. From classic fish and chips to juicy burgers and flavorful salads, there is something for everyone. Kids can choose from a special children’s menu that includes familiar favorites like macaroni and cheese and chicken tenders.
Kid Friendly in Goleta
Pegaslice
Pegaslice Roman Style Pizza offers a unique and delicious dining experience for pizza lovers. The blue and white decor features a mural of a pegasus battling another creature from the Greek myths.
The menu at Pegaslice features a variety of traditional and creative pizza options, such as classic Margherita, pepperoni, and Hawaiian pizza with Canadian bacon and pineapple. Each pizza is made with fresh dough, house-made sauce, and premium toppings, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal. In addition to pizza, Pegaslice also serves sandwiches, wings, fries, salads, and desserts. The casual and cozy atmosphere of the restaurant makes it a great spot for a relaxed meal with family and friends.
Kid Friendly in Isla Vista
Zocalo
The Hernandez Aviles Family opened Zocalo in April 2022 with the goal of bringing fresh & authentic Mexican food to the Isla Vista and Goleta Area. They offer freshly baked bagels, horchata made from scratch, and marinated birria.
From their website: “At ZOCALO, we bring the heart of Mexico to your table. We source fresh, real ingredients because we believe great food starts with great care. Every dish we prepare is an invitation to slow down, connect, and share something meaningful with the people around you. Whether you’re fueling up for a busy day or gathering with the ones you love, we’re here to make every meal feel like home.”