Santa Barbara has been buzzin’ with new places to eat, and honestly, it’s hard to keep up. But lucky for you, we’ve done the tough job of taste-testing the new restaurants that we feel you can’t miss. Here are our new favorite restaurants in Santa Barbara you can’t miss. Whether you’re in the mood for something fancy or just want a chill spot to grab a bite!
Alma Fonda Fina
This restaurant is located in the Montecito Country Mart. It’s brought to you by the same team behind popular spots like Corazon Cocina, Beast Taqueria, and Corazon Comedor. Offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere, it delivers an elevated dining experience that locals and visitors love. The highlight? Their guacamole, which we can’t get enough of! It’s a new restaurant you can’t miss! Visit their website HERE >
Azul Cocina & Cantina
Azul Cocina & Cantina is shaking things up in downtown Santa Barbara with its fresh take on Mexican cuisine, all thanks to executive chef Manny Diaz and his knack for using top-notch local ingredients. Located just off State Street, this lively spot brings the fiesta with a modern twist on classic flavors. Get ready to sip on unique tequila and mezcal cocktails, plus seasonal wines that pair perfectly with their deliciously inventive dishes. Trust us, your taste buds will be dancing! Visit their website HERE >
White Caps Beach Club
The Caps Beach Club is serving up some serious vibes with two permanent food truck-style spots—one in the Funk Zone and another in Summerland. For this restaurant, think casual but still a little fancy. Their East Coast-style menu is packed with goodies like wild-caught Maine lobster rolls, creamy lobster mac and cheese, and Maryland crab sliders. Basically, it’s a seafood lover’s paradise that’ll have you coming back for more! Visit their website HERE >
Tamar
The Funk Zone got a tasty upgrade with Tamar, a fast-casual Middle Eastern spot. Nestled in the same building as Dart Coffee on Yanonali Street, it’s the ideal lunch or dinner pit stop for shawarma, falafel, sandwiches, and all the hummus your heart desires. Kid-friendly too! Visit their website HERE >
We are always on the hunt for new restaurants, so if there are any in Santa Barbara that you can’t miss, let us know!
And to watch our Santa Barbara Community Video click HERE!