Restaurants in Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara, California is an idyllic vacation destination on the coast of California. There are some great views in Santa Barbara, thanks to its close proximity to both the ocean and mountains. In addition, the Spanish Colonial architecture adds to the charm of Santa Barbara, with many buildings having adobe walls and red clay tile roofs. Santa Barbara is located about 95 miles northwest of Los Angeles, California. In addition to great views and architecture, Santa Barbara also has a lot of wonderful restaurants. Whenever I am in Santa Barbara, I always have a dilemma when meal times roll around. I am torn between eating at one of my favorite restaurants or trying somewhere new. Generally, I try to do a little of both. Here are some of my favorite places to eat in Santa Barbara, in case you want to give them a try. These restaurants range from coffee houses, to fast food restaurants, and on to more critically acclaimed restaurants. So, no matter what you crave, hopefully there will be a restaurant to suit your taste.

My first morning in Santa Barbara is always the same. I wake up and immediately head over to Java Jones for a light breakfast. Java Jones has two locations in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. One is located at 1101 State Street, and the other is at 728 State Street. State Street is the main artery in Santa Barbara that is home to many shops and restaurants. Java Jones, if you haven't already guessed, is a coffee house. So, if you are jonesing for java, you can get your fix at Java Jones. While the coffee is good at Java Jones, it is the ambiance of this local Santa Barbara coffee house that keeps me coming back. There is eccentric art on the walls, a laid back attitude, and comfortable couches, chairs, and tables to relax at. Even though there is a laid back feel to Java Jones, the customer service is still very good. Also, Java Jones serves some great biscotti and breakfast pastries, to go along with that delicious coffee.

After breakfast, some walking around, and maybe a trip to the beach, it's time to start thinking about lunch. I generally eat a light breakfast and a big dinner in Santa Barbara, so lunch tends to be something simple. I try not to stuff myself for lunch, so I can overindulge at dinner. For lunch, my first choice is a local fast food joint called The Habit. The Habit is located at 628 State Street in downtown Santa Barbara. Whether you want a burger, a chicken sandwich, fish, or tri-tip, the Habit will grill you up something tasty. Their fries are also great, and meals come with a small serving of fresh fruit. Their sauces, which include barbecue, teriyaki, honey Dijon, and a homemade tartar, are also delicious. The courtyard at The Habit is next door to a sit-down restaurant that usually has a live band playing outside. So, for the cost of a fast food meal, you also get some live music. Not a bad deal.

So, now that I've fed my Java Jones and my fast food Habit, what do I want for dinner? Ever since I visited New Orleans years ago, I've always had a taste for Cajun and Creole cuisine. I am always on the lookout for good Cajun food, no matter where I am in the United States. The Palace Grill, which is located at 8 East Cota Street in Santa Barbara, serves great New Orleans-style cuisine in a fun and lively setting. The service is great, the food is delicious, and you definitely won't leave hungry. Whether you are in the mood for gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish, barbecue shrimp, or crab cakes, the Palace Grill will hit the spot. Also, save room for their decadent desserts, which include bananas foster, key lime pie, sweet potato pecan pie, and bread pudding. After a meal at the Palace Grill, you may forget that you are in Santa Barbara. So don't be alarmed that you are not in the French Quarter when you stumble out of the restaurant.

Another restaurant that I've enjoyed in Santa Barbara is Brophy Brothers, which is located at 119 Harbor Way, right on the water. Brophy Brothers serves delicious clam chowder and great fresh seafood. This Santa Barbara restaurant is usually very crowded, but it is worth the wait. The view isn't bad either, since it is located on the harbor, next to a plethora of beautiful boats.

I could tell you about more great restaurants in Santa Barbara, but to be honest, I'm now too hungry to write. So, while I grab some lunch, start planning your trip to Santa Barbara. You'll be glad you did.