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Barbareño, Santa Barbara, CA
Barbareño, Santa Barbara, CA
Barbareño, Santa Barbara, CA
Barbareño, Santa Barbara, CA
Barbareño, Santa Barbara, CA
Award-winning

Barbareño

4.8
4.8
1583 Reviews
$31 to $50
Californian
Top Tags:
At Barbareño we seek to help further shape and define Central Coast cuisine. We take our inspiration from traditions and specialties of our area, delicacies unique to our region, and the many outstanding purveyors with whom we are so fortunate to work. In all of our efforts, we hope to capture the essence of a particular place or local flavor, embracing the nuances that make our food and drink unique to our home.

Make a reservation

2 people
9:30 PM
Booked 16 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Cuisines
    Californian, Contemporary American, Farm-to-table
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Mon, Wed, Thu, Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–9:30 pm
  • Phone number
    (805) 963-9591
  • Website
    https://bit.ly/2NT5GLK
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Executive chef
    Julian Martinez
  • Catering
    Please contact us at info@barbareno.com for more information on our catering options.
  • Private party facilities
    We offer both the our patio area and inside dining room as private options.
  • Location
    205 W. Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • Award-winning
    1. MICHELIN Plate 2022
  • Neighborhood
    Santa Barbara
  • Cross street
    De La Vina Street
  • Parking details
    We have a small lot in front of the restaurant, street parking, and the Paseo Nuevo parking structure located just a block away.
  • Additional
    Beer, BYO Wine, Corkage Fee, Dog Friendly, Gender Neutral Restroom, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Featured in

What 1,583 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8
4.8 based on recent ratings
  • 4.7Food
  • 4.9Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.4Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

  • California Central Coast

    Best Service

  • California Central Coast

    Innovative

  • California Central Coast

    Californian

  • Santa Barbara

    Best Overall

  • Santa Barbara

    Best Food

  • Santa Barbara

    Best Service

  • Santa Barbara

    Best Value

  • Santa Barbara

    Innovative

  • Santa Barbara

    Neighborhood gem

1,583 Reviews

  1. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 1 day ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The service was excellent and food was really good. I will come back when I visit Santa Barbara again!

    Is this helpful?

  2. Manny

    Los Angeles

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 1 day ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Incredibly creative menu that was also delicious. Great service (thanks to Cole) and brilliant wine list. Wow.

    Is this helpful?

  3. LaurieM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Wonderful service, incredible food, just the way a fine dining experience should be! The couple next to us clearly enjoyed it as much as we did since we were chatting (they were from LA, I’m from SB). The only reason there was a 4 for ambience was the sense of feeling a bit crowded into a small space and the noise level. We really had to shout to hear each other at the start—but it was a small price to pay for a fabulous meal. You are the best restaurant in SB as far as I’m concerned! Bravo!

    Is this helpful?

  4. NancyB

    Central Coast

    11 reviews

    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Our dinners were exceptional, as always, & our waiter a delight!

    Is this helpful?

  5. knitty34

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food (different flavour combinations, kept things very interesting) great service without being annoying, and great ambiance

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  6. libbym

    Central Coast

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience3
    Good and service was excellent. ! Very attentive. Wish they had a full bar. But has great selection of wine and some beers.

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  7. CEESL8

    San Francisco

    4 reviews

    2.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall2food1service5ambience3
    We were so excited to try this place. The staff was very friendly and helpful, but the food was disappointing. The menu was small, which usually means a small selection of very good food. But we didn’t enjoy any of the dishes we ordered. The ricotta dumplings and crispy brussel sprouts were just fine, but nothing special. The acorn pasta was disappointing, the mushroom filling wasn’t tasty. The cod had a very unusual texture, especially when eaten with the pea purée, and the onion ketchup made me cough. The panna cotta had an odd, off-putting flavor, but the fresh figs and honey were nice. Overall, it was a VERY expensive meal that didn’t taste very good. The service was excellent, but we will not go back.

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  8. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Just outstanding. Ordered the Crudo for an app, the NY steak and Duroc Pork Chop, then bSprouts and animal potatoes. Crudo was crazy good, what do they soak the Watermelon in? Next level. The entrees were so good we may not deviate next time in town. Just a memorable meal. Thanks Also, a nod to Mitchell for his attention and advice

    Is this helpful?

  9. CherylS

    West Palm Beach

    4 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall3food3service4ambience3
    Our waiter was very nice, but the pacing of the food was off. We ordered two appetizers- one came right away and the other 30 minutes later. We loved the Especial appetizer. It was delicious. I had the Chicken & Ranch for my entree. It was good but not great. I would go back and try other things.

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  10. HenryB

    Pittsburgh

    6 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    Table not ready when we arrived, but once seated service was excellent. Enjoyed all courses, but timing between them was extended. Overall a very nice evening celebrating special event.

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  11. OpenTable Diner

    Baton Rouge

    2 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    BEST RESTAURANT IN SB EVERYTHING SO FRESH AND SO CLEANNN

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  12. CodyB

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 15, 2023

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    Great atmosphere, food and service. Definitely a return customer!

    Is this helpful?

  13. ChrisG

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A younger generally set of diners and a younger staff not for old fogies but for people who appreciate the modern style of restaurants. Top notch food creations, very tasty, good beverage choices, excellent service people.

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  14. franimal

    San Diego

    28 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    28 reviews

    Dined on September 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    2nd time dining here. food is very good and lovely service!

    Is this helpful?

  15. JodiB

    Tahoe

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Nathan was outstanding, all with all the other staff. We had a table inside, and we were able to enjoy a bottle of sparkling on the patio. Then a table opened up so we were able to eat I’m outside. Great gal pal evening! We’ll do it again soon. Thank you.

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  16. DebbieF

    Central Coast

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food and friendly knowledgeable staff in quiet setting

    Is this helpful?

  17. OpenTable Diner

    Los Angeles

    3 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 4, 2023

    overall2food2service4ambience4
    We were so excited to return to Barbareño! We were looking forward to the amazing wings, and so much more. The wings aren’t on the menu anymore- can’t understand why, the tri-tip was under seasoned and over cooked and the cod preparation was overwhelming and detracted from the fish. The uni Caesar was great and the sourdough as always didn’t disappoint. We were just looking forward to a special evening- we don’t eat out often and don’t mind an expensive meal when it’s worth it. But the prices did not match the food. Server Mitchell was so helpful and generous- gave us a little discount because he felt badly. We didn’t ask for it, but was a very nice gesture. Hoping it was just the end of a long weekend. And better for others

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  18. Glebich

    San Francisco

    8 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on September 3, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Incredible. Best stake in California. Best food even compare 2 or 3 Michelin star restaurants.

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  19. ShreSB

    Central Coast

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 2, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    The food and the service was excellent. We had gone there to dine as two couples, and we enjoyed it thoroughly.

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  20. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    2.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 2, 2023

    overall2food1service5ambience5
    I really wanted to like Barbarenio. But the food was so off, fish was fishy, mushroom pasta was salty, pork chop was dry, etc. If you love flavors, please don’t go here. Ambiance and service however was 100% sooo… 🤷🏻‍♀️

    Is this helpful?

  21. Balabusta

    Washington DC

    45 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    45 reviews

    Dined on August 31, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing food. Our waiter guided us through fascinating combinations of flavors and every description was spot on. If you value creativity, complexity and flavor, Barbareño is not to be missed. Certainly our best meal in Santa Barbara!

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  22. Tourist

    Calgary

    78 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    78 reviews

    Dined on August 29, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    The tritip BBQ is the “must order” item. Wine selection excellent. Service very knowledgeable and friendly

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  23. joey

    Denver

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Best dinner we had while visiting Santa Barbara. Food was delicious, service attentive and helpful, price point to overall value equal. I would recommend and dine here again.

    Is this helpful?

  24. SteveL

    Atlanta Metro

    6 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on August 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Best pork chop I've ever had. Great server, very attentive, respectful, had good suggestions. Good wine and beer list as well.

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  25. Becky

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Our waiter, Colin, made great recommendations, which we followed. He steered us in the right direction and we were completely satisfied and delighted by our meal.

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  26. NancyB

    Central Coast

    11 reviews

    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on August 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience3
    Our dinners were really exquisite - presentation & preparation!

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  27. JocelynR

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Such an incredible experience. We brought our 1yr old which I was nervous about but I read they were family friendly. We celebrated my husbands bday and we loved every dish. I wish we had been able to eat more so we could try the stead and the dumplings…& the baked Californian. I loved watching the chef at expo. Will return with friends!

    Is this helpful?

  28. Matt

    London

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was outstanding as was service and ambience. Best all round restaurant in Cali in my opinion. I even gave full stars for value as even though expensive I believe the price was good value as it completely delivers as opposed to other restaurants (cheaper and more expensive) which you'd be better off cooking at home to attending.

    Is this helpful?

  29. Romulus

    New York Area

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on August 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The service is great! I really appreciate it when the EAI stress knows the menu and the inspiration behind the dishes. We went with all her recommendations (food and wine) and it did not disappoint. We started with the eggamuffin (loose interpretation of McDonald’s egg McMuffin) and the ricotta dumplings. Ricotta dumplings was crispy on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside. Eggamuffin is my favorite though! My husband and I shared the pork chop and tri tip. They were both cooked to perfection and the right amount of flavor! I’m sensitive to salt but these dishes were perfect! Dessert- we got the baked California and the chocolate panna cotta. We were super full by then so we could’ve done with one. I liked the panna cotta and my husband enjoyed the baked California. Can’t go wrong with either. Love their play on the dessert with the baked California though! Super creative! Overall- a great experience and amazing food!

    Is this helpful?

  30. Fine

    Dallas

    63 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    63 reviews

    Dined on August 22, 2023

    overall2food2service4ambience4
    This place was overrated. I did not like my burger —almost inedible, and the chicken was just okay. We would definitely not go there again.

    Is this helpful?

  31. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 20, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience4
    Food and drink were very good. I had the cod and it was excellent. Presentation was on point. Our group was very turned off by the fact that you could only get one of piece of bread and butter. Apparently, even if you order more, they will only give you one piece of bread. For the prices you are paying at the restaurant, you should be able to get a second piece of bread or at least be able to order another piece and pay.

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  32. OpenTable Diner

    Los Angeles

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Exception food, pork chop, black cod were awesome. Food is comparable to best in la.

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  33. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We loved every bite and every minute at Barbareno! The food was so creative and flavorful and the staff was knowledgeable and unpretentious. We’ll become regulars for sure!

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  34. RichardH

    London

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience3
    Excellent food, tastes - simply delicious. Knowledgable and friendly staff. In a residential quiet area off the main waterfront locations. Lovely outdoor seating (with heater if necessary). Highly recommend.

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  35. MS437

    London

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Most amazing place - we were celebrating our honeymoon and the staff, particularly Michael, looked after us so well. Highly recommend.

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  36. SGodshalk

    Los Angeles

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food is some of the best we've had in our 10 years in Santa Barbara. I think the Duroc pork chop is one of the best things I've ever eaten in my life. The wait staff is extremely knowledgeable about all of the dishes, the sourcing of their ingredients, and their impressive wine list, along with being very friendly and unhurried with your questions. It's clear they are part of the family and very involved in the mission of the restaurant. I also appreciate that they choose meats that are humanely raised and pastured on small local farms. This is reflected in their prices but it's worth it. We will be back repeatedly. Thank you!

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  37. Michael

    Las Vegas

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on August 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My favorite place to have a nice dinner in town. The food is always incredibly flavorful and original.

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  38. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on August 14, 2023

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    We had a very good meal here out on the patio. The server helped us pick out the our meal selections, peach pork chop and Santa Maria tri- tip and movie snacks for dessert. Food was very good and creative. Service was top notch not lacking in any way. Will definitely come back to enjoy this restaurant.

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  39. RayM

    Sacramento

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Superb cuisine. A must for the most discriminating foodie.

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  40. Beau

    Los Angeles

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 13, 2023

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    Get rid of the OG Kush from the desert - it tasted way too weedy, everything else was fabulous.

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Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers

  • Physical distancing

    • Limited number of seated diners
    • Distancing maintained in common areas
    • Extra space between tables

  • Protective equipment

    • Waitstaff wear masks

  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
    • Staff is vaccinated

FAQs

Barbareño offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (805) 963-9591.

Barbareño is rated 4.8 stars by 1583 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people
9:30 PM
Booked 16 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Barbareño

205 W. Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Award-winning
    1. MICHELIN Plate 2022
  • Cross street
    De La Vina Street
  • Neighborhood
    Santa Barbara
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Mon, Wed, Thu, Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–9:30 pm
  • Cuisines
    Californian, Contemporary American, Farm-to-table
  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Parking details
    We have a small lot in front of the restaurant, street parking, and the Paseo Nuevo parking structure located just a block away.
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Julian Martinez
  • Additional
    Beer, BYO Wine, Corkage Fee, Dog Friendly, Gender Neutral Restroom, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Website
    https://bit.ly/2NT5GLK
  • Phone number
    (805) 963-9591
  • Catering
    Please contact us at info@barbareno.com for more information on our catering options.
  • Private party facilities
    We offer both the our patio area and inside dining room as private options.

Featured in

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