Best Italian Restaurants in Montecito

Price

$$
$$$
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Regions

Santa Barbara

Neighborhoods

CarpinteriaMontecitoSanta Barbara

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for fine wines

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

12 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Ca Dario Montecito restaurant

1. Ca Dario Montecito

4.8

Exceptional(946)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Montecito

Booked 28 times today

Ca' 'Dario's newest restaurant on Coast Village Road promises the same authentic and fresh Italian cuisine as our other locations, now easily accessible for residents of Montecito! Enjoy outdoor dining on our covered patio, or indoor in our elegant dining room.We feature an adjustable roof that keeps out the rain and allows in the sun.Dogs are welcome (we ask that you limit the number to one per guest)

2. Tre Lune

4.8

Exceptional(2113)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Montecito

Booked 52 times today

"Upbeat and comfortable, serving real-deal pastas and pizzas that make you feel like you're in Italy again." - ZAGAT 2010 Fresh fish, veal scaloppini, osso buco, prime steaks, Kobe-beef burgers, organic salads, and house-made desserts. Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner-Cocktails. Award Winner of Italian wines list.Please call to make reservations.

3. Convivo

4.7

Exceptional(2207)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Santa Barbara

Booked 41 times today

Convivo in Santa Barbara offers an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience with an Italian twist. Renowned for its "Nomad Italian" approach, the restaurant masterfully intertwines the essence of Mediterranean flavors with the rich culinary traditions of Italy. Chef Peter McNee uses local, fresh produce and seafood, crafting dishes that are both innovative and authentically Mediterranean. Guests rave about the "wonderful local wild caught halibut" and "delicious creative food," highlighting the restaurant's dedication to quality. The warm ambiance and attentive service complete the experience, making Convivo a cherished spot for both locals and visitors seeking an unforgettable Mediterranean meal.

A photo of Toma Restaurant & Bar restaurant

4. Toma Restaurant & Bar

4.7

Exceptional(5650)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Santa Barbara

Booked 24 times today

Toma Restaurant & Bar, nestled along Santa Barbara's stunning waterfront, is a beacon of exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. This charming bistro is celebrated for its "outstanding" dishes that blend Italian and Mediterranean influences with fresh, local ingredients. Diners rave about the "fantastic" swordfish and "to die for" lasagna, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. The ambiance is described as "romantic" and "warm," with window-side tables offering enchanting views of the harbor. With a curated selection of local and Italian wines, Toma ensures a complete Mediterranean experience that is "better than any Italian meal" some have had in Italy itself.

5. Ospi Montecito

new

4.6

Exceptional(5)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Santa Barbara

Booked 8 times today

Cal-Italian coastal elegance never tasted so good. Ospi Montecito at The Post is Chef Jackson Kalb’s newest destination for your favorite dinner party.Building on the success of Ospi Venice, Brentwood, and Costa Mesa, we’re serving up our must-try house-made pastas and crispy Romana-tonda pizzas, plus our first-ever breakfast offering, and an exclusive wood-grilled selection featuring locally sourced meat, seafood, and seasonal vegetables from our top-quality vendors. Thoughtfully curated wines and inventive craft cocktails make it the perfect place for a dining destination any time of day.Ospi Montecito reimagines Italian cuisine with modern sophistication, delivering a dining experience as effortlessly refined as the community it calls home.

6. Arnoldi's Cafe

4.7

Exceptional(804)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Santa Barbara

Booked 17 times today

Arnoldi's Cafe in Santa Barbara masterfully blends authentic Italian flavors with the vibrant essence of Californian cuisine. Known for its "amazing food, service, and ambiance," this beloved local spot is a true testament to the culinary diversity that defines Californian dining. The menu is thoughtfully curated to highlight fresh, local ingredients, perfectly complementing its extensive selection of Italian and local wines. Diners rave about the "delicious meal" experiences, with standout dishes like the salmon and beef ravioli. Offering a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, Arnoldi's Cafe is not only a dining destination but a cherished community gem, making every visit memorable and delightful.

A photo of Olio e Limone Ristorante restaurant

7. Olio e Limone Ristorante

4.7

Exceptional(2619)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Santa Barbara

Booked 26 times today

Olio e Limone Ristorante, nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara's ARTS District, truly embodies the essence of authentic Contemporary Italian cuisine. With a focus on artisanal dishes, the husband-wife team behind this gem brings "simply sophisticated" flavors to the table. The eggplant soufflé and Sicilian spaghetti with bottarga have left patrons raving about the "exceptional" and "authentic" flavors that transport them straight to Italy. The inviting ambiance paired with European hospitality ensures a memorable dining experience. As one guest enthused, "The food was as good as any we’ve had in Italy." Olio e Limone is undeniably a must-visit for Italian cuisine aficionados.

A photo of Ca' Dario Ristorante restaurant

8. Ca' Dario Ristorante

4.6

Exceptional(1840)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Santa Barbara

Booked 24 times today

"Anything grilled is divine, and the rest of the menu is delectable at this charming Italian restaurant in Santa Barbara known for its excellent execution of simple pasta, meats and other classics. A fantastic wine list with many available by the glass; its a local favorite, so reservations are a must."

9. Olio Pizzeria

4.6

Exceptional(1533)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Santa Barbara

Booked 20 times today

Olio Pizzeria in Santa Barbara is a vibrant Cocktail Bar that captivates with its authentic Italian flair. The bar is renowned for its “perfect barrel-aged Manhattan” and outstanding house negronis, which patrons rave about as “a huge treat.” The ambiance is lively and inviting, encouraging guests to unwind and enjoy their expertly crafted cocktails. The bar team, led by Rose the bar manager, is celebrated for their exceptional service and warm hospitality. Olio Pizzeria's cocktail offerings are a delightful complement to its exquisite Italian menu, making it “one of the best” spots for a night out in Santa Barbara.

A photo of Crocodile Restaurant and Bar - Lemon Tree Inn restaurant

10. Crocodile Restaurant and Bar - Lemon Tree Inn

4.4

Awesome(16)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Santa Barbara

Booked 2 times today

The Crocodile Restaurant is one of the finest places to relax and rejuvenate. The Atmosphere and Decor are Modern Italian and Californian. Hidden just off the Lobby in The Lemon Tree Inn, Crocodile has become Santa Barbara's Secret Local's Haunt.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

V
victoriaVIP
California Central Coast •12 reviews
5.0
Dined today
Wow! The recent turnover of ownership ( while still in the family) hasn’t stopped the favorites returning - a new improved menu complements the overall ambience - one feels like they are at an Italian festival. I just wish they’d leave room for the bocce ball court to be used ( one of the reasons we chose Arnoldi’s ) … the restaurant was so crowded they used part of the court for overflow tables.
More info
Arnoldi's CafePrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Barbara
•
4.7
A
AnneVIP
California Central Coast •29 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Tre Lune is local gem! It delivers delicious, consistent meals with warm and attentive service.
More info
Tre LunePrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Montecito
•
4.8
Y
Yuliya
2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
My boyfriend and I were really happy to visit this restaurant for our special occasion. The food was absolutely delicious and beautifully presented—like something you’d find in a Michelin-starred place. The atmosphere was cozy and the service was great. We’ll definitely be coming back!
More info
Toma Restaurant & BarPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Barbara
•
4.7
C
Cecily
California Central Coast •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Fabulous service and food as always, and the best patio in SB!
More info
ConvivoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Barbara
•
4.7
K
Kathleen
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Food and service were excellent!! Marco was fabulous!! We will definitely be back.
More info
Ca Dario MontecitoPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Montecito
•
4.8

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