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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Santa Barbara

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10 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Finch & Fork restaurant
1. Finch & Fork
4.4
Awesome(1822)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Barbara
Booked 10 times today
Here at Finch & Fork, we are inspired by the bounty of Santa Barbara's lush farms and rugged coastline. Our attitude is relentlessly local, influenced by the diverse culinary techniques of our neighbors, the subdued, natural colors of our fog-swept cliffs, and the glow of afternoon sunlight on our grapevines. Begin your day with a nourishing brunch or savor an evening of eclectic wines, ingredient-driven cooking, and good company. Finch & Fork is conveniently located on the corner of Carrillo and Chapala streets in the heart of Santa Barbara’s vibrant downtown. Complimentary valet parking for diners upon availability.
A photo of The Black Sheep SB Brasserie restaurant
2. The Black Sheep SB Brasserie
4.7
Exceptional(794)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary French / American • Santa Barbara
Booked 3 times today
Now featuring a full bar! Locally owned California-French brasserie in Old Town Santa Barbara, blending classic technique with bold, eclectic flavors. Housed in a historic space, we offer an elevated dining experience with a renowned family-style tasting menu, curated wines, craft beer, and full cocktail service. Open Wed-Sun from 5 PM—check daily for our specials!
A photo of Chase Restaurant restaurant
3. Chase Restaurant
4.1
Excellent(791)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Chase Restaurant is a Santa Barbara gem, offering a classic Italian dining experience since 1979. Customers rave about the superb food, with dishes like Chicken Piccata and Eggplant Parmigiana earning high praise. The atmosphere is described as warm and romantic, with an elegant decor. Reviews consistently highlight the excellent service and the excellent value for money. The restaurant is also commended for its global wine list and custom cocktails. It's definitely worth the drive!
A photo of Tre Lune restaurant
4. Tre Lune
4.8
Exceptional(2114)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Montecito
Booked 43 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.
A photo of Bouchon - Santa Barbara restaurant
5. Bouchon - Santa Barbara
4.7
Exceptional(5556)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 31 times today
We are delighted to have added additional outdoor seating but Santa Barbara nights are chilly so bring a sweater or light jacket!Fresh, local ingredients, prepared with care. Excellent wines that reflect the quality and character of our region and work in concert with the cuisine. Warm, inviting ambiance, service at a relaxed, leisurely pace. Santa Barbara ‘Wine Country Cuisine’ means we source our ingredients using an ‘as-fresh-and-as-local-as-possible’ approach, with fish from the Santa Barbara Channel and produce from the surrounding countryside. We then take into account how these flavors can be presented in concert with our local wines. We believe you’ll taste the difference. Bon Appètit!
A photo of Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch restaurant
6. Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch
4.9
Exceptional(2793)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Barbara
Booked 55 times today
The Stonehouse, located in a beautiful 19th-century citrus packing house, offers an unparalleled dining experience. Guests can unwind in a relaxing lounge with full bar service or enjoy the ambiance of the separate dining room, complete with a crackling fireplace and world-class views. Chef Matthew Johnson creates evocative regional cuisine, utilizing fresh herbs and vegetables from the Ranch’s organic chef’s garden. The Stonehouse boasts the only Grand Award-winning wine program in Central California, ensuring an unparalleled selection of wines to complement your meal. For a unique twist, visit the restaurant's speakeasy for before or after dinner drinks, where you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, nostalgic setting.
A photo of Blackbird restaurant
7. Blackbird
4.4
Awesome(187)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 4 times today
Blackbird offers an inventive take on dishes, highlighting hyper-local and hyper-seasonal offerings. Leaning into the locality and freshness of the fare continues to be a focus of the restaurant’s story. In 2025, we will focus on redefining and developing the personality of Blackbird, including highlighting the talent to create the semblance of a relationship for locals looking for somewhere to go. A revamped cocktail menu will aim to drive additional local interest and traffic into the spaces. We continue to strive to position Blackbird as a favorite in town, and to that end are finding new ways to activate the venues each night and draw both locals and hotel guests in. Complimentary hotel valet parking with validation.
A photo of Ca' Dario Ristorante restaurant
8. Ca' Dario Ristorante
4.6
Exceptional(1844)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Booked 7 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."
A photo of Sandbar Mexican Restaurant restaurant
9. Sandbar Mexican Restaurant
4.4
Awesome(187)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Santa Barbara
Booked 2 times today
We are a traditional Sonora style Mexican Restaurant and Tequila Bar. Guests will experience the authentic tastes and warm outdoor dining of Mexico. We use homemade sweet and sour with organic agave nectar in our world class margaritas. We also feature handmade tortilla chips and salsas, fresh Ceviche, homemade guacamole and the best fajitas around.We feature a vibrant bar scene and a social atmosphere. We also serve our full menu nightly until 11pm. Stick around after dinner as we transform into one of Santa Barbara's best late night hot spots.
A photo of Moby Dick Restaurant restaurant
10. Moby Dick Restaurant
4.1
Excellent(297)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Santa Barbara
Booked 7 times today
Welcome to Moby Dick Restaurant in Santa Barbara—where dining is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Perched right on the iconic pier, we invite you to indulge in fresh, expertly prepared seafood, exceptional service, and breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch, a satisfying lunch, or a relaxed dinner, our inviting atmosphere and picturesque surroundings will make every moment unforgettable.

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Santa Barbara

Discover exceptional dining options that are undoubtedly "worth the drive" along the California Central Coast, specifically in Santa Barbara. This region offers a rich tapestry of culinary experiences that cater to various palates, featuring restaurants that are celebrated not only for their unique and exquisite dishes but also for their commitment to quality and service. Santa Barbara itself is renowned for a vibrant dining scene that blends local flavors with international culinary techniques, creating a gastronomic haven for food lovers. Each restaurant in this locale brings something distinct to the table, from innovative Californian cuisine to traditional Italian delights, ensuring that every meal is memorable and justifies the journey. These establishments prioritize a holistic dining experience, combining atmosphere, service, and flavor to craft moments that are both enchanting and satisfying. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening out or a sophisticated culinary adventure, Santa Barbara's restaurant scene promises to deliver experiences that are well worth the drive. Embrace the journey for a taste of culinary excellence on the stunning Central Coast.

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