Santa Barbara, a seaside city treasure, is a tourist and gastronomic attraction in one.
We say so because here, you can dine and sightsee at the same time.
It has views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and azure waters that add to the allure of dining.
If you’re craving seafood, aren’t you lucky?
Santa Barbara boasts several seafood restaurants with water views to match.
Not one to love crustacean dishes?
Other alternatives, such as Mexican, SoCal, and American cuisine, are within arms reach.
There is no better time to enjoy these perks than around noon when the sun is at its peak.
And with that note, we’re here to help you experience the best lunch in Santa Barbara.
Discover your next midday go-to by checking out our favorite lunch spots below.
1. Los Agaves
600 N Milpas St
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
(805) 564-2626
Los Agaves is a casual diner that serves enchiladas, chile rellenos, and premium Mexican fare.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Experience Mexican lunch in a homey yet sophisticated way here at Los Agaves.
This family-owned restaurant is a Michelin Plate recipient for its simple good cooking.
You’ll find well-made ensalada, enchiladas, tacos, burritos, and combination plates.
It’s a tad pricey for a Mexican restaurant, but the generous portions are well worth it.
The consistently superb food and service make it one of the best rated restaurants in the area.
What to Order
Come hungry and indulge in a big plate of Chile Relleno Burrito.
Guests love the fresh chipotle sauce and the combination of cheese and black beans.
Another tasty option is the Mole Enchilada, served with rice and pinto beans.
The mole is chocolatey, sweet, and savory—a wonderful taste explosion.
2. East Beach Tacos
226 S Milpas St
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
(805) 770-2761
East Beach Tacos is a low-key stand with indoor seating and a patio serving various tacos.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
For gourmet-style beach tacos, go to East Beach Tacos, no questions asked.
This taco stand offers inventive taco creations and a small menu for salads and sides.
There are unique dishes of Gangnam-style tacos and the more common chicken and carnitas.
Plus, you can watch the action at the batting cages while eating some of the best tacos in town.
What to Order
There’s no better menu item to order than the Triple Play.
Order three tacos of your choice for just below ten bucks.
If you need recommendations, the Spicy Crispy Shrimp, Ahi Poke, and Fish are best-sellers.
3. Lilac Patisserie
1017 State St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 845-7400
Lilac Patisserie is a dedicated gluten-free bakery and cafe.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Despite the name, Lilac Patisserie is among Santa Barbara’s good lunch places.
There are tasty sandwiches, soups, salads, quiches, and libations offered at its in-house cafe.
However, one of its key selling points is the availability of scrumptious gluten-free alternatives.
Gluten-free desserts, cakes, and baked pastries are available for those who desire them.
If you arrive early, indulge in their well-loved breakfast menu and flavorful coffee.
Lilac Patisserie is one of the top lunch places near you if you visit downtown.
What to Order
The Turkey Club Sandwich on rosemary olive bread is an excellent option for lunch.
The bread is one of the best gluten-free olive bread in the area.
Because of its natural taste and soft texture, you won’t even notice it’s gluten-free.
It’s packed with perfect amounts of avocado, turkey, tomatoes, and Dijon mustard.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara
4. Mony’s Mexican Food
217 Anacapa St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 895-2978
Mony’s serves traditional Mexican fare and various salsa flavors in a relaxed setting.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Santa Barbara has a plethora of taco stands and Mexican eateries.
However, what distinguishes Mony’s Mexican Food is its salsa bar.
The salsa selection is incredible, and it complements every dish perfectly.
There is always something new to try, such as pineapple, mango, cilantro, or peanut.
The tacos and salsas are the draws, but burritos and nachos are worth ordering, too.
On weekends, expect an extensive line and prepare to wait a bit.
What to Order
For the best Santa Barbara Lunch, get the Fish Tacos and pair them with Pistachio Salsa.
These two are the most popular on the menu, thanks to their freshness and great flavor.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Californian
5. Savoy Cafe & Deli
24 W Figueroa St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 962-6611
Savoy Cafe & Deli serves pastries, sandwiches, and a salad bar with over 40 ingredients.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Featured in TV shows, Savoy Cafe & Deli is a can’t-miss foodie spot.
Breakfast and lunch are outstanding, with everything homemade and fresh.
There are over 60 items in hot and cold cases, a custom sandwich bar, and great coffee.
There’s an award-winning salad bar and gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian selections.
It’s one of the best places to go when seeking lunch in downtown Santa Barbara.
What to Order
The Turkey Pasilla Fritter, as seen on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, is a must-order.
It comes from the hot chef’s case and is served with a side of quinoa mango salad.
The fritter has a wonderful chili flavor but not too much heat, and the entire dish is nutritious.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Simpson House Inn
Related: Best Pizza Places in Santa Barbara
6. Jeannine’s Bakery
3607 State St
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
(805) 687-8701
Jeannine’s Restaurant & Bakery is a local chain that serves gourmet breakfast in a chic setting.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Although more of a brunch place, this is an excellent addition to nice Santa Barbara lunch spots.
This charming cafe delivers the best coffee, baked pastries, and breakfast and lunch dishes.
Explore the menu for delectable sandwiches, salads, chilled beverages, wine, and champagne.
The romantic outdoor patio adds to its appeal, making it ideal for a lunch date with a loved one.
What to Order
Go on a bit of splurge and order the Tri-Tip Sandwich.
The Snake River American Wagyu-style beef is the highlight, all tender and flavorful.
There’s an au jus provided for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth lunch.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Palihouse Santa Barbara
Related: Best Seafood in Santa Barbara
7. Natural Cafe
508 State St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 962-9494
Natural Cafe serves an eclectic Californian menu, including burgers and vegan options.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Are you currently looking for kid-friendly lunch spots with an extensive menu?
Consider Natural Cafe with a menu so varied it has something for everyone.
Apart from your standard sandwiches, there are burgers, veggie entrees, and pasta.
There are chicken and fish dishes and a dedicated children’s menu.
The café is incredibly committed to delivering delicious yet nutritious food.
Now, isn’t that the best news for foodie fitness buffs?
What to Order
You can’t go wrong with a healthy burger like the Gobbler Burger.
This turkey burger with a thousand island dressings is well-loved by locals and tourists.
The meat is incredibly juicy, which is hard for a turkey burger.
Plus, the fresh vegetables complement it wonderfully.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Harbor View Inn
Also See:
Best Lunch in Santa Monica, CA
Best Lunch in Sacramento, CA
8. Santo Mezcal
119 State St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 883-3593
Santo Mezcal is a Mexican restaurant with a contemporary menu that focuses on seafood.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Santo Mezcal combines the two most well-loved cuisines in Santa Barbara.
With its Mexican dishes highlighting seafood, it’s the ultimate lunch spot in the city.
Apart from the big flavors, each plate is aesthetically pleasing and well-executed.
Treat yourself to a vibrant lunch, or bring your friends for a more formal gathering.
Either way, you won’t be disappointed with Santo Mezcal’s food, drinks, and service.
It’s one of the best places to get lunch in Santa Barbara, especially with a group.
What to Order
Always start with the crowd-pleasing Ahi Tuna Ceviche.
The addition of pomegranate, cilantro, and salsa macha provides an even more refreshing twist.
Plus, it blends well with other dishes, keeping the overall flavors fresh and not overbearing.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Montecito Inn
9. Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach
2981 Cliff Dr
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
(805) 898-2628
The beachfront Boathouse serves upscale seafood and brunch with stunning ocean views.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Are you trying to decide where to eat lunch but looking for one with a view?
The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach’s seaside setting is quite challenging to beat.
But what really draws guests back time and time again is the excellent cuisine and drinks.
It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a menu ranging from burgers to eggs Benedict.
The diversity of fresh fish and raw bar options make this place a seafood lover’s paradise.
What to Order
Opt for something well-liked everywhere, like the Pan Fried Dungeness Crab Cakes.
The crab cakes are well-cooked, moist, and packed with generous amounts of crab meat.
The chipotle aioli sauce, coleslaw, and onion ring garnish make it even more special.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property
10. The Daisy Restaurant
1221 State St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 845-0188
The Daisy offers delectable food in a lovely, airy setting with a patio.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Looking for a lovely open location with a patio for lunch?
Consider The Daisy Restaurant with a bright, elegant setting for a casual meal.
As for the food, everything you consider Californian Cuisine can be found here.
Most of their recipes are made using fresh, organic, and local ingredients.
Vegans, vegetarians, and anyone with dietary requirements will feel at home.
What to Order
If you can’t decide what to order, go for the Mezze Plate.
It has beet muhammara, hummus, labneh, olives, zhoug, and a 6-minute egg.
The dish has a little bit of everything plus grilled flatbread to pair.
It’s available for you to sample all day from lunch until dinner.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Santa Barbara Inn
11. Reunion Kitchen + Drink
1118 E Cabrillo Blvd
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
(805) 272-7968
Reunion Kitchen + Drink serves modern comfort food in an upscale setting.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Eat and drink your troubles away during lunch at Reunion Kitchen + Drink.
This hip establishment offers a calm environment far from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Here, you can have modern comfort food paired with cocktails while gazing out into the ocean.
The dishes are unique and inventive, and the drinks are vibrant, distinct, and downright playful.
Discover avocado wontons, ahi poke stacks, espresso martini, and mango martini on the menu.
What to Order
Get yourself the power combo of Short Rib Grillers and Warm Butter Cake.
The former is a handheld favorite filled with the most tender short ribs and thick, gooey cheese.
The latter is soft, fluffy, and moist, with the fabulous addition of vanilla bean ice cream.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Upham Hotel
Also See:
Lunch in Newport Beach
Lunch in San Mateo, CA
12. Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
230 Stearns Wharf
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 966-6676
Santa Barbara Shellfish Company is a laid-back beachfront eatery serving seasonal seafood.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Santa Barbara offers a lot for seafood aficionados.
But, this restaurant is for the most legitimate seafood fans.
Since 1980, it has served as a buying station for local shellfish, fish, and crab.
Today, it’s one of the best and most popular lunch restaurants in Santa Barbara.
Fried seafood, fish sandwiches, chowders, and shrimp appetizers are all available.
The live tanks are fun for kids, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see fishermen hauling in fresh catch.
What to Order
A Maine-style Lobster Roll is always a good idea for lunch.
The lobster is tossed with celery, capers, chives, mayo, and butter for the richest taste possible.
It’s served in massive amounts over a toasted hoagie roll and comes with coleslaw and onion rings.
You can even have it topped with uni for an extra charge.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Brisas Del Mar Inn at the Beach
13. Finch & Fork
31 W Carrillo St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 884-0300
Finch & Fork is a chic restaurant that serves New American cuisine made with local ingredients.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
At Finch & Fork, a romantic brunch meal is inevitable.
Adorned with vaulted wood ceilings and soft curtains, the vibe is charming yet relaxed.
If you opt for the breezy patio, you have a full view of the stunning Santa Ynez Mountains.
While taking in the scenery outside, indulge in an eclectic variety of New American dishes.
Sample mouthwatering vegan scrambles, eggs Benedict, Wagyu beef burgers, and chilaquiles.
Don’t miss out on its outstanding brunch libations for a more festive midday meal.
What to Order
Guests adore the Short Rib & Sweet Potato Hash, and we’re sure you will, too!
The poached eggs, brussels sprouts, and red wine demi-glace takes brunch to a new level.
Everything is perfectly cooked, and the flavors are a unique, unexpected blend.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mason Beach Inn
14. Chase Restaurant
1012 State St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 965-4351
The Chase is a Santa Barbara landmark that serves authentic New York-style Italian food.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Taste a fusion of fantastic Italian and New American cuisine here at Chase.
Italian dishes are made using fresh ingredients and seafood from central California.
The interior is cozy with walls, vines, and pillars decorated with twinkling fairy lights.
It exudes a romantic aura and is the perfect place to visit with a significant other.
For extra romance, diners can also have a romantic lunch for two on the patio.
What to Order
If you’re unfamiliar with the menu, try the Chicken Piccata.
This is a fan favorite with consistently well-cooked and well-seasoned chicken.
Have it with Fettuccine Alfredo for the perfect lunch plate.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Eagle Inn
15. Bouchon – Santa Barbara
9 W Victoria St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 730-1160
Bouchon serves French cuisine from California made with organic, locally sourced ingredients.
Why You Should Get Lunch Here
Wine and exquisite plates for a festive lunch?
Here at Bouchon, the best lunch in Santa Barbara is always paired with wine.
This sophisticated restaurant helped popularize Santa Barbara’s wine cuisine.
To further grow, they devised a menu that pairs beautifully with several wine types.
Taste how different flavors magically blend and go together for an unforgettable experience.
Plus, thanks to owner Mitchell Sjerven’s gracious hospitality, you’ll always feel like a VIP.
What to Order
For unrivaled, luxurious dining, order the char-grilled Rack of Lamb.
It’s perfectly pink and served with parmesan-fine herb risotto and wild mushrooms.
Pair it with a classic Pinot Noir for an elegant lunch out.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Inn by the Harbor
Map of Lunch Restaurants in Santa Barbara
15 Best Lunch Spots in Santa Barbara, CA for 2023
- Los Agaves
- East Beach Tacos
- Lilac Patisserie
- Mony’s Mexican Food
- Savoy Cafe & Deli
- Jeannine’s Bakery
- Natural Cafe
- Santo Mezcal
- Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach
- The Daisy Restaurant
- Reunion Kitchen + Drink
- Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
- Finch & Fork
- Chase Restaurant
- Bouchon – Santa Barbara
