Community & Local Resources

Local Neighborhoods and Happenings for those New to the Area

Santa Barbara:

Santa Barbara, often referred to as the “American Riviera”, is known for its stunning coastline, historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and Mediterranean climate. There is an abundance of beaches along the Santa Barbara coastline that are exceptionally beautiful and easy to get to including East Beach and Butterfly Beach. There are also dog-friendly beaches such as Hendry’s where your dog can enjoy some off-the-leash time. While you’re there, visit the Boathouse restaurant for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

State Street extends from Downtown Santa Barbara to Hollister Avenue near Goleta. This world-famous street is lined with shops, restaurants, bars and historic buildings. Hang out in the Funk Zone near lower State Street for some wine tasting and enjoy the local art scene. And don’t forget to visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art (free admission on Sundays) on upper State Street for a more sophisticated art experience.

If you’re looking to keep the little ones entertained, the Santa Barbara Zoo, the Moxi Children’s Museum and the Sea Center on the Pier are great for children. And don’t foget the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Keck Park and Lotus Land to name a few noteworthy outdoor spaces to visit. For teenagers there is the skateboard park on Cabrillo Boulevard, surfing, paddleboarding and endless bike trails to explore. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, culture, or history, Santa Barbara has something to offer everyone.

Santa Barbara’s restaurant scene has something to offer for every palate. You really can’t go wrong when dining in Santa Barbara but here are some of our favorites:

La Super-Rica Taqueria is one of the most famous restaurants on the East Side. Founded in 1980 by a UCSB grad, their pressed-to-order fresh corn tortillas are delicious! Plan on getting there early to avoid a line.

The Lark was one of the first restaurants to open in the Funk Zone and has become a hot spot in area. Their family-style seasonal menu is wonderful and changes frequently. The restaurant offers fine dining taste with a casual vibe.

Ca’Dario Santa Barbara stands out among the many Italian options available in Santa Barbara. This charming downtown neighborhood restaurant offers authentic imported pasta and fresh local ingredients, making it a must-try.

Loquita offers farm-fresh Spanish tapas, paella and craft cocktails. The wine list is comprised of Spanish wines and exceptional local wines that pair well with the various tapas. Loquita dishes are a gourmet treat.

McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream on State Street is renowned for its superior quality as their large assortment of ice cream flavors are all made from scratch. When they opened in 1949 their first location was on State Street so it’s very remarkable that they’re still operating on State Street today. They also have a coffee bar at this location so if ice cream isn’t your thing swing by for an espresso or coffee.

Goleta:

Goleta, often referred to as “The Goodland”, is located just west of Santa Barbara. The mountains and oceans are easily accessible, offering hiking, nature trails, and breathtaking views. The area is well-known for many different reasons but UC Santa Barbara is one of the most notable Goleta landmarks. UCSB’s scenic campus is located right on the coast, offering sweeping ocean views. Goleta Beach Park isn’t far from campus and is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Grab a bite at South Coast Deli and picnic along this beautiful beachfront park.

Goleta’s mix of natural beauty, academic excellence, historical sites, and modern amenities draws major employers like Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital, Sonos, Deckers, AppFolio and Yardi Systems to the area. There are some special events that take place in Goleta that bring together locals and tourists alike. The Goleta Lemon Festival is an annual event that celebrates the region’s rich agricultural history with its lemon groves offering food, entertainment and family-friendly activities. In the winter, visit the Goleta Butterfly Grove to see thousands of monarch butterflies in this eucalyptus grove. There is the renovated Goleta Train Depot to visit as well.

If you’re a foodie and are really just looking for the best bites in Goleta, here’s a list of some our favorites:

Jeannine’s Bakery on Hollister Avenue is locally owned by the Hardey Family. Known for their coffee, scones, muffins, and cakes they also serve breakfast and lovely lunches. Try the olive oil lemon zest muffin for a sweet or the Italian chopped salad for lunch.

Ca’Dario Goleta is in the shopping center across from the Marketplace shopping center in front of Target. It is one of three Ca ’Dario’s in Santa Barbara County and boasts authentic fresh Italian food. My go-to favorite is the Branzino and my boys love the ravioli in sage butter.

Mesa Burger near Costco is known for its burgers and fresh salads. You can’t go wrong ordering their Hearts of Butter lettuce salad, with cider honey dressing with a side of grilled chicken.

Meun Fan Thai Café on Calle Real is a local favorite for Thai food. You will see many students from UCSB and local business people having lunch or dinner here.

The Nugget originally started in its Carpinteria location and several years ago expanded to Goleta. With a cowboy motif, it is known for its steaks, chili, fried chicken, the Crunch Burger and many other American favorites.

Nikka’s Fish Market & Grill on Calle Real sells fresh fish to take home as well as fish dishes for lunch and dinner. From fried fish to fish tacos, or fish stew, everything is fresh and reasonably priced. Very casual.

Masala Spice on Calle Real has great family-made traditional Indian food. They offer a lunch buffet, seated dining and to-go food. Our favorite is the Lamb Vindaloo.

San Roque:

San Roque is one of the most beloved neighborhoods in Santa Barbara, California. Its proximity to both the Santa Ynez Mountains and to downtown Santa Barbara gives residents easy access to nature and urban amenities. The area is known for its well-preserved homes many of which have lush gardens and beautifully landscaped yards. San Roque’s desirable neighborhood is quite popular in the Santa Barbara real estate market. Be sure to check out The Carey Group, Inc. homes on White Rose Lane located just up the street from La Cumbre Plaza if you’re in the area.

The restaurant scene near San Roque offers everything from local Californian fare to international cuisine. Here’s a list of some of our favorite restaurants near San Roque:

Flavor of India on State Street, is family run and offers consistently good authentic food. They serve a lunch buffet. The Chicken Tikka dry roasted is a treat.

Jeannine’s Bakery: Neighbors love to walk over for coffee, breakfast, lunch and fabulous baked goods. For breakfast we favor the Banana French Toast. For lunch try the Italian cobb or a turkey berry sandwich!

Lure Seafood is a family-owned business that started in Ventura. The fish is fresh and Lure delivers a good value based on its popularity. Fish tacos, grilled halibut, dover sole…and fresh oysters are among our favorites!

Chuck’s Steakhouse: The original Chuck’s is in Hawaii, and both locations offer a great salad bar, grilled steaks and fish. Only open for dinner.

Giovanni’s Pizza is a local staple with thick-crusted pizza and a great salad too!

Bass Bear Brewing recently opened for burgers and beer and is very kid friendly too.

Renaud’s Bakery & Bistro is located in the Gelson’s shopping center and serves authentic French food and bakery goods. The apple tart and chocolate brownies are a favorite.

Via Maestra 42 offers informal Italian dining by its owner Renato. They also have a to-go deli for fresh prosciutto, pecorino cheese, sandwiches and salads. Pick up grilled eggplant, zucchini or the tuna with beans for your antipasto plate at home. Via Maestra also serves gelato!

Farmer Boy is perfect if you’re looking for a 1950’s style diner. Your breakfast comes with a short stack, bacon, biscuits and the works. They are famous for their giant cinnamon rolls.

Montecito:

Montecito is a gem on the California coast offering natural beauty, luxury amenities and serene ambiance to locals and visitors alike. Montecito is quite charming whether you decide to explore the restaurants in San Ysidro Village or go for a hike at the Hot Springs Trail you will thoroughly enjoy your time there. Don’t miss Butterfly Beach, which is a beautiful place to catch the sunset or take your dog for a walk.

Here’s a list of our favorite places to dine in Montecito.

Lucky’s Steakhouse is a high-end chop house, you may see a movie star or two there.

Ca‘Dario Montecito stands out among the many Italian options available in Santa Barbara. Their charming neighborhood restaurant offers authentic imported pasta and fresh local ingredients, making it a must-try.

Oliver’s Montecito is a vegan restaurant with the freshest ingredients. The salads are terrific.

Tre Lune is a local favorite with delicious Italian food.

Plow & Angel is located in the San Ysidro Hotel on the lower level. This has been a favorite local bar and casual dinner location for many.

Stone House Restaurant is also located in the San Ysidro Hotel on the upper level and offers fine dining in a specular setting. The bread basket alone will dazzle you.

Pierre Lafond in the upper village offers coffee, pastries and a gourmet deli for takeout or dining outside on the patio.

Jeannine’s Bakery on Coast Village Road is locally owned by the Hardey Family. Known for their coffee, scones, muffins and cakes, they serve breakfast and lovely lunches. Try the olive oil lemon zest muffin for a sweet or the Italian chopped salad for lunch.

Local Montecito on Coast Village Road offers a casual dining setting and menu with regularly scheduled live music. Well known for their unique setting and outstanding service it’s worth trying if you haven’t already!

Rori’s Artisanal Creamery in the Montecito Country Mart is a perfect place to swing by after dinner or on a warm afternoon walking Coast Village Road. Black Pepper Pistachio and Milk Chocolate Chunk are delicious choices if you’re not sure what to try.

There are many other local Montecito favorites, these are just a few. Be adventurous and explore the area!

Rating 4.8 of 5.0
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When I go to my space I appreciate the music, natural lighting from the hall windows and how clean everything is.  It really is lovely.  It is not what you expect when you think of self-storage.
— Elaine, Santa Barbara