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Best American Restaurants in Montecito

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19 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lucky's restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2897)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Montecito
Booked 50 times today
Lucky's in Montecito, Santa Barbara, epitomizes the excellence of Contemporary American cuisine with its impressive blend of top-tier USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and farmer's market vegetables. This celebrated restaurant is adored for its "phenomenal meals" and "consistently great filet mignon," making it a top choice for special occasions. Diners rave about the "wonderful experience" and "exceptional service," noting the welcoming atmosphere that blends old-school charm with modern sophistication. Lucky's is not just a restaurant; it's an experience of "picture-perfect decor" and expertly crafted cocktails, ensuring a memorable dining event that diners eagerly anticipate revisiting.
A photo of Clark's Oyster Bar - Montecito restaurant
4.4
Awesome(47)
Price: Expensive
• American • Montecito
Booked 46 times today
Clark's Oyster Bar - Montecito is a delightful gem that brilliantly showcases the best of American coastal cuisine. With a menu that spans from New England to California, diners can enjoy a delectable array of American classics, such as their signature burger, daily catch specials, and the much-praised lobster rolls. "The food was delicious, the service was stellar and the ambiance was terrific," raves one guest, highlighting its inviting atmosphere. Nestled in picturesque Montecito, this restaurant masterfully blends Clark's classic coastal design with a Mediterranean-inspired flair, creating a dining experience that's both authentic and enchanting. It's no wonder patrons eagerly anticipate their next visit!
A photo of Lilac Montecito restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(152)
Price: Expensive
• American • Montecito
Booked 19 times today
Lilac Montecito excels in Contemporary American cuisine by blending European and Californian influences with locally-sourced ingredients, crafting dishes that are both innovative and comforting. Diners rave about the "unmatched quality" of its offerings, highlighting the fresh, not overly processed food that is a hallmark of authentic Contemporary American dining. The Branzino, praised as "the best in town," and the standout cauliflower dish exemplify their commitment to flavor and quality. The entirely gluten-free menu is a testament to their inclusivity and creativity, ensuring all guests enjoy a "delicious and healthy" meal. With an inviting ambiance and attentive service, Lilac Montecito promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of LOCAL Montecito restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(275)
Price: Expensive
• American • Montecito
Booked 17 times today
LOCAL Montecito shines as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, celebrated for its “superb” dishes that seamlessly blend local ingredients with innovation. Nestled in the heart of Montecito, the restaurant offers “delicious flavors” that repeatedly exceed expectations. Diners rave about the “fantastic cocktails” and standouts like the Yellowtail Crudo and Miso Salmon, which reflect both creativity and authenticity in their preparation. The inviting indoor-outdoor ambiance, enhanced by heated patios and a cozy firepit, provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. With attentive service and a menu that is “always pretty much perfect,” LOCAL Montecito is a must-visit culinary gem.
A photo of Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2645)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Santa Barbara
Booked 40 times today
Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara offers an exquisite seafood dining experience that is simply unmatched. Chef Matthew Johnson crafts each dish with fresh, locally-sourced seafood, combined with herbs and vegetables from the Ranch’s organic garden, ensuring "delicious and quality food" every time. Guests rave about the "delicate tuna tartare" and the "better-than-excellent black cod," highlighting the authenticity and freshness of the ingredients. The restaurant's ambiance adds to the experience, with beautiful ocean views and a romantic setting that makes every meal feel like a special occasion. For seafood lovers seeking gourmet excellence, Stonehouse is a must-visit destination.
A photo of RH Firehouse Grill at RH Montecito restaurant
4.4
Awesome(40)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Montecito
Booked 74 times today
The RH Firehouse Grill is an indoor-outdoor restaurant located at RH Montecito, The Gallery at the Old Firehouse. Enjoy a menu of signature salads and classics from our hearth in our courtyard restaurant, which seamlessly extends into a beautifully landscaped garden. Dine beneath the warm glow of handwoven pendants amid heritage olive trees, birds of paradise, a grand fireplace and cascading limestone fountains.
A photo of Barbareño restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1896)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Barbara
Booked 32 times today
Barbareño stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine in Santa Barbara, capturing the essence of Central Coast flavors with exceptional authenticity. The restaurant's dedication to showcasing local traditions and specialties is evident in every dish, making it a "not-to-be-missed local experience." Diners rave about the inventive and flavorful offerings, such as the succulent Santa Maria TriTip, which evokes nostalgic memories for many. Guests consistently praise the "fantastic food and the staff," highlighting the knowledgeable and attentive service that makes each visit unforgettable. Barbareño's commitment to quality ingredients and creative culinary artistry ensures a delightful dining experience that is both unique and memorable.
A photo of Finch & Fork restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1781)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Barbara
Booked 15 times today
Finch & Fork offers a remarkable Contemporary American dining experience in the heart of Santa Barbara, showcasing the best of local farms and coastline bounty. This charming establishment has earned high praise for its "delicious food with unique flavors" and "impeccable service," making it a standout choice for both locals and visitors. The menu is a testament to ingredient-driven cooking, delighting diners with dishes like the stellar mussels and divine scallops. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by the attentive manager and staff, ensures a memorable dining experience that "never disappoints." Finch & Fork is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of Opal Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1777)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Barbara
Booked 27 times today
Opal Restaurant & Bar in downtown Santa Barbara is a shining example of top-tier American cuisine with a delightful California twist. Praised for its "exceptional service" and "impeccable ambiance," this local favorite offers an eclectic menu that beautifully marries American Regional flavors with creative global influences. Standouts include the Herb-Grilled Ribeye Steak and the delightful Wild Mushroom Risotto. Diners rave about the "generous portions" and the award-winning wine list, further enhancing the dining experience. With its welcoming staff and consistently "delicious food," Opal Restaurant & Bar ensures every visit is a memorable celebration of American culinary excellence.
A photo of Gala restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(303)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Barbara
Booked 11 times today
Gala in Santa Barbara offers a delightful take on American cuisine with a unique Mediterranean twist. Diners rave about the "excellent food," highlighting the creativity and deliciousness of each dish. The menu features American favorites like steak and fried green tomatoes, skillfully prepared and beautifully presented. The farm-to-table approach ensures fresh and flavorful ingredients, making each bite memorable. The "wonderful service" and inviting ambiance enhance the dining experience, making Gala a top choice for both locals and visitors. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Gala promises a "wonderful dining experience" that keeps patrons returning.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Paola
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    It was a great experience!! I loved it. The food was yummy and the drinks were strong!! I felt it after one Mr. Lucky lol. It was an anniversary dinner and our waiter was so sweet and brought out a sweet treat for us to celebrate. I ordered the 10z New York Steak with a baked potato. My boyfriend got a Top Sirloin sandwich with some fries. We also got some calamari and that was probably my favorite!! The sauces were delicious.
    More info
    Lucky'sPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Montecito
    4.8
  • DebbieVIP
    California Central Coast •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Wonderful service, we sat outside on a nice day. It was lovely
    More info
    Clark's Oyster Bar - MontecitoPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Montecito
    4.4
  • DianeVIP
    California Central Coast •19 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    A great local Montecito hangout. Love the Kale-Baby Gem salad with the addition of grilled chicken. We also enjoyed the Fish Tacos and the Chicken Milanese. Started with a delicious fried calamari appetizer. Super comfortable seating outside with great heaters. Also check out the inspiring cocktail menu.
    More info
    LOCAL MontecitoPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Montecito
    4.7
  • Geri
    San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    The hospitable and welcoming staff were top-notch - many of them wished us a happy anniversary, and it shows the excellent communication within the establishment and the care they take to provide patrons with a memorable experience. Highly recommend arriving early and grabbing a delicious and strong cocktail in the lounge before dinner. Walk the gardens either before or after your meal - the property is gorgeous! Every bite was tasty - what stood out most to us were the perfectly prepared grilled octopus starter and the absolutely divine Grand Marnier souffle.
    More info
    Stonehouse at San Ysidro RanchPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • Wendy
    California Central Coast •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    I've enjoyed their lunch and brunch offerings several times - the food is delicious, especially for those of us who need to avoid gluten and, frankly, most diners would never notice that their baked goods are all gluten free! Friendly service and clean, appealing dining room. Highly recommended.
    More info
    Lilac MontecitoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary European• Montecito
    4.7

Discover best American restaurants in Montecito

Discover the rich and diverse American dining scene in Montecito, Santa Barbara, a gem along California's Central Coast. The area boasts a variety of restaurants that masterfully blend local ingredients with American culinary traditions, creating unique and flavorful dishes that reflect the region's cultural melting pot. Each establishment offers a distinct ambiance, from casual, beachside eateries to upscale, gourmet dining experiences, ensuring options for every taste and occasion. These restaurants emphasize quality and creativity, often featuring menus that highlight the best of seasonal produce and local seafood, crafted by chefs renowned for their culinary expertise. The dining scene here not only caters to a range of dietary preferences and palates but also focuses on providing exceptional service and a memorable dining experience. Whether you're looking for a classic American burger or a sophisticated take on traditional dishes, Montecito's restaurants promise an enriching culinary journey. This vibrant locality is a must-visit for food lovers seeking an authentic taste of American cuisine on the scenic California coast.

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