Best Authentic Restaurants in Santa Barbara
Price
- $40 and under
- $41 to $70
- $71 and over
Cuisine
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Top Rated
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Award-winning
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13 restaurants available nearby
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See what locals rave about
- VVictoriaCalifornia Central Coast •3 reviews5.0Dined 1 day agoWe felt like we had been transported to one of the finest restaurant environments in Europe. Service was outstanding. Everyone we came in contact with was so pleasant and the food outstanding the Moules Frites not to be missed.  thank you to Ruben and his team. We will be back often.More infoThe Black Sheep SB BrasseriePrice: Expensive• Contemporary French / American• Santa Barbara•4.8
- JJaneCalifornia Central Coast •1 review5.0Dined 6 days agoWonderful relaxed atmosphere and delicious food. Staff was welcoming and professional. Can't wait to return. Special night....thank you.More infoBibi JiPrice: Expensive• Indian• Santa Barbara•4.1
- MMelindaNew York City •5 reviews5.0Dined on 2 Jan 2025What a lovely restaurant. It’s big, but not especially noisy. We were seated next to a table with five small children, and we were able to talk to one another easily. New Year’s Day evening is a great time to go to dinner! It was easy to get a reservation, the venue is lovely, and we all thought the food was excellent.More infoOlio e Limone RistorantePrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Santa Barbara•4.7
- VVirginiaLos Angeles •1 review5.0Dined on 27 Dec 2024I highly recommend the chicharron tacos! I usually order the tamales but decided to try something I normally wouldn’t order. I’m glad I did because they were so delicious they’re my new favorite menu item.More infoCorazon ComedorPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Santa Barbara•4.4
- LLisaCalifornia Central Coast •52 reviews5.0Dined on 13 Oct 2024The Caesar Salad was fresh and the dressing was a tasty surprise. The Veal Milanese breading was crispy and paired nicely with the buttery, cheesy fettuccine. My friends both enjoyed their Spinach Ravioli and Pappardelle Vodka. Topped it off with us all sharing the Warm Lava Cake...delish!More infoChase RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Santa Barbara•4.1
Discover best authentic restaurants in Santa Barbara
Discover the essence of authenticity in Santa Barbara's vibrant dining scene with our curated selection of restaurants along the scenic California Central Coast. Each venue captures the unique flavors and culinary traditions of the region, offering patrons a genuine taste of local and international cuisine. From rustic Italian dishes that transport you straight to the cobblestone streets of Italy, to innovative Californian fare that blends fresh, local ingredients with global gastronomic techniques, the dining experiences here are diverse and memorable. Santa Barbara is renowned for its eclectic gastronomy, characterized by a commitment to freshness and quality. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening out, a casual meal with friends, or a special family dinner, these restaurants provide exceptional service, a warm ambiance, and consistently delicious food that embodies the keyword 'authentic'. Dive into a world where each meal tells a story of heritage and creativity, ensuring a satisfying dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. Explore our list to find the perfect spot that meets your craving for authentic culinary delights in Santa Barbara.