5 Best Californian Restaurants In Carpinteria

5 restaurants available nearby

1. Blackbird

3.8

Excellent(171)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Santa Barbara

Booked 10 times today

Nestled in Santa Barbara's vibrant Funk Zone, Blackbird excels in Lounge cuisine with a distinctive flair. Praised for a "memorable meal" experience, it combines inventive cocktails by the renowned Devon Espinosa with dishes that honor Central Coast's bounty. The restaurant’s ambiance, marked by striking brass fixtures, offers a captivating nod to Alfred Hitchcock’s timeless thrillers. Guests rave about the "beautifully presented" dishes and "friendly service," making it a standout choice for both casual outings and special occasions. Whether you're savoring the exquisite risotto or indulging in the famed mezcal cocktail "1925," Blackbird provides a culinary adventure not to be missed.

2. Lilac Montecito

4.7

Exceptional(152)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Montecito

Booked 20 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 Toma Restaurant & Bar restaurant

3. Toma Restaurant & Bar

4.8

Exceptional(5511)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Santa Barbara

Booked 51 times today

Toma Restaurant & Bar, nestled along Santa Barbara's stunning waterfront, is a beacon of exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. This charming bistro is celebrated for its "outstanding" dishes that blend Italian and Mediterranean influences with fresh, local ingredients. Diners rave about the "fantastic" swordfish and "to die for" lasagna, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. The ambiance is described as "romantic" and "warm," with window-side tables offering enchanting views of the harbor. With a curated selection of local and Italian wines, Toma ensures a complete Mediterranean experience that is "better than any Italian meal" some have had in Italy itself.

4. LOCAL Montecito

4.7

Exceptional(275)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • 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.

5. Arnoldi's Cafe

4.8

Exceptional(767)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Santa Barbara

Booked 21 times today

Arnoldi's Cafe in Santa Barbara masterfully blends authentic Italian flavors with the vibrant essence of Californian cuisine. Known for its "amazing food, service, and ambiance," this beloved local spot is a true testament to the culinary diversity that defines Californian dining. The menu is thoughtfully curated to highlight fresh, local ingredients, perfectly complementing its extensive selection of Italian and local wines. Diners rave about the "delicious meal" experiences, with standout dishes like the salmon and beef ravioli. Offering a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, Arnoldi's Cafe is not only a dining destination but a cherished community gem, making every visit memorable and delightful.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Best Californian Restaurants in Carpinteria

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Award-winning

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5 restaurants available nearby

1. Blackbird

2. Lilac Montecito

3. Toma Restaurant & Bar

4. LOCAL Montecito

5. Arnoldi's Cafe

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