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Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Santa Barbara

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18 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Finch & Fork restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1789)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Barbara
Booked 17 times today
Here at Finch & Fork, we are inspired by the bounty of Santa Barbara's lush farms and rugged coastline. Our attitude is relentlessly local, influenced by the diverse culinary techniques of our neighbors, the subdued, natural colors of our fog-swept cliffs, and the glow of afternoon sunlight on our grapevines. Begin your day with a nourishing brunch or savor an evening of eclectic wines, ingredient-driven cooking, and good company. Finch & Fork is conveniently located on the corner of Carrillo and Chapala streets in the heart of Santa Barbara’s vibrant downtown. Complimentary valet parking for diners upon availability.
A photo of Intermezzo By Wine Cask restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1813)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 18 times today
Intermezzo by Wine Cask New Menu by Executive Chef Mossin SugichModern American cuisine with a Mediterranean twist
A photo of Roy restaurant
3.8
Excellent(439)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Santa Barbara
Booked 2 times today
In business for more than 30 years, Roy is a bistro-style, Americana restaurant with a frequently changing, handwritten menu. We strive to serve unpretentious cuisine of the highest quality. We use mostly certified organic produce from the local Santa Barbara Farmers Market, free range chicken and Harris Ranch hormone free beef. We bake our own bread, hand roll our pastas and make all of our desserts in house. Our ambiance is retro moderne California casual, and we have rotating art shows that run for a month and a half at a time. Live music once in a while. Full bar all the time.
A photo of Chase Restaurant restaurant
4.1
Excellent(792)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Chase Restaurant is a top pick for special occasions in Santa Barbara. The classic Italian decor, intimate bar, and outdoor patio add to its charm. Reviewers rave about the fantastic food, excellent service, and warm atmosphere. It's frequently described as a 'lovely restaurant' and 'old school Italian restaurant experience'. As one reviewer mentioned, 'always come here for date night/special occasions'. With its global wine list and custom cocktails, it's a perfect spot for a romantic evening or a gathering of friends.
A photo of OKU restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1811)
Price: Expensive
• Asian • Santa Barbara
Booked 45 times today
Tina Takaya, proprietor, welcomes you to our newest two story restaurant on the water. We feel the key to success is our passion for creating the highest quality food and warm friendly service. We hope you will enjoy your experience as much as we enjoyed creating it for you."We want Locals to feel like Family and Visitors to feel like Locals"Our menu draws from Asian favorites that inspire and excite such as Wagyu Steak, Japanese Sushi, Chinese Dumplings, Garlic Noodles and fresh local seafood.We are located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Waterfront and Funk Zone Districts. Come enjoy lunch or dinner, soak in the sun by day at our waterfront rooftop bar while sipping on a refreshing cocktail surrounded by our beautiful ocean vista and by night, enjoy lounging by the fireplace after a delicious meal and a great glass of wine.Our chef uses the freshest ingredients from central coast farmers and local fisherman to create dishes with the best of what California has to offer.
A photo of Olio e Limone Ristorante restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2585)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Booked 18 times today
Olio e Limone Ristorante, located in downtown Santa Barbara's ARTS District, serves artisanal Italian cuisine. Meaning “oil and lemon” in Italian, their restaurant’s name reflects husband-wife team Alberto and Elaine Morello’s philosophy: rely on the integrity of the ingredients and quality of the preparation to provide Santa Barbara diners “simply sophisticated” Italian cuisine served in an inviting atmosphere with European hospitality. Start with eggplant souffle, then tuck into a plate of house made duck ravioli or Sicilian spaghetti with bottarga. And be sure to take home a bottle of their own olio, an organic extra-virgin olive oil made from Sicilian olive varieties. Bonus: their contemporary Italian breakfast, lunch & retail spot Olio Bottega, and authentic pizzeria next door at Olio Pizzeria. Private dining in the Cucina Room for up to 40 guests.
A photo of Toma Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5558)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Booked 33 times today
Toma Restaurant and Bar a waterfront bistro, located along Santa Barbara's picturesque Cabrillo Blvd. Experience Santa Barbara waterfront's most romantic restaurant. Savor exquisite Italian and Mediterranean inspired dishes from Santa Barbara's seasonal bounty, supporting our local fisherman, farmers, foragers and food artisans. Pour over local and Italian wines along with a full bar of handcrafted cocktails and spirits. Enjoy warm and attentive service while dining window side with a view of the enchanting Santa Barbara harbor.
A photo of Bouchon - Santa Barbara restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5502)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 30 times today
Bouchon in Santa Barbara is a beloved spot for special occasions. Reviewers often highlight the restaurant's exceptional service, fabulous food, and the extra special touches they provide for birthdays and celebrations, such as rose petals on the table. As one reviewer said, 'every aspect of this restaurant is outstanding' and it's 'an incredible fine dining experience.'
A photo of Ca' Dario Ristorante restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1824)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Santa Barbara
Booked 23 times today
"Anything grilled is divine, and the rest of the menu is delectable at this charming Italian restaurant in Santa Barbara known for its excellent execution of simple pasta, meats and other classics. A fantastic wine list with many available by the glass; its a local favorite, so reservations are a must."
A photo of Opal Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1817)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 31 times today
Opal Restaurant & Bar is a Californian gem that offers a unique blend of creative world cuisine influences with American Regional touches. With an eclectic menu and a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list, it's a perfect spot for special occasions. Reviewers highlight the attentive service, delicious food, and relaxed upscale atmosphere, making it an ideal place to celebrate. One reviewer even mentioned how the restaurant went the extra mile to make a special occasion even more memorable.

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Discover best special occasions restaurants in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, located on California's Central Coast, offers a vibrant dining scene perfect for special occasions. The restaurants in this area are distinguished by their exceptional service and attention to detail, ensuring every celebration is memorable. Whether you're looking for a cozy Italian ambiance or a sophisticated American bistro, Santa Barbara caters to all tastes with its diverse culinary offerings. These establishments often feature eclectic menus that blend global influences with regional flavors, complemented by extensive wine lists that have earned accolades for their quality. Patrons frequently praise these restaurants for their romantic atmospheres and the personal touches that elevate each dining experience, making them ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, and other significant events. Overall, dining in Santa Barbara for a special occasion means enjoying exquisite food, excellent service, and a delightful setting that together create an unforgettable experience.

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