Presentation on Map Reviews Nearby

Barbareo in Santa Barbara

4.6 (199) 205 W Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

Categories

Californian restaurant
American restaurant
Barbecue restaurant
Fusion restaurant
New American restaurant
Organic restaurant

Location on the map

Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County, California, US

Phone: +1 805-963-9591
Site: https://barbareno.com/

Opening hours

Monday:5–8:30 PM
Tuesday:Closed
Wednesday:5–8:30 PM
Thursday:5–8:30 PM
Friday:5–9 PM
Saturday:5–9 PM
Sunday:5–8:30 PM

Edit info

Total reviews rating 4.6

199 Reviews for Barbareo 2024:

Review №1

2023-07-30 03:12:53

We loved this restaurant. I had the grapefruit sake spritz and Kombucha (alcoholic). They were so subtle and refreshing. They used big chunks of tuna for Crudo. The New York stripe came with infused smoke, which made already amazing meat tastes even better. The BBQ brisket was so tender and amazing! They had amazing desserts, but we were too full to have them. We will need to come back. :)

Review №2

2023-10-17 23:23:22

Barbarenño was a delight – it is just far enough away from the bustle of State St to feel peaceful, but not too far to feel in the middle of nowhere. The outside seating was relaxed and yet classy. The service was perky and very attentive. The focus on local food with creative dishes was a big success. The grilled avocado celebrating the first avocado orchard was excellent. The crudo was zingy and artistic. The acorn agnolotti was perhaps not a full success – but the vision was so original that it was just fun. And the black cod was some of the most beautifully cooked fish we have had – it was heaven on a plate! We can’t wait to go back.

Review №3

2023-08-19 17:13:02

An exceptional dining experience. While the narrative behind the dishes, rooted in Santa Barbara’s history, sometimes felt a touch overstated, it hardly detracted from the overall brilliance of the meal. Our waiter was attentive without being overbearing, consistently refilling our water and checking in. The culinary delights continually surpassed our expectations, prompting us to indulge in an extra bottle of wine, another meal, and even two desserts – which we usually forgo. Our enjoyment was reflected not just in our extended stay and added orders but also in our gratitude shown through a generous tip. Admittedly, the service waned slightly towards the end, but given that we were thoroughly enjoying ourselves and unintentionally closed the restaurant, it’s understandable and easily forgivable.A word of caution regarding seating: the majority of outdoor seats are in the parking lot, an unfortunate new practice by restaurants from COVID adjustments. We opted for and would recommend the cozier and more atmospheric indoor seating, although space is limited primarily to couples and small groups, with some bar seating available.Definitely make your way here if you’re in the area. Although it might seem slightly outside the main areas, it’s merely a short walk away. This proved to be a bonus, allowing us a walk off the food after our indulgent meal. Highly recommended for both the food and experience.

Review №4

2023-07-30 03:45:19

We hadnt been here in a while (dont remember why) and boy were we impressed. Absolutely fantastic food, presented beautifully, and the service was perfect. Sarah took care of us this evening and she helped us navigate through the menu like a pro. Everything was perfect. We will definitely be back.

Review №5

2023-06-24 03:27:35

We had a great experience here! Everything was delicious! It was my husbands birthday and they brought him a dessert at the end that was so good! Our waitress was amazing and very attentive.

Review №6

2023-09-25 16:11:24

First time to Barbareno and what an amazing experience. The wait staff was absolutely exceptional. She was very professional in every way and had a complete knowledge of her menu. We totally enjoyed a sharing of several suggested starters among the 4 of us followed up by the cod as my main pictured here. The flavors, texture and presentation of every dish presented was outstanding. We will definitely return!

Review №7

2023-08-30 04:25:19

We hadnt been here in a year or more and it was an error. We had an amazing time. All dishes were tasty. The service was also very well done. We will come back!

Review №8

2023-07-05 05:22:25

We went for our anniversary and were excited to try a new restaurant. They had imaginative dishes, but their sauces were very salty and overpowered their dishes. I was disappointed not being able to taste their acorn ravioli due to an intense miso (salty) sauce. The Santa Maria BBQ was the star of the show as it was not covered in sauce and the meat was excellent. Their French press coffee was another weak disappointment. If you go, get sauces on the side. Its also quite expensive.

Review №9

2023-05-13 17:23:12

I took my boyfriend here for his birthday at the end of January 2023. We enjoyed our first experience here.Since our first visit I’ve been looking forward to returning. He made a reservation for an early Mother’s Day celebration for me.We sat outside. I recommend being outside it’s much more pleasant.To start they offer ONE piece of their delicious sourdough bread. They make it clear if you ask for more that there’s only a certain amount of bread for the entire dinner service. We found that strange. Both times the waiter gave us the ends lol. My BF loves bread.The wines by the glass selection is mediocre for it to be Michelin star rated. Our food was delicious but portions have become smaller since our first visit.I understand fine dining isn’t going to be the most filling but the inconsistency is a drawback. I’m a pescatarian so if you come here and you are too maybe get the avocado app so you can be more full.We won’t be back and I wish I would have chose another restaurant to celebrate at. But no regrets now I know.

Review №10

2023-11-09 15:41:54

I should have had the pork chop! Party of six. A variety of appetizers were ordered. Good, but not as good as I expected. Pretty presentations and reasonable prices. The hamburger was pretty good - disappointed to say the description was better than the real thing. The potatoes, animal style, that accompanied the burger were dry and in need of some flavor. While I was a little disappointed with my experience, another member of our group ordered the pork chop. He shared a taste and it was great - tender, juicy and full of flavor. I did enjoy the brussel sprout side dish - but again, nothing spectacular, just a nice side dish. Service was pretty good (very pleasant and knowledgeable server), but a re-check on beverages would have been appreciated. I really wanted to love my first experience at a Michelin restaurant, but it was just, well, underwhelming. Perhaps my expectations were too high.

Review №11

2023-12-05 12:19:46

A rare five stars from me. A nearly perfect and memorable anniversary dinner for us. Our server Mitchell and staff were wonderfully attentive. Our food was inventive and delicious. Nice job! Well be back.

Review №12

2023-03-19 23:40:52

Ive tried many of the wonderful dining establishments in Santa Barbara, but Barbareño has taken the place as my favorite restaurant in town.We visited on a Wednesday evening, and enjoyed an intimate experience. From the moment you walk through the door, the service is remarkable. Our waiter, Colin, was vibrant and knowledgable, taking time to give us a full understanding of the menu.We indulged in every course, ordering the Crudo, Ricotta Dumplings, Brussel Sprouts, Market Fish, New York Strip, Twentyfour Blackbirds.The dishes I would order again were the Crudo and New York Strip. We agreed that the steak was one of the best weve eaten, the flavor was remarkable. The Crudo was fresh and with bold flavor, most notably the ginger jalapeño foam.Overall, I cannot imagine a better restaurant to celebrate and truly enjoy a well crafted, quality meal.

Review №13

2023-03-07 05:26:28

Loved the fun take on local classics. The tuna crudo was awesome, we loved the texture in each element. Mussels were fresh, and the homemade sourdough that presented itself a few times on the menu was great.

Review №14

2023-08-01 14:59:15

I enjoyed barbareño on my birthday! I ordered the crudo, uni caesar, pork chop, and burger. best burger I’ve ever had…our server was very friendly and even provided us with his favorite local bar cocktail order.it was an intimate space perfect for a small group or 1:1 reservation. I’d happily come back again and recommend to friends visiting santa barbara.

Review №15

2021-07-11 13:42:59

This is hands down the next restaurant Ive eaten at in 2021 so far. The food is exceptionally flavors and fresh - we got the avocado and wings for appetizers, and then the acorn tag and Santa Maria bbq for the main. There is so much care given to each dish - and each ingredient on the dish. Its only a matter of time before this restaurant earns its deserved Michelin stars.In addition to the amazing food, the service is top notch. The restaurant is also a block or two from the main streets and the atmosphere is great.I cant wait to go back to Santa Barbara just to eat here!

Review №16

2023-04-22 02:34:43

The food, ambiance and staff was fantastic! Everyone knew so much about the food and we enjoyed all the stories each meal and its local significance. My only regret was not getting more photos of my food. The plating presentation of everything was fantastic!

Review №17

2022-05-14 18:08:15

What a fantastic experience the food Comes in modern plates with beautiful presentation and tastes delicious way taste amazing! The wine is not expensive at all. You can get a bottle of pink for 49 dollars, and it taste nice too.

Review №18

2023-09-13 17:21:47

A SANTA BARBARA MUST! This restaurant did not disappoint! Kelly was a rockstar of a server who met us where we were to deliver an absolutely incredible experience that highlighted the menu perfectly. The entire team was knowledgeable of the menu and friendly, the presentation was both beautiful and eloquent and the dishes matched the level of service. We had a bottle of wine, five dishes, dessert and a glass of port to finish! The perfect dinner. The food was exciting, fun and unique. Absolutely loved everything. Great value for the level of service and quinine. 10/10 all around.

Review №19

2023-12-01 03:34:20

This place is utterly a MUST GO when in Santa Barbara! The food is delicious, fresh and passionately made, the service above par (Hello, Colin!)and the atmosphere is a chefs kiss! I wish I sat outside instead of inside alas the ills of being a walk in. Make a reservation and GO GO GO!

Review №20

2023-10-05 22:27:02

Barbareño is an absolute must. If you are in Santa Barbara, don’t hesitate, just go.I was a first-time visitor to Santa Barbara last week with a shortlist of 6 restaurants to try. My list covered the range: Michelin one-star on the water to acclaimed but unpretentious tacos spot. Based on everything I had read, I thought Barbareño would end up somewhere in the middle.I was absolutely wrong. Barbareno was the best of all. Best food, best service, best atmosphere, best value. It’s not easy to get it all just right, but this place does.

Review №21

2023-07-14 12:35:22

The best New York stake Ive had in months. They also have a popcorn flavors dessert thats amazing.

Review №22

2022-10-19 19:46:07

Had a super tasty dinner at Barbareño. From starters to dessert, everything was very good. The New York strip could have been more medium as ordered, but the taste was great.

Review №23

2023-11-20 02:16:15

Spectacular. Potatos beyond delicious. Highly recommend

Review №24

2021-09-16 16:43:02

Celebrated my birthday here. Great food, beautiful ambiance and exceptional service. Would definitely recommend eating here and to make a reservation. My favorite dishes were the Beet tartar and the Santa Maria BBQ

Review №25

2021-08-09 19:00:27

Husband and I had a great time there. We have no complaints about the food. Everything we ate was DELICIOUS!! And our server was very attentive on everything. Loved it. Definitely go back. ❤🤗👌👏😋🤤👍💣

Review №26

2022-04-07 04:10:27

How do I start. I just came back from this restaurant utterly disappointed. I am giving it one star only because some of the servers were kind. That’s about it. I do not know where to start with my complaint because there are so many. If you read this, please avoid this restaurant, go to La Paloma or Loquita or even McDonalds. We ordered Avocado, Chicken wings, Santa Maria BBQ, Acorn Tagliatelle, and a side of market vegetables. The dishes were coming out so quickly we didn’t even finish our entrees, the table still had our menus on it when we had our mains come out. Aside from rushed service(we got everything within 30minutes or less), the food was… a lukewarm atrocity. You can tell that this food has been sitting out for quite some time before coming out to us. Nothing was made to order. The BBQ came out almost cold, the tagliatelle was INEDIBLE, the flavour was awful; pasta was a soggy mess served in a soup. The market vegetables were served on a bed of an olive ‘babaganoush’ that overpowered everything, half of the vegetables were lukewarm the other raw and tasteless. This was the worst dining experience in the US, with an unjustifiable hefty price. Avoid at all costs.

Review №27

2019-07-14 03:04:47

Local farm to table fare. Monthly menus with innovative dishes and interesting takes on classics. Everything we ordered was excellent. The Chicken and Ranch entree and the side of Animal Style potatoes were the favorites of the table. Will definitely be back for another meal.

Review №28

2022-05-26 15:29:56

Great food, good service, ok ambiance. Better options out there for the price but you won’t be disappointed.Food: 5/5From appetizers to entrees to dessert, everything was fantastic. The wagyu entree is rich and filling despite small portion size, especially with appetizers. The menu features enough interesting options to pique even the most seasoned, adventurous eater’s interest, and the presentation is impeccable. Really appreciate the creativity there. Did not have any problems with cold food or timing like some other reviewers.Service: 4/5Friendly and prompt service, though there was an allergy scare when a waitress said there wasn’t an ingredient in a sauce when there actually was. Could be concerning for someone with a more severe allergy that staff aren’t fully aware of what’s in dishes.Ambiance: 3/5It gives quintessential California. Very typical, nice but nothing special or even memorable. Certainly more on the “casual” end for an “upscale casual” restaurant.

Review №29

2019-06-16 03:12:17

The first place we ate in California and the best place Ive ever eaten. Wow! Everything was outstanding. The duck appetizer, the barbecue, the ribs, the chicken and ranch. Their names just dont do them justice. I couldnt believe how good they were.

Review №30

2019-12-02 04:54:25

Delicious food at Barbareño! I was very surprised at the size of the portions, they were significantly big. By the end of the meal, I could barely manage the dessert, which was amazing by the way. The mussels were excellent, the salad I got (can’t remember the name but it had pomegranate in it) was so full of flavor. With a lot of great restaurants to choose from in Santa Barbara, don’t skip this one. You won’t regret it!!

Review №31

2023-08-14 16:06:59

The food is spectacular, the service is wonderful, ambience is perfect. I got the feeling everyone enjoys working here and loves the food! They are excited to give recommendations and really want to know how you enjoyed your meal. My favorites were the crudo and bbq.

Review №32

2022-09-26 14:25:38

High quality food. Server was well trained and enthusiastic. Dishes had great presentation. Flavors a little lacking on some dishes, but overall yummy.

Review №33

2021-07-01 02:26:56

This is a very unique restaurant with chefs own twist on recipes. The techniques are top notch if nothing else, and to me they taste great but of the kind that infuse a new experience rather than pure flavor. First we had the eggamuffin that is an appetizer, where you get bite sized muffins of that is possible, but it worked, with a creamy layer of egg yolk mixed with cheese, and a thin sliced ham. next is grilled avocado with a zesty sauce in the middle, very appetizing. The main course was wagyu tri tip with beans, excellently cooked and the meat quality was great, the beany taste gave the meat a unique flavor. Finally the animal potato is an alternative take on in-and-outs animal fries, with baked potatoes that was slight deep fried outside to give an excellent crunchy bite. You can see the amount of thought that went into the menu design and the technique behind them. I want to go again to try other unique entrees!

Review №34

2022-08-15 04:40:12

Delicious flavours and textures throughout all the dishes. Very accomplished cooking. We enjoyed everything! The Panzanella salad was particularly interesting, and so was the Grilled Avocado. The meats were cooked to perfection, both the Santa Maria BBQ and the Pork Chop. To top it all, the desserts were fantastic, with the Pana Cotta being a beautiful refreshing end to a fantastic dinner. Totally recommended!

Review №35

2019-12-29 05:34:33

Uninspiring interior for this Santa Barbara restaurant, which was too cold to eat in. The entrance door was always open while it was 49F outside.All the salads were excessively dressed with sauces covering up part of the taste.The fried chicken was the most disappointing dish of all, not crunchy, covered in way too much sauce again, and not even warm. We told the waiter and besides feeling sorry they didn’t even put a small discount or offer anything in return.Desserts are all over the place. A typical case of trying to be creative with a sad execution.Overall, way overpriced for what you get. Skip.

Review №36

2019-08-14 02:41:38

Excelent service by part of the waiters and chefs.Each preparation was given great importance and dedication in terms of elaboration and flavor. Not a single plate impressed more than another, they were all excelent.Every flavor was incredible and exotic, accentuated by different flowers and spices that gave an additional value to the dish, for which they incorporated ingredients like eucaliptus, coconut milk, lavanded, etc. This was a big difference when comparing to other restaurants in Santa Barbara.Without a doubt this is an excellent place to visit, 100% recommended.

Review №37

2021-03-15 07:13:46

Excellent restaurant with food that will knock your foodie socks off! Every single dish we ate was phenomenal! It’s one thing to have food that is well prepared but quite another to artfully present unexpected flavors next to each other and create an experience. The only complaint I have is the name of the plates. One of the best dishes we had was almost skipped over because it was called “Plate of pork.” It should have been called “Swine and dine” or “Rêve du porc” or something that gave you a sense that you were going to eat something more magical than just a plate of pork. It truly was a phenomenal dish. The pork beignets were nothing like I have ever tasted before! Lastly, I have to commend Barbareño on their commitment to safety in this time of Covid. One of the first things they discussed with us is the need to keep a mask on if you are not actively eating so as to protect the staff and fellow diners. All seating was outside and properly spaced 6 or more feet apart. They had plenty if heat lamps to keep the patio warm even when the sun went down and the temperatures dropped. Well done Barbareño. I would give you 6 stars if I could!

Review №38

2022-10-17 23:09:16

Delicious local California fare in a warm and elegant setting. The food is partially grilled and smoked in their custom smoker, which makes for a delicious flavor of all their local and seasonal ingredients.In true California Style, the staff is incredibly attentive and relaxed, making for a lovely atmosphere. Highly recommend trying their local California wines, each glass was a home run!

Review №39

2020-11-07 04:48:52

I am not sure how to start but here we go...The day before our desire appointment. We stopped by and gave it the sniff test. It past! The woman at the front desk could not be nicer. As well as the rest of the staff! With COVID-19 still here. Barbareno is doing everything they can to comply. Which made us very happy that they care for everyone.We started with Eggamuffins. The delicious Appetizer reminds me of a deconstructed Egg McMuffin of sorts. It has mini cornmeal bilini’s, whipped seascape, speck, and cured egg yolk. Yum! Next was Chicken & Ranch and Santa Maria BBQ. First bite into C&R was amazing! The chicken and coating is very light with amazing flavorfuls. It was an instant Wow! I loved every bit. At the same time my wife was going crazy over the SM BBQ. The dish has a super moist wagyu tri-tip and pinquito beans that really shines. The pinquito beans have a multi layered taste profile that we have never experienced before. A lot of love went into those beans. Lastly, we enjoyed their version of a Baked Alaska which is called Baked Californian. It’s a Wow dish too. You have to experience it! The lemon curd arc’d around the candied pine nuts to the hop (beer hops) cake and the mango/basil semifreddo was spectacular! Only thing missing is lighting the meringue on fire like a Baked Alaska. On the table. The Baked Californian has elements in one dish that we never had before.The only sad part is ... the next day. They are closed! But next time when we come to town. We will be back!!!We did!We added another night at our hotel so we can dine with Barbareno. Barbareno really works hard to recreate the local vibe and history. Another enjoyable meal.

Review №40

2023-05-14 16:35:30

This is a must-not-miss true SB experience. The food was creative, exceptionally tasty but not over-the-top, and the service was such a breath of fresh air in this new post-Covid era of dining out. The servers were friendly, explained the menu very well but also gave time and space for us to enjoy our date night experience without too many interruptions. I cannot say enough positive things about this place or the flavors of each dish we tried. We will absolutely be visiting this spot every time were in SB.

Review №41

2023-09-10 22:34:17

If youre gonna go here, get the tri-tip. You wont be disappointment. Ive also had the ricotta dumplings before which are really good. This more of a special occasion place for me. Not some place I frequent regularly. Its in an ok location off de la vina downtown. The outdoor patio is nice. This place is good if youre looking for a fancier nice meal. Check it out.

Review №42

2023-03-28 19:54:24

Exceptional Food and Impeccable Service: A Must-Visit RestaurantIf youre looking for a fantastic dining experience, I would highly recommend this restaurant. From the location to the wait staff, drinks, appetizers, meals, and overall experience, everything was top-notch.Located at the corner of Canon Perdido and De La Vina, the restaurant has limited parking, but there is plenty of street parking available within a block. We were greeted warmly by Kelly, our server, who was extremely knowledgeable and accommodating throughout our meal. We also received excellent service from Cole, who attended to our needs with great care and friendliness.The iced tea with an orange slice was a standout, and the grilled avocado and Especial appetizers, recommended by Kelly, were both excellent. We wished the Especial was available as a meal, as it was the talk of the table even after we finished our meals.Speaking of which, we ordered the Chicken and Ranch, Santa Maria BBQ, and the New York Steak for our entrees. The Chicken and Ranch was my personal favorite, with juicy chicken, a great crust, and flavorful garnish. Although I noticed some blood in the chicken, Kelly assured me that it was cooked and not raw. They even offered to remake the entire meal or switch it for another, but I only asked for half of the meal to be remade. Kelly took it off the receipt and made sure I was satisfied, showing that she truly cares about her customers.While we didnt have dessert, we plan to indulge next time we visit. Overall, the excellent food, staff, and atmosphere make it well worth the price. The only minor issue was the number of dogs in the outside seating area, which could have been explained better, but it didnt detract from the overall experience.In summary, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking delicious food and impeccable service. I would give it a solid 5/5 rating without hesitation.

Review №43

2022-06-03 06:46:53

Great food and excellent service. Seasonal menus. The lamb dish / appetizer was excellent and the steak was superb.

Review №44

2023-08-26 19:51:18

Great night with great food. Dinner is a little so make sure you like the company you go with. The black cod was a stand out dish.

Review №45

2022-12-28 04:02:32

Original - Sooooo good. The quality was top notch. The tri tip was unreal and so was their special New York strip which is in the attached picture. So soft and delicious. All the apps are amazing too. And great atmosphere! Highly recommended.Def 22 - Went back again and was yet again blown away. This place is truly a hidden gem. The food, the staff, the vibe. Everything.

Review №46

2018-03-31 03:39:18

Relaxing and fam friendly, Barbareño is a perfect example of California Cuisine. Locally sourced and globally inspired, this farm fresh seasonal fare would impress any foodie whose traveled the tasty globe! High Prices delivered on HIGH QUALITY & SERVICE! Thank you Doug!

Review №47

2020-09-13 01:16:59

Incredible food. Every single bite is perfectly balanced and thoughtful. I rarely have a meal that is exceptional from start to finish. This hit the mark. Pictured here is the Ojai Hive and Honey desert. But we also had the Especial (lamb flatbread) and the Santa Maria Tri Tip.

Review №48

2022-10-25 02:55:28

Eclectic American cuisine sourced locally. Great for a special occasion or sit at the bar for a quick salad. I particularly like the fresh sour dough and grilled avocado.

Review №49

2023-03-07 14:46:19

Wow, this place is fabulous. Super interesting fusion menu full of amazing tastes. Well curated but modest wine list. All of the staff were excellent, friendly and helpful. We showed up 45 minutes early for our reservation on a packed Friday, and they worked hard and got us seated. Reservations are a must for this busy gem. Highly recommended.

Review №50

2023-08-12 04:50:24

Went for our anniversary dinner and was treated wonderfully by their staff. Food was delicious as well as the wine pairing recommendations.

Review №51

2023-05-08 18:11:49

My first time to experience this A+++ restaurant. The staff are all outstanding, knowledgeable and fun. All of our dinners and appetizers AND dont forget trying desserts - were beautifully displayed and tasted even better. We will be back!

Review №52

2023-07-17 00:27:50

The service is great, the food is insane and the place is incredibly warm and nice. The open kitchen is my favorite. Highly highly recommend.

Review №53

2022-02-26 06:14:42

Loved every single dish!!! Highly recommend if you are visiting Santa Barbara! 💕

Review №54

2022-08-28 05:40:11

Went here for my birthday with my girlfriend. The food was fantastic and unique. It all came out delicious and fresh. The sourdough they have is very very good. The server we had Colin was amazing. Gave great suggestions and really made the food sound delicious before we even ordered. Just raised the experience to another level.

Review №55

2023-04-04 03:25:39

Simply amazing! Menu is very balanced with great flavors and they have an eclectic wine menu. Service is friendly and very knowledgeable. Our first time in Santa Barbara and very happy we dined here!

Review №56

2023-06-06 03:17:35

I’ve been to this restaurant a number of times and each time it gets better and better. I went recently with my family and had exceptional food and service. They went above and beyond with our multiple food allergies. Highly recommend.

Review №57

2021-11-29 02:32:53

Great service from the woman from Michigan! Food was actually delicious but came out cold but the manager and waiter was very gracious in handling the issue.

Review №58

2020-11-19 02:36:38

Delicious! The night we went was very breezy and cold. The staff kept trying to keep the heaters going but kept blowing out. Id like to go back when its warmer and truly enjoy the meal. That aside, the meal was fantastic! The waitor really knew the menu, really impressed with his knowledge. The staff kept checking on us and was very attentive. Can you imagine what it would be like if it wasnt so cold....cant wait to go back 😃😋

Review №59

2023-09-17 06:18:55

The ricotta dumplings with the strawberry masala - yummy! Everything was lick your plate clean good.

Review №60

2022-02-22 05:48:59

Great Food with a rotating menu every month. Tri tip is amazing! The desserts are all AMAZING!

Review №61

2023-03-05 06:08:24

Fantastic restaurant! Food, service, atmosphere are all excellent. This place works so well because everyone works so well together and they all have passion. Our server, Colin, made our dining experience so enjoyable. Would def come back again and get the beet salad, bbq tri tip and market fish. Wine and dessert put the cherry on top ❤️

Review №62

2022-12-31 23:30:05

My review is based upon 2 visits from the latter half of 2022.Food: I tried the ricotta fritters with strawberry masala, and was told by both servers, it wouldnt be sweet, disappointingly it was more of a savoury dessert rather than an appetiser.The pork chop had a sweet glaze that overpowered the beauty of the quality pork provided.Brussel sprouts are well seared, perfect tender, however they were overly sweetened upon finish.If you love beef, on both occasions the beef quality and execution was excellent.It seems the kitchen has an attention and appreciation towards sugar, as expected the desserts are wonderful.Service: On both occasions we were served by different staff during the dining experience, and its sort of confusing as to whom was our server? Table top attention seems chaotic and unintentionally lacking and unpersonable. I would expect more from a restaurant operating within this platform.Summary: The food quality was very good, and the staff are very nice, if the kitchen can put the sugar spoon aside, and management focus on operational structure, further accolades could follow. Final review TBD

Review №63

2022-10-02 01:57:52

I was looking for 1) a new experience, 2) a birthday dinner, 3) a dog-friendly outdoor seating area, and 4) a place that was open on a Monday night.Barbareno had been our our list of places to try for awhile. It did not disappoint. Great service, with a little bit of local history tossed in for good measure.And great food. I ordered an amazing Acorn Tagliatelle. Yes, they actually use some acorn (oak nut) flour in the noodles, and a charred oak broth. What?! Where can you find that in modern day cuisine? It was delicious.

Review №64

2017-11-03 03:20:16

The food has great presentation, but taste average. The atmosphere was very high class along with the prices. Portions are on the small side.

Review №65

2022-10-22 04:25:18

Eh. The Especial is indeed special. But the two most touted dishes: the grilled avocado and the acorn tagliatelle aren’t good, plain and simple. The avocado would be better just grilled solo, instead they add the flavor equivalent of a bouillon cube (they might actually have just crushed a beef bouillon cube on top). Gross. The tagliatelle is very bland and too watery. Don’t be intrigued by the acorn aspect. Great wine list, great service. The sides are good but skippable and not worth the cash. They’re common and not unique to this place.I think in NYC or LA, this would be max 3.5, generously. Good atmosphere.

Review №66

2023-04-27 04:47:56

Everything excellent!!! Cant wait to go back.

Review №67

2022-10-22 17:48:06

We really expected so much better based on the reviews (and the prices!), but this meal was beyond mediocre. The avocado is verging on inedible. The acorn pasta is bland and uninspiring. The sides you could easily make at home, nothing remarkable. Good service and good wine but save your money and eat elsewhere. I don’t know how this place has such rave reviews.

Review №68

2021-12-16 23:53:42

This place is phenomenal. We have been eating here for two years and every dish we have had has been excellent. My usual favorite is the acorn tagliatelle, smoky and delicious. Last night we had the lavender ricotta ravioli and the steak with shitake mushrooms. It was hands down the best meal Ive had in years. Added to this, the service is always super attentive and polite, if not downright kind. Its not cheap, but it is totally worth it, unlike a number of the other fancy spots in SB. What a gem.

Review №69

2023-03-05 17:45:26

What a great spot! It’s obvious why they are so highly rated in the region and visited by Michelin. The food was amazing. Very creative dishes with explosions of flavors you would not have imagined. We started with the ricotta dumplings and the grilled avocado. It was served with home made warm sourdough bread. Wine list was also creative with things like Austrian sparkling roses by the glass spotted amongst their local and imported list. Many by the glass options. Dinner was the sous vide and wood grilled tri tip and the local vermillion snapper in a miso broth that I wanted to drink (and did with the spoon they provided). Dessert options could have been broader. Our waiter was amazing. All in all a really strong experience. Don’t miss when you are in town.

Review №70

2023-02-14 16:45:05

An amazing restaurant !! Amazing people working here and the food is from another world

Review №71

2023-09-25 03:58:31

Just come here! Everything was amazing and a full experience. Loved that everything felt special to the restaurant

Review №72

2021-08-02 07:32:57

We had such an excellent dinner here. We were visiting from out of town celebrating our anniversary and wanted to indulge in a fancy dinner but were a bit worried about the pomp of the SB expensive restaurant scene. Barbareño was the perfect place to go. The food was exquisite in flavor and presentation and the staff were so friendly and super informative. Our server was Kelly and she was amazing. She walked us through all our dishes as they came out, had great wine suggestions and provided tastings, and was very down to earth and friendly and knowledgeable. The outdoor seating tent was charming, the tables weren’t too crowded together and it was a great place to bring a dog. The food was outstanding, blew us away, but the atmosphere wasn’t stiff or stifled. We had a blast.

Review №73

2022-05-09 21:56:16

This restaurant was the perfect occasion for the birthday of my twin and I. Service was outstanding with attentive staff with in depth knowledge of the menu. The food is incredibly high quality. I had pasta that was obviously hand cut from the not- perfect edges of the noodles. While imperfect, it is refreshing to see pasta that is rugged like that. This is a place I would recommend to anybody willing to pay a hefty amount for fantastic food.

Review №74

2023-09-30 16:28:05

Super cute spot with absolutely delicious food! Great wine list

Review №75

2022-09-09 05:13:46

Expertly composed dishes that play to the strength of fresh seasonal ingredients. Even the lettuce salad and grilled avocados were standouts from flavor perspective. The most interesting dish I tried at the restaurant is the tagliatelle with smoked broth and mushrooms, which showcases the chef’s creativity and understanding of creating complex flavors without use of meat - nothing against meat, but when a vegetarian dish can make you not miss meat, that’s exciting.

Review №76

2023-02-21 17:27:09

I gave 5 stars because our tri-tip was excellent. I was a bit disappointed in the ricotta dumplings, but everything else was superb. The service was excellent, and the decor was well done.

Review №77

2019-09-15 00:49:25

Food was excellent, the taste was earthy, complex, the atmosphere was classy, the dessert was to die for, Martin our server was outstanding. We will be back!

Review №78

2022-11-03 20:20:31

Everything was great, but they brought us the wrong food. The environment was loud so its understandable but the major problem was dietary restrictions not being labeled on menus or asked about. Should always tell people when they are eating food with pork in it. Especially when asked if there was meat in other things they ordered.

Review №79

2023-03-13 06:02:44

I would love to visit Barbareno again when i go traveling to Santa Barbara again🥺❤️

Review №80

2020-12-07 23:12:24

Although I’m not a frequent “restaurant reviewer,” wanted to take a moment to leave a solid review for Barbareño following on awesome dinner we had on Saturday, 12/5.We were a party of three, walk-in — and despite the place being booked for the night, the kind hostesses figured out a way to get a table with no wait after double-checking with the kitchen.The menu is one of the most creative and locally-inspired, and every dish we had was great or excellent. Great were the Eggmuffins. Excellent were the Tagliatelle vegetarian dish.Service was polished, informed — but not formal or stuffy. Waitstaff worked notably well together and paced everything perfectly.Highly recommend — would drive up from LA to dine here again!!

Review №81

2022-02-21 15:27:07

First, the good: the servers were absolutely lovely and the atmosphere of the restaurant was fine.the bad: man o man is the food pretty bad. the eggamuffins are intolerably salty and mushy; the market vegetables are comically undercooked; and the acorn tagliatelle is so unappetizing you gotta wonder if anyone tasted it before it hit the menu. heres my theory: the chef wanted to be fancy but forgot to make it taste good. it happens, but always a disappointment.

Review №82

2022-03-20 02:12:39

Fantastic food that was very well balanced, Ill definitely be back

Review №83

2023-11-11 06:09:33

Everything was delicious and our server Alvaro was stellar

Review №84

2021-10-28 16:02:13

This restaurant has the Michelin potential. Had the BBQ, and it was outstandingGreat winelist. Awesome staff. Sat inside- so cute! There is outdoor seating too. I highly recommend their bread so fresh and good

Review №85

2019-05-19 03:47:17

I have gone twice in a month! The food is delicious and the service is fantastic. Tonight we had the lamb flat bread appetizer and the grilled avocado appetizer, both were excellent. Bread, entrees, and desert were all delicious. A little pricey but I think it is worth it.

Review №86

2022-01-23 02:05:11

A very expensive place for extremely mediocre food. The ambiance and service are amazing (pre-COVID), but theres nothing notable about the food. Having lived down the street from it for years before finally going to it, I can tell you conclusively that theyre neat smoking smells amazing, but tastes completely forgettable. They have a small menu that changes often, but their one item they retain is smoked beef. All of the beef was mediocre quality, better than a cheap place but not good enough for the type of place or price, and the spices on everything were very minimal. For the quality of ingredients, even including overhead for location and service and including that its almost all local organic/farm raised, the prices are still about 150% what they should be for the area.Give this a pass and go to one of the other steak places in the area if thats what youre looking for, or one of the many places in this price range that actually delivers on the food quality (CaDario, Blacksheep, etc).

Review №87

2022-09-02 05:34:38

Good food. Poor service! We had to remind our waiter twice about our teas. And when they arrived, they were luke warm. Should’ve gotten the waiter at the other table who was more attentive and knowledgeable about the restaurant’s dishes.Alas perhaps just a bad day 🤷🏻‍♂️

Review №88

2018-10-05 20:16:26

I am updating this review because we wanted to highlight why this place is amazing.We went last night for our anniversary dinner. They brought us a glass of champagne right off the bat which was a nice tough. We then enjoyed more wine, a delicious three course meal and dessert. The restaurant has lovely ambiance, an interesting and historically thought out menu, and fun menu items. The service was fantastic (Thanks Phillip!).When we got our bill, it showed we were charged for the glass of champagne they gave us right away that we hadnt ordered. This was disappointing to us after such a perfect evening. When I posted this in my review, we got a call shortly after from the restaurant and they explained their receipts are structured to include the glass but then discount at the end. Sure enough, it was off at the very bottom.You win Barbareno, you win. We loved every moment of our experience and certainly every bite. Thanks for caring about your customers!

Review №89

2021-10-09 22:56:15

Great food, great staff and attention to details was wonderful. My daughter and I had a great night.

Review №90

2022-02-19 18:40:38

Love everything about this place: The ambience, the food, the service. Everything we had from the menu was so flavorful. The wings are arguably the best weve ever had, anywhere. Its a must-visit if youre in Santa Barbara. A potentially-hidden gem that likely wont be hidden for much longer.

Review №91

2019-07-14 03:59:04

Had no reservations and sat at the bar. Started with the delicious Grilled Avocado, and finished with the terrific Santa Maria BBQ and Animal Potatoes. Everything was delicious. Probably one of the best elevated SM BBQ Ive ever had. Meat was perfect and beans were perfect. Home run all the way. Great food. Also tried the Chicken & Ranch. What a great tasting fried chicken.

Review №92

2021-04-18 00:42:32

I made this reservation for my mother’s birthday we drove out 2 hours from Los Angeles to experience this restaurant. I articulated in advance that It was her birthday and when we arrived the restaurant was empty and they would only push us to sit in an ancillary seating in the sun next to the street with high traffic. The waitress said it was unfair to ask for a table change just because it was her birthday and that there would be plenty of other birthdays this evening. The restaurant was empty and the waiter was completely rude. What a terrible experience.

Review №93

2020-01-11 16:18:51

Tried Barbareno for the first time last night. It was good. We started with the flat bread that was really good. I ordered the cod it was pretty tasty and I really liked the Fresno chili in the broth. The portions are small so I would order another starter or side if I was to return again. The restaurant itself is cute but, overall it I think the atmosphere and food could be kicked up a notch.

Review №94

2017-09-09 04:33:50

Amazing food!! Dont miss the grilled avocado! If they have the black cod, its incredible & impeccably prepared in a unique combination of flavors. An unusual preparation. The other hit was the prawn remoulade. Lastly, the wine selection is unique and rare- even if ordering by the glass. Exceptional selection. The staff is wonderful. Super friendly & technical knowledge to boot. Its the non-touristy spot for excellent, creative food in a beautiful setting.

Review №95

2019-01-30 17:35:22

Barbareño is an interesting mix of high class dining and relaxed Santa Barbara style. The interior is lovely while the patio feels like youre eating in a dolled up parking lot—because you are—but it still works and feels classy. They do a great job of building story behind their food and sourcing locally and they have some really great flavors. Ill be honest that I dont quite feel like I received the quality I was paying for on the food (and because of the small portions) but the service actually does make up for it. Overall its a nice place to go and splurge.

Review №96

2017-04-28 20:17:35

Delectable and creative farm fresh cuisine! One of our favorite restaurants in Santa Barbara and Ventura County. Quaint atmosphere. Wonderful and attentive staff. The chef is brilliant with unique twists on traditional dishes as well as innovative dishes of his own. The Elemental Sundae is one of a kind, and nothing like you would expect. It has dill fronds, eucalyptus ice cream and crisp meringue. The flavors and textures rock! The mussels with a mustard broth and garlic bread are a must. The wine list is excellent and their local ciders (plum and Scar of the Sea) pair well with everything. I could go on and on.... GO EAT HERE!

Review №97

2019-03-25 18:07:27

Great food, service and atmosphere! The duck bao bun is a real treat--as good as any i have ever had. The chicken and ranch was delicious as was the plate of pork. The wine list is extensive and reasonable and the Eucalyptus desert was over the top perfect. Cant wait to return.

Review №98

2022-01-14 02:37:43

Food is next level delicious. I love the environment and the serving staff is wonderful. Ive never had a bad experience here. Great place for a date night or a nice lunch with friends.

Review №99

2020-11-26 03:28:46

Wonderful vibe upon entering. The patio is very warm and inviting. Even if inside was an option you want to be on the patio.Service was above and beyond but never intrusive. Elegantly trained staff.Saved the best for last. It IS about the food. ALL about the food. Local sourced, fresh, chef shopping as an art. Had the Eggamuffins for openers. Very tasty. Then the Grilled Avocado. This dish is maybe one of the top food surprises ever in my experience. I would commit crimes to have this in front of me again. Heaven. Both of these things were shared and much enjoyed by the 3 of us.Entrees upheld the high bar. Jacki had the SM barbeque. Melt in your mouth. Our guest and I had the Acorn Pappardelle. Just a brilliant meal capped off with a shared portion of the 24 Blackbirds. A fitting finish. Memorable +1.Yes, it was on the expensive side. Worth it beyond any measurements. I think it key to let the staff entertain you. Almost every dish has a history and or some knowledge to share. Be open and encouraging. Youll get your moneys worth in abundance. Hard not to love this place.

Review №100

2022-09-20 16:31:51

Best meal Ive had in a long time 10/10 the pork was perfect. The steak was perfect. The staff is very well trained. Very well executed

Review №101

2022-10-31 20:47:21

Disappointed by the food. Not very well made. Some of the dishes had some unique flavors but overall tasted bland and the experience was rushed.

Review №102

2022-03-12 16:45:21

Barbareno was very disappointing. The chicken actually came to the table with one piece totally undercooked. Even in the dim lighting it was clear that the meat was visibly pink and very obviously almost raw in one section. It was returned to the kitchen uneaten and I was asked if I would like another entree. The wait for a new entree was not something I wanted to do. The shock came with the bill when we were charged full price for the chicken dish. In the follow up conversation with the “manager” I was told that the “chef checked the meat temperature and the chicken was cooked”!! In other words I was wrong and they were right. Hmmm? I’m not at all sure at what point in this process the meat thermometer proved me wrong but the conversation was disturbing and upsetting for all of us. It was made clear that I, the customer, was in the wrong. Grudgingly the entree was removed from the bill. Not a pleasant experience in any way and we will definitely not be returning to Barbareno.

Review №103

2022-06-05 05:11:11

Farm to table food. All sourced locally. The tri top best Ive had. Beet salad a surprise. Great wine list. And the service and servers excellent. Great atmosphere. 👍

Review №104

2019-11-14 02:39:37

This is a very nice restaurant near the heart of Santa Barbara. The location is excellent with easy parking. We had a variety of dishes, including brussel sprouts, Santa Maria BBQ, and a taco that plays off of Julia Childs favorite near-by taco shop. I would recommend making reservations to be safe, but is not a must. Of note, only offers beer & wine (no cocktails).

Review №105

2022-05-13 02:11:47

Some of the best food I’ve had in my life. And I’ve eaten all over Italy!The food was exceptionally creative and also well-balanced. I’m expecting Michelin stars here any day now.

Review №106

2023-03-14 23:17:08

Awesome way to end our trip! Lovely food, great ambiance, and good service! No complaints

Review №107

2018-07-16 03:55:41

AMAZING dinner here tonigh! Server Chris was fun and very knowledgeable of menu and helpful in what I should order. Wasnt feeling very well, and he help pick the perfect light meal. Food had wonderful flavors that made you smile. Price wasnt bad for such yummy food, great service and cool setting inside and out. A must go to!!

Review №108

2020-05-31 00:06:46

My girlfriend and I had a terrific experience here last night, food from start to finish was exceptional. Our favorite dishes being the lamb al pastor and panzanella salad. Our server David did a great job explaining the dishes and giving us a great wine recommendation. We sat on the patio, it provided a great romantic atmosphere on a warm Santa Barbara night. I’d highly recommend Barbareño for great California cuisine, they do a great job showcasing the local produce Santa Barbara has to offer! Will be back!

Review №109

2020-08-21 03:42:09

First visit to Barbareno on recommendation from French friends.We had one of the best meal in the last five years.Food is exceptional, wine list is outstanding and very exhaustive. Cherry on the cake the staff is adorable, competent, professional. Special thanks to our waitress Emily.What a breeze of fresh air...

Review №110

2018-03-27 04:03:21

This restaurant is by far the best restaurant Ive ever been to in Santa Barbara, and Ive been to a lot. The employees are so nice and helpful, they are all amazing. The food is to die for, all chefs in the back do such a perfect job of making great meals. I could order everything on that menu and love them all. I would absolutely recommend this place to anyone. I will absolutely be coming back.

Review №111

2017-08-22 19:50:14

Food was pricey but good. Service was sub optimal. I live next door to this restaurant and the smell coming from their BBQ/smoker is always amazing. The Bao brisket confirmed that its not just the aroma. Service was surprisingly bad. Couldnt be seated outside although it was half empty, never brought us bread, and it really felt like no one wanted to be working there. Pretty weird vibe coming from the waitstaff.

Review №112

2020-06-25 03:35:40

Highly original & creative menu, exceptionally executed. We have been fortunate to dine at some of the worlds best restaurants. Only 3 of those have earned 5 stars from us, so 4 stars means Barbareno is pretty special. Creating a dining repertoire that employs not just the freshest local ingredients but ingredients unique to the local cultures and history, then selectively combining them to form unique AND delicious dishes? Wow! Truly fun and fine.Combine great cuisine with very nice staff and a warm and easy ambience and you give your guests a special dining experience. Thank you, Barbarenos -- well be back.

Review №113

2019-01-11 18:56:14

A place to go for upscale dining and a very friendly, knowledgeable waitstaff. An extensive line of local wines and also beer from local breweries. A great dining experience! Oh, and great food I might add. How could I forget that? You gotta order the Tri-Tip.

Review №114

2022-08-04 04:22:51

Wonderful service, excellent food, and a fabulous experience. The staff went above and beyond to make our celebration and experience memorable. Kudos to Elisa our server!

Review №115

2016-10-05 02:08:25

Barbareño quickly became our favorite restaurant in Santa Barbara. From the delightfully yummy dishes, the great welcoming warm staff and wonderful wine and craft beers. This restaurant is a must-visit no matter if you are a local like us or just visiting Santa Barbara. If you are traveling on your own, they have great bar seating. You wont be disappointed. Be sure to order the Chefs Plate and if you have never been before be sure to order the Santa Maria BBQ. Their bread is awesome and their rotating beers are all thoughtfully selected. Keep up the great work guys!

Review №116

2017-02-12 15:15:12

The decor was nice but the place felt vast and cold somehow which is odd because its a small dining room. The food left us underwhelmed. To be fair we only had appetizers but we did have 6 different types and perhaps it was because we were so excited to try this new place that we had set our expectations too high but I found the overall experience average. The homage to the Egg Mcmuffin was so lacking in size and flavor it was almost nonexistent. Charcuterie didnt deliver either. It felt anemic and lacking. This trend continued and we eventually left. Might return someday but it still supports the fact that the food scene overall in SB in lacking. In SB always subtract 1.5 stars to compare to where itd stand in a place like LA, SF or NYC.

Review №117

2020-08-25 03:52:12

The staff are very knowledgeable on the food and service theyre providing. They ultimately care about educating people on the background of dishes and chefs intent. They also suggest wine to pair, which always helps. A gem indeed.

Review №118

2023-10-27 15:44:29

Less than expected of food presentations and taste.

Review №119

2022-09-11 19:10:15

Nice meals and atmosphere. The most tender steak and tri-tip I ever had. Definitely a must when in Santa Barbara

Review №120

2021-02-21 04:32:54

Very creative cuisine making good use of local produce. Not every dish was a perfect success-- chef seems to have overemphasized sauces when primary ingredients would have stood on their own just fine-- but brave experimentation deserves encouragement, and some dishes were breakthroughs in tastiness and originality. In particular I note the OG kush flavored dessert. Yes, that OG kush.Service was excellent and responsive. Thanks Nahtassha! You done good.

Review №121

2022-07-21 04:39:00

Amazing flavors and really creative dishes. The fish was also the best fish Ive ever had and Ill be dreaming about it forever!

Review №122

2018-11-28 14:47:39

This is a wonderful restaurant. The dishes are well prepared and presented with fantastic attention to flavour detail. Each dish had a connection to the local area which is a nice touch. Good wine list too

Review №123

2018-02-23 05:20:44

Imaginative combinations, but flavors did not always mesh. Food quality ranged from fair to good. Service was good. Menu changes monthly, and we were there the last day of the month, so perhaps we will try again.

Review №124

2019-03-09 19:46:13

Absolutely stunning food. All made in house with as local of ingredients as possible (which is mostly possible). While waiting on the single person bathroom I noticed a sign for the employees to see taped over the service counter. The sign said “Take pride in where you work.” It is clear the employees did that as the service was excellent and the overall vibe was of a place where the staff would want to hang out even if they weren’t working. We got the animal fries (delicious and fun homage to animal fries from In N Out), Brussels sprouts (excellent use of vinegar, although it does collect at the bottom and get a bit strong), grilled avocado (we’ll be talking about that one and trying to recreate it for a long time), pork plate (the “pork filled donut” and apple cider (almost butter) pairing is unbelievable), fish, and three desserts - movie time (insane creme brûlée with dehydrated butter), pralines & creme ice cream (perfect caramelization of the caramel sauce, and the combo with the dehydrated blood orange is amazing), and coconut lavender pannacotta (lavender flavor with the berries is delightful). I could go on - but out of the 8 dishes and 6 drinks we tried - not a single one disappointed. Kelly and the whole team supporting her did a fantastic job and made my wife and my (20 years of dating) anniversary dinner truly special!

Review №125

2016-01-05 06:24:13

A decent romantic date spot with State St. prices and subpar service. We went here with a group and were very out of place. This is a small restaurant suited for groups no larger than 4. My food was good, but several others in our group complained of cold, inedible food. When they complained, the waiter offered to heat it back up, but did not offer a discount or apology.

Review №126

2018-12-02 04:47:27

Great modern American food with simple yet welcoming environment. Really good food, attentive staff, and quick preparation. Only detractor is the music is a little loud and its a bit dark. Otherwise, amazing!

Review №127

2018-03-12 03:34:03

Good food and good service. Small and quaint restaurant, but the experience was great. The complimentary homemade sourdough bread served was good, the entrees came out fast and were really packed with great flavors.

Review №128

2022-10-30 04:24:34

Not a lot of options but what they do have is really good! They do change their menu a lot. Cute place for a romantic night or for celebrating something fun!

Review №129

2019-05-26 04:35:51

Barbareño does an awesome job of combining delicious food with a very unique dining experience. The waiters and waitresses are very friendly and attentive. Every dish is explained in detail and the whole restaurant pays a lot of respect to its hometown of Santa Barbara.

Review №130

2020-01-12 19:37:09

Amazing meal + great service! We started with the Panzanella, had the Oak Tagliatelle and Santa Maria BBQ for mains and finished with the Inside Out Affogato. It was one of the best meals we’ve had in a long, long time.

Review №131

2023-01-13 05:52:14

Food was wonderful! Our server Mitchel (apologies if I misspelled it) was very nice, professional and informative. Thank you!!

Review №132

2021-11-21 01:15:04

Great all-around dining experience at this restaurant in downtown SB showcasing local and seasonal ingredients. In addition to the food and wine, we appreciated the excellent service we received.

Review №133

2020-02-17 18:43:26

What an experience. The staff were helpful, polite, and in no rush. The food and drink were spectacular, as well as perfectly timed. Their sourdough rivals the Tartine. Ambiance is dimly lit and relaxed. Highly recommended!

Review №134

2017-02-08 02:08:38

My Favorite resturant in Santa Barbara! Very talented chiefs. Great vibe and service. Never disappoints! The dishes are so creative, fresh and full of flavor. The chiefs travels around the world to get inspired and it shows. They use all local ingrediants and create beautiful dishes. I love there uni pasta, chestnut pasta, scallops or the dish of the day, the Best burger in Santa Barbara, Raviolo (when they have it), and my husband loves the plate of pork. They also have an incredible wine list with decent prices.

Review №135

2023-08-07 05:41:28

Was a really nice place to be and the staff and atmosphere was beautiful.

Review №136

2018-04-14 23:23:27

Wow!!! The food was incredible. The service was great from the moment we arrived. What a great patio to sit and relax and have a great meal. Great local restaurant. Diffenatly coming back but bringing more friends.

Review №137

2016-06-03 19:10:53

Very unique and delicious food. I had a sous vide cooked Tri Tip steak. It was so tender and flavorful, blew my mind for a otherwise average cut of meat. Almost seemed like art.

Review №138

2016-08-19 14:04:04

This is the best restaurant in Santa Barbara, hands-down. Off the beaten track a couple blocks off State, the ambience is great and they offer indoor seating (bar or table) as well as an airy outdoor enclosed patio area. Their creative and hyper-local menu, which extends to the beer and wine list, is inspired by Santa Barbara and the Central Coast, and their standard dishes (sous vide tri-tip, acorn tagliatelle) are interspersed with seasonal specials (quail, yellowtail, avocado gazpacho...) that are all amazing - and different than youll find anywhere else in California. And dont forget to save room for dessert! They also are dedicated to making the restaurant friendly for those living in the neighborhood, so if youre a local, come sit at the bar for the lower-priced bar menu and a glass or two of local wine. The staff is wonderful, and will make you feel like family. We always bring our out of town friends here for a great, and unique, local SB dining experience.

Review №139

2022-04-03 14:53:09

Enjoy the food and excellent staff.

Review №140

2022-03-05 19:06:03

Fantastic ambience (not too loud), courteous and responsive staff. The steak was amazingly well done.Well worth it!

Review №141

2020-07-30 03:18:08

Food was great, but they are not honoring their Axxess deal despite still advertising on the Axxess app. I hate being lied to, so I cannot in good conscience give liars more than 3 stars.UPDATE: In response to the owner - I understand there is a pandemic, I understand that you are not Axxess, and I understand that you cannot offer a discount. I do not understand why you havent pulled your restaurant off of Axxess after 4 months of pandemic and about 2 months of being re-opened. I have seen other restaurants pull their Axxess deals, so I know it is possible. It is an unpleasant surprise to find out after the meal is finished that the total bill will be about 20% more than anticipated. It is, as you pointed out, a pandemic, and it has affected everyones finances. Best of luck to you.

Review №142

2019-06-16 04:32:13

Some of the best food Ive ever had in Santa BarbaraEvery thing was cooked perfectlyThe service was I pecable, such friendly and helpful staffI had high expectations coming in and they blew it out of the water!All the food is local and hand picked by the cheifs!100/10 suggest eating here!!Ill be dreaming of this meal

Review №143

2019-08-28 21:26:42

Best place we ate in Santa Barbara. Incredible service and the most delicious food. Our server was one of the nicest servers we’ve ever had and so accommodating and thoughtful. A must visit!

Review №144

2015-11-18 05:45:48

Great dining experience. Comfortable atmosphere and delicious food. The tri tip was excellent; tender with a really interesting combination of flavors happening. Try that and get some of the ice cream for dessert. Oh boy, that ice cream is something else.

Review №145

2019-07-19 03:19:38

Amazing service. Top tier eatery. Highly recommend

Review №146

2020-11-02 05:40:43

Their plates are deliciously unique. Very tasty. Their desserts are scrumptious. Would drive from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara again just for their food!

Review №147

2023-01-02 00:49:18

Fantastic. Strawberry sofrito blew my mind. Great wine selection as well.

Review №148

2017-10-27 03:52:11

One of the best meals we’ve had in a long time. The smoked Brussels sprouts were truly unique and delicious, but everything we ordered was terrific.

Review №149

2021-06-30 03:29:15

Nice ambience, good and interesting food. The service was attentive and friendly. We took out-of-town guests and had a first rate experience.

Review №150

2023-10-07 03:00:01

Fantastic food and service as always.

Review №151

2019-08-07 15:17:47

One of the best restaurants weve been at during our west coast road trip. Amazingly well executed dishes, great service and tasty and innovative cocktails.

Review №152

2020-08-24 23:05:48

Wagyu tri tip, grilled avocado and animal fries. Nice atmosphere, excellent service. The panna cotta is something we regretted ordering. A little pricey.

Review №153

2022-05-06 23:34:39

I got the best hair cut and beard trim in quite some time. Isreal is an artist with a straight edge and I would go back again in a heartbeat.

Review №154

2019-10-08 14:19:19

Last week was our first time we went to this fine restaurant. But It is surely not the last time. We passed a splendid evening with the good service, with the great cooking and fine drinks and with the friendly pay. We will surely come back in a short time.

Review №155

2019-03-29 14:08:45

Great food and awesome service! They were very accommodating to my fiancés dairy and gluten allergies. Well definitely be back!

Review №156

2019-01-29 03:18:49

Beautiful ambiance, creative locally sourced menu, and excellent service!

Review №157

2018-12-28 00:47:27

Excellent spot for an evening out, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of state street. Friendly service and amazing food. Thought and creativity went into each dish.

Review №158

2017-09-15 20:23:08

Weve always like this place but last time we were in a month or so ago they had gotten a new chef and the food wasnt as good. Dry chicken which I sent back. Some chinese style bao buns that were not good either. I hope they sort that out. Well give it another try at some point.

Review №159

2019-08-13 19:01:09

So far this place is the best experience Ive had in Santa Barbara or Montecito. Sat at the bar, knowledgeable server great food attention service would definitely recommend a visit. Great selection of food and wine

Review №160

2018-04-19 17:19:41

Superb inventive menu with stylish touches. Corn egg muffins with whipped sheeps cheese and crispy Brussels sprouts were highlights even better than the amazing ribs!

Review №161

2018-05-12 19:59:45

Barbareño is a BBQ joint like no other, and comfortably sits in the upper end of dining experiences that Santa Barbara can offer. Even if Barbareños menu is focused around smoked meats, calling Barbareño a BBQ joint is probably a huge injustice. The owners have a stated aspiration for Barbareño to represent the micro-regional cuisine of Santa Barbara, similar to in French or Italian culture where each town or city of the country has its own distinct style of cooking based on the bounty of the region and the local traditions.Head Chef Justin Snyder, who has cooked everywhere from immensely-popular Georges at the Cove in San Diego to duo-Michelin-starred Ta Vie in Hong Kong, has assumed chief kitchen responsibilities from co-owner and original chef Julian Martinez, bringing additional refinement to an already solid dining operation. Martinez and Snyders menu is built around leverage of an outdoor Santa Maria grill, a style of grill common in this region that evolved from South American asado-style grilling of meat over an open flame. What gives the Santa Maria grill a distinct look is its turn-wheel apparatus that allows precise heat-control by enabling cooks to easily raise and lower the cooking grate over the flaming coastal red oak that burns below. Barbareño takes it a step further and adds a smoker, an enhancement that one can taste in the rich, slow-cooked meats served here, which are more heavily-smoked than typical Santa Maria-style BBQ.The featured meat of the Santa Maria style is Tri-Tip, a relatively lean but flavorful cut of beef from the bottom sirloin that responds well to indirect cooking. The BBQ Tri-Tip at Barbareño is the dish to order here -- smoked for 2 hours, then cooked sous vide for another 12 hours, and finally finished on the aforementioned Santa Maria grill. A barbecue fusion of the old methods and the new, this multi-step journey results in what is definitely the tastiest, smokiest, tender chunk of Tri-Tip I have ever dreamt about.I know what you may be thinking, kind reader: at $27, this is REALLY pricey for a barbecue dish, even if it is as spectacular as this reviewer claims it is. But know as well that its served by pleasant people in a delightful setting, and that Barbareño is serious about sourcing. Their avocados are grown on-property. The Angus choice-grade tri-tip is sourced from local butcher shop Shalhoob Meat Company. The creamy (but not mushy) pinquito beans that form the legume bed on which the Tri-Tip rests come from Rancho Gordo, a local grower of heirloom beans that Ive been ordering from for years. The gorgeous deep red tomatoes on the Tri-Tip plate have been lightly roasted so theyve started to caramelize and become sweet -- providing a nice balance to the savory beans and beef.Im sure there are better Santa Maria-style tri-tip BBQ restaurants around the Central Coast, but Barbareños presence in downtown Santa Barbara means that a great rendition of this style of barbecue is close and convenient for city-dwellers, tourists, and business-travelers like myself. Also, BBQ aside, Barbareño is one of the best places to dine in Santa Barbara regardless of cuisine. The owners have achieved something very special here, creating a successful restaurant that is very much Santa Barbara while keeping the venue and prices relatively humble.

Review №162

2019-08-26 20:22:06

What an amazing restaurant. The food was spectacular and the service was impeccable. Its a place Ill go back to often as they change the menu monthly.Go! Youll love it.

Review №163

2018-08-25 19:30:07

Everything we tried here was amazing. The restaurant itself has a great vibe and we were told by locals that it used to be a sandwich shop. The new ownership has created a great upscale restaurant.

Review №164

2015-07-03 14:35:47

The king salmon was so perfectly cooked. The scotch eggs and eggamuffins are worth crowing about. Very good service. Ryan was helpful and attentive.

Review №165

2020-10-16 02:58:08

The biggest disappointment in service and how we were literally dismissed as guests after showing a the Axxess Card promo that they showed to be a part of and refused to acknowledge with an attitude.I hope no guest is ever treated the way I was.

Review №166

2016-06-12 15:23:35

What a lovely experience. Our server was a great help and very informative. The food was wonderfully prepared and presented. Cant wait to go back!!!

Review №167

2020-08-21 16:00:10

Food was tasty AF and the staff was hospitable and informed. Nice social distancing setup, while still feeling like youre just going out for a nice dinner.

Review №168

2019-05-26 05:11:00

Someone please explain how people who arrive late are seated before people who arrive on time? At least don’t make lame excuses as to why we are being seated late.Seat the people who made the effort to arrive on time. Tell me how long we are supposed to wait before we decide to leave? 3 stars is kind.

Review №169

2015-11-26 17:45:38

Every moment and every bite was perfect. This is my favorite restaurant in the world right now...just right in terms of tradition/innovation/amazing produce/low key friendly passionate service.Booking again right now.

Review №170

2017-02-21 23:45:42

What a wonderful experience. Beautiful dining room and delicious, creative food. Felt like home but with a little more excitement. Highly recommend

Review №171

2017-08-29 02:22:26

Amazing food. Smoked BBQ and pork ribs were wonderful. Potatoes are fabulous and veggies with harissa very tasty as well.

Review №172

2017-06-24 04:36:33

Wine list is short and outrageously overpriced for the quality. Food is good but nothing exceptional. An average dining experience with a high price tag.

Review №173

2019-05-26 16:33:03

What a great dinner. Beautiful place, extremely attentive service, amazing wine list and THE FOOD. Dont miss the hamashi crudo and the panzina.

Review №174

2020-10-26 04:51:44

Food and service were amazing.

Review №175

2021-07-19 15:39:21

The food was great, the dishes were new and unexpected, but fabulous, and the staff were to notch. Id go back again on a minute.

Review №176

2017-10-14 05:23:24

Service was excellent and flavor was superb. Unfortunately I had a few fish bones in my Cod ...so spend the 2nd half of my meal picking bones out of every bite.

Review №177

2023-04-25 01:30:38

Good but overrated in my opinion. Excellent service made up for it.

Review №178

2023-01-28 19:23:17

Amazing service and spectacular food! Everything was above and beyond expectations.

Review №179

2023-05-06 05:28:09

We got the menu, and everything was delicious.

Review №180

2023-05-19 20:21:49

Insanely good, been here twice and always impressed.

Review №181

2018-06-18 22:36:35

Best restaurant in Santa Barbara. Exceptional service, and amazing food. Have been here many times and am looking forward to many more!

Review №182

2023-10-13 04:19:50

Over the top!

Review №183

2019-02-26 00:38:21

Really delicious food and great service. The dishes are straightforward, yet each one demonstrates creativity.

Review №184

2022-10-11 04:57:11

Interesting, delicious, creative, excellent wine list, knowledgeable servers. Well be back!

Review №185

2019-06-10 07:44:13

Apparently having a reservation means nothing, my date and I watched multiple people come in after us, and being seated while we waited 20 minutes past our reservation time. Some did not have a reservation and were still shown to a table before us. After 30+ min of waiting, we took off. Wish there was a way to give zero stars.

Review №186

2018-12-02 16:11:47

Food was excellent. Feels like your in the kitchen of a low lighted log cabin at night. Warm and cozy.

Review №187

2019-03-10 00:03:40

It may seem pricey for what one gets. However, the portions really are not that small, they are extremely delicious, and totally worth it. Shove all doubts aside. This place is bomb.

Review №188

2016-11-15 18:23:55

Great food! Good atmosphere. Each dish ties in a little story of the area.

Review №189

2020-07-17 03:24:28

The most amazing food and even better service! Grateful for the beautiful outdoor seating. Will be coming back!!

Review №190

2022-10-04 00:05:15

Top notch service and food. One of the best restaurants in town.

Review №191

2019-06-01 20:26:38

Santa Maria bbq was so good. Wife liked the fried chicken and our duck bao bun was very tasty

Review №192

2022-08-19 01:17:45

Loved it!! All the food was really tasty. Id return!

Review №193

2017-07-27 21:10:33

Great food, great service... as I have come to expect here. However, the tri-tip sandwich was above and beyond greatness today.

Review №194

2018-01-14 05:00:21

Just fantastic again! Love the new eggplant dish. This is a unique experience in Santa Barbara!

Review №195

2019-04-23 15:03:13

Hyped up. Expensive. Smaller portions that expected or told by wait staff. Glad we tried it, was not bad. But not going back.

Review №196

2016-12-08 05:31:19

Barbareno is amazing. Its our favorite restaurant in Santa Barbara. The food is stellar, the service is fantastic, and the ambiance is perfect.

Review №197

2021-04-25 03:44:05

Great gem in SB, the lamb del pastor was amazing, the chocolate dessert was great, great beer and wine selection

Review №198

2021-04-09 04:14:00

Incredible place, good food. great service fair prices an absolute must visit when youre in town

Review №199

2018-04-21 02:29:35

Amazing ambiance and very yummy :)