Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Santa Barbara
Price
- $30 and under
- $31 to $50
- $50 and over
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10 restaurants available nearby
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See what locals rave about
- OTOpenTable DinerLos Angeles •2 reviews5.0Dined 1 day agoEverything we tried was great and flavorful. The service and ambiance was wonderful. It was our fist time dining here and we are looking forward to coming back.More infoBarbareñoPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara•4.8
- FFrankLos Angeles •571 reviews4.0Dined 3 days agoI’ve been here many times over the last 15 years and it’s such a beautiful restaurant. The food was amazing and our waiter was fantastic. Valet was terrific too. The hostess was a little stiff and standoffish which was surprising. We’d definitely return again hoping for a perfect dining experience. Thank you Chef!More infoStonehouse at San Ysidro RanchPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara•4.8
- LLisa MarieVIPPalm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •21 reviews5.0Dined 4 days agoFinch & Fork in Santa Barbara offers a vibrant and refined take on California cuisine, making it a standout spot for locals and visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of downtown, the restaurant blends a relaxed coastal vibe with modern elegance, perfect for everything from casual brunches to celebratory dinners. The menu is a true showcase of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their King Salmon, served with gigante beans, piquillo peppers, and marble potatoes, is a perfectly balanced dish that highlights the chef’s attention to detail. Equally impressive is the Short Rib Pappardelle Pasta, featuring tender braised short rib, wild mushroom soffritto, and a luscious touch of crème fraîche. The wine list is thoughtfully curated, offering a range of options to suit the diverse menu. Pairing recommendations from the attentive staff are spot-on, ensuring the meal is elevated to an unforgettable experience. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a mix of modern design and rustic touches that make the space both stylish and comfortable. Service is attentive and genuinely welcoming, creating an atmosphere where you can linger over a meal without feeling rushed. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a quality meal, Finch & Fork delivers on all fronts. It’s a gem in Santa Barbara’s culinary scene and well worth a visit.More infoFinch & ForkPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Barbara•4.5
- RRickPalm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •2 reviews5.0Dined 7 days agoNoise level was high which affected conversation but the music was excellent.More infoRoyPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara•3.3
- CClaireCalifornia Central Coast •1 review5.0Dined on Dec 25, 2024The Gooey Brie & Bacon sandwich was absolute perfection! Wow, nice job, Goat Tree - I will be back!More infoGoat Tree RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara•4.3
Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Santa Barbara
Discover the essence of contemporary American cuisine along the scenic California Central Coast in Santa Barbara. Renowned for its innovative culinary scene, Santa Barbara offers a delightful array of dining experiences that creatively fuse local ingredients with American traditions. Each restaurant in this locale captures the fresh, vibrant flavors of the coast, emphasizing sustainable and locally-sourced produce that elevates every dish. The dining atmosphere across these establishments varies from casual and inviting to sophisticated and elegant, ensuring an option for every occasion and taste. From expertly crafted pastas and seafood to meticulously curated wine lists and artisan cocktails, the restaurants here promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Moreover, the region is praised for its excellent service and inviting ambiances, making it a prime destination for food enthusiasts. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Santa Barbara's contemporary American dining scene offers a unique blend of taste, creativity, and culinary excellence, making every meal a memorable experience.