21 Best Cocktail Bars in Santa Barbara

The Lark Santa Barbara New American • $$$
131 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Petaluma Free Range Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Southern Fried Chicken & Sourdough Waffle
Wayne Farms Buttermilk Fried Chicken
West Coast Oysters on the Half Shell
Espresso Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich
Creekstone Hanger Steak Tartare
Bourbon Apple Cider Granita
The Lark Charcuterie Board
Duroc Pork Belly Benedict
Crispy Brussel Sprouts

“Came for brunch in the hipster "funk zone" area, at the fairly well-known restaurant, The Lark, for my first time. Service was friendly and great, although our food came out a bit slower than expected. Still, the hostess, waitress and bussers were all informative, fun and kind. The food was fantastic! My spouse loved the shakshuka, as it was powerfully flavorful with cast iron to have that roasted touch. We could've done without the green olives in it, but more for personal taste. My chicken and waffles were also excellent. The waffles were surprisingly light and crispy, with some heavy honey butter to kick you in the mouth. Fried chicken was good. We enjoyed our mimosa flight- particularly with the sparkling wine/champagne served in a separate chilled container to dole out for the flavors (pomegranate, grapefruit, orange and cranberry, iirc). All the other sides like the oyster and hangover fries were well-suited to curb any remaining appetites. Love the decor too, particularly in the booths. Very charming, and classy, while still chill. Easy to find this restaurant nestled with other shops, pastries and coffee. Definitely would come again!“

4.4 Superb115 Reviews
milk & honey Spanish • $$
30 W Anapamu St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Wrapped Dates
Sweet Potato Fries
Some Brie Sauce
Patatas Bravas
Heat of Passion
Shrimp Tacos
Charcuterie
PB&J Sliders
Lamb Sliders
Lamburginis

“Best spot! It’s always the go-to for date night or girls night. I love the ambience, unique and delicious cocktails, and delicious tapas. It’s a true staple of Santa Barbara. Don’t miss the lamb sliders and heat of passion cocktail!Vegetarian options: Sliders, tacos, cheese only dishes, vegetable dishesParking: There’s a city parking lot in the back that is free for the first 75 minutes and affordable after that.“

4.6 Superb91 Reviews
Rodeo Room Cocktail Bar • $$
231 W Montecito St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken and Waffles
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Peanut Butter Falcon
Bourbon Cheesecake
Burger

“Thank the lord, or Dudley, that we finally have a real bar in SB. What a concept! Great job to the Rodeo Room team. Ricardo is a beast on the service well, with a great smile and attitude. Few places in town you can order a “Naked and Famous”, if you like Mezcal you must order one and see for yourself. It’s a place you can take your friends, a date or even a client you’re trying to impress. They always play the Jams. Food is really impressive as well, you can’t even call it bar food but this shouldn’t surprise anyone if you’ve had The Shop on Milpas. Same owners, same standards, same quality. Thanks Rodeo Room!“

4.8 Superb75 Reviews
Dusk Bar Bar • $$
524 State St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Ceviche Tostada

“We happened to be in town for their 1 year anniversary. Im not sure if the menu was different for this event but everything we had was worth ordering again. Ordered the Oaxacan old fashioned which was very strong! Really good but strong! Hubby ordered the ah huevo which let me tell you was amazing! The flavors and aromatics were on point. So good that I traded with hubby and ordered two more rounds of this. I really hope this drink is on their regular menu! Oysters were on the menu so why not?! There were 2 kinds so we ordered 4 of each which were topped with a house mignonette and micro cilantro. These oysters were incredible! The simple dressing over fresh oysters were amazing. We ended up ordering more because they were that good. Service was great, such a friendly cozy vibe. Small dark bar with few seating but worth it if you can get a seat. Will definitely be back.“

4.9 Superb58 Reviews
Santo Mezcal Mexican • $$
119 State St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Tlacoyo De Huitlacoche Y Hongos
Chips and Salsa Complimentary
Pulpo a Las Brasas
Ribeye Taco Plate
Cochinita Pibil
Enchiladas Cabo
Cazuela Poblana
Octopus Tacos
Ceviche Verde
Cazuela Pibil

“Every time I'm in SB I have to stop in . Ceviches are always fresh and very flavorful, tacos are delicious, and they have a great Mezcal selection, too. Javier, our server was very knowledgeable, professional, and genuine and made a great recommendation for a cocktail with Sotol.“

4.4 Superb146 Reviews
Riviera Bar American • $$
20 W Figueroa St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Burger Side of Fries
Double Cheeseburger
Fried Calamari

“This place takes you back to a different time, it's old school feel, the lighting the decor it was delightful to be sitting there. No show/or entertainment but with the excellent customer service and the music in the background it felt like an experience. Not to mention... the food! Delicious , the drinks tasty, classic, fresh! Very nice place.“

4.9 Superb36 Reviews

7
Oku

Oku Sushi • $$$
29 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Crispy Korean Cauliflower
Vegetarian Rainbow Roll
Yellowtail Carpaccio
From the Sushi Bar
Crazy Rich Asians
Chicken Wings
Saigon Wings
Spider Roll
Miso Soup
Lollipops

“Great food, great service, and an amazing rooftop dining area when the weather is right! We've been numerous times - pretty much anytime we're visiting SB. It's a perfect spot for couples or small groups of friends. And, while the menu is seafood/sushi heavy (great for us!) there are plenty of other options for the vegetarians and non-seafood folks in your group.We always aim to try a few new items whenever we visit, but our favorites continue to be the Crispy Korean Cauliflower, Crispy Tuna Nigiri, and our all-time favorite - the Seared Yellowtail Box Roll!“

4.5 Superb376 Reviews
Intermezzo by Wine Cask Fine Dining • $$$
813 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Asparagus
Ahi Tuna Tartare
Pinot Noir

“Great Burger with lots of grilled carmelized onions. Salmon was superb. Josh and his crew do an excellant job as I refer many guests to this establishment from my local hotel. Victor Evarone Managing Partner Cabrillo Inn at the Beach Oceanfront "East Beach" Santa Barbara CA“

4.5 Superb255 Reviews
Lure Fish House Seafood • $$
3815 State St Suite G131, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Charbroiled Oysters on the Half Shell
Salmon Parmesan Potato Cakes and Fries
Sand Dabs Rice Pilaf and Creamed Corn
Fish and Chips
Santa Barbara
Lobster Roll
Clam Chowder
Rockfish
Seafood

“Dietary restrictions: Gluten free options. Don't get anything from the fryer though. The fish I had was locally sourced & delicious! The potato parmesion pancake thing was really tasty! The California cocktail was one of the tastiest drinks I've ever had.“

4.6 Superb105 Reviews
The Black Sheep American • $$$
18 E Cota St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Braised Beef Short Rib
Shoyu Ramen
Duck Confit

“Do not miss their tasting menu. Wow. Our faves this visit included ahi crudo, short ribs, molten chocolate and a perfect creme brule'. Helpful and friendly staff. Creative wine cocktails. We will be back soon for the lamb trio.Vegetarian options: Salad and interesting veggie crepe were delicious.Wheelchair accessibility: Ground floor plenty of space.“

4.5 Superb120 Reviews
La Paloma Cafe Cocktail Bar • $$
702 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Red Oak Grilled Snake River Farms Wagyu Tri
Crispy Brussel Sprouts
Pork Shoulder Carnitas
La Paloma Salad
Brussels Sprouts
Burnt Ends Bowl
Chilaquiles
Coleslaw
Tri Tip

“Omg this was increíble food. Very innovative and delightful to the senses. Best meal of the year so far. Margarita as well. Give it a go, if you can get a spot.Also very sweet servers working there.(One small thing - the entrees came before we finished the appetizers so a bit quick — food this amazing should be given time to be savored. Ask them to hold your mains if you feel the same ;)“

4.5 Superb81 Reviews
Flor De Maiz Mexican • $$
29 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Enchiladas En Salsa Verde Y Salsa Roja
Taquitos de Pato En Mole Coloradito
Tortilla Salsa and Guacamole
Pulpo Al Pesto De Hoja Santa
Panuchos De Cochinita Pibil
Quesadillas Del Huerto
Grilled Octopus Tacos
Margarita Vallarta
Ceviche De Camaron
Enchiladas del Mar

“We came here and were excited that we found a restaurant that had Oaxaca food. Jessica is an awesome Server and was eager to make sure our experience was 5 stars. She recommended our plates and drinks and have to say that everything was top notch. We 100% percent recommend Flor de Maiz. Also ask for Jessica, you will not regret it!!!“

4.4 Superb156 Reviews
Finney's Crafthouse - Santa Barbara Gastropubs • $$
35 State St a, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Crispy Coconut Shrimp
Mini Ahi Poke Tacos
Buffalo Cauliflower
Carnitas Nachos
Yuzu Hot Wings
Fish Tacos
Sandwich

“First time at Finney’s. Got there around 8 pm on a Friday in the off season and the place was full. Had a nice vibe. Six of us sat at the beer for dinner. Had two of their craft beers - a pale ale and a west coast IPA. Both were very well made. I had blackened Ahi tuna on a broc roll with a wasabi aoli/relish. The tuna was done perfectly. Finney’s is worth a try.“

4.4 Superb139 Reviews
The Good Lion Cocktail Bar • $
1212 State St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Manhattan Date Night
Pear

“I stopped in here recently on a Friday after work and it was so fun! Definitely seems like a popular spot right on State Street next to the Granada Theater. The bartenders were both very attentive and immediately caught our attention to take our order. They had a great menu of options, including seasonal drinks to choose from. I opted for a gin cocktail from the seasonal menu. Such a great time sitting outside and people watching. They do have indoor seating too.“

4.5 Superb62 Reviews
Lab Social Cocktail Bar • $$
414 E Haley St, Santa Barbara

“One of our go-to bars in Santa Barbara. Tristan is a great mixologist. The La Vie En Rose is a fantastic cocktail, maybe the best in town. Lucky’s Revenge is also delicious. We prefer to order it with gin. Haven’t had too much of the food offerings but been pleased with what we’ve had. Highly recommend this spot to all our friends. Plus there’s live music Wednesday nights!“

4.8 Superb24 Reviews
The Red Piano Cocktail Bar • $
519 State St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Margherita
Four Roses
Maker

“Absolutely entertaining and filled with a fun energy. Hubby and I stopped in while celebrating our 6 year anniversary. We didn't try a whole lot form the menu, just some 805s and gummy bear shots (). The pianist was excellent and played a handful of favorites. Waitress was on it with drinks and checking in on us, and she did it with a crowd of bachelorette parties and many people coming and going. We will go back for sure!“

4.4 Superb83 Reviews
Shaker Mill Cocktail Bar • $$
418 State St, Santa Barbara

“This is my favorite bar in Santa Barbara and I doubt that will ever change. Miss the chongo shot but the espresso shot and a Bay of Santiago will always and forever hit the spot. Every. Single. Time.Everyone who works here are professionals and friendly. Never ever had less then a stellar time.“

4.5 Superb34 Reviews
Sama Sama Kitchen Cocktail Bar • $$
1208 State St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Shaved Bok Choy & Duck Salad
Braised Pork Mie Goreng
Naughty Nuri Spare Ribs
Fried Brussels Sprouts
Green Papaya Salad
Stir Fried Noodles
Traditional Wings
Crispy Fried Rice
Vietnamese Wings
Crispy Rice Salad

“In Santa Barbara for vacay, this spot was recommended by a local. wings - half and half of the two flavor choices. Both the signature and the Vietnamese were delightful Green papaya salad - ingredients were fresh and tasted good. But not my cup of tea, preferences? Braised pork noodles - kinda felt like a half/third sized portion for a noddle dish. This is an individual sized side portion. Tasty, but tiny. Naughty nuri spare ribs - delish. Accompaniments - delish. Service was prompt and friendly.“

3.9 Good83 Reviews
HOOK'd Bar and Grill Cocktail Bar • $
2225 CA-154, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Tri-Tip Sandwich and Onion Rings
Cachuma Burger and Fries
Burger and Onion Rings
Onion Rings and Fries
Veggie Grilled Cheese
Garden Fresh Salad
Cachuma Burger
Hotdog

“Nice place to sit and enjoy your food. Recommended to visit during evening hours where you can enjoy live music(weekends) and lake view. Have limited menu option but the food is very good. They haveeal.option for kids also. Wonderful place to spend time with your friends and family. #Happymotoring #enjoylife.“

4.3 Superb80 Reviews
The Pickle Room Cocktail Bar • $$
122 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara

Customers` Favorites

Smitty Burger and Reuben Egg Rolls
Apple Pie Egg Roll
Pastrami Egg Rolls
Veggie Egg Rolls
Mac N Cheese
French Fries

“Great dive bar! Has a cool atmosphere and the building and restaurant has a lot of history. The service was pretty good, our drink orders were taken right away. As it got later it got really busy and service was a little slower but it made sense. We both ordered the boo boo kitty and it was delicious, more alcohol forward and not overly sweet, just how we like it“

4.3 Superb41 Reviews
NoTown Tavern Sports Bar • $
5114 Hollister Ave, Santa Barbara

“This is probably one of the BETTER hole in the wall bars. The staff are awesome the atmosphere is ok. Notown is located in a shopping center so getting food is simple.Vegetarian options: NoneDietary restrictions: NoneKid-friendliness: No kidsWheelchair accessibility: Yes wheel chairs can access from front door or rear door“

4.4 Superb22 Reviews
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