45 Best Coffee Shops in Santa Barbara

“Helena Avenue Bakery offers a wonderful ambiance in the Funk Zone, serving delicious meals like the Matcha Latte, Potato Leek Soup, and gluten-free blueberry muffins with crumble topping. They accommodate early customers and offer tasty breakfast sandwiches on biscuits. The bakery's fresh and healthy ingredients create a lovely breakfast/brunch spot with a relaxed Santa Barbara atmosphere, especially enjoyable on the lovely patio. A must-try for anyone in the area!“

“Dawn Cafe Santa Barbara is a charming spot for coffee lovers. The salted pistachio latte is a must-try from their spring menu. The baristas are friendly and skilled, ensuring a perfect cup every time. Adjacent to "Dusk" for later hours, it offers a unique cafe experience with delicious pastries.“

“CAJÉ Coffee Roasters is a cozy oasis offering great coffee and a peaceful atmosphere. While it may be expensive, the coffee is delicious and worth trying. The coffee shop serves a variety of specialty lattes, including the Yemen, Bella Rose, and Juniper's Forest, each with its unique flavor profile. While the food options, such as breakfast burritos and scramble, may have some inconsistencies, the coffee shop's specialty drinks are beautiful and flavorful. Overall, CAJÉ Coffee Roasters is a great spot for coffee lovers, and its unique coffee blends make it a must-visit destination.“

“Handlebar Coffee Roasters is a popular coffee destination in the Santa Barbara area, known for its excellent coffee, expertly made espresso drinks, and friendly, attentive staff. The coffee shop offers a welcoming environment for locals and visitors alike, with a focus on quality ingredients and customer satisfaction. Parking can be limited during busy times, but the overall experience makes it a must-visit spot in the city.“

“Java Station is a cozy coffee shop with a comfortable atmosphere and fireplace. The seating is good, and the staff is friendly and personal. The baristas seem genuinely happy to work there. The menu offers a variety of options, including the veggie sandwich, which is huge, and the Tri Tip Sandwich, which is a favorite. The artichoke quiche is also available, although one reviewer found it too salty. Overall, Java Station is a hidden gem worth visiting.“

“Old Town Coffee Santa Barbara is a cozy and spacious spot with a delightful courtyard hangout. The coffee is delicious, and the cinnamon rolls are highly recommended. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing a great ambiance and service. The location offers plenty of seating options both in the front and back.“

“Pura Vida Coffee Society is a cozy and vibrant coffee shop in SB, known for its smooth and delicious coffee, great service, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere. The shop offers a variety of coffee blends and styles, making it a must-visit destination for coffee lovers. The staff is friendly and engaging, providing a welcoming experience for customers.“

“Dune Coffee Roasters in Santa Barbara is a must-visit for coffee lovers. The coffee shop, known for having some of the best coffee in town, has a laid-back and chill atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to start the day. The coffee shop offers a variety of drinks, including lattes, americanos, and flash brew. The lattes, made with 2% milk and served in porcelain cups, are a popular choice and are praised for their delicious taste. The coffee used in-house is Zip Zinger, which has a unique flavor profile of dark chocolate and stone fruits. In addition to their coffee, Dune Coffee Roasters also offers croissants, including ham and gruyere and almond varieties. The croissants are freshly baked and are a great complement to the coffee. The coffee shop has a friendly and attentive staff, with cashiers and baristas like Camilo, Gabi, and Drue going above and beyond to ensure customers have a great experience. The service is quick, and the staff is knowledgeable about the coffee and menu offerings. The coffee shop is clean and well-maintained, with a spacious outdoor patio and a community countertop for people-watching. Dune Coffee Roasters is the perfect spot for coffee lovers looking for a great brew, friendly service, and a chill atmosphere.“

“Vices & Spices From Around The World in Santa Barbara offers a favorite organic Guatemala dark roasted coffee, along with pastries and awesome lattes. The place is known for its matcha powder at a great price. Customers enjoy browsing through a wide variety of teas, coffees, spices, candies, books, and unique gifts. The staff is friendly and the clientele is welcoming.“

“Daily Grind is a popular spot in Santa Barbara, known for its inviting atmosphere and friendly service. The menu offers a variety of options, from a Bacon, egg, and cheese bagel to a delicious breakfast burrito. Even when there's a mix-up with the order, customers still enjoy their meal. The coffee, including the Americano, receives high praise, and the raspberry muffin is a must-try. The unique, old Taco Bell-like building adds to the establishment's charm, making it a great place to relax, work, or enjoy a meal with friends and family.“

“Lighthouse Coffee is a charming cafe with a cozy patio area perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee. The intimate space is filled with quirky art and plants, creating a unique atmosphere. Customers can enjoy the smell of roasting coffee while sipping on delicious drinks like the dirty chai or the Gibraltar espresso. The friendly baristas provide great recommendations, such as the lavender iced coffee and savory empanadas. Whether you're looking for a place to work, have a coffee date, or simply relax with your pup, Lighthouse Coffee is a must-visit spot with top-notch service.“

“Lighthouse Coffee is a welcoming spot in downtown Santa Barbara, near Kanaloa seafood, Kyle's Kitchen, and Paseo Nuevo. Enjoy a coffee break with friends or a quick stop before work or shopping. The coffee shop offers plenty of seating inside and out, and is dog-friendly (although this policy has changed). Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis with a time limit. Try their delicious breakfast sandwich with fresh ingredients, and enjoy the courteous service. It's a great spot for people-watching at the Chapala location.“

“CAJÉ Coffee Roasters is a beautiful gem located across the street from local shops, perfect for enjoying a delicious decaf iced chai latte. The staff is friendly, and there are plenty of outlets and great WiFi available. This spot offers classic and specialty coffee drinks like the vanilla latte, Rosemary Latte, Burnout, Yemen, and the Bella Rose Matcha. It's an ideal place to work or catch up with friends, with almost every seat equipped with a plug for charging devices. The atmosphere is conducive to productivity, with a cute bar area and a welcoming ambiance. Don't miss the opportunity to try their delicious iced matcha latte when you visit this new favorite spot!“

“Dune Coffee Roasters offers a unique atmosphere, contrasting with the slow-paced and old-fashioned decor. Baristas craft consistently well-made drinks, allowing customers to relax and enjoy their beverages. Their coffee is praised for its smooth and slightly nutty flavor, with syrups made in-house adding a distinct taste. With multiple locations in the area, this coffee spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a great place to grab a coffee and unwind.“

“Oat Bakery - Downtown is a charming spot with excellent service and a lovely atmosphere. While the pastry selection may be limited, the bread options are a highlight, with standouts like the moist and flavorful miso-maple focaccia and the pumpkin seeds sourdough bread. The bakery is worth visiting, especially early in the day on weekends, and is a great destination for bread lovers.“

“The US of E coffee truck in Santa Barbara is a popular choice for locals and visitors. Located near the Santa Barbara Mission, it offers a convenient spot for a pick-me-up with delicious lattes and oat caps. The avocado toast and pre-made burritos are also popular choices, although some customers would like to see adjustable burritos and better serving containers. The truck is known for its fast and friendly service, with the added bonus of dog treats for furry friends. The truck now offers $11 breakfast and lunch burritos, served hot and ready in about five minutes. Overall, the US of E coffee truck is a tasty and convenient option for those in the area.“

“Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery is a charming spot for breakfast, brunch, and early lunch. The service is amazing, and the food is great. Customers can order at the counter and find a table waiting for them. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including the classic Eggs Benedict and a breakfast burrito. The outdoor seating is lovely, though some customers find the music to be too loud.“

“CAJÉ Coffee Roasters is a gorgeous, aesthetic, and Instagram-worthy coffee shop. The signature drinks that look like cocktails are a highlight for those who don't drink alcohol. The sugarwood, which has a nice touch of rosemary, is a delicious option. The layout inside is super cute, though it's a small café with a focus on grab-and-go rather than sitting and chatting. The rose matcha, iced matcha, and blended matcha are all praised, with the rose matcha being a standout. While the service could be more welcoming, the beautifully made drinks and the ability to browse nearby shops make CAJÉ Coffee Roasters a popular destination.“

“Wylde Works offers a cozy atmosphere with great crowd vibes. The dark honey beer and kombucha honey beer are must-tries, according to reviewers. On Tuesdays, they host a fun Open Mic night. The staff, like Tekaoh, provides excellent service, offering detailed explanations of beverages and letting customers taste before ordering. The dry clairette honey wine stands out as a delicious choice. Overall, a fantastic experience with top-notch service and tasty drinks.“

“Kin Bakeshop is a popular spot with a weekly rotating menu of donuts and an excellent café. Despite being a small shop with a high demand, the wait is worth it. The shop is known for its handcrafted drinks and pastries, including a black sesame seed latte and mochi. With a kind and welcoming staff, Kin Bakeshop offers a unique and delicious experience.“

“Starbucks is a chain coffee shop with good lighting and plenty of space. The clean interior has limited seating, with outdoor areas available for customers. The staff is friendly, and the food, like the lemon loaf, is what you would expect from Starbucks. The comfortable outdoor seating area is a nice place to relax, although parking may be challenging due to limited space. The single stall bathrooms are clean and locked with a code, ensuring a sense of security for customers. Overall, this Starbucks location offers a typical experience with some unique features like the outdoor seating areas.“

“Lokum offers the most authentic Turkish delight in the states, with fresh and quality flavors like rose pistachio. The ambiance is charming, filled with Turkish delights and friendly staff. Turkish coffee is a must-try, served in cute espresso-sized cups. The shop boasts a variety of delicious desserts, tempting even those who didn't plan on buying anything. Located near paid parking lots on State Street, Lokum is a must-visit for anyone looking for a delightful Turkish dessert experience. Highly recommended for a tasty treat that won't disappoint.“

“Caffe Luxxe is a chic coffee shop chain located at the Montecito Country Mart near Pavilions. They offer a variety of quality drinks, including the popular iced Shakerato and creamy Caffe latte. Known for their sustainable bean sourcing and artisanal techniques, they were one of the first specialty coffee shops in L.A. The staff is friendly and down-to-earth, offering suggestions like the unique Caffe Nico latte. The storefront is clean and streamlined, offering delicious lattes made from espresso blend. While the staff is efficient, the overall experience is delightful, making it a great spot to support, especially since they give back to the communities they are located in.“

“Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery offers a great location with good food and classic brunch options like chilaquiles. The ambience is perfect for a meal with family or friends, and the view is highly recommended. The system of ordering and seating works efficiently, and the scones are absolutely delicious. The staff is incredibly nice and the atmosphere is great for dining in.“

“Little Heart Cafecito in Santa Barbara is known for its delicious breakfast options. The Los Alamos breakfast burrito is a favorite, being filling yet not greasy, with well-proportioned ingredients. Their breakfast tacos also receive high praise, though some find the salsas to be spicier than labeled. This adorable coffee shop in the public market offers excellent coffee, various food options, and a cozy atmosphere, making it an excellent morning spot.“

“Starbucks provides exceptional customer service, thanks to friendly and professional staff like Bre and Ryan, who go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience. The coffee shop is conveniently located in La Cumbre Plaza with ample parking and offers outside seating areas to enjoy your coffee. Orders are prepared quickly, and using the Starbucks mobile app is recommended to avoid waiting in the shop. While the atmosphere could be improved, this location is a reliable choice for a typical Starbucks experience.“

“Starbucks in Mesa is a local neighborhood spot with excellent service and a clean environment. The baristas are friendly and make the best espresso drinks. It's a great coffee hub for quality brews. The staff is kind and passionate, offering a welcoming atmosphere for customers to work in. With free parking and wheelchair accessibility, it's a convenient place to enjoy a consistent Starbucks experience.“

“Santa Barbara Roasting Company offers a variety of coffee options, including drip coffee, americano, and latte. The coffee is described as having a good quality, but not the best some customers have had. Prices are noted as slightly steep. Service is friendly, and there is ample seating and parking. However, the coffee is served in plastic cups and the cafe can feel a bit cramped. The coffee's smell is noticeable upon entering the establishment. The coffee is roasted on-site, but the taste was found to be just "ok" by some customers. Automated ordering and slow service were also mentioned.“

“Small batch, local roasting at it's finest☕“

“Located in downtown, Hook & Press Donuts offers a great vibe, awesome service, and a variety of options for everyone. The lemon blueberry donut is a favorite among customers. The place is slightly pricey but worth the artisan experience. With outdoor seating, a coffee bar, and vegan-friendly options, it's a perfect spot for a treat day. The root beer float and s'mores donuts are spectacular. The place is cute, pretty, and ideal for a quick work or study session with adequate wifi and plenty of outlets. Don't miss out on their amazing breakfast sandwiches along with the overwhelming selection of fresh donuts.“

“Dawn Patrol is a laid-back restaurant with good food and friendly service. It offers quasi-fancy coffee options at a great price, as well as a variety of dishes including chicken chilaquiles, single pancakes, and build-your-own hashbrowns. Gluten-free options are available, including gluten-free pancakes and hollandaise sauce. While parking can be challenging, the restaurant is worth the effort. However, some guests have noted that the water tastes like it's coming straight from the hose.“

“Peet's Coffee is a cozy spot with a hidden patio perfect for gatherings. They serve good coffee, which is often enjoyed by regular customers. The food is also good, but beware of the croissant. A tip is to order iced espresso and add milk for a cost-effective alternative to an iced latte. The atmosphere and flavor are exceptional, with the best coffee in town. However, the restaurant's closing time can be confusing, as they stop taking orders 15 minutes before closing, so it's best to arrive a little early.“

“Elsie's Tavern is a unique bar located in SB, known for its laid-back atmosphere and hipster crowd. Originally a motorcycle shop, it now features a chill indoor seating area with comfortable couches and a competitive pool table. The back patio offers additional outdoor seating, completing the vibe of the place. Although the food has not been reviewed, the bar offers various non-alcoholic options. Cash is the only accepted form of payment, but an ATM is available on-site. The staff is friendly, and the venue is known for its welcoming environment.“

“Lighthouse Coffee is a cozy and relaxing spot, open from early hours, serving amazing coffee and freshly made toasts and sandwiches. The cafe offers a clean and comfortable environment, complete with charging ports, a water station, and clean restrooms. Friendly service and a professional team, led by a exceptional manager, ensure a great experience. Enjoy their rich and flavorful hot dirty chai, delicious cappuccinos, and tasty bagel breakfast sandwiches, along with vegetarian options like avocado toast. It's a kid-friendly spot, popular among locals.“

“The Daily Grind in Santa Barbara is a beloved local cafe that offers an exceptional coffee and food experience. Their coffee is consistently rich, smooth, and satisfying, making it the perfect start to the day. The smoothies are refreshing, the pastries are delightfully flaky and sweet, and the sandwiches are loaded with fresh, tasty ingredients. The cafe also serves delicious breakfast burritos, including the popular sausage and chorizo varieties, as well as a tempting selection of desserts, such as the indulgent carrot cake. The Daily Grind is known for its cozy, welcoming atmosphere and convenient parking, making it a cornerstone of the neighborhood. Whether you're in the mood for a classic coffee or a unique Mexican coffee, this cafe is sure to delight.“

“Caffè offers a picturesque dining experience with beautiful outdoor seating on the patio. The food receives high praise, described as great, excellent, and wonderful. Notable dishes include crab chowder, crab cakes, fish and chips, and salad with poached egg and pancetta. However, service experiences vary; while some found the service fantastic, others were disappointed, particularly during a Christmas dinner buffet at 7pm. Despite occasional service issues, the restaurant's wine selection and valet service are well-regarded. Overall, Caffè provides delicious food in a charming setting, though service consistency may vary.“

“Oakberry Acai Bowls & Smoothies is a charming restaurant with a colorful, plant-filled ambiance. The service is accommodating and efficient, making for a peaceful dining experience. The acai bowls are delicious, with a variety of toppings available, including chia seeds, nut butter, and honey. The bowls are attractively presented, with layers of ingredients that are easy to mix. The Works size acai bowl is a popular choice, with granola, chia pudding, and vegan protein powder. The restaurant offers unlimited toppings, allowing customers to customize their meal to their taste. Overall, Oakberry Acai Bowls & Smoothies is a must-visit destination for a delicious and refreshing meal.“

“Bree'Osh Bakery Café Santa Barbara offers exceptional service, accommodating special requests and catering needs. Their baked goods, such as pains au chocolat, are decent, although some may find the price a bit steep. On the other hand, their almond croissants are highly praised by those who have tried them, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.“

“Starbucks in a unique location, offers a killer matcha latte and good service, but lacks charging ports. Convenient spot off the freeway with easy order pick-up, indoor and outdoor seating. Ideal for studying or people-watching in the evenings. Popular for toasted bagels with cream cheese, and carries the Santa Barbara mug for souvenir hunters.“

“The Shop Brunch is a popular breakfast and brunch spot that offers a variety of delicious and satisfying dishes. The Rollex, a no-frills meal with an African flatbread reminiscent of a Chinese scallion pancake, is a standout, pairing well with smashed avocados, bacon, scrambled eggs, and smoked tomato. The restaurant is also known for its exceptional breakfast sandwiches, particularly the one featuring maple-flavored chicken that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes, all nestled between amazing sourdough bread. The friendly staff and lively atmosphere contribute to the overall enjoyable dining experience. For those seeking a refreshing start to the day, The Shop Brunch's cold brew with oat milk and freshly squeezed orange juice are highly recommended. The chilaquiles, with the addition of avocado and carnitas, is a must-try dish, offering a flavorful and satisfying blend of spices, crisp chips, and tender meat. Whether you're looking for a casual breakfast or a leisurely brunch, The Shop Brunch is sure to impress.“

“Del Pueblo Cafe has undergone significant improvements under new ownership, offering a more gourmet menu with something for everyone. The food is fresh, hot, and well-prepared, with standouts like chicken enchiladas and wet burritos with exceptional verde sauce. The service is friendly and courteous, and the ambiance is relaxing. The decor has been updated, and online ordering is now available. The menu has been tweaked to offer high-quality, well-seasoned dishes with pleasing presentations, making it a great choice for families and loyal customers alike.“

“Honor Market is a charming little market offering a delightful selection of pizzas, wine, gifts, books, and incredible coffee. Located next to the Honor Bar, it's a great spot to grab some treats, including delicious cookies and addicting cappuccinos. The friendly staff provides excellent customer service, making it a memorable experience.“

“Starbucks in the Five Points shopping center offers a spacious interior with ample seating, both indoors and outdoors. Customers can conveniently order ahead on the mobile app and enjoy consistent coffee quality. The location also provides ample parking and sells a variety of Christmas merchandise. The service is reported to be satisfactory.“