6 Best Indian Restaurants near Santa Barbara

“We were visiting Santa Barbara for three nights from San Jose and were honestly shocked when we came across this Indian restaurant with 4.9 stars on Google Maps. We decided to give it a shot with no expectations, and it turned out to be one of the most authentic and best Indian food experiences I have ever had in the United States. Hands down.

The first time, we tried the Tandoori Paneer Tikka and Malai Kofta, and both were extremely delicious. The garlic naan was so soft and fresh. They also gave us kheer as a complimentary dessert, which was such a kind gesture from Jogan and the entire staff.

The service was quick, and everyone was genuinely friendly. We enjoyed it so much that we couldn’t resist going back for a second time during our three night stay.

The second time, we tried Shahi Paneer, Yellow Dal Tadka with rice, and salted lassi. Once again, they surprised us with complimentary kheer. The Shahi Paneer was rich, creamy, and absolutely hit the spot. The naan was incredibly soft, and the Yellow Dal Tadka was probably my favorite. It was a much simpler preparation with just the right amount of spices, but the flavor was spot on.

The staff here is genuinely welcoming and friendly, and the food is clearly made with care. We would absolutely come back here the next time we are in Santa Barbara.

Parking is also very easy. There is a public parking lot right behind the restaurant and another one across the street. The City of Santa Barbara parking gives you the first 75 minutes free, and after that it is $3 per hour, which makes dining here even more convenient.

Highly, highly recommended. You will not be disappointed. We will definitely be back!“

“Good food 👍 Great service!“

“This is THE Indian restaurant Santa Barbara has been waiting for. It is hands down the best Indian cuisine in the area. Complex flavors that are not only delicious when first being had, but are equally delicious as leftovers the next day. Huge fan.“

“this is the kind of place you'd want to return to very inviting home like. The food is delicious and nutritious very healthy excellent flavor cooked to perfection and very generous portion the staff incredibly warm and caring nothing like it can't be any better rare to find a place who combine delicious food and exceptional service five stars not enough.“

“We had an excellent meal at Bibi Ji and I would rate it 10 stars if I could! This is not your usual “cheap and cheerful” Indian curry joint. I lived in India as an expat and grew up eating Indian food all over the US. This is special - complex flavors and some nice heat. We had the tandoori chicken, coconut curry with shrimp, eggplant curry, basmati rice and naan - even the naan was special! Yes, it is a bit pricier than the local Indian joint but well worth it!“

“Just had my first visit to Masala Spice Indian cuisine on Calle Real in Goleta. We received a warm and courteous greeting upon entering the beautifully decorated (and very clean) restaurant, replete with Indian wood carvings and dreamy landscape videos accompanied by contemporary Indian music. Service was very attentive and friendly.
We opted for the buffet, which certainly did not disappoint! There was tremendous variety: the Dal was simply the best I have ever had, with perfect spicing and texture. The vegetable Kurma was luscious, as was their version of Chicken Tikka Masala. There is a wide variety of offerings on the buffet, with many vegetarian options. Some very fresh and light Naan bread is included with the buffet. I also ordered a refreshing cold Mango Lassi which, like everything else, tasted very fresh and homemade. After experiencing the buffet lunch, I can't wait to come back and order other things off their exciting looking menu!“