Alma Fonda Fina: Gourmet Mexican Cuisine
Montecito's culinary scene just got a new star! Executive Chef Ramon Velazquez, of Corazón Cocina fame, has opened Alma Fonda Fina at the Montecito Country Mart, bringing more Michelin-worthy magic to our coastal haven. After winning a California MICHELIN Bib Gourmand in 2024, Velazquez has expanded his flavorful footprint in Santa Barbara with his new restaurant, continuing to delight with elevated Mexican cuisine.
Imagine a casual eatery where comfort meets culinary creativity. Chef Velazquez, originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, is renowned for his cooking, often described as both cutting-edge and delightfully comforting. His menu features rotating dishes from the finest locally sourced ingredients, including award-winning ceviche and locally inspired citrus margaritas. The secret lies in how Chef Velazquez artfully crafts his Mexican dishes, delivering bold flavors and an unforgettable dining experience.
Aperitivo Wine Bar: Drink, Eat, Visit
According to the website, “a·pe·ri·tì·vo [noun]: is a glorious time post-work where many come to gather and stimulate the appetite with a drink and small bites.” Aperitivo Wine Bar in downtown Santa Barbara truly embodies this concept. While the Italian cocktails and distinctive wine list are undoubtedly appealing, the food captures my attention every time I visit. Aperitivo combines two Italian cooking styles: rustic simplicity and sophisticated, fine-dining twists. Alongside the food, you can enjoy an array of creative cocktails and a selection of unique wines, including varietals you may not have encountered before.
Brought to our fine city by Sommelier/Owner Andrea Girardello and Executive Chef/Owner Brian Dodero, this dynamic duo dreamed of opening their own establishment while working at the Coral Casino. Driven by a shared passion for food and wine and inspired by Italy, they created a place that truly hits the mark. Let me tell you, they nailed it!
Secret Bao: Asian-Fusion Delight
Peter Lee and Felicia Medina have transformed a pandemic pop-up into SECRET BAO, one of the best restaunts in Santa Barbara and one of the community's most inventive Asian-fusion concepts. The name reflects their early days of secretly cooking from their apartment. Today, their fluffy mini sandwiches have become a favorite among Santa Barbara foodies.
Their Pan-Asian menu effortlessly blends highbrow and lowbrow elements, maintaining a seamless and exciting culinary experience. Don’t miss their KFC bao: a pillowy bao bun filled with Korean fried chicken, umami coleslaw, pickled red onions, and mayo, all melding together in a deliciously messy delight.
Gala Restaurant: Serving Santa Barbara Bounty with a European Flair
Gala offers a unique blend of European and Santa Barbara flavors, transporting you to a charming Mediterranean bistro. Owned by third-generation Santa Barbarian Tara Penke and Chile-born chef Jaime Riesco, Gala is named after Salvador Dalí’s wife, Gala, reflecting their admiration for Cadaqués in Costa Brava, where the Dalís once lived.
Some of my personal favorites here include the shared tapas, seasonal specialties, oysters, and a delectable steak topped with bone marrow butter and chimichurri. For a cozy meal, try the pulled pork sandwich or the beloved duck confit. Pair your meal with craft cocktails made from seasonal juices, house-infused liquors, and a selection of local and Spanish wines and beers.
Bibi Ji: Where Indian Cuisine Meets Fine Wine
Experience a harmonious fusion of reimagined Indian cuisine and a remarkable wine list at Bibi Ji. Owner Alejandro Medina and founding partner Rajat Parr, a James Beard's award-winning sommelier, offer a menu that highlights traditional Indian curries and chutneys paired with fresh produce sourced from the farmer's market. As such, the menu changes seasonally. The location changed this summer too, as the restaurant moved from 734 State St. to 1213 State St.
Michelin Guide inspectors said this about Bibi Ji: “This trendy Indian dining room makes quite a splash. Harnessing the best of land and sea, these dishes are born for sharing. Behold such inventive bites as crispy cauliflower tossed with chili-garlic sauce and finished with sesame. Barra kebab highlights intensely spiced tandoor lamb chops with mint chutney.” I couldn’t have said it better!
Mony's: Homestyle Mexican Food in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone
In 2013, Mony’s established itself as the Funk Zone's go-to destination for those craving authentic, home-cooked Mexican cuisine, thanks to Monica “Mony” Diaz. Hailing from Colima, Mexico, where she began cooking as a child, Diaz brought her unique blend of handcrafted seasonings and cherished family recipes to Santa Barbara.
The popular spot’s salsa bar is exceptional, featuring unique options like pistachio salsa (yes, it's delicious!), peanut salsa, habanero salsa, and more, alongside a fantastic variety of tacos.
Arigato Sushi: Magnificent Japanese Cuisine
Arigato Sushi is not just a popular spot in town, it has been one of the best restaurants in Santa Barbara for many years. It's bustling with energy due to its lively atmosphere and open kitchen. While reservations aren’t accepted, the spacious interior with warm exposed brick and the inviting outdoor patio are great places to enjoy your meal.
Specializing in fresh fish and seafood, Arigato excels in fusion cuisine. Highlights include bluefin belly sashimi with truffle soy oil, ahi carpaccio with scallions and smelt roe, and spicy garlic sautéed edamame. The appetizer list features favorites like sushi pizza, homemade gyoza, and miso-glazed cod.
Don’t miss the specials board, which often includes unique items like monkfish liver in a seaweed cone. Other standout dishes are the spicy jalapeño yellowtail and Gorgonzola salmon. The drink menu offers twenty sakés, local beers, and wines, while desserts like ginger ice cream and plum wine sherbet provide a sweet finish.
Santo Mezcal: A Creative Oaxacan Delight
Nestled in the heart of the Funk Zone, Santo Mezcal brings creative Oaxacan cuisine to the Santa Barbara culinary scene. Conceived by the minds behind the beloved Los Agaves Restaurants, this concept offers a beautiful backdrop to savor new and exciting flavors. Be sure to indulge in their mezcal cocktails infused with cold-pressed juices and fresh herbs, creating a taste sensation like no other.
The landscape of the Santa Barbara culinary scene continues to evolve, with each restaurant adding its own unique flair to the city's dining palette. So, embark on a gastronomic journey and experience the wonderful offerings of my favorite culinary hotspots on The American Riviera.
Another landscape that continues to evolve in Santa Barbara is real estate. Check out my website for information on amazing properties currently on the market in our lovely Santa Barbara neighborhoods and communities. Find something you like? Just give me a call at (805) 886-9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com. Meanwhile, enjoy the best restaurants in Santa Barbara and its surrounding communities!
Of Related Interest:
- Thomas Keller: From Michelin Stars to Montecito
- Cristal’s Picks for the Best Breakfast in Santa Barbara
- The State Street Promenade: Santa Barbara Al Fresco