Wine Cask Restaurant—the name itself sounds refreshing and holds a promise to serve quality food. The restaurant is located in the heart of Santa Barbara's historic El Paseo. You enter through a secluded garden courtyard into a dramatic dining room. This room is considered for years as 'the most beautiful in Santa Barbara'. As the name suggests Wine Cask is renowned for the different types of wines it has to offer—Burgundy, France, Italy. To top this, the choice of delicacies they have to offer is also huge. Wine Cask also offers banquet/private rooms, bar dining, patio/outdoor dining, personal wines welcome and lots more. Their motto is excellent quality, service beyond the usual and customer satisfaction. They totally live up to these and more.
At the Opal Restaurant and Bar you will not only find consistency but also innovation. The team work of the staff is a genuine surprise. Even during peak hours, the care and hospitality displayed is very heart warming. The menu is a smart mix of American culture infused with Asian tastes. The menu offers delicacies like smoked chicken and avocado sandwich, grilled chicken scallopini rolled with goat cheese and pesto and the best of all bacon wrapped slow roasted free range chicken coq au vin. Deserts include French vanilla bean creme brulee, dark chocolate pecan tart and tiramisu to name a few. Also sample the wine in stock at Opal Restaurant and Bar. This is one place you just cannot miss!
Bouchon stands by its claim of using fresh ingredients, which is reflected in its contemporary cuisine. Their huge collection of wines comprises of Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, Red Rhones, Cabarnets etc. The restaurant swears by their bourbon & maple glazed duck, pacific ahi tuna, molten-center chocolate cakes, venison loin and tarte tatin. The service is professional and the best part is that your server can advise you on the food and wine most suitable to your tastes. Their seasonal dishes are to die for. Every dish is a perfect balance of tastes and textures and leaves a great taste, which you are likely not to forget soon.
Brophy Bros Seafood Restaurant is known for its delicious seafood preparations. The daily changing 'Fresh Fish' menu is available in the restaurant area and a special menu is offered for clam lovers. All entrees are served with green salad or a cup of New England Clam Chowder. Prices are reasonable and the service is efficient. Check the website for a detailed menu.
Captain Fatty's is a brewery known for its great handcrafted brews and other locally brewed drinks. Vortex IPA, Raspberry Rye Sour and Cannonball Brown are some of the better known beers served here. They also have a variety of beers available on tap. Staff members are also quite friendly and knowledgeable, so you can feel free to ask questions about the beers and the beer making process. You can enjoy your drinks in the cozy bar, the place gives out quite a warehouse feel and is known for its rustic charm. The DJ is also accommodating, allowing patrons to play their favorite tunes on the music system. The brewery also has a small play area for kids, making it quite a family friendly brewery.
Maverick Saloon is a cool bar that offers great entertainment and a casual atmosphere. With a Western Saloon theme, it is quite popular with locals and tourists alike. Locally referred to as The Mav, it stages concerts of regional bands/artists on a regular basis. While you enjoy the Country and Western music, sip your favorite cocktail, beer or variety of other drinks on offer. It also features theme nights, happy hour and DJ sessions. All in all, Maverick Saloon is an ideal place to have fun along with your friends.
Enjoy late-night tapas and drinks in an intimate and rustic environment at Milk & Honey. Located only steps away downtown's major attractions. This restaurant has become a popular go-to spot for brunches, romantic dinners and night-outs. Must-try's on the menu include Gambas Alcazar, Mexican Sliders, Flauta Yucateca, Apple A La Mode and the Avocado Hummus. The drinks line-up is also quite impressive with vodkas, whiskey, tequila, gin and rum cocktails.