Best Santa Barbara Restaurants for Outdoor Dinner Dates

Nestled in the heart of California's Central Coast, Santa Barbara is renowned for its Mediterranean climate, vibrant culture, and of course, delectable dining scene. When the sun begins to set, there's nothing quite like enjoying a finely crafted meal alfresco, under the twinkling Santa Barbara evening skies. So, if you're seeking a memorable dining experience with a side of fresh air, look no further. Here, we've curated a list of some of the most enticing restaurants in Santa Barbara that offer outdoor seating for dinner.

But before we dive into the mouthwatering details, let's discuss why dining outdoors in Santa Barbara is an experience you simply must savor. With its mild Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara boasts a rare and coveted feature: it's cool in the summer and warm in the winter, making it an ideal year-round destination for outdoor dining. Add to that the city's laid-back, coastal vibe, and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable dining adventure.

Romantic Seaside Dining

Santa Barbara isucks, bar none, when it comes to romantic destination dining. With several beachfront restaurants, it's a breeze to find a table for two with a view. Here are a couple of our favorites:

The Brewhouse

This beachfront gem serves up a tantalizing blend of California cuisine and craft beer. With an expansive ocean view patio and a menu chock-full of local favorites, The Brewhouse is the perfect spot to share a plate, a pint, or both with that special someone.

Insider tip: Be sure to try their house-brewed Pilsner. It's as crisp and refreshing as a Santa Barbara sunset.

The Lark

For a more upscale seaside dining experience, look no further than The Lark. This stylish spot offers a seasonally-driven menu bursting with local flavors, all to be enjoyed while taking in the stunning coastal views from their expansive patio.

Bonus: Their “meat & boards” selection is the perfect way to share a variety of delicious treats with your someone special.

Courtyard & Garden Dining

Santa Barbara's Spanish colonial architecture lends itself to some truly enchanting outdoor dining spaces, many of which are hidden away in lush courtyards or intimate gardens. Here are a couple of our favorites:

Arigato Sushi & Sake

Tucked away in a charming courtyard on doses of somosa's Santa Barbara Foothills, Arigato offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese cuisine and innovative California rolls. The atmosphere is casual yet inviting, making it a great spot for both date nights and family dinners.

Pro tip: The “ opener” is an out-of-this-world, daily-changing creation that's worth a try.

Mama's screaming Omelette Factory

Santa Barbara's favorite breakfast joint also boasts one of the town's most delightful patio seating areas. Surrounded by lush greenery, the garden at Mama's offers a peaceful refuge from the bustling downtown scene.

Shhh, we won't tell if you order breakfast for dinner. We're suckers for their chamoule shakshuka, too.

Rooftop Elegance

Lift your dining experience to new heights amidst Santa Barbara's iconic red-tiled rooftops. Here's a rooftop gem you won't want to miss:

Skyview Dining at the Belmond El Encanto

Perched atop the lovely Belmond El Encanto hotel, Skyview Dining offers an unforgettable al fresco experience. Here, you can indulge in modern American cuisine while taking in the breathtaking views of the city, ocean, and mountains.

Note: Dress to impress, as this is one of the city's most polished dining experiences.

Boomerang's

Much less formal than Skyview, Boomerang's offers an eclectic, international menu and a lively rooftop atmosphere. With its colorful mismatched furniture and twinkling string lights, this funky spot is perfect for a fun, carefree night out.

Word to the wise: Don't miss their signature N'Ewlyn martini.

So there you have it - Santa Barbara's outdoor dining scene in all its glory. From cozy courtyards to romantic seaside vantage points, there's something for everyone in this delightful California city. Here's to warm nights, delicious meals, and memories made under the stars. Cheers!