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Best Californian Restaurants in Goleta

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8 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Bistro at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(540)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 9 times today
The Bistro at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, offers an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience, combining "magnificent views" and "fantastic service" to create a memorable meal. Recognized as one of the "Top 100 Best Al Fresco Dining Restaurants in America," it captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine through its use of local produce and sustainable seafood. The menu features traditional bistro favorites, such as "artfully presented" seasonal salads and brick oven flatbreads, ensuring each dish is flavorful and authentic. Diners revel in the "breathtaking" waterfront views and a "relaxing atmosphere," making it the perfect spot for any special occasion.
A photo of Caya Restaurant restaurant
3.9
Excellent(407)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 5 times today
Caya Restaurant in Santa Barbara, Goleta, is a gem of American cuisine, capturing the essence of the West Coast with its fresh, locally sourced ingredients. "Exceptional find right on the main drag in Goleta!" exclaims one satisfied diner, highlighting the restaurant's prime location and outstanding offerings. Diners rave about the diverse menu that strays from the "same-old/same-old," featuring dishes like the tri-tip flatbread pizza and scallop risotto that are both innovative and nostalgic. The "chic and adorable" ambiance coupled with attentive service ensures a delightful experience, making Caya a must-visit for those seeking authentic American flavors.
A photo of Terra at The Steward Hotel restaurant
3.7
Very Good(39)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Goleta
Booked 1 time today
Indulge in food that nourishes and delights at Terra, located inside The Steward Hotel in Santa Barbara. Experience organic and local California cuisine for breakfast and dinner. Local legend celebrates The Steward’s location as the originator of avocado toast. Lunch items are available at our marketplace, perfect for enjoying a picnic in a lush garden setting.Executive Chef Augusto Caudillo brings a wealth of culinary expertise and local knowledge to the heart of Santa Barbara. Graduating from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, he honed his skills in various kitchens, including Fess Parker Wine Country Inn and Lucky’s Steakhouse. Caudillo's passion for food began at a young age, growing amid a large family where meals were a cornerstone of connection and memory-making. Drawing inspiration from both Californian and Mediterranean traditions, Caudillo's dishes offer a tantalizing blend of aesthetics and nutrition — a testament to his love of crafting memorable experiences.
A photo of Barbareño restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1910)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 18 times today
Barbareño stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine in Santa Barbara, capturing the essence of Central Coast flavors with exceptional authenticity. The restaurant's dedication to showcasing local traditions and specialties is evident in every dish, making it a "not-to-be-missed local experience." Diners rave about the inventive and flavorful offerings, such as the succulent Santa Maria TriTip, which evokes nostalgic memories for many. Guests consistently praise the "fantastic food and the staff," highlighting the knowledgeable and attentive service that makes each visit unforgettable. Barbareño's commitment to quality ingredients and creative culinary artistry ensures a delightful dining experience that is both unique and memorable.
A photo of Bouchon - Santa Barbara restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5480)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 20 times today
Bouchon in Santa Barbara is a beacon of authentic French cuisine, where "the food is unsurpassed" and embodies traditional French flavors with a modern twist. Their dedication to using "fresh, local ingredients" ensures that every dish is prepared with the utmost care and quality, making it a standout dining experience. Diners rave about the "spectacular duck" and the "amazing" French onion soup, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to excellence. With a relaxed, inviting ambiance and a wine list that expertly complements the cuisine, Bouchon is a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of France in California. Bon Appétit!
A photo of Opal Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1801)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 17 times today
Opal Restaurant & Bar in downtown Santa Barbara is a shining example of top-tier American cuisine with a delightful California twist. Praised for its "exceptional service" and "impeccable ambiance," this local favorite offers an eclectic menu that beautifully marries American Regional flavors with creative global influences. Standouts include the Herb-Grilled Ribeye Steak and the delightful Wild Mushroom Risotto. Diners rave about the "generous portions" and the award-winning wine list, further enhancing the dining experience. With its welcoming staff and consistently "delicious food," Opal Restaurant & Bar ensures every visit is a memorable celebration of American culinary excellence.
A photo of Intermezzo By Wine Cask restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1805)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 2 times today
Intermezzo by Wine Cask in Santa Barbara stands out as a beacon of quality American cuisine, infused with a delightful Mediterranean twist. Under the inspired guidance of Executive Chef Mossin Sugich, the restaurant crafts dishes that are both "fantastic" and "delicious," earning it rave reviews from diners. The cozy, romantic patio atmosphere is perfect for any occasion, from intimate dinners to festive celebrations. Guests frequently praise the "attentive service" and "excellent" food, noting the memorable flavors of their seasonal offerings. Whether you're indulging in a decadent brunch or savoring a meticulously prepared dinner, Intermezzo promises an "incredible experience" worth revisiting.
A photo of Finch & Fork restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1782)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Barbara
Booked 15 times today
Finch & Fork offers a remarkable Contemporary American dining experience in the heart of Santa Barbara, showcasing the best of local farms and coastline bounty. This charming establishment has earned high praise for its "delicious food with unique flavors" and "impeccable service," making it a standout choice for both locals and visitors. The menu is a testament to ingredient-driven cooking, delighting diners with dishes like the stellar mussels and divine scallops. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by the attentive manager and staff, ensures a memorable dining experience that "never disappoints." Finch & Fork is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Contemporary American cuisine.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Claire
    Los Angeles •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I’m not usually one to write reviews, but Bouchon definitely earned its stars last night! My fiancé and I came for Valentine’s Day dinner and were expecting the typical “lower quality service and rushed atmosphere” but were extremely impressed with all bouchon had to offer! From start to finish, the service was impeccable. I cannot stress enough- if it weren’t for the adorable heart-shaped balloons and rose-petal covered tables, we wouldn’t have even been able to tell it was Valentine’s Day (in the best way possible). On top of the incredible, friendly, and warm service, the food was also top-notch. Starting with the fresh sourdough bread, rounding out with the delectable French-onion soup, to the perfectly cooked surf and turf, this truly was one of the better meals we’ve had. My fiance even said the Warm Lemon-Berry cake was probably in his top 5 desserts ever! So thank you, bouchon, for your incredible staff, delicious food, and giving my fiance and I a new favorite restaurant in Santa Barbara!
    More info
    Bouchon - Santa BarbaraPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • Jamie
    California Central Coast •4 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Prefixed menu should have some kind of chicken dish on it. Steak was amazing!!! crème brûlée was outstanding!!!
    More info
    Caya RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara
    3.9
  • David
    Los Angeles •7 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Very small restaurant, almost felt like we were in an extension of the lobby. Food was very good from a limited menu. Servers were excellent. Noise level high. This was our first time there. Because of the food & service, we’d come back.
    More info
    Terra at The Steward HotelPrice: Expensive• Farm-to-table• Goleta
    3.7
  • Miguel
    California Central Coast •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Our breakfast was delicious And Great service by Dulce and German
    More info
    The Bistro at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa BarbaraPrice: Very Expensive• American• Santa Barbara
    4.6
  • Sarah
    Los Angeles •23 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    The team at Barbareño was so lovely! Thank you for making my husband feel special on his birthday. We enjoyed their signature Santa Maria BBQ platter the most of anything we ordered and their homemade sourdough is out of this world delicious.
    More info
    BarbareñoPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Barbara
    4.8

Discover best Californian restaurants in Goleta

Discover the vibrant Californian dining scene in Goleta, nestled in California's picturesque Central Coast near Santa Barbara. The area boasts a delightful array of restaurants that celebrate the essence of Californian cuisine, emphasizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. These eateries offer a unique blend of casual elegance and a commitment to sustainability, reflecting the laid-back yet environmentally conscious spirit of the region. Whether you're looking for a light, health-conscious meal or a more indulgent farm-to-table experience, Goleta's restaurants cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. The dining atmosphere in Goleta is characterized by its friendly service and beautiful settings, making it a perfect destination for both locals and tourists seeking a memorable meal. Each restaurant strives to provide a satisfying experience with a focus on quality and authenticity, ensuring that every dish not only tastes good but is also thoughtfully prepared. Explore Goleta's culinary offerings and experience the best of Californian cuisine in a charming coastal setting.

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