THE SANTA BARBARA GUIDE
DAVIDMENDOZAIII
My Personal Recommendations
Welcome to SB
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I'm thrilled that you're visiting to my coastal California gem of a town. I consider myself fortunate enough to return to Santa Barbara after each destination wedding and event. It's not just the beaches and mountains that make this place special; it's the vibe you get as soon as you arrive. We're a friendly bunch, happy to share our little paradise, from hidden foodie spots to the best sunset views. This guide is your insider pass to our city - think of it as having a local friend showing you around. Whether you're here for adventure or to escape and relax, I've got you covered. Let's make your stay memorable. So, kick back, explore at your own pace, and see why I love coming home.
Please don't hesitate reach out if I can offer any additional guidance throughout your visit. I'd be happy to help.
FOOD & DRINK
A FEW OF MY FAVORITES
DUNE COFFEE ROASTERS
Simply the best coffee in Santa Barbara. Formerly known as The French Press, Dune Coffee offers the best tasting coffee in a cheerful and modern environment. I’m specifically partial to it as I worked at the State St. cafe in my college years. If you like great coffee, this is the place to go. My Orders: One & One (Single shot espresso & single macchiato) / Oat milk Cappuccino
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Coffee
HANDLEBAR COFFEE ROASTERS
This cycling-inspired coffee shop is a must for anyone with an affinity for two wheels. Located in Santa Barbara’s El Presidio, Handle Bar offers a charming environment with views of Santa Barbara’s historical buildings. Its coffee makes you feel part of the neighborhood. The coffee meets every coffee lover's standards whilst remaining unpretentious.
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CAJE - ARLINGTON
Santa Barbara’s newest addition to coffee offers the loveliest of the bunch. I’ve shot weddings here, and it has the most stunning environment with unique cocktail-inspired coffee drinks that do not disappoint. Grab a seat and post photos to your influencer heart's delight. My Order: Bella Rose; Sugarwood
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DART COFFEE
If you want to sip your coffee in a quaint garden then Dart Coffee in the Funk Zone is the place for you. It's become a recent favorite of mine on a beautiful sunny morning. Order your drink at the shop, look for the tiger painted on the side, and meander over to the garden across the street. Plenty of seating and you'll likely find a puppy greet. My order: Cappuccino
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Jeanines
A true Santa Barbara classic. Jeanines tops my list for breakfast, it's simple food with a burrito that I just love. If you want a great breakfast experience, look no further than Jeanines. They have three locations. My favorite one is in Montecito on Coast Village Rd. My Order: The Breakfast Burrito
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Breakfast
Backyard Bowls
The best Acai bowl I’ve ever had, anywhere. If you think you’ve had good açaí, think again. Backyard Bowls offer silky smooth açaí bowls topped with all the fruit your heart desires. Grab a bowl and head to the beach. You won’t regret it. My Orders: Green Bowl (substitute apple juice for coconut milk, add bee pollen); Island Bowl
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Crushcakes
Say it with me: Red Velvet Pancakes. This bakery and kitchen will satisfy the sweet tooth in all of us and has a great offering of savory dishes as well. Nestled right off of State St. and just down the Street From Caje-Arlington, this nook is a Santa Barbara icon.
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ALESSIA Patisserie & Cafe
Feeling a little French? This is the place for you. Alessia was born out of 2020 and makes my favorite pastries in town. It's chic white interiors pair with their European inspired breakfast menu. Go early as they tend to sell out of their top sellers. My Order: any of the specialty croissants
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Bettina Pizza (also great for dinner)
Also a great dinner location. Bettina on of my favorite pepperoni pizzas on the west coast. It comes loaded with crispy peps and drizzled with honey so you get the best of all worlds. Their interior is gorgeous if you decide to stay. I like to grab a pie and head to Butterfly beach for sunset. My order: Pepperoni Pizza, Burrata Appetizer, White Negroni
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Lunch
Mony’s Tacos
A small hole in the wall with huge flavor and by far the best salsa bar in town. Located in the lively Funk Zone Mony’s offers classic street tacos, burritos & tortas. It's a great pit stop along your day drinking crawl through the Funk Zone. Everything is good, order with your gut.
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Los Agaves
Skip the reviews that say go to La Super Rica. Los Agaves is every SB local’s go-to for great reliable Mexican food. The menu is deep and will please any palette. They have a few different locations with the De La Vina one being my top choice. Great for a casual lunch or dinner. My Order: Agaves burrito (sauce & dressing on the side).
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Third Window Brewery
The best burger in town. Smash Burger made with American Waygu beef, lacey crisp edges and special sauce. The place is hard to beat. Grab some fries and a burger and enjoy the patio at this hidden gem. I've regularly spent multiple hours here. Wine is also available from the winery next door and also very delicious.
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South Coast Deli
So you want a salad or a sandwich? Well…this place will hit that craving . Suggestive names and even better flavors. Grab one to go and have yourself a little picnic at the Mission Rose Garden, a iconic SB pairing if I say so myself. My Order: order the Italian Ham Job or the Fowl Play.
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MORE MEXICAN FOOD
We have a lot of taco shops/mexican spots in town and they really need their own category. Here’s the rundown. Lily’s Tacos has cheap traditional street tacos along with some offerings that are guaranteed to challenge the bravest of palates (eyeball tacos anyone?). I typically get the lengua (beef tongue). Corazon Cocina is elevated tacos that pack a punch. The fish taco there is my favorite. El Pipeye has the best tortilla’s in town and I get the Al Pastor there. Cesars place has a great shrimp cocktail served with Clamato. Super Cuca’s is the spot for burritos. La Super Rica gets a lot of hype because Julia Child loved it but what did she really know about Mexican food? There’s a long line but I do like their special. Quick tip...bring cash for LSR.