Upscale dining in Santa Barbara

Luxury vacations in Santa Barbara are among the best in California. Great restaurants make trips here even more perfect; Luxury Travel picks and reviews the best ones.

Bouchon, 9 W. Victoria St – The young, hip crowd waiting outside to get in attests Bouchon’s “it” status as the best upscale restaurant in Santa Barbara in which to do some people watching. Bouchon has close to the best wine list I’ve seen outside of Paris and Italy, manages to be both popular and lively, and intimately romantic (a rare feat) and is relatively inexpensive for such a great dining experience. Try a Santa Barbara Syrah with your dinner; these affordable reds are the pride of the region. Creative, fine French and California entrees dominate the menu. The ahi tuna and venison are outstanding. Sit inside for a lively, friendly experience, but reserve an outdoor table by the fountain for a more romantic atmosphere.

Olio e Limone, 17 W Victoria St – This restaurant is just down the street from Bouchon, but miles away in terms of ambience. Quiet and sedate, Olio e Limone is a favorite among adult visitors seeking high quality Italian dinners. It used be be very hard to get a reservation at this best restaurant, but a recent expansion has added some more tables (it hasn’t lost its small, intimate feeling, though). Everything is incredibly fresh – pasta is made to order – and the authentic Central and Northern Italy style entrees instantly transport Italy lovers back to that country. I’ve seen longer and better wine lists, but there is a decent selection from Napa, Santa Barbara, and (of course) Italy. The Olio e Limone olive oil is available for purchase.

Downey’s, 1305 State St – This is the best restaurant on State Street, Santa Barbara’s bustling main thoroughfare. Downey’s serves contemporary California cuisine, along with a selection of outstanding artisanal cheeses. The menu constantly changes with the seasons, ensuring that as many entrees can be made with fresh and local ingredients as possible. Wild caught salmon, when in season, is a must. While I’m not usually a fan of squab, the best I’ve even had was at this restaurant; juicy and tender, with a robust flavor. The Santa Barbara shellfish are an enduringly popular dish at Downey’s as well. This is an upscale restaurant, counted by many luxury travel fans as their favorite along California’s Central Coast.

Miro, at Bacara Resort & Spa, 8301 Hollister Ave – Bacara is perhaps a 15-minute drive from downtown Santa Barbara. This full-service resort has three restaurants; Miro is the one worth the drive if you’ve staying in the heart of Santa Barbara. Now, most people dining here are guests of the luxury resort; reservations are absolutely needed, and the wait can be long. That being said, Miro is just wonderful. The staff is attentive without being intrusive, the entrees are delicious – the lobster is a big hit, as is the steak – and the ocean view is awe-inspiring. Miro is the most expensive restaurant in this review. For special occasions, it’s worth every penny.

By Jennifer W. Winer

Courtesy of suite101.com