Outdoor Eating in Santa Barbara
From tacos by the beach to BBQ in the Funk Zone and sushi under the stars, here’s some outdoor eating in style.
Santa Barbara practically invented the breezy outdoor dining vibe. With ocean views, mountain backdrops, and creative cuisine around every corner, it’s the kind of town where the patio is often the best seat in the house. There are a lot of outdoor eating opportunities to be in had in Santa Barbara. Whether you’re after laid-back tacos, wood-fired pizza, sizzling tri-tip, or sushi with sake, there’s a perfect spot waiting in the sun—or under the string lights.
🌊 Ocean Breezes means the most fun outdoor eating:
Boathouse, Shoreline, & The Ellwood
Looking for a meal with a view? The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach has one of the best oceanfront patios in town—sunsets, seafood, and mimosas included. Nearby, Shoreline Beach Café keeps it casual with tables right in the sand and Baja-style bites. Neither of the spots have the best food, the drinks are good but really when you are that close to the beach, who cares if the food isn’t amazing amazing?! For a more hidden gem feel, head up the coast to The Ellwood at Goleta Beach—it’s new and suppose to open 100 years ago, but it’s open and we are stoked. It brings elevated California cuisine to a relaxed beachfront setting.
🍣 Sushi Under the Stars: Arigato
Craving sushi? If you know me, you know my love for Arigato Sushi on State Street. Take me with you and let me order for you please. Arigato blends top-tier rolls with an awesome outdoor setup. Their shaded sidewalk seating puts you right in the heart of downtown while still feeling like your own little world. Expect creative sushi, fresh sushi sashimi & their gold shots are the actual best.
🌮 Taco Stops & Casual Classics
East Beach Tacos keeps things low-key and delicious with creative tacos served at a little stand by a batting cage (seriously). It’s fun, it’s fast, and it’s feet-from-the-beach perfect. Looking for something with more old-school charm? Chuck’s of Hawaii offers retro steakhouse energy, strong mai tais, and a cozy, classic patio that’s a time capsule of SB surf culture. Don’t forget to get a pillow mint on your way out.
🍕 Funk Zone Flavors: Lucky Penny & Shalhoob’s
The Funk Zone delivers big on fun eats. Lucky Penny serves up inventive wood-fired pizzas and frozen frosé on a vibrant patio with a glittering penny-tiled wall. Just steps away, Shalhoob’s Funk Zone Patio brings the BBQ heat—oak-smoked tri-tip, pulled pork, nachos, and legendary street corn—all served picnic-style with chill vibes and plenty of shade. Both are casual, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for group hangs.
🌿 Courtyards & Date Night Vibes: The Lark, Loquita, Zaytoon
When you’re ready to elevate the vibe, The Lark and Loquita are Funk Zone favorites with buzzing patios and chef-driven menus. Think shareable tapas, seasonal cocktails, and the kind of warm-lit patios where dinners stretch into the night. For something a little more tucked-away, Zaytoon offers Lebanese food in a magical garden setting with fire features and lanterns. It’s romantic, cozy, and feels like a secret.
🍷 Coastal Chill: Convivo
If you want beach views and housemade pasta, Convivo is your go-to. Located right on the waterfront, it’s perfect for sipping rosé and sharing Mediterranean small plates as the waves roll in. It’s casual but elegant, and always feels like a mini vacation.
🌞 Final Bites
Santa Barbara’s outdoor dining scene is more than just a nice perk—it’s a full-on lifestyle. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi and sake downtown, brisket in the Funk Zone, or tacos by the beach, this town brings sunshine and flavor to the table every time.
Want help planning a patio-hopping food tour or need the short version for Instagram? I’ve got you covered—just say the word.