Eating well in Santa Barbara

Pierre Lafond

I was fortunate enough to visit Santa Barbara this past weekend…for work. Don’t be jealous, not all my work trip locations are so glamorous. But this one was!

My mom accompanied me and we played the part of foodie gluttons very well if I don’t say so myself. Here are a couple not-to-miss places in Santa Barbara. We happened to focus our attention to State Street – the main blood line in SB.

• Olio e Limone - Our meal here was so fantastic! The entire experience from food to service was memorable. It’s Sicilian focused cuisine. The Quail is exceptional as are the home-made pastas. I particularly enjoyed the chef-recommended Barbara “Coppo Promosso”.
• Pierre Lafond - We came here first for an appertivo and then later for dinner. Visit for happy hour, sit on the terrace and do a little people watching. They have $5 local wines and a few snack options. When we returned for dinner we weren’t let down. I had the barley risotto which I loved!

Ceiling

Santa Barbara Museum of Art

We spent our last day in Ojai, where my Uncle lives. Its 30 minutes away from Santa Barbara and yet seemed so much further from where it was. Cross through the mountains in Ventura county and all of a sudden you’re a lush valley. Very separated and very cool.

Ojai