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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Montecito

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9 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lucky's restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2890)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Montecito
Booked 52 times today
Lucky's in Montecito, Santa Barbara, epitomizes the excellence of Contemporary American cuisine with its impressive blend of top-tier USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and farmer's market vegetables. This celebrated restaurant is adored for its "phenomenal meals" and "consistently great filet mignon," making it a top choice for special occasions. Diners rave about the "wonderful experience" and "exceptional service," noting the welcoming atmosphere that blends old-school charm with modern sophistication. Lucky's is not just a restaurant; it's an experience of "picture-perfect decor" and expertly crafted cocktails, ensuring a memorable dining event that diners eagerly anticipate revisiting.
A photo of Lilac Montecito restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(150)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Montecito
Booked 13 times today
Lilac Montecito excels in Contemporary American cuisine by blending European and Californian influences with locally-sourced ingredients, crafting dishes that are both innovative and comforting. Diners rave about the "unmatched quality" of its offerings, highlighting the fresh, not overly processed food that is a hallmark of authentic Contemporary American dining. The Branzino, praised as "the best in town," and the standout cauliflower dish exemplify their commitment to flavor and quality. The entirely gluten-free menu is a testament to their inclusivity and creativity, ensuring all guests enjoy a "delicious and healthy" meal. With an inviting ambiance and attentive service, Lilac Montecito promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of LOCAL Montecito restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(274)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Montecito
Booked 17 times today
LOCAL Montecito shines as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, celebrated for its “superb” dishes that seamlessly blend local ingredients with innovation. Nestled in the heart of Montecito, the restaurant offers “delicious flavors” that repeatedly exceed expectations. Diners rave about the “fantastic cocktails” and standouts like the Yellowtail Crudo and Miso Salmon, which reflect both creativity and authenticity in their preparation. The inviting indoor-outdoor ambiance, enhanced by heated patios and a cozy firepit, provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. With attentive service and a menu that is “always pretty much perfect,” LOCAL Montecito is a must-visit culinary gem.
A photo of Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2642)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Barbara
Booked 43 times today
Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara offers an exquisite seafood dining experience that is simply unmatched. Chef Matthew Johnson crafts each dish with fresh, locally-sourced seafood, combined with herbs and vegetables from the Ranch’s organic garden, ensuring "delicious and quality food" every time. Guests rave about the "delicate tuna tartare" and the "better-than-excellent black cod," highlighting the authenticity and freshness of the ingredients. The restaurant's ambiance adds to the experience, with beautiful ocean views and a romantic setting that makes every meal feel like a special occasion. For seafood lovers seeking gourmet excellence, Stonehouse is a must-visit destination.
A photo of Finch & Fork restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1777)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • 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.
A photo of Barbareño restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1890)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Santa Barbara
Booked 23 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 The Set restaurant
3.7
Very Good(13)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Santa Barbara
Booked 1 time today
Enjoy the ocean view and cozy up by the fire pits at Santa Barbara’s best sunset-watching spot. The Set serves a delightful selection of dishes and specialty cocktails for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.
A photo of Goat Tree Restaurant restaurant
4.3
Awesome(455)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Santa Barbara
Booked 3 times today
Located at the front door of the Funk Zone and one block from the beach, Goat Tree at Hotel Californian is a gourmet café with al fresco seating offering fresh, local fare, including superb pastries and baked goods made in house daily by our Pastry Chef Ron Viloria. Our all-day brunch menu features Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Shakshuka, Baby Kale Caesar and our famed GT Smashburger. Sip on cold-pressed juices from Pressed Juicery, lattes and coffee by Caffe Luxxe or organic hot teas by Rishi. Curating seasonal picnic baskets for a day at the beach or wine tasting as well as dine in, take out or delivery for brunch and dinner, Goat Tree pleases everyone's palate. Join us on our spacious patio into the evening for a glass of wine or a cocktail and a bite. Our dinner menu includes Rigatoni Pasta, New York Steak Frites and Faroe Island Salmon among other delectable dishes. Don't let the day end without some Rori's Ice Cream or a seasonal dessert from Chef Ron.
A photo of Roy restaurant
3.3
Good(435)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Santa Barbara
Roy in Santa Barbara is a standout destination for Comfort Food enthusiasts, offering a delightful blend of high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors. With over 30 years of experience, Roy serves "unpretentious cuisine of the highest quality," ensuring each dish is crafted with care and passion. The restaurant sources mostly organic produce from the local farmers market, guaranteeing fresh and wholesome meals. The warm, retro-modern ambiance makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed dining experience. Diners rave about the "delicious" crab cakes and "juicy" New York Steak, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking comforting, classic American dishes.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • FrankVIP
    Los Angeles •571 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I’ve been here many times over the last 15 years and it’s such a beautiful restaurant. The food was amazing and our waiter was fantastic. Valet was terrific too. The hostess was a little stiff and standoffish which was surprising. We’d definitely return again hoping for a perfect dining experience. Thank you Chef!
    More info
    Stonehouse at San Ysidro RanchPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Barbara
    4.8
  • AutumnVIP
    Dallas - Fort Worth •25 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Absolutely lovely. The service was impeccable. Dinner was outstanding.
    More info
    Lucky'sPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Montecito
    4.8
  • Lisa MarieVIP
    Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •21 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Finch & Fork in Santa Barbara offers a vibrant and refined take on California cuisine, making it a standout spot for locals and visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of downtown, the restaurant blends a relaxed coastal vibe with modern elegance, perfect for everything from casual brunches to celebratory dinners. The menu is a true showcase of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their King Salmon, served with gigante beans, piquillo peppers, and marble potatoes, is a perfectly balanced dish that highlights the chef’s attention to detail. Equally impressive is the Short Rib Pappardelle Pasta, featuring tender braised short rib, wild mushroom soffritto, and a luscious touch of crème fraîche. The wine list is thoughtfully curated, offering a range of options to suit the diverse menu. Pairing recommendations from the attentive staff are spot-on, ensuring the meal is elevated to an unforgettable experience. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a mix of modern design and rustic touches that make the space both stylish and comfortable. Service is attentive and genuinely welcoming, creating an atmosphere where you can linger over a meal without feeling rushed. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a quality meal, Finch & Fork delivers on all fronts. It’s a gem in Santa Barbara’s culinary scene and well worth a visit.
    More info
    Finch & ForkPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Barbara
    4.5
  • LIcaVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    The service was top notch. I made last-minute reservation, so we were seated outside, it was a bit chilly, they surrounded us with heaters and brought us a blanket. Our server was great, very efficient. The food was delicious! Looking forward to returning.
    More info
    Lilac MontecitoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary European• Montecito
    4.7
  • KatherineVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •34 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 24, 2024
    Good food, good value for money, fast service, and we’re accommodating to us bringing our dog. Would happily go back!
    More info
    LOCAL MontecitoPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Montecito
    4.7

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Montecito

Discover the essence of contemporary American cuisine along the scenic California Central Coast in Montecito, Santa Barbara. This region boasts an array of restaurants that cater to the refined palate, offering a perfect blend of innovation and classic flavors. Each establishment in Montecito reflects a commitment to excellence, with menus featuring locally sourced ingredients, expertly crafted dishes, and an ambiance that complements the dining experience. The dining scene here is vibrant and diverse, characterized by its emphasis on fresh seafood, prime steaks, and farm-to-table vegetables, all served in settings that range from the elegantly casual to the luxuriously sophisticated. Patrons consistently praise the exceptional service, the culinary creativity, and the attention to dietary needs that Montecito's restaurants provide. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a special celebration, Montecito's contemporary American dining venues promise an unforgettable culinary journey.

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