Our Favorite Mediterranean Food at Restaurants in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara offers a variety of Mediterranean restaurants where you can savor delicious dishes inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean region. Many of these restaurants offer classic Mediterranean recipes and a variety of dinners suitable for different tastes, including vegetarian options, seafood, and traditional desserts. Here are some highly regarded Mediterranean restaurants in Santa Barbara:
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Olio e Limone Ristorante: Located in downtown Santa Barbara, Olio e Limone offers a refined dining experience with a focus on Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Their menu features a selection of pasta, seafood, and meat dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. Be sure to try their signature fish dish, which is expertly prepared with fresh parsley and garlic for authentic Mediterranean flavor.
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Zaytoon: Zaytoon is a family-owned Mediterranean restaurant offering a casual and friendly atmosphere. Their menu includes a range of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes such as falafel, kebabs, hummus, and tabbouleh. Zaytoon also features vegetarian dinners and dishes made with beans, lentils, and chopped onion, making it a great choice for plant-based diners.
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The Blue Owl: Situated in the Funk Zone neighborhood, The Blue Owl is known for its Mediterranean-inspired small plates and vibrant ambiance. Their menu features a variety of flavorful dishes, including grilled octopus, lamb meatballs, and roasted beet salad. You can also enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired dish that uses bell pepper and onion, adding both flavor and color to their offerings.
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C’est Cheese: While primarily a specialty cheese shop, C’est Cheese also offers a delightful Mediterranean-inspired menu. You can enjoy sandwiches, salads, and cheese boards featuring Mediterranean flavors and ingredients. Their menu includes desserts such as baklava or olive oil cake, allowing you to end your meal with a classic Mediterranean sweet treat.
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Bella Vista at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore: For an upscale Mediterranean dining experience with stunning ocean views, Bella Vista is an excellent choice. Located within the Four Seasons Resort, the restaurant offers a menu that showcases the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean, including seafood, grilled meats, and seasonal produce.
These are just a few options for Mediterranean cuisine in Santa Barbara. It’s always a good idea to check for updated reviews, menus, and availability before visiting a restaurant. Santa Barbara’s dining scene is vibrant and diverse, so you’re likely to discover many more Mediterranean-inspired gems while exploring the city. You can find a range of Mediterranean dishes, from hearty vegetarian dinners to sweet desserts, at these Santa Barbara restaurants.
Introduction to Mediterranean Cuisine
Mediterranean cuisine is more than just a collection of delicious recipes—it’s a way of eating that celebrates fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and the joy of sharing meals with others. Rooted in the traditions of Mediterranean countries like Greece, Italy, and Spain, this style of cooking is guided by the Mediterranean diet pyramid, which emphasizes whole grains, fresh vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats such as extra virgin olive oil.
At the heart of Mediterranean cooking are simple, wholesome ingredients: think juicy fresh tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, sweet onions, and fragrant fresh herbs like parsley and oregano. Olive oil and lemon juice are used generously, adding extra flavor and a healthy dose of antioxidants to salads, pasta dishes, and grilled seafood. Staples like feta cheese, Greek yogurt, and sweet potatoes bring creamy textures and tangy notes to a variety of Mediterranean recipes, many of which are naturally gluten free and easy to adapt for different dietary needs.
The Mediterranean region is famous for its diverse culinary traditions. From the spicy tomato sauce of Southern Italy to the briny olives and crumbly feta of Greece, each country offers its own take on classic dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty salad tossed with fresh veggies and whole grains, a plate of pasta topped with tomato paste and fresh herbs, or a seafood dinner drizzled with olive oil and lemon, you’ll find that Mediterranean food is all about balance and bold, fresh flavors.
Beyond the food itself, Mediterranean cuisine is deeply connected to the culture and lifestyle of Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Meals are often leisurely affairs, meant to be savored with family and friends. This approach to eating not only makes every meal more enjoyable, but it’s also linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and other health benefits. The focus on healthy fats, whole foods, and plenty of vegetables makes the Mediterranean diet a delicious and sustainable way to eat well.
Whether you’re looking to try a few recipes at home or explore the best Mediterranean restaurants in Santa Barbara, there’s something for everyone in this flavorful and healthful cuisine. So grab some pita bread, drizzle on a little extra virgin olive oil, and discover the vibrant world of Mediterranean cooking—your taste buds (and your heart) will thank you!
