Thursday, July 2, 2009
Poll: What new restaurant does Santa Barbara
need? Santa Barbara has more restaurants per capita than most
other cities in the United States. Yet, it would be so great if only
Santa Barbara had _________________. Help me fill in the blank by
emailing your choice for a restaurant that you hope lands in Santa
Barbara someday.
-
Reader Keri says: "My suggestions are not a type of food, but specific
restaurants and they might be franchised so there have to be number of
interested parties. I would love for SB to have a Wagamama. It's a
Japanese noodle place that started in London, but now has locations in
Boston. It it sit-down dining, but fast, fresh, delicious! Cafeteria
style seating, take-out, usually open late. Great for tourists, business
lunch, students, downtown party-goers.
Also, Portillo's that hails from
Chicago (ribs, Chicago style hot dogs, Chicago Italian beef sandwiches,
great salads). Great food and to-die-for chocolate cake! Casual, order
at counter, catering too. Be great at old Bee-Bop Burger. "
-
Reader Jan says: "I'd like to see a traditional, casual Italian
restaurant that features no-fuss old world basics: Killer traditional
sauces, pastas, antipasta, a few meat dishes. I hate to say it, but if
Presto Pasta wasn't a fast food restaurant, they almost have the food.
They are just missing table service and a decent wine menu and some
quiet ambiance. Petrini's is not what I'm talking about. Arnoldi's, a
little too fussy. Maybe the new place Holdren's is putting in by Home
Depot will finally fill the void. I hope so!"
-
Reader Shelley says: "1) Mediterranean style seafood, 2)
Zankou Chicken franchise – the best there is, 3) Cuban -
Versailles Cuban restaurant in Los Angeles, 4) Good Greek
restaurant"
-
Reader Eugene says: "I would love to see a Hometown Buffet or a
Souplantation close to Solvang"
-
Reader John says: "I would like to see a Greek restaurant - a
real full service restaurant, not just the counter service one we have."
-
Reader Jenss says: "Okay...for realio...Santa Barbara needs a good
boba (or pearl milk tea) joint. There are a few places in LA, like
Tapioca Express, Tea Station, and AU79 that have good boba as well as
Taiwanese-style slushies. I also want a Chicago-style pizzeria
in our hood...but now I'm just getting greedy..."
-
Reader Alison says: "The restaurant chains I would love to see here are
Flattop (create your own stirfry) and Potbelly's
(sandwiches). I would also like a Puerto Rican restaurant, but
would settle for Cuban."
-
Reader Anonymous says: "The Weathervane
www.weathervaneseafoods.com"
-
Reader Ed says: "SB may have many restaurants, but most are fair to
good. But I have been
spoiled in NY, so let me give constructive ideas.....
We need an
Italian restaurant that reminds you of Tuscany with a wood burning
oven and grilled meats. We also need a high end pizza place with
a thin crust, think of Spago comes to SB. We need a tapas
restaurant, casual but with dozens of those Spanish small plate
specialties. It would be nice if the Slanted Door (Ferry Bldg in
SF) came to SB.
John, one last request, can you work on getting a real butcher
in town, the type where a half steer is carried through the front door
(not prepackaged meats form the freezer)."
-
Reader Mike says: "I’m sure that many SB locals will faint at the
thought of this…But here I go anyway…Olive Garden, there I said
it deal with it! I’d also like to see Red Robin come back;
Marmalade Café is leaving a lot to be desired. One more…I would love,
love, love to see sandwich shop called Togo’s arrive. They blow
Subway out of the water and they would rock SB. That’s my 2 cents."
-
Reader Glenn says: "From living in LA awhile I miss eating Ethopian
food and also Argentinian food i.e. Empanadas. Brazilian
food is also nice. You just can't beat the variety of foods in the LA
area but hey we have an In N Out so why should we be complaining? Jenss,
Boba Tea is available at Spudnuts uptown and at Naan Stop in IV. A
Souplantation is a good idea. We have a BBQ place in Carp now that's
pretty good. Tapas places are in town already (see John's "Spanish"
section though he has not added "Reds" yet). I would like to see a
KFC and/or Wendys in Buellton. I am not sure why the
FatBurger closed as I believe they had good food, must have been the bad
name?"
Hummingbird Cafe Closes: This just
in from the owner of
Hummingbird Cafe at 1101 State Street:
Hello all.
This is Kristi, the owner of the Hummingbird Cafe... I just wanted to
give a sad farewell to all you beautiful folks who supported the Cafe
the short but wonderful time of its existence in Santa Barbara. The Cafe
has closed and at the present moment doesn't look to re-open. The Cafe
is being replaced by The French Press, another coffee
house/sandwich cafe. It looks really cool and Arcoboleno Trade will
still be in the back so stop by and keep supporting local business. I am
wishin you all open hearts and healthy bellies.
With love,
Kristi
Food Sponsors Needed: I received
word from the Chamber about an opportunity for local restaurants
and catering companies to get some good exposure:
The Santa Barbara Regional Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Council is
hosting "Twilight at the Oasis", a Chamber fundraiser at Jeff Shelton
and Dan Upton's new architectural masterpiece, El Andaluz, located at
531 Chapala. The Council is in need of catering food sponsors to donate
hors d'oeuvres or small food items to contribute to the success of the
event. All food sponsors will receive a free one-year membership to the
Chamber, and current members will be considered as well. Call 965-3023
or send an email to
Tyler.Dobson@rabobank.com.
Photo Blog: Here are pictures taken
last Saturday evening at
Nights Atelier
at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art which is a companion event to their
popular Thursday "Nights".
Restaurant Of The Month:
The Burger Bus
is Restaurant of the Month for July
Off Topic: This will be my last blog
until Monday. Tonight I am picking up my sister & nieces who arrive at
LAX from El Salvador. We then continue on to the
Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach for the 4th of July.
Going to
Balboa for the 4th of July is such a tradition in our family that I have
only been in Santa Barbara on the 4th once in my life (and I
grew up in Santa Barbara). The family
we visit and stay with are the only original home owners in Balboa, their family
having purchased their lot in 1910 when the region was just a big
sandbar.
I hear that there is a 4th of July parade in Santa Barbara (I couldn't tell you for sure
since I've never seen it). If someone could take pictures of it for me I
will post them in my event guide!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
New In The Guide:
Today I added
YoYumYum - Goleta to the restaurant guide.
YoYumYum opens in Goleta:
A self-serve frozen yogurt shop has opened at 5915A Calle Real in Goleta
next to Zodo's Bowling. Brothers/owners Anthony and Thanh Tran opened
their first location a year ago in Huntington Beach and have since added
outlets in Oxnard and Carpinteria.
YoYumYum's grand opening is this weekend. They are giving away free
frozen yogurt 11am-noon and 5pm-6pm Fri-Sun, 11pm-midnight Fri-Sat, and
10pm-11pm Sun. You receive the first 8 ounces of yogurt and toppings
free then pay for any additional weight.
The eatery sells frozen yogurt and toppings for 35 cents per ounce
and offers 16 different flavors including: Pina Colada, Root Beer Float,
Cake Batter, Peanut Butter Cup, Cheesecake, Cookies & Cream, Chocolate
Obsession, Hawaiian Delight, Pomegranate Raspberry, Original Tart,
Cappuccino, Strawberry Banana, Pineapple Tart, Pecan Pralines, Chocolate
and Vanilla.
Store hours are Sun-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. For more
information call 683-6500 or visit yoyumyum.com.
East Beach Wine:
A sign has appeared in La Arcada, 1114 State Street, Suite 24, that
indicates East Beach Wine intends to open a location there in the
future.
Red Robin Rumor:
There is a rumor circulating that Red Robin is reopening, based
on the fact that the restaurant chain posted a job offering on their web
site for “General Manager” in Santa Barbara. I called Red Robin's
corporate office and was told that the ad refers to a position available
in Santa Maria. I was also told that they have no plans to reopen on the
South Coast.
Photo Blog:
June 28, 2009 -
Pictures of
French
Country Picnic fundraiser for the
Ensemble Theatre at
the home of Hal and Mary Coffin in Montecito. Food & beverage sponsors included:
Buttonwood Winery, Bridlewood Winery, Palmina Winery, Matilija Pure Water,
Pacific Crepes, Café Shell, RSVP Catering, Café Luck, Chocolats Du Calibressan,
Our Daily Bread, Sugar Bliss Sweets and Petit Valentine.
And The Winner Is...: Based on
SantaBarbara.com web site statistics, these are the most-viewed
photos from my photo gallery of last Thursday's
Nights at the
Santa Barbara Museum of Art. For the first time ever we had a tie
for #1 most-viewed photo. And, once again, no photos of guys even came
close to being a finalist!

Monday, June 29, 2009
Vons Closing: Downtown
Vons Market at
the corner of Chapala and Victoria streets (next to Arlington Theatre)
will close August 8.
Frog Bar & Grill Closing:
Frog Bar & Grill
at Glen Annie Golf Course in Goleta will close July 6th when the golf course ceases operations.
Santa Barbara White Sea Bass: I just
received this press-release from
Enterprise Fish
Company at 225 State Street:
ENTERPRISE FISH COMPANY PAYS TRIBUTE TO A LOCAL GEM
Enterprise Fish Company, a local Santa Barbara tradition for over 30
years welcomes the return of Santa Barbara White Sea Bass with a totally
local, totally sustainable menu addition.
Santa Barbara, CA, June 29, 2009: Enterprise Fish Company is giving
customers what they’ve been asking for: a local, seasonal, farmer’s
market-inspired dish. The long-awaited reintroduction of Santa
Barbara White Sea Bass gave owners Michael Bank and Randy LaFerr the
opportunity to present customers with an entirely local dish. The ‘Santa
Barbara Summer Sea Bass’ will be offered locally all day at the State
Street location, while the ingredients are in season.
With news of Santa Barbara White Sea Bass availability, Executive Chef
Bruce Choi was asked to create a featured dish straight away. The main
focus: sustainability. With the help of Sous Chef Rumi Kamasawa, the
Santa Barbara Summer Sea Bass menu addition was born. The dish features
locally caught White Sea Bass, Moroccan style couscous, and a
fennel-leek slaw. Several other Santa Barbara ingredients show up in the
dish, including local olives and farm stand vegetables.
With the anticipated success of the ‘Summer Sea Bass’, Enterprise Fish
Company has already begun planning a seasonal addition for fall. The
goal is to stay connected with the community by turning local fresh
products into delicious, affordable, sustainable meals.
Photo Blog:
June 25, 2009 - Pictures of
Fiesta Ranchera
at Stow House

Photo Blog:
June 27, 2009 - Pictures of
Santa Barbara Wine
Festival at Museum of Natural History

Friday, June 26, 2009
Restaurant Closings:
Here is a list of all local dining destinations that have closed in the
last six months:
- June 2009: None!
- May 2009:
Berrilicious 956 Embarcadero Del Norte, Isla Vista; Caliroll Express
887 Embarcadero del Norte, Isla Vista; Stateside Restaurant & Lounge
1114 State St; Tacone 213 Paseo Nuevo
- April 2009: None!
- March 2009:
International Deli & Market 4422 Hollister Ave, Goleta; Kona Ranch
House 5685 Calle Real, Goleta; Marcella 2860 Grand Ave, Los Olivos;
Santa Barbara Roasting Co. in Paseo Nuevo, Sushi 7 1026A Coast Village
Rd, Montecito
- February 2009:
Bougainvillea 202 State St; Intermezzo 813 Anacapa St; Pavilion Garden
414 N. Milpas St; Wine Cask 813 Anacapa St
- January 2009: JR's
BBQ 4444 Hollister Ave, Goleta; Mr. Pickles Sandwich Shop 6545 Pardall
Rd, Isla Visa; Saffron 113 W. De La Guerra St; Hidden Dolphin Cafe 217
Anacapa St
Video Blog: The crowd listens to
Michael Jackson at Nights at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Photo Blog: Pictures from
"Nights" at the Santa
Barbara Museum of Art taken last evening. With photo contributions
from Rob Croteau.

Thursday, June 25, 2009
In Search Of A Free* Lunch: I was at Costco the
other day strolling for some non-essential purchases when I suddenly
felt hungry. I realized that I had completely skipped lunch. As luck
would have it, right next to me was a booth offering a free sample of
sausage that I quickly devoured.
A thought then occurred to me: Is it possible to have an entirely
free lunch made out of Costco food samples? I noticed that some of
the free samples didn't look very filling (like a sip of apple juice)
but others appeared quite substantial (grilled cheese sandwich bite).
I decided to give my free lunch idea a try and paid a visit to
every booth that offered something edible. To my disappointment, after
visiting all 15 food sample booths I still felt hungry. So what did I
do? Visit them again. I made another pass to each and every smiling food
attendant and requested another taste. Verdict: still hungry. I then
made a THIRD voyage through my mini "Taste of the Town" and I felt full!
So there you have it. If you are willing to endure a 45-course meal, it
is possible to have an entirely free lunch at Costco.
So what did I actually have for lunch? Here goes: 1) Seapoint Farms
Dry Roasted Edamame, 2) Green Envy Daily Detox Liquid (veggie juice), 3) Mrs. May's
Variety Pack (peanuts), 4) Kirkland Signature Wild Sockeye Salmon, 5)
Tasty Bit Basmati Rice, 6) Philippine Dried Mangos, 7) Kraft American
Singles (grilled cheese sandwich sample), 8) Tree Top Apple Juice, 9)
Pasta Prima Spinach & Mozzarella Ravioli, 10) CP Products Shrimp Wonton
Soup, 11) Okami Asian Chicken Salad, 12) Rotisserie Chicken Greek Pasta
Salad, 13) Pork Brisket Grillers, 14) Bilinski's Sausage, and 15)
Italian Round (bread).
* Costco membership required!
20th Anniversary: I just received
this press-release from
Piatti in Montecito:
Piatti Ristorante & Bar Celebrates 20 years in Montecito by Giving
Back All Summer Long…
and by throwing the Season’s Biggest Party
MONTECITO, CA. – Sarah Rudd, General Manager of Piatti Ristorante & Bar,
announced they are celebrating 20 years of being in business by giving
back to their Montecito and Santa Barbara communities, without which
they would not have made it this far. Piatti strongly believes that the
true gift lies within the giving and feels honored to be able to give to
the cornerstones of Montecito’s community; arts, education, environment
and health. Beginning on July 22nd, Piatti will donate 20% (in honor of
20 years) of the proceeds from all diners that mention they are there to
support Santa Barbara International Film Festival. To follow Piatti has
scheduled similar fundraising events on August 4th for Cold Springs
School District, August 19th for Heal the Ocean, August 25th for
Montecito Union School District and Sept 2nd for Teddy Bear Cancer
Foundation. “It just makes sense” says Rudd, who has a been with Piatti
for almost 14 years, “we are such a close knit community and we all work
together - what better way to celebrate our success than to honor those
that have made it possible?” In addition to raising funds for the
community Piatti has lots of other treats in store for their guests over
the next few months including a contest to determine the favorite recipe
to be brought back to the menu from the past 20 years. The winning
submission will be featured on Piatti’s menus for the month of August
and the entrant will receive a $100 gift certificate to Piatti. From a
$20 three course menu to a 20 cent glass of wine (starting June 22) to
featuring years of “Piatti favorites” on the menu, the restaurant will
be festively ringing in this notable anniversary all summer, culminating
with the finale party on September 19th, 2009. The 20th Anniversary
Party will feature Piatti’s award winning cuisine, local beer and wine,
entertainment and raffle prizes. $20.00 admission tickets, benefiting
the participating non-profit of your choice, will be sold thru the
restaurant and at the door on the day of the event. Doors open at 6:00
for the event of the summer - join Piatti Ristorante & Bar in
celebration of 20 years and a great cause on September 19th and all
summer long at 516 San Ysidro Road, Montecito CA, 805.969.7520. For more
information, to purchase tickets or to enter your favorite Piatti dishes
please email srudd@piatti.com.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Mid-Year Dining Stats: Here are some
statistics detailing restaurant openings & closings that occurred
during the first half of 2009. The region included in the results is
Goleta to Carpinteria, Santa Ynez and Los Olivos. That stats include
restaurants, coffee shops and bakeries. It appears that there were more
openings than last year and fewer closings which is great news.
Jan-Jun 2009: 25 openings
Jan-Jun 2008: 18 openings
Jan-Jun 2007: 21 openings
Jan-Jun 2009: 18 closings
Jan-Jun 2008: 24 closings
Jan-Jun 2007: 15 closings
Food, Inc.: I received an email from
Magnolia Pictures yesterday informing me that a new food documentary named "Food,
Inc." is opening in Plaza De Oro this Friday. I have posted
highlights from the email below:
Hi John,
My name is Jason Reif and I work for Magnolia Pictures. Magnolia
Pictures is one of the leading film distribution companies that focuses
on small independent and foreign language films. Currently we have a new
film called "Food, Inc." The film has opened in New York and LA and has
received a great response. On Friday, June 26th, Food Inc. will be
opening in Santa Barbara at the Plaza De Oro. Due to the film's messages
about the importance of purchasing local, sustainable foods and the
dangers of the industrialization of food, we think that your site's
audience would strongly identify with "Food, Inc."
It would be greatly appreciated if you could blast this on it on to your
site members, or followers, or if it could be included in your online
newsletter or on your website. We encourage you to check out the film's
website as well:
www.foodincmovie.com.
Synopsis:
In Food, Inc., filmmaker Robert Kenner lifts the veil on our nation's
food industry, exposing the highly mechanized underbelly that's been
hidden from the American consumer with the consent of our government's
regulatory agencies, USDA and FDA. Our nation's food supply is now
controlled by a handful of corporations that often put profit ahead of
consumer health, the livelihood of the American farmer, the safety of
workers and our own environment. We have bigger-breasted chickens, the
perfect pork chop, insecticide-resistant soybean seeds, even tomatoes
that won't go bad, but we also have new strains of e coli--the harmful
bacteria that causes illness for an estimated 73,000 Americans annually.
We are riddled with widespread obesity, particularly among children, and
an epidemic level of diabetes among adults.
Featuring interviews with such experts as Eric Schlosser (Fast Food
Nation), Michael Pollan (The Omnivore's Dilemma) along with forward
thinking social entrepreneurs like Stonyfield Farm's Gary Hirshberg and
Polyface Farms' Joel Salatin, Food, Inc. reveals surprising -- and often
shocking truths -- about what we eat, how it's produced, who we have
become as a nation and where we are going from here.
Thank you!
Best,
Jason Reif
Off Topic: Yesterday I did an
hour-long interview about the Wendy Di Rodio murder case with
Dateline NBC at Canary Hotel in downtown Santa Barbara. They also
interviewed her dance partner Rick Harmon and local dance instructor
Sylvia Sykes. Wendy was a friend to many people in town and I run a
tribute site dedicated to her memory. Clips from
the interviews will air in August.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Silver Screen Bash: The Santa
Barbara International Film Festival’s 25th Anniversary Bash takes
place at the Doubletree Resort on July 19, 2009. VIP reception
begins at 5pm, the event begins at 6pm. I am on the committee putting
together the celebration and I can tell you tickets are selling fast.
General admission tickets are $75 and VIP tickets are $100. Food and drinks included! You can purchase tickets by calling 963-0023 or on the
web at sbfilmfestival.org.
Food & beverage sponsors include Ariel Catering & Events, Bay Café,
Berry Man, Brewhouse, Central Coast Culinary, Epiphany, Green Star
Coffee Company, Hitching Post, Marmalade Café, Piatti, Real Water,
Roblar Winery, Rodney's Steakhouse, State & A, Stockholm Krystal Vodka,
and World Cuisine Express.
Monday, June 22, 2009
SB Wine Festival: This Saturday,
June 27, 2pm-5pm the Santa Barbara Wine Festival takes
place at the Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol. Includes
tastings from more than 70 Central Coast wineries. $50 for members, $75
non-members. View my
photo
album of a recent festival. For more information call 682-4711 ext 443 or visit
sbnature.org/winefestival.
French Festival: Saturday & Sunday,
July 11 & 12, 11am-7pm, enjoy the 22nd annual French Festival at Oak Park.
There will be plenty of food, 40 acts and three stages, dancing, Poodle
Parade, arts & crafts and more. Food vendors include: Pacific Crêpesm,
Lemoine Crêperie, Acadie Crepes Company, Mai's Cafe Vietnamese Cuisine,
Normandie Cafe/Josette's Bistro, The French Grill/SB Catering, Blue Star
Cafe, L'Etoile/Starr Catering, Southern Delite Cajun Cuisine, Edelweiss
Choir, Le Hot Dog, Gay Café, Perrier, and Nestle Pure Life. For more
information call 564-7274 or visit
frenchfestival.com.
Photo Blog:
Pictures from last Saturday night of the Santa
Barbara 1980's
all-school/all-class reunion at EOS with live music from Spencer & The Tan

Friday, June 19, 2009
Cabana Update: Cabana, the
new Brazilian restaurant coming to 509 State Street, has posted the
following description on their Facebook page:
Get ready SB! Cabana will not only be the world’s first cachaça lounge
but will also be the first establishment in our fine town to transport
the lighthearted and laid back atmosphere of Brazilian culture and
nightlife to the downtown scene. Stepping into Cabana will be like
nothing else our town has seen; with sweeping arches, and luxurious
expanses in which to dine or drink, Cabana will be the perfect mix of
lavishness and leisure. Cabana will fill a void in Santa Barbara
nightlife and cuisine with its relaxed Brazilian atmosphere and culinary
temptations inspired by the white-sand beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Cabana
will undoubtedly prove the new destination for those who desire a break
from the monotony of the regular downtown scene and wish to bask in the
freshness of Cabana’s Brazilian style.
Sukiyaki Survey: Reader Justine sent
me an email asking for your help locating a restaurant that
serves sukiyaki. If you have any ideas please send me an
email.
Here is her message: "Hi John. My mom is coming to town for Solstice
this weekend, and mentioned recently that she loves sukiyaki and is
always on the lookout for it. Can you poll your readers to see where
they suggest? - Justine"
-
Reader M says: "I'm a sukiyaki lover, too, and I've ordered it at
several restaurants in town. By far, my favorite place to get it is
Edomasa. Their broth and noodles are the best!"
-
Reader Steve says: "Edomasa serves sukiyaki, it is pretty good."
-
Reader Cathy says: "The only place I've ever had sukiyaki is Edomasa
and I can definitely recommend it!"
Photo Blog:
Here are pictures from last night's
Saks fundraiser
for the Santa Barbara International Film Festival's 25th anniversary bash
coming this July 19th.
Cafe Shell
(formerly Barcliff & Bair) provided food for the event.

Thursday, June 18, 2009
Montecito Update: This just in from
Pane e Vino:
Pane e Vino just celebrated 21 years in its Upper Montecito Village
location. The food is, as has always been, consistently fresh and
delicious and will now be served from 5 P.M. until 9 P.M. seven nights a
week as Sunday evenings have now made a comeback! The same Northern
Italian fare, featuring a wide variety of seasonal daily specials,
pasta, seafood, and meat dishes, will also be available for lunch from
Noon until 2:30 P.M. Monday through Friday. For dinner reservations,
please call (805) 969-9274. Pane e Vino is located at 1492 East Valley
Road near San Ysidro Road in Montecito
Photo Blog: Here are
pictures
from last night's Young Professionals Club mixer at
Live Culture.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Poll: What's Your Favorite Drink? I
am running a poll today to find out what is your favorite drink in town
and which restaurant/bar serves it. If you send me an
email
with your choice I'll post the results here and in the Daily Sound on
Tuesday.
-
Reader Richard says: "Mojito at Alacazar's"
-
Reader Joe says: "A Cazadores margarita from Joe’s. It’s pretty much
tequila with a splash of lime"
-
Reader Gina says: "Hungry Cat's cucumber martini on the rocks (ask them
to add mint). It's like alcoholic spa water ;)"
-
Reader Marna says: "Mojito's at Alacazar's ... the best in S.B."
-
Reader Deena says: "Hands-down the Blood Orange Margarita at Blue
Agave!!!"
-
Reader Liana says: "At Coast at the Canary the Peach Bellini has fresh
peach nectar and is refreshing and delicious!"
-
Reader Jayne says: "My favorite cocktail is Hungry Cat's Greyhound
Proper. Its Gin and grapefruit juice with a homemade candied
grapefruit twist on top!"
-
Reader Diana says: "Hands down the Pomegranate Mojito at Cava.
Cava has the best drinks since everything is freshly made. They do not
use syrups or mix. The best!"
-
Reader Sarah says: "Key Lime Pie Martini at Fishouse- The best,
sound girly but trust me they pack a punch!"
-
Reader Elena says: "Cosmopolitan at Blue Agave"
-
Reader Nicole says: "The Prickly Pear Margarita at Stonehouse is
amazing, not too sweet or strong!"
-
Reader Katie says: "My favorite drink in SB is most certainly the
Cool Cucumber at EO's. They won't tell me what's in it, but it is
DELICIOUS. A cool, refreshing drink that is good anytime of day or
night."
From The Biltmore: This just in from Four Seasons Resort,
1260 Channel Drive,
in Montecito:
-
Wine Down Weekdays at Ty Lounge – Unwind after your work day at
Ty
Lounge with $5 wines by the glass, weekdays from 5 to 7 pm. Enjoy the
spectacular ocean and sunset views along with a revolving selection of
red, white and sparkling wines for just $5. Bonus: nibble on $5 samplers
of Point Reyes blue, Monterey dry jack and Humboldt fog goat cheeses.
Monday through Thursday, 5 to 7 pm. Ty Lounge. 969-2261.
-
Bella Arte Meets Bella Vista – Bottoms Art Galleries has teamed up with
Bella Vista Restaurant for Bella Arte, bimonthly evenings that
brilliantly combine the fine art of dining with the fine arts of
painting, sculpture and music. The special exhibitions coincide with
Bella Vista’s popular Thursday night seafood buffet – featuring fresh
lobster, shellfish, sushi and sashimi bars, a variety of salads, and
other favorites by Executive Chef Martin Frost for just $49, along with
no corkage fees. On these select evenings, Bottoms Art Galleries will
feature new works, works in progress, demonstrations and appearances by
a featured artist in La Salita. Artists include local legends and
favorites Brad Nack, Benjamin Brode, Bud Bottoms, Gil DiCicco, Katie
Upton, Bruce Wolfe and many others. June 11 – “Flowing with Life,”
featuring impressionist painter Rodolfo Rivademar; June 25 – oil
painting and sculpture by Benjamin Brode and James “Bud” Bottoms. Full
schedule through September available upon request. Seafood Buffet every
Thursday, 5 to 9 pm, $49. Bella Vista at the Four Seasons Biltmore. Call
565-8237 for reservations.
-
Starry Nights: Summertime Stargazing – Head to the Four Seasons Biltmore
for a unique, fun and educational outdoor experience for the whole
family. Starting in June, the Resort is hosting a monthly series of
stargazing evenings – gather on the Monte Vista Lawn, where expert
astronomers from the Santa Barbara Natural History Museum will lead an
engaging session of skywatching, pointing out wonders of the night sky
and unlocking mysteries of the universe. For $25, enjoy unlimited
appetizers, beer and wine while observing the moon, constellations and
planets through telescopes. Children are free with a paying adult. June
10, July 8, and August 12, 8 to 10 pm. Reservations required, call
969-2261 for more info.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Introducing Union Ale Brewing Company:
Downtown will soon be home to the Union Ale Brewing Company at
214 State Street just across from
Enterprise
Fish Co. Fourth
generation Santa Barbaran Matthew Chrestenson,
co-owner of Union Ale, tells me: “We’re really focusing on the food.
We are going after being a restaurant first and foremost.”
Union Ale offers eight 50” TVs and will be serving beer & wine. The
beers will all be American ales and the wines will be from Santa
Barbara County. They will offer 20 beers on tap, four of them made by
Union Ale including California Pale, Hefeweizen, Honey Blonde and IPA.
The drink menu will also include beer cocktails & wine cocktails.
Chrestenson gave me a sneak peek at their food menu [click
here to see menu] and it lists 12
types of flatbread pizza, including Pepperoni, BBQ Chicken and Smoked
Cheddar Apple. A variety of salads and wraps will be offered in
addition to soft corn tacos and baked quesadillas.
Union Ale’s menu also includes “Build a Burger” where you 1) Choose
a fresh baked bun (Brewery Sourdough, 9-Grain Wheat or Sweet
Hawaiian), 2) Choose your protein (Ground Sirloin Patty, Sliced Tri
Tip, Chicken Breast Turkey Patty or Soy Oat Tempeh Patty) and 3)
Choose your style (Cheese Burger, Bacon Burger, Three Pepper Burger,
Mushroom Ale Burger, Union Club Burger or Santa Barbara Burger).
Chrestenson added: “We’re making everything in house, everything is
from scratch - buns, sauces, we’re grinding corn for our tacos. It
will be a fun, casual environment.” Union Ale is hoping to have a
grand opening this July.
Oil & Vinegar: Il Fustino,
which sells oils and vinegars, will be opening June 22 at 3401 State
Street, near the San Roque post office. For more information call
888-798-4740 or visit ilfustino.com.
Brewch: The
Brewhouse at
229 W. Montecito Street has changed its breakfast to a brunch
Sat-Sun starting at 9am. Kids under 12 eat free. Brunch is $12.95
and brunch plus bottomless mimosas are $21.95. Bottomless mimosas end at
3pm. Happy hour starts at 4pm and is everyday of the week.
Monday, June 15, 2009
New In The Guide: Today I added
Chino's Rock & Tacos
to the restaurant guide.
Chino's Opens:
Chino's Rock & Tacos at 714 State Street, the former home of
Matador and
Piranha, has opened for business. From what I saw and was told,
Chino's was packed with customers all day during their Saturday launch. Chino's serves "Authentic Mexican
food with an attitude." Chino's offers several weekly specials
(4pm-close) including: Tuesday $1 crispy tacos & $2 bottled beers,
Wednesday $2 bean/rice/cheese burritos & $1 beers, Thursday $4 40oz
pitchers. Here's a secret just between you and me: try dining in the
hidden upstairs lounge with cozy couches and coffee tables! Chino's hours are Sun-Wed 11am-10pm, Thu-Sat 11am-11pm. For
more information call 962-5320 or visit chinosrocks.com.
Photo Blog: Here are
pictures from the Santa Barbara County
Wine Futures Tasting brought to you by The Winehound (1221
Chapala St) and the Wine House. The event was last Saturday at the
Museum of Natural History and food was provided by
Metropulos.

Off Topic: Last Friday night,
starting at 9:01pm, there was a huge land grab on the Internet.
The popular social networking web site Facebook (200 million
members and counting) started allowing people and organizations to
select one unique name, letting them create a web address for their
Facebook profile such as facebook.com/David or facebook.com/McDonalds.
Needless to say, millions of people scrambled to own the
easy-to-remember web address of their choice. Within the first few
minutes over a million usernames were taken. Most city names
nationwide also disappeared instantly including facebook.com/LasVegas and
facebook.com/SanFrancisco. To get your own personal Facebook web address you should
fill out the online form at facebook.com/username.
What name did I select for my Facebook account? Considering that my web
site is SantaBarbara.com, and my phone number is 1-800-SantaBarbara, I
really only had one choice:
facebook.com/SantaBarbara
Friday, June 12, 2009
Cabana: A Brazilian restaurant
opening this summer at 509 State Street, the former home of
Bricks Cafe
and Casa Blanca,
has changed the name to "Cabana" instead "Buzios" as
originally reported.
The Pub: Word on the street is that
"The Pub," Santa Barbara's LGBT bar of yesteryear, is planning to
reopen on Helena Avenue and may include a restaurant.
Chino's Opens Tomorrow:
Chino’s Rock & Taco at 714 State Street, the former home of
Matador and
Piranha, is having a grand-opening celebration from 11 a.m. to 11
p.m. this Saturday.
Nantucket: This just in from James
Sly, owner of Sly's
at 686 Linden Ave in Carpinteria:
"This weekend starts a bit of the Nantucket experience at Sly’s in
Carpinteria.
Here’s what we have planned: diver’s scallops, sweet like only something
from Nantucket can be, fresh fluke fillet, and cooked lobster meat, for
lobster cocktails, and maybe even lobster rolls if we get some time to
bake some soft light rolls for what may be the ultimate fish sandwich.
The diver’s scallops will be grilled, and served with a light sauce
of ripe tomatoes from Beylik Farms, with fresh herbs and a touch of
extra virgin olive oil.
The fluke will be broiled under a light crust of our homemade
bread crumbs, and served with a Chardonnay butter and lemon. Or maybe
a sorrel cream, if we can get some sorrel. We tend to think
that anything more complicated will hide what a tender, delicious
fish fluke is.
We’ll have that sweet Nantucket lobster chilled in big chunks, with our
classic red cocktail sauce, and our ever-so spicy Louis Dressing. While
we’re at it, why not a Lobster Louis? Seems like a perfect match for
Sly’s incomparable signature salad of crisp Iceberg lettuce,
fresh asparagus, ripe avocado, ripe tomato, and hard boiled egg.
We also have warm berry cobblers a la mode as part of the program.
Great memories of adventures past, great thoughts of fish to come,
and the lengthening days of summer. What more can one ask for?" - James
Sly
Epicure.SB: Coming this October, The
Santa Barbara CVB and the Santa Barbara Downtown Organization will debut
a month long foodie festival featuring diverse epicurean offerings. This
festival will showcase regional cuisine, libations and culture. During
the month of October, the promotion builds on existing annual
foodie-friendly events including the Harbor & Seafood Festival,
California Lemon Festival, California Avocado Festival and Celebration
of Harvest. The event includes special midweek menus, educational
seminars, mixology demos, farmers' market tours, cooking classes,
micro-brew tastings, winemaker dinners and much more. For more
information visit
www.epicuresb.com.
Here is the press-release:
Santa Barbara, CA - The Santa Barbara Conference & Visitors Bureau and
Film Commission (SBCVB&FC) and the Santa Barbara Downtown Organization
(DO) joined forces to develop epicure.sb: a month to savor santa barbara.
Making its debut October 2009, epicure.sb is designed to celebrate Santa
Barbara’s abundant and diverse epicurean offerings. The new annual
promotion builds off of established foodie-friendly community events
that take place in October—Harbor & Seafood Festival, California Lemon
Festival, California Avocado Festival and Celebration of Harvest—while
offering additional programming that showcases regional cuisine,
libations and culture. Special midweek menus, educational seminars,
mixology demonstrations, farmers’ market tours, cooking classes,
micro-brew tastings, book signings, winemaker dinners and much more will
fill the month up with tasty opportunities to sip and savor the uniquely
local flavors of Santa Barbara County. www.epicuresb.com
The Dish
This month-long promotional platform is designed to stimulate business
and introduce new customers to restaurants, retailers, attractions and
events that highlight Santa Barbara’s bountiful harvest. Locals and
visitors will have the opportunity to experience a variety of events and
special activities related to the culture of food and beverages at
restaurants, retailers, markets, festivals and events. Epicure.sb will
leverage events already taking place during the month of October, with
additional promotions and programming to develop a collaborative
campaign. It will entice visitors to plan a trip to Santa Barbara and
extend their stay, while providing locals with something new to
experience and driving business downtown in off-peak periods.
Call for Participants and Partners
Restaurants, retailers, drinking establishments, art/cultural venues,
academic institutions, markets, farms, tour operators, festivals,
wineries and hotels are invited and encouraged to participate and take
advantage of this free marketing platform. Interested businesses and
culinary artisans should contact Mary Lynn Harms (mharms@sbdo.org or
805.962.2098 ext 24) to learn more. Participation information and forms
are also available on the DO website: http://www.santabarbaradowntown.com/DOEvents.asp#Epicure
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Fiesta Ranchera: As the Fiesta food
reporter for Old Spanish Days, my seasoned investigative reporting
techniques have uncovered a wealth of new information: On
Thursday, June 25th 5-10pm, Old Spanish Days is holding an event
called "Fiesta Ranchera" at Rancho La Patera & Stow House, 304
Los Carneros Road in Goleta.
Here is an official description provided by the Fiesta committee:
"A festive evening of fun, food, music, and dancing. Stroll the
beautiful historical gardens to sample food from local restaurants,
award winning local wineries and bars also on-site. Enjoy performances
by the 2009 Junior Spirit and Spirit of Fiesta. End the evening with
dancing under the stars to popular Santa Barbara area cover band, Area
51. Attendees are encouraged to dress in Fiesta or Ranch attire. Tickets
$55 in advance or $75 at the door. Tickets available online or Old
Spanish Days Office - (805) 962-8101."
Many local businesses are providing food & beverages for the event including:
-
Ariel Catering & Events - Natural Barbecued Cuban Sandwiches with
Banana-Coconut and Sugarcane Milkshakes
-
Buttonwood Farm - Wine
-
California Pasta Company - TBD (to be determined)
-
Carina Cellars - Wine
-
Cold Stone Creamery - Ice Cream
-
Cottonwood Canyon - Wine
-
Country Meat and Catering Company - Homemade Sausage and Pasta
-
Domingo's Café - TBD
-
Fresco Cafe North - Gorgonzola Walnut Salad & Lemon Bars
-
Hollister Brewing Company - Food TBD – serving Hollister beers in the
bar
-
Marmalade Café - TBD
-
Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant - Chicken and Carne Asada Tacos
-
Santa Barbara Elk’s Lodge #613 - Tri Tip Sandwiches, with Albertsons’
Salsa Bar
-
Santa Barbara Olive Company - TBD
-
Savoir Faire - TBD
-
SBB Gourmet Catering - Empanadas, Chips, and Guacamole
-
Seasons Catering - TBD
-
Trader Joe’s - TBD
-
Woody’s BBQ - Mini Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Ice Cream Update: Mike Briggs,
owner/operator of Cold
Stone Creamery - Goleta and
Cold Stone Creamery -
State St, sent me a press-release about his new Jell-O
Pudding Ice
Cream and Ice Cream Cupcake offerings:
Santa Barbara, CA – Cold Stone Creamery is kicking
off the ice eating season with new and innovative ice cream
indulgences that will provide relief from the heat and reduce pressure
from the pocket book.. From June 3 to July 28, 2009, Cold Stone will
be mixing things up once again in the world of frozen treats with a
revolutionary form of JELL-O Pudding ice cream while the highly sought
after ice cream cupcake will be available at a bargain price .
A true believer and leader in ice cream innovation, Cold Stone
Creamery’s Tastemaster, Ray Karam, has created a new and exciting form
of ice cream -- JELL-O Pudding ice cream. This new line of ice cream
flavors not only taste like the intended pudding, but also holds the
characteristics and texture that is easily recognized as JELL-O
Pudding. The most interesting and surprising feature of this new ice
cream is that it does not melt, instead, when left at room
temperature, it actually turns into pudding – now that’s ice cream
innovation.
Developed through rigorous testing and tasting, an entirely new ice
cream texture has been achieved to mimic that of pudding yet in a
frozen form. Four flavors have been created including butterscotch,
chocolate, vanilla and banana pudding. Only butterscotch and chocolate
pudding flavors will be available in stores nationwide while banana
and vanilla will be optional flavors. Each of these flavors exhibits
that of JELL-O Pudding but the difference is this sweet treat is
frozen and has a mouth feel much like a velvety mousse.
“Just as summer time invokes fervent memories, so does ice cream and
JELL-O Pudding. From barbeques to pool parties, these two sweet treats
have been served side-by-side for years, and it was about time they
were brought together as the ultimate summer dessert, said Mike
Briggs, owner of a Cold Stone Creamery store.
Indulgent creations have been developed to compliment the new
JELL-O Pudding ice cream flavors:
- Butterscotch Velvet™ – Butterscotch JELL-O Pudding Ice Cream
mixed with Butterfinger, Reese’s® Peanut Butter Cup and Caramel
- Chocolate-y Goodness™ – Chocolate JELL-O Pudding Ice Cream mixed
with Peanut Butter, Caramel and Fudge
- Blissful Banana™ – Banana JELL-O Pudding Ice Cream mixed with
Roasted Almonds, Yellow Cake and Banana (DELETE if not offered in
your store)
And if changing the texture of ice cream was not enough of a feat,
several delicious recipes incorporating this new pudding ice cream
have been posted at www.coldstonecreamery.com. Recipes include
suggestions for creating JELL-O Pudding ice cream pops, sandwiches and
trifles.
Also this summer season, Cold Stone Creamery is offering America’s
newest favorite dessert, ice cream cupcakes, at a limited time,
discounted rate. In a little less than three months, 1.8 million
cupcakes have been sold to ice cream loving cupcake aficionados across
the country. Recognizing the popularity of these little treats and the
nation’s budgetary woes, it only seemed fitting to celebrate summer by
bringing back the ice cream cupcake at its $9.99 introductory price. A
variety pack of six will be available in stores nationwide for $9.99
from June 3 to July 28, 2009.
Since these cupcakes are part of the Cold Stone family of indulgences,
guests can pre-order a pack and customize the cupcakes to their
personal taste or they can pick up a variety pack with the three
developed Cold Stone signature flavors, Cake Batter Delux, Sweet Cream
and Double Chocolate Devotion™. Each cupcake is made using a rich
Belgian chocolate shell as the cup and then this delectable dessert is
layered with moist cake, fudge or caramel, a generous scoop of Cold
Stone’s super-premium ice cream, and topped with fluffy frosting and
an edible decoration.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
New In The Guide: Today I added
Petros, a new
Greek eatery in Los Olivos, to the restaurant guide.
Lobster Fest:
Marmalade Cafe
in La Cumbre Plaza has launched a new offering called "Lobster Fest"
that is available every Saturday night. The new menu includes: Lobster
Bisque $6.95, Lobster Linguine $18.95, 3/4 lbs King Crab $19.95, Steak &
King Crab $21.95 and 1 1/2 lbs Live Maine Lobster $24.95. This limited
time offer is valid Saturdays beginning at 4pm. For more information
call 682-5246.
Cannons Seafood Grill: Last week I
visited Disneyland and Legoland with a friend who brought his family out
from Texas to California for a kid-friendly vacation. On the way back
from Legoland we stopped at Cannons Seafood Grill in Dana Point,
CA. The restaurant is on top of the Dana Point Bluffs and we had a
spectacular view of Dana Point Marina from our table. The menu was
extensive and the food was terrific. If you are ever in the area, be
sure to stop by. For more information call (949) 496-6146 or visit
cannonsrestaurant.com.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Renaud's Patisserie &
Bistro Opening Downtown: The popular French bakery
Renaud's
Patisserie & Bistro in Loreto Plaza (next to
Harry's)
is planning to open a second location downtown this fall at 1324 State
Street #N (next to
Carlitos Cafe
& Cantina). It will offer the same menu and hours will be
7am-3pm daily. Cooking will be done onsite while baked goods will be
brought over fresh from the Loreto Plaza location. For more information
call 569-2400 or visit renaudsbakery.com.
Creekside Opening
A Restaurant: Creekside Bar & Grill at 4444 Hollister
Ave is expanding into a full restaurant using neighboring space formerly
occupied by JR’s BBQ. The new restaurant is planning to have a grand
opening in July. The restaurant will be open Thursday – Sunday and offer
breakfast on weekends. General Manager Julie Ponvini tells me the menu
will consist of “home cooking, barbeque, comfort food.” For more
information call 964-5118.
Holdren's & Pastavino
Update: Clay Holdren, owner of
Holdren's
Steaks & Seafood downtown, sent an email updating me on his
plans to open a new steakhouse (Holdren’s) and a new Italian restaurant
(Pastavino) in Camino Real Marketplace in the location formerly
occupied by
Zaffiro:
“Hey John, just wanted to update you on our
progress out in Goleta. It’s looking like we will be opening in late
July for the Holdren's and early August for Pastavino. We have been
making a lot of progress and things are going really well. We are
looking for employees, though, if you want to put the word out.
We have some but we need more. It looks like we are about 6 weeks
away from opening, so spread the word...” - Clay Holdren
The Crystal Ball:
After intense concentration and a wave of my hand over the all-knowing
Crystal Ball, my eatery oracle has revealed a list of locations
appearing in your future:
Bella Dolce (downtown) late June, Chino’s Rock & Tacos (downtown)
June, Saigon In & Out (downtown) June, Yo Yum Yum (Goleta) June,
Creekside Bar & Grill (Goleta) July, Holdren’s (Goleta) late July,
Pastavino (Goleta) early August, Three Pickles (Goleta) early August,
Saigon In & Out (Five Points) September, Buzios (downtown), California
Crisp (downtown), Dogtown (Isla Vista), QuesaDilla Rilla (downtown),
Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro (downtown), Whole Foods Market (Upper
State), Wine Cask (downtown)
Out Of This World:
Harry's Plaza
Cafe at 3313 State Street has been host to Los Rancheros
Pobres mens' club for Saturday lunch for many years. One of its
members, Astronaut Richard M. Linnehan, took the Club flag on a 6
1/2 million mile journey aboard the space shuttle Endeavor
last year. That flag is now on display in Harry's Ranchero room.
Off Topic: Like
many of you, I’m a big fan of the iPhone. Apple held a news
conference yesterday and revealed plans to launch a new version of
the iPhone called the “iPhone 3GS” on June 19th.
The new iPhone 3GS contains many new features including Digital
Compass, Video Recording (send via text message & email and
upload directly to Youtube), Voice Control (speak your friend’s name to
dial), 3 megapixel camera with autofocus, longer battery life and faster
Internet speeds.
Starting June 17th all existing iPhone users will get a
free upgrade to iPhone Operating System 3.0. The new OS includes over
100 new features such as Cut, Copy & Paste, multi-media text messaging,
landscape keyboard, voice recorder and more.
Starting this summer the TomTom navigation system will be available
for the iPhone 3G & iPhone 3GS. The new software, available in the iPhone’s App Store, will offer spoken turn-by-turn directions.
The new iPhone 3GS will cost $199/$299 for the 16GB and 32GB versions
(with 2-year contract)
for people who do not own an iPhone 3G. If you already own an iPhone 3G
the cost will be $399/$499 (16GB/32GB) because it won’t be subsidized by AT&T.
A lot of people
are very
unhappy with that AT&T upgrade policy though most other carriers
have the same policy.
Starting today the “old” iPhone 3G 8GB will sell for $99.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Wine Futures Tasting: Bob Wesley
from The Winehound at 1221 Chapala Street sent me an email about
his Wine Futures tasting event this Saturday at the Museum of Natural
History:
The WINEHOUND and The Wine House present The Santa Barbara County
Wine Futures Tasting
SATURDAY, June 13th 4:30 to 7:30 @ Fleischmann Auditorium on the grounds
of the Santa Barbara Natural History Museum (appetizers by Metropulos)
Tickets: $65.00 per person • Please call to purchase 805-845-5247
Advance purchase only; sorry, no cancellations accepted for this event
Get a peek at upcoming and down-the-road releases from Alta Maria,
Ampelos, Au Bon Climat,
Beckmen, Blair Fox, Brewer-Clifton, Costa de Oro, Demetria, Dierberg,
DSP Cosecha, Foxen, Happy
Canyon Vineyards, Harrison-Clarke, Hitching Post, Holus Bolus, Jaffurs,
Jelly Roll, Jonata, Kaena,
Kenneth-Crawford, Kunin, Margerum, Melville, Native9, Ojai, Palmina,
Paul Lato, Qupe, Rey,
Samsara, Sanguis, Stolpman, Tercero, Thread, Three Creek Vineyard,
Vogelzang.
Kitchen Needed: Robyn Van Tuyl,
owner of the "Robyn Loves Cake" bakery is looking for temporary use of a
kitchen:
Due to a fire in adjacent kitchen I have been vacated from my commercial
kitchen for at least several months, perhaps permanently. I make
specialty
cakes, and don't have any employees so don't need a huge amount of space
but
do need a little area that's just mine. Ideally I could bring my fridge
in.
Specialized bakery equipment totally unnecessary. Does your commercial
kitchen have unused space? Let's talk! Thanks so much, I definitely am
in a
time crunch.
Robyn Van Tuyl
www.robynlovescake.com
805-570-7275
And The Winner Is: Based on
SantaBarbara.com web site statistics, here are the most viewed
pictures from four recent events documented in the
Photo Blog:
Friday, June 5, 2009
Off Topic: A friend passed away
tragically on Wednesday in Ventura. Wendy Di Rodio was known by
many in Santa Barbara, especially by the swing dance community. I have
put together a tribute site for Wendy Di Rodio
with photos and memorial service information. A swing dance is being
held tonight at the Carrillo Rec Center at 8:30pm and many will be there
to honor her.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Corktree Update: Jessica Pintard,
owner of Corktree
Cellars Wine Bar & Bistro in Carpinteria, sent me a press-release
this morning about recent changes:
NEW CHEF, NEW MENU. STILL THE SAME CORKTREE CELLARS…JUST BETTER!
Carpinteria’s favorite local wine bar and bistro has recently hired Chef
Brandon Worrell, formerly of Mondial catering in Santa Barbara.
Chef Brandon brings a fresh new approach to the menu at Corktree,
focusing on local produce, house made desserts, fresh seafood and much
more. He has added two new entrees to the already vast menu as well as
several new salads, a farmer’s market plate, healthy tapas items and
other various weekly specials.
New additions to Corktree also include a Sunday Brunch served from
10am-1pm. Items like Lobster Benedict, Bananas Foster French Toast,
Croque Monsieur, Brie and Basil scramble and a traditional house made
biscuits and gravy dish are just a few of the items you’ll find. They
also offer Orange or Blueberry Mimosas and Peach Bellinis as well as
their delicious gourmet French press coffee.
Corktree will also be hosting wine tastings on the patio one Sunday per
month through the month of October. They offer over 100 local and
imported wines at Corktree Cellars and these tastings are designed to
give customers samples of what is on the current wine list. Cost is $15
per person.
Happy Hour specials are now served from 4pm-6pm Tuesday-Sunday. Here you
will find $5 wine by the glass specials, $4 beers on tap as well as a
large list of tapas specials. Live music on Saturday afternoons from
4pm-6pm will also be added to the mix starting June 13th.
Corktree has enjoyed much success since opening in April of 2008. They
continue to impress customers with their attention to detail, fresh
delicious food, large wine selection as well as their outstanding
customer service. They focus on offering a warm and inviting space for
both locals and visitors, and have succeeded in creating a “friends
house” type of environment.
Conveniently located at 910 Linden Avenue in downtown Carpinteria,
Corktree Cellars Wine Bar and Bistro is in the heart of the retail and
restaurant district. Contact them by phone at (805) 684-1400, fax (805)
684-1414 or email corktreecellars@yahoo.com. Please address all
inquiries to owner Jessica Pintard (Proprietors Blend) or manager Anne
McIntire (Lead Grape). You can also visit their website at
corktreecellars.com.
Food & Wine Festival: For those of
you who like to attend events outside of the Santa Barbara area, the
Casa Pacifica Wine & Food Festival in Camarillo is this Sunday, June
7th, and includes 75 restaurants, 150 wineries and 25 micro breweries.
Photo Blog: Here are pictures from
last night's Solstice fundraiser dinner at Pascucci. 100% of proceeds, including
tips, were donated to the Solstice Parade. Pictures are of the
first-shift waiters, waitresses & bartenders (5-7:30pm) and of several
diners who sat in my section.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009
BYO Picnic: Here is a
press-release about an event in Solvang:
The Taste of Solvang Food & Wine
Festival’s first ever Bring Your Own (BYO) Picnic is Sunday, June 7,
2009, from Noon-3pm at Solvang Park, Mission Drive and First Street
in downtown Solvang. Free, live entertainment will be featured in
the Park’s Gazebo. From Noon to 1:00pm, enjoy the vocal and guitar
styling of Country/Folk Singer Owen Johnston of Santa Ynez. From
1:00-3:00pm, the 30-member volunteer musicians of the Valley Wind
Ensemble will perform a variety of concert-band favorites. Plus,
enjoy relaxing on the fabulous 120-yard cloth picnic blanket, a
European tradition brought to Solvang by event coordinator Mary
Harris. Locals and visitors alike are encouraged to purchase picnic
ingredients available at many local markets including Nielsen’s, New
Frontiers Natural Marketplace and El Rancho Market or take-out from
area bakeries and restaurants.
TV Show Taped At The Palace?:
This just in from reader Paul:
Hey I was at the
Palace Grill
last night and there was some travel food TV show filming an episode
there. Do you what was going on. They had the table next to me but
they were keeping pretty tight lipped about the show and wouldn’t
tell us the name of the show. It was four to five women in their 30s
going around different southern California restaurants. Anyways it
would be fun to watch when or if it ever airs. Since your up this
kind of stuff I figured if anybody knows it's you.
Off Topic: I'm
on the road right now heading back from a successful trip to Disneyland
and Legoland. I am looking forward to being a waiter tonight at
Pascucci!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
May I Take Your Order?
Wednesday, June 3rd (tomorrow) I will be a waiter at
Pascucci
restaurant during dinner time to help raise money for the Summer
Solstice Parade. All proceeds and tips go to Solstice. Come on by and
ask to be seated in my section!
Bella Dolce Bakery Opening Downtown:
Longtime local bakery
Bella Dolce will be opening a storefront downtown at 113 W. De La
Guerra Street, the former home of
Saffron.
The target date is the end of June. Owner Eileen Randall Cook sent me an
email detailing her plans:
Hi John,
Here are the details about Bella Dolce Bakery and the new spot downtown:
I am a classically trained pastry chef* and I founded Bella Dolce in
1997 as a custom wedding cake and dessert catering company. Having been
in business for 12 years we are now known for our award winning cookies
and elegant wedding cakes. In response to customer requests and the
following for our custom desserts we are now opening a retail café –
with a full bakery & coffee house in the heart of downtown Santa
Barbara, steps from the Paseo Nuevo mall. The new Bella Dolce Bakery
will be a vintage style bakery ~ featuring luscious cupcakes, beautiful
cookies, retro desserts, exotic chocolate, coffee and teas.
Bella Dolce Bakery is already known for the high standards of quality of
ingredients and artistry in everything we create. Everything we make at
Bella Dolce Bakery is baked from scratch, with the best ingredients,
including organic ingredients and local purveyors as much as possible.
Many of our recipes are from my collection of over 200 vintage cook
books from the 1920’s-1950’s. When baking was all done from scratch,
with out preservatives, additives or artificial colors. Resulting in the
fresh baked and truly flavorful results that Bella Dolce Bakery is now
known for.
We will be doing things like making our own vanilla wafers for our
banana pudding, and our own marshmallows from scratch for the hot
chocolate and rice crispy treats. While I personally am all about the
real butter and sugar we will have some vegan and gluten free offerings
for people with allergies and special food concerns. We will also
feature only recyclable and compostable to go packaging and green
cleaning products to support the Santa Barbara tradition of being as
earth friendly as possible.
All coffees and espresso drinks served in the café will be made with
organic & fair trade coffees, locally roasted by Green Star Coffee. My
ex-husband Daniel Randall is one of the founders and co-owner of Green
Star, so we are keeping it all in the family.
We hope to open the new café at 113 West De la Guerra Street in June and
until then you can find our sweets at a few upcoming non-profit events.
Bella Dolce Bakery will be at the finale party of the Downtown
Organization’s Art & Wine Tour at the courthouse sunken gardens on this
Thursday night, Share Our Strength on Sunday afternoon, and at the Santa
Barbara Museum of Natural History’s Wine Festival on June 27th.
Especially in this uncertain economy people are craving comfort foods.
We really enjoy being an affordable indulgence and being able to make
people happy and share in special events with them through what we
create at Bella Dolce Bakery.
~ Eileen Randall Cook
Petros Opens: A
new Greek restaurant named “Petros” has opened at 2860 Grand
Avenue in Los Olivos. Operated by owner & chef Petros Benekos, the
eatery serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Hours are 7am-10pm. For more
information call 688-7788.
Restaurant Of The Month:
The SantaBarbara.com Restaurant of the Month for June
is the Melting Pot
Restaurant Wrap Up:
Here is a list of local eateries that have opened in the last six
months:
- May 2009:
Burger Bus, for locations see theburgerbus.com; Mediterra Cafe & Market 5575 Hollister Ave, Goleta, 696-9323; Petros
2860 Grand Ave, Los Olivos, 688-7788; Yogurtland 621 State St,
564-8680
- April 2009: Blush
Restaurant and Lounge 630 State St, 957-1300; European Deli & Market
4422 Hollister Ave, Goleta, 964-6600; Hummingbird Cafe 1101 State St,
963-9800; Root 246 420 Alisal Rd, Solvang, 688-9003;
- March 2009: China
Express 414 N. Milpas St, 966-1088; Giovanni's on the Mesa 1905 Cliff
Dr, 560-7492; Hot Spots 36 State St, 564-1637; Live Culture 11 W. De
la Guerra St, 845-8800
- February 2009:
Barbecue Company 3807 Santa Claus Ln, Carpinteria, 684-2209; Sweet
Alley 955 Embarcadero del Mar, Isla Vista, 845-4680
- January 2009: Caje
948 Embarcadero del Norte, Isla Vista, 845-4612; Cantwell's Cafe &
Deli 24 W. Figueroa St, 962-6611; Carl’s Jr 4610 Carpinteria Ave,
Carpinteria, 684-4079; Dos Carlitos 3544 Sagunto St, Santa Ynez,
688-0033; Hotcookie.com 2018 Cliff Dr, 564-2397; La Chiripita 730 N.
Milpas St, 962-5048; Melting Pot 608 Anacapa St, 845-4444; Pinkberry
742 State St, 962-1378; Zizzo's Coffee 370 Storke Rd, Goleta, 571-8888
- December 2008:
Grapevine Fine Food Market 126 E. Canon Perdido St, 899-8800; Sushi 7
1026-A Coast Village Rd, Montecito, 845-8923
Off Topic: I am at Disneyland
with a friend through Wednesday. Here is a
video I shot on the
Screamer rollercoaster in California Adventure. The first few
seconds are blurry...
Monday, June 1, 2009
New In The Guide: Today I added
Burger Bus to
the restaurant guide.

Closed: The
Berrilicious
frozen yogurt shop at 956 Embarcadero Del Norte in Isla Vista has closed
their doors. Fear not riots and burning banks because there is new
frozen yogurt option in town: The hugely popular Sweet Alley recently
opened nearby at 955 Embarcadero del Mar.
Wine Dinner:
Two area restaurants are offering wine dinners this week:
- The
Melting
Pot restaurant at 608 Anacapa Street is having a winemaker
dinner this Thursday, June 4th featuring Michael David Winery. Enjoy
a four course meal with 4 pairings selected by in-house sommeliers,
for $44. A reception is at 6pm followed by an interactive presentation
of the featured wines and paired meal at 7pm.
- On Friday, June
5th, Miro
at the Bacara Resort (8301 Hollister Ave) is having a wine
dinner featuring food prepared by Guest chef Ed Brown from New York's
"Eighty One." The five course meal will be paired with eight different
wines from Santa Maria's Ambullneo Vineyards. The dinner will be $125
per person with special rates for guests staying at the resort.
Anniversary:
Vices &
Spices (3558 State Street) is celebrating 34 years on State
Street June 6th. Vices & Spices tells me that they are Santa Barbara's
oldest coffee house and serve exotic specialty coffees, espresso drinks,
teas, and pastries from local bakeries. Blue H. Booth and Henry
Wildenborg are the original owners at the original and only location. On
Saturday, June 6th, they will offer free cake, free informal coffee
tasting and rare coffees throughout the day.
Photo Blog: Here are pictures from
Sunday's
Taste of the Nation benefit at the Montecito Country Club.

Off Topic: I am writing this blog
from a hotel next to Disneyland. My friend Flip has flown out
from Texas with his family to spend the week at Disneyland (with an
additional visit to Lego Land). His three kids are excited beyond
belief. I am down in Anaheim with them through Wednesday.
Friday, May 29, 2009
On The Perch: Here is a press
release about an upcoming Wine & Cheese Tasting on The Perch
at Canary Hotel, every Monday night through the summer.
Summer Sunset Wine & Cheese Tasting on The Perch at Canary Hotel
Santa Barbara, CA –Soak up the summer sun, sip on the finest wines from
the area and indulge in cheeses from around the world every Monday this
summer on The Perch, Canary Hotel’s coveted rooftop setting. Monday
night “Wine & Cheese” tasting on The Perch begins on Monday, June 1st
from 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm, and will take place every Monday night
throughout the summer. What better way to begin the week than to take in
the breathtaking views of Santa Barbara, taste fine wines and enjoy
delicious cheeses. The first event on June 1st will feature wines from
Per Bacco Cellars paired with artisanal cheeses – a perfect way to kick
off summer in Santa Barbara. Take in the views, relax with friends and
make Mondays worth looking forward to. Cost is just $20 per person,
advance reservations recommended.
Mondays just became a lot more fun this summer at Canary Hotel. For
details about Monday night Wine & Cheese tasting on The Perch call (805)
879-9100 or visit www.canarysantabarbara.com. Canary Hotel is a member
of the Small Leading Hotels and is located at 31 West Carrillo Street in
Santa Barbara. To make a reservation, call toll-free 1-877-468-3515 or
(805) 884-0300.
Gluten-Free: Here is more
information about gluten-free options around town.
Here at Chamomile
Cafe, the following are gluten free and vegan, and are offered
at dinner: tofu panang and sweet potato/portobello mushroom
quesadilla. Alll of our pasta dishes, including the lasagna, can be
ordered gluten free. We also have gluten free wild salmon tacos. Many
of the breakfast offerings, including the huevos rancheros and the tofu
ranchero are gluten free. All egg dishes are gluten free as long as you
order corn tortillas and not toast. We have 2 gluten free cookies as
well.
Thanks! Be well!
- Deeahna, Chamomile Cafe
Photo Blog:
Here are 173 pictures from the Santa Barbara Downtown
Organization's
2009 Downtown Art & Wine Tour last night. The event culminated
in a huge party at the Santa Barbara Courthouse. In addition to lots of
people pictures, I
tried to highlight the various tour hosts and highlight the food & wine
sponsors.

Thursday, May 28, 2009
Reopened:
Mediterra Cafe &
Market at 5575 Hollister Ave in Goleta (next to Sizzler) has
reopened under new ownership.
Breakfast:
Pierre Lafond Wine
Bistro is launching a new
spring breakfast menu on June 2.
Solstice: Here are some
food-related events coming up in June that are fundraisers for the
Summer Solstice Parade.
-
Celebrity Waiter Dinner – Wednesday, June 3rd 5-10PM*,
Pascucci
Restaurant 729 State Street. A fun evening of great food, and local
celebrity waiters. *First 100 people will be included in a drawing for
prizes including a $100 Pascucci gift certificate, and VIP Parade
Seats/Parking (a $50 value)
-
Summer Solstice Dinner - Wednesday June 17th 7PM,
Pierre Lafond Wine Bistro
516 State Street, $95 includes dinner with wine pairings and
donation to Solstice. Reserve early as last year was at full capacity.
Call Solstice at 805.965.3396 for reservations
-
10% Tuesdays in June – Any Tuesday in June, lunch or dinner,
Aldo's Italian Restaurant
1031 State Street, Dine in and 10% of your check goes to Solstice.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Gluten-Free: On May 13th I posted some
suggestions where to find some gluten-free options in town, including
rice pasta. Reader Jeff passes more information your way:
Thanks for the info about the rice pasta restaurants in SB. This is so
wonderful to know. I just got diagnosed with celiac disease and it has
been a struggle to eat out. I thought your readers would like to know
that Pizza Guru offers a gluten free crust option. Also
Hotcookie.com
on the mesa has a gluten free peanut butter cookie. I think it would be
a great service to your readers to survey the restaurants and/or
readers about gluten free options here in town. It seems that wheat
allergy is becoming more and more prevalent. Some feel it is currently
under diagnosed and maybe as many as 10% have this intolerance.
-
Jeff
Photo Blog:
5/26/09 - "A
Heroes Thank You" ceremony downtown for the crews that battled the
Jesusita Fire

Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Dogtown: A new
gourmet hotdog & sausage restaurant named “Dogtown” is coming 887
Embarcadero del Norte in Isla Vista, the former home of Caliroll which
closed earlier this month.
Sicily By Gino:
Gino Milano, owner of Gino’s Sicilian Express at 12 W. Figueroa Street,
is busily preparing for the opening of his latest culinary creation,
"Sicily by Gino," on Main Street in Ventura. Milano, with his wife
Connie, live in Camarillo where they have been running another
restaurant, "Cucina Isabella," since 2006.
Film Fest Bash:
I am on the committee for the Santa Barbara International Film
Festival’s 25th Anniversary Bash that takes place at the Doubletree
Resort on July 19, 2009. We are looking for restaurants and catering
services to provide dishes or beverages for 1000 guests.
Current sponsors include Ariel Catering & Events, Bay Café, Berry
Man, Brewhouse, Central Coast Culinary, Epiphany, Green Star Coffee
Company, Hitching Post, Marmalade Café, Piatti, Real Water, Roblar
Winery, Rodney's Steakhouse, State & A, Stockholm Krystal Vodka, and
World Cuisine Express.
For more information you can email me at info@SantaBarbara.com or
call 1-800-SantaBarbara.
Photo Blog:
Last Friday night Spencer the Gardener entertained a capacity crowd at
Carr Winery,
414 N. Salsipuedes Street.

Rest In Peace:
Here is a list of all local dining destinations that have closed in the
last six months:
- May 2009: Caliroll
Express 887 Embarcadero del Norte, Isla Vista; Stateside Restaurant &
Lounge 1114 State St; Tacone 213 Paseo Nuevo
- April 2009: None!
- March 2009:
International Deli & Market 4422 Hollister Ave, Goleta; Kona Ranch
House 5685 Calle Real, Goleta; Marcella 2860 Grand Ave, Los Olivos;
Mediterra Cafe & Market 5575 Hollister Ave, Goleta; Santa Barbara
Roasting Co. in Paseo Nuevo, Sushi 7 1026A Coast Village Rd, Montecito
- February 2009:
Bougainvillea 202 State St; Intermezzo 813 Anacapa St; Pavilion Garden
414 N. Milpas St; Wine Cask 813 Anacapa St
- January 2009: JR's
BBQ 4444 Hollister Ave, Goleta; Mr. Pickles Sandwich Shop 6545 Pardall
Rd, Isla Visa; Saffron 113 W. De La Guerra St; Hidden Dolphin Cafe 217
Anacapa St
- December 2008: Fat
Burger 718 State St; Matador 714 State St; Savoy Cafe & Deli 24 W.
Figueroa St; Sweet Alley - Downtown 1103A State St
I Madonnari Festival:
Don Zellet (right) and his cooking crew barbecue chicken for the
I Madonnari festival at Mission Santa Barbara. The festival is a
fundraiser for the Children's Creative Project. Zellet has been cooking
at the festival for 23 years and served nearly 3000 pieces of chicken
this Memorial Day weekend.

Off Topic: The
third annual West Beach Music & Arts Festival returns to Santa
Barbara September 18, 19 & 20. Last year’s festival drew over 20,000
attendees. Tickets went on sale last Saturday and can be purchased
online at
westbeachfestival.com.
Speaking of music,
Britney Spears is making a music video in Santa Barbara this week
and casting directors have been signing up locals to be in it. It will
be shot at one of our local country clubs on May 27th or May 28th.
Though I participated as an extra in a recent movie production in Santa
Barbara, I have no plans to sing & dance with Ms. Spears.
Off Topic Update:
I have more information about the Britney Spears video being
filmed locally. It will be filmed at Nesbitt Ranch (Padaro
Lane) on Thursday. Spears is staying at the Bacara Resort. I am told
that local columnist Richard Mineards will be making an
appearance in the video. It is bringing much needed $ into the local
economy as local hotels and services are being used.
Tinker's in
Summerland is catering the video shoot.

Monday, May 25, 2009
Off Topic: I hope you are enjoying
your holiday vacation today. I am taking the day off too so today's blog
will include something random.
While surfing the web I came across a photo taken back east that
seemed very familiar. It was a photo of a statue of Benjamin Franklin at
the University of Pennsylvania. I realize that it is a duplicate of one
on display in La Arcada at 1114 State Street (it is a mirror image
rather than an exact copy). I had always thought the La Arcada statues
were unique to Santa Barbara. Apparently not!

Friday, May 22, 2009
Free Chocolate Fridays: Chocoholics
rejoice: Every Friday through the end of September the Mars Snackfood
Company will host "Free Chocolate Fridays" starting at 9am (EDT) until
noon. The first 250,000 people to register at
realchocolate.com
during that period will receive a coupon for a free, full-size
chocolate dessert including M&M's, Milky Way, Snickers, 3
Musketeers, Twix and Dove brands. Mars expects to give away as many as 7
million packages over the course of the promotion, which began May 8.
Speaking Of Chocolate: This just in
from Spoon:
Hi John,
Spoon will be having a chocolate extravaganza for the Memorial Day
Weekend.....featuring 6 chocolates: Vanilla Cinnamon Chocolate / Orange
Chocolate / Ginger Lemon Chocolate / Dark Chocolate Sorbet / Hazelnut
Chocolate / Milk Chocolate. Starts Saturday noon.
Thanks,
Erin
Twenty Six:
Paradise Cafe
at 702 Anacapa Street is celebrating their 26 years in business this
June 1-3 by offering a special: Paradise Margaritas $4, Paradise
Chardonnay $5, Paradise Syrah $6, Cobb Salad $8.50, Paradise Burger $7.50, Huevos Valenzuela $6.50.
Paradise is open Mon-Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 9am-11pm. For more information
call 962-4416.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Taste Of The Nation: The popular
benefit "Taste of the Nation" is returning to the South Coast on May
31st (see
pictures from last year's event). Here is the full press-release about it:
AREA’S FINEST CHEFS AND WINEMAKERS TEAM UP TO FIGHT CHILDHOOD HUNGER
Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation Santa Barbara Hosts Culinary
Event
at Montecito Country Club, May 31, 2009
Santa Barbara, CA — Santa Barbara chefs and winemakers share a passion
for fine food and wine. They also share a passion to fight hunger. Santa
Barbara area chefs, winemakers and mixologists will gather for Share Our
Strength’s Taste of the Nation, the city’s premier culinary benefit.
Taste of the Nation Santa Barbara will raise critical funds needed to
support Share Our Strength’s efforts to end childhood hunger in Santa
Barbara and across the nation. This year’s event will be on May 31, 2009
at Montecito Country Club from 3pm to 6pm.
More than 20 of the city’s finest chefs and restaurants will participate
in the gastronomic event. Along with Michael Blackwell from the
Montecito Country Club, participating restaurants will include Square
One, Cafe Luck, Elements Restaurant and Bar, Duo Events and Catering,
Village Modern Foods, Epiphany Restaurant and Bar, Four Seasons
Biltmore, Bacara Resort and Spa, The Ballard Inn, Ca'Dario, Jessica
Foster Confections, Blush, C'est Cheese, New West Catering,
The Hungry
Cat, Opal Restaurant and Bar, Omni Fresco Catering, Paradise Café,
Panino and Simply Pies. Guests will enjoy the city’s finest foods paired
with wines provided by Lucas & Lewellen, Ethan Wines, Beckmen Vineyards,
Carr Winery, Blair Fox Wines, Core, Kaena Wines, Carina Cellars, Scott
Cellars, Consilience, Tre Anelli, Dierberg, Star Lane, Tres Hermanas,
Flying Goat and RN Estate.
In addition to fabulous food and drinks, the event will feature live
entertainment and a spirited auction with unique items.
Area charities that will benefit from this year’s event include Foodbank
of Santa Barbara County. Since 1988, Taste of the Nation has raised more
than $70 million for organizations in the United States, Canada and
abroad.
Sponsorship packages for this special event are available by contacting
Co-Chair Barbie Deutsch at 805-967-6165 or at lady-go-blue@cox.net.
With more than 12 million children facing hunger in America, and , 1 in
3 low-income families are either hungry or on the edge of hunger because
they lack sufficient resources for life’s necessities. Share Our
Strength’s Taste of the Nation works to end childhood hunger in the
United States and abroad by ensuring that children and their families
have reliable access to nutritious food, and by addressing the deeper
causes of these conditions. Funds raised through Taste of the Nation
events provide grants to organizations in the United States, Canada and
abroad that work successfully to end childhood hunger.
“An end to childhood hunger in the United States is within reach,” said
Bill Shore, Founder and Executive Director of Share Our Strength. “With
all the participants in Taste of the Nation Santa
Barbara sharing their strengths, we are creating more resources for the
greater good of Santa Barbara and our great nation.”
Taste of the Nation is nationally sponsored by American Express, Sysco,
Food Network, Brown-Forman and S.Pellegrino Sparkling Natural Mineral
Water. One hundred percent of ticket sales help ensure no kid in America
grows up hungry.
Tickets for Taste of the Nation Santa Barbara are $55 in advance and $75
at the door. Tickets can be purchased by calling 1-877-26-TASTE or
visiting www.TasteOfTheNation.org.
About Taste of the Nation
Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation is the nation’s premier
culinary benefit dedicated to making sure no kid in America grows up
hungry. Each spring, the nation's best chefs and mixologists donate
their time, talent and passion at more than 45 events across the United
States and Canada, with one goal in mind: to raise the critical funds
needed to end childhood hunger. Taste of the Nation is nationally
sponsored by American Express, Sysco, Food Network, Brown-Forman
Corporation and S.Pellegrino Sparkling Natural Mineral Water. Since
1988, Taste of the Nation has raised more than $70 million. Funds raised
in 2008 supported 156 organizations in the United States, Canada and
abroad. To purchase tickets or to get involved, visit
TasteOfTheNation.org.
About Share Our Strength
Share Our Strength is the leading national organization working to make
sure no kid in America grows up hungry. We weave together a net of
community groups, activists and food programs to catch children at risk
of hunger and ensure they have nutritious food where they live, learn
and play. We work with the culinary industry to create engaging,
pioneering programs like Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation, Share
Our Strength’s Great American Bake Sale, Share Our Strength’s A Tasteful
Pursuit, Share Our Strength’s Great American Dine Out, and Share Our
Strength’s Operation Frontline. Visit Strength.org.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Stateside Closes:
Stateside Restaurant
& Lounge which first opened their doors October 2007 at 1114
State Street in La Arcada (the former home of Acapulco) has gone
out of business.
Holy Cow: Reader Primetime tells me
that former Santa Barbara institution
Carrow's Restaurant
at 210 W. Carrillo Street is going to become a church.
National Waiter & Waitress Day: This
just in from Chuck's
Waterfront Grill at 113 Harbor Way. You will need to print a
copy of this blog item and present it to your server to participate.
This Thursday, May 21, is National Waiter and Waitress Day! To
celebrate, when you come in to Chuck's Waterfront Grill & The Endless
Summer bar-cafe, we'll take 10% off your Bill--but you'll share it with
the Waiters and Waitresses!
You'll get 5% off, and they'll get the other 5%! Just print out this
e-mail, and bring it with you to Chuck's Waterfront Grill or The Endless
Summer bar-cafe, and we'll take 10% off your Bill--5% for you, and 5%
for your server, because it's National Waiter and Waitress Day!
Hope to see you here on Thursday to say, "Thanks!" to your favorite
server(s) here at Chuck's Waterfront Grill & The Endless Summer
bar-cafe.
Cheers,
Steve Hyslop
Chuck's Waterfront Grill & The Endless Summer bar-cafe
113 Harbor Way Ste. 180
Photo Blog: Here are pictures from
last night's grand
re-opening party at EOS Lounge, 500 Anacapa Street.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Saigon In & Out Opening
New Location Uptown: The fastest growing local restaurant
chain, Saigon In & Out, has decided to open a fourth location this
September in Five Points Shopping Center next to
Fresco Cafe.
Saigon, with locations at 318 N. Milpas Street and 1230 State Street,
will be opening its third location, at 424 State Street (formerly Pep
Boys), this summer. The new Five Points restaurant will be at 3987 State
Street and replaces the Footlocker shoe store. Thanks to the Greenspan
family for the tip!
The Crystal Ball:
After intense concentration and a wave of my hand over the all-knowing
Crystal Ball, my eatery oracle has revealed a list of locations
appearing in your future:
- Teavana (Paseo Nuevo) May 22
- Petros Kafe (Los Olivos) end of May
- Yo Yum Yum (Goleta) end of May
- Chino’s Rock & Tacos (downtown) June
- Saigon In & Out (downtown) June
- Three Pickles (Goleta) June
- California Crisp (downtown) July
- Holdren’s (Goleta) July
- Pastavino (Goleta) July
- Saigon In & Out (Five Points) September
- Buzios (downtown)
- QuesaDilla
Rilla (downtown)
- Whole Foods Market (Upper State)
Monday, May 18, 2009
Burger Bus Is Ready To Roll: Santa
Barbara’s first and only mobile cheeseburger service, the Burger Bus,
has started its engine and is rolling to a location near you. This week
will be a trial run and soon the Burger Bus will be stopping around town
at various locations including Tri County Produce, Goleta City Hall lot
and Oreana Winery at Cellar 205. The Burger Bus uses local ingredients
from Shalhoob Meat Co., Our Daily Bread, Mama’s Preserves, Spring Hill
Cheese, Tri-County Produce and the Farmers Market. For more information
visit
theburgerbus.com.
Off Topic: If you are a fan of
Carr Winery at 414 N. Salsipuedes Street, you can stop reading this
column right here. What comes next is nothing new to you. For those of
you who have never visited Carr on, say, a Friday evening, or perhaps a
First Thursday, I struggled to find a way to describe it for you. Let’s
just say it’s “off-the-scale cool.” Located far off the beaten path in a
warehouse in the industrial east side, it has become a vital stop in
Santa Barbara’s social circuit. The evening ambiance is a magical mix of
wine processing/storage facility and upscale, candle-lit bar. For
more information call 965-7985 or visit
carrwinery.com.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Anniversary:
Kahuna Grill is
celebrating their one year anniversary in Paseo Nuevo by offering
a special on Mondays after 5pm. Order any burger and turn it into a
combo (fries & drink) at no extra charge. The deal is available at both
the Paseo Nuevo and Camino Real Marketplace locations.
Downtown Art & Wine Tour: The Santa
Barbara Downtown Organization will host the 2009 Downtown Art & Wine Tour
on Thursday, May 28th from 5:30-9:30 pm. Participants enjoy a
self-guided tour of downtown cultural venues from 5:30-8:00pm prepared
with a logo wine glass in hand for tasting wines and sampling foods at
every stop. The Final Party at the Courthouse Sunken Gardens features
more food, wine, beer, live music by "Tommy and the High Pilots" and a
silent auction showcasing packages from local businesses.
Tickets are $55 for the tour and final party or $35 for the final
party only. Tickets are on sale at the Arlington Theatre Box Office
(credit ok) or at the Downtown Organization office (cash/check only) 27B
East de la Guerra Street. For more information call 962-2098 ext. 24 or
visit
santabarbaradowntown.com.
Off Topic: Here is a photo of the
Jesusita Fire taken by Pat Stanbro.

Thursday, May 14, 2009
Caliroll Closes:
Caliroll Express
at 887 Embarcadero del Norte in Isla Vista has closed. Word on the
street is that a gourmet hotdog & sausage place will replace it.
For Sale: Two unidentified local
eateries have recently been listed for sale on Craigslist:
-
"Indian restaurant with beer & wine license. Perfectly located on the
main tourist area of Santa Barbara. Open for lunch and dinner 7 days,
with affordable menu and beautiful decor. Also beer & wine service. Low
rent and high volume."
-
"Prime and 50 years in its location, profitable ice cream parlor
franchise ready to sell, average gross income in the last two years
$360k. Seller moving back home to Asia."
iPhone Apps For Foodies: PC
Magazine recently published a list of
10 popular food-related apps for the iPhone:
- LocalEats (99 cents) - The app lists what its publishers
deem to be the best 100 restaurants in each of the 50 largest U.S.
cities.
- Urbanspoon ($2.99) - Urbanspoon turns your iPhone into a
slot machine to help you find a place to eat. There's a reel for the
neighborhood, one for cuisine type, and one for price. I have
partnered with Urbanspoon and they now include a link to
SantaBarbara.com restaurant reviews next to each local eatery listing.
- Yelp (free) - Yelp uses your iPhone's GPS capability to
deliver information and user reviews for nearby restaurants, bars, and
other businesses.
- VegOut ($2.99) - VegOut helps you find vegan-only,
vegetarian, or vegetarian-friendly restaurants.
- OpenTable (free) - OpenTable lets you search eateries for
available reservations.
- Tipulator (99 cents) - When the bill comes find out who
owes what with Tipulator. It will automatically compute the tip and
split it among as many people as you specify.
- BigOven (free) - This app has a searchable library 160,000
recipes and each includes a color photo showing you what the finished
product should look like.
- Pocket Cocktails (99 cents) - Shows you color photos of
hundreds of cocktails sorted by category. Includes list of ingredients
and a detailed step-by-step recipe.
- Fast Food Calorie Counter ($2.99) - Displays nutritional
info for 6,000 menu items from 55 top fast food restaurants.
- Livestrong Calorie Tracker ($2.99) - Track your daily food intake and
find calorie counts for what you eat from a database of more than
525,000 entries. Record your daily exercise along with how many
calories you've burned, based on your body weight.
Off Topic: The Santa Barbara
Botanic Garden was severely damaged by the Jesusita Fire and is
closed until further notice. They have begun a
recovery campaign seeking donations to help rebuild.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Happy Hour: This just in from Reader
Jess: "I'm not sure if I've seen this posted on your site, but
Plow & Angel
is having a great happy hour special from 5-6. Drinks are $5 to $8,
appetizers are half off, and beers are $3. A friend of mine went
yesterday and said she and another lady were the only ones there. I
don't think they are doing much to promote this."
Rice Pasta: To those who are
celiacs and follow a
gluten-free diet, here are some tips:
Tre Lune (1151
Coast Village Rd, Montecito),
Olio E Limone
Ristorante (17 W. Victoria St) and
Pascucci (729 State St) all carry rice pasta that can be made by request. In
addition, Lucky's
(1270 Coast Village Rd, Montecito)
can make their onion rings with rice flour by request.
Thank You! I am having a terrific
day. For dinner tonight I decided to join my parents at
Cafe Del Sol
in Montecito (my home town)
and order the Crab Cakes with Mango Relish (my current
favorite dish in SB). I am looking forward to having a *huge* piece of
bday cake which will be my first dessert since December 31st, 2008 (see
Monday's blog for an explanation).
-
Reader Katheryn: "Happy Happy Birthday to you, John! You are one in a
million...Big Hugs."
-
Reader Anissa: "Hi John!!! Happy Birthday :) Hope you have an amazing
day! And look forward to seeing you very soon!!"
-
Reader Lia: "Happy Birthday, John! Hope it's a great one!"
-
Reader Ric: "Happy Birthday buddy...Hope your Birthday review is 5
Stars !!!! (*_*)"
-
Reader Ron: "Happy Birthday John, Keep doing what you do, love your
site!!!"
-
Reader Johanna: "Happy Birthday John!!! Have a wonderful day:)"
-
Reader Denise: "I hope you have a fabulous birthday Santa Barbara
style!"
-
Reader Julie: "Hey John~ Happy Birthday!!! We must get the gang together
and celebrate!! Dinner at the usual spot...maybe next week??? Have a
great day!!"
-
Reader Leana: "Happy Birthday John! Make it a great one. You deserve
it."
-
Reader Lynn: "Happy Birthday! I hope you have an awesome day."
-
Reader Paul: "Happy Birthday Mr. SB.com !!! Thanks for all the hard work
you do on you site and John have an awesome birthday"
-
Reader Tom: "Hey John - Have a GREAT birthday! See you around town, eh?"
-
Reader Eric: "J.D. man, have a truly stellar birthday. You
deserve it, for certain."
-
Reader Sharon: "Happy Birthday John!! I hope your special day is filled
with love, laughter and all of your favorite things..."
-
Reader Somthavy: "Happy Birthday John! I hope you celebrated well and
may your future be blessed with many more adventures!"
-
Reader Stephen: "Good seeing
you the other day, and happy birthday!"
-
Reader Erin: "Happy Birthday, John!! Have a great day!!"
-
Reader Jeff: "Happy Birthday wishes!"
-
Reader Claudia: "Hey JD, Happy Birthday to you! We will have to get
together this summer and get 'caught up' as the expression goes. Will
you be around during Solstice? I hope to see the parade this year. It's
been a long time since I've seen it. Have a great day, JD."
-
Reader Huyen: "Happy Birthday, John.. do you get to have cake today??"
-
Reader Natasha: "Happy Birthday John!"
-
Reader Deena: "A very Happy Birthday to you John!! I hope you have a
wonderful day. Enjoy your crab cakes."
-
Reader Aileen: "happy happy happy!!!"
-
Reader Dianne: "Happy Birthday to the “Restaurant Guy”! Enjoy your
cake."
-
Reader Josie: "Happy B-day to you!! May your day be filled with lots of
fun, love and laughter! Dinner next Friday?? Take care my friend!! xoxo"
-
Reader Leslie: "Happy Birthday!"
-
Reader Kristina: "Hope you have a great bday!!!"
-
Reader Wendy: "Happy Birthday, and all the best to you every day. “cake”
for an entrée & a dessert, you really do know how to live."
-
Reader Sarah: "Great seeing you last night.. Happy Birthday today!!"
-
Reader Justine: "John~ I hope you have a great day today and enjoy your
cakes of both kinds! =)"
-
Reader Lillian: "Happy Birthday John!"
-
Reader Matthew: "HAPPY BIRTHDAY JD. Hope you are having an awesome day
filled with love and adventure."
-
Reader Sarah: "Happy Birthday JD!!! Hope it's a winner of a day for you
:)"
-
Reader Jenny: "Hey there, Happy birthday John. Great seeing you last
night, as always! love loe!"
-
Reader Sam: "Happy Birthday big guy!! What's the plan??"
-
Reader Jenss: "Happy birthday, John!! Hope you treat yourself to
something nice and salty :)"
-
Reader George: "Happy birthday, and good eating!"
-
Reader Chuck: "Hi John - Best wishes for a happy Birthday!"
-
Reader Rob: "Happy Birthday John. Enjoy the Birthday Cake!"
-
Reader Debbie: "Happy Birthday John!!!! You have a GREAT LIFE!!!!"
-
Reader Skip: "Happy birthday JD!!!!!!"
-
Reader Masen: "Happy Birthday, JD!"
-
Reader Michael: "Happy Birthday John!"
-
Reader Edie: "Happy Birthday John, hope to see you on any
Wednesday......"
-
Reader Barb: "Happy Birthday John!!"
-
Reader Amie: "Here's to another year....We love you ! xoxo"
-
Reader Dallas: "Happy Birthday JD. I hope you have had a nice day."
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Buzios To Open Downtown: A Brazilian
restaurant called "Buzios" will open this summer at 509 State Street,
the former home of
Bricks Cafe and
Casa Blanca. Named after a popular
Brazilian beach town located 100 miles northeast of Rio de Janeiro, Buzios will be a casual hangout-style place where you can eat, drink and
spend time with your friends.
Restaurant Wrap Up:
Here is a list of local eateries that have opened in the last six
months:
- May 2009:
Yogurtland 621 State St, 564-8680
- April 2009: Blush
Restaurant & Lounge 630 State St, 957-1300; European Deli & Market
4422 Hollister Ave, Goleta, 964-6600; Hummingbird Cafe 1101 State St,
963-9800; Root 246 420 Alisal Rd, Solvang, 688-9003;
- March 2009: China
Express 414 N. Milpas St, 966-1088; Giovanni's on the Mesa 1905 Cliff
Dr, 560-7492; Hot Spots 36 State St, 564-1637; Live Culture 11 W. De
la Guerra St, 845-8800
- February 2009:
Barbecue Company 3807 Santa Claus Ln, Carpinteria, 684-2209; Sweet
Alley 955 Embarcadero del Mar, Isla Vista, 845-4680
- January 2009: Caje
948 Embarcadero del Norte, Isla Vista, 845-4612; Cantwell's Cafe &
Deli 24 W. Figueroa St, 962-6611; Carl’s Jr 4610 Carpinteria Ave,
Carpinteria, 684-4079; Dos Carlitos 3544 Sagunto St, Santa Ynez,
688-0033; Hotcookie.com 2018 Cliff Dr, 564-2397; La Chiripita 730 N.
Milpas St, 962-5048; Melting Pot 608 Anacapa St, 845-4444; Pinkberry
742 State St, 962-1378; Zizzo's Coffee 370 Storke Rd, Goleta, 571-8888
- December 2008:
Grapevine Fine Food Market 126 E. Canon Perdido St, 899-8800; Sushi 7
1026-A Coast Village Rd, Montecito, 845-8923
Monday, May 11, 2009
New In The Guide:
Today I added
Yogurtland to the restaurant guide.
Yogurtland Opens:
Yogurtland
has opened at 621 State Street. I stopped by to pay them a visit (with a
group of my friends) and was amazed to see such a huge selection of
flavors. Yogurtland has 16 different flavors available across eight
self-serve frozen yogurt stations in addition to offering a whopping 29
toppings. Currently they are the only self-serve frozen yogurt shop
downtown. The total cost is 30 cents per ounce which resulted in a
significant savings (about a dollar) when compared to another yogurt
place we had visited earlier that day. Hours are Sun-Thu 11am-11pm,
Fri-Sat 11am-12:30am. For more information call 564-8680 or visit
yogurt-land.com.

Off Topic: This
Wednesday I get a one-day reprieve from my New Year’s
resolution. Last year I decided to avoid desserts for all of 2009
and I have successfully remained faithful to that vow. The resolution
gets easier with each passing day but at the beginning it was quite
difficult. I could never have done this Yogurtland story last January
without ordering some! Fortunately that pledge had an asterisk that allowed me one
exception during the year: birthday cake!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Live Culture Update: Here is a
message from
Live Culture in Paseo Nuevo:
Hi there John,
You may want to post that we are now serving ROCO coffee/espresso
instead of Peet's in an effort to keep it local... :) We are also doing
GREAT... We are breaking record sales that we didn't think we would hit
until this summer.... We continue to offer free live music every
night... and we just got a new Chef "Daniel Bohl" who is putting out
incredible panini and salads... Our patio is now enclosed so we can
serve wine outside... We are planning on having our grand opening the
first or 2nd week on June....
Sierra Falso - CEO
DaSiRe, Inc. d.b.a. Live Culture
Mother's Day: Here is more Mother's
Day information that has been forwarded to me:
-
Chuck's Waterfront
Grill SPECIAL Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet Menu -Serving Mother’s
Day from 11 am to 3 pm. Adult Buffet $19.99, 12 years old & under
$12.99, Oatmeal Raisin Pancakes with Maple Syrup, Baked Fresh Salmon
with Lobster Miso Sauce, Fluffy Scrambled Eggs, Herb Roasted Chicken,
Applewood Smoked Bacon, Breakfast Sausage, Pasta Salad with Artichoke
Hearts, Fresh Fruit Salad, Mixed Baby Greens Salad, Classic Caesar
Salad, Assorted Danishes, Fresh Hot Rolls & Butter, Home Fried Potatoes,
Refried Beans, Spanish Rice, Hot Corn & Flour Tortillas, Fresh Pico de
Gallo Salsa, Join Mom, Your Family and Friends at Chuck's Waterfront
Grill 113 Harbor Way “By the Boats” Reservations 564-1200
-
Hi John, I know it's a little late notice... but boy has this fire
slowed life down a little... so devastating.... but I wanted to let
everyone know that on Mother's Day, Los Arroyos (both locations)
is supporting Santa Barbara's oldest nonprofit, St. Vincent's (150 years
in our community) and the single mothers with their children they serve
by donating 10% of our sales. We hope you will all come out to support
St. Vincent's and hopefully learn about their mission a little. We wish
all Mother's a very special Mother's Day! Also, our prayers are with all
evacuees, firefighters and law enforcement! Thanks John! Maria Arroyo
Jesusita Fire Evacuees:
Epiphany Restaurant &
Bar is offering a 25% discount on all dinner purchases for any
customers who have had to evacuate their home because of the fire.
Off Topic: My home is still full of
evacuees for the foreseeable future. I now realize my home is missing
many children-related things, such as color pens and Spray & Wash. I'll
need to stock up!
Bunny Update: The two baby rabbits rescued from the
Jesusita Fire have been transferred to the
Santa Barbara Wildlife Care
Network (Julia is pictured below) in the Fairview Shopping Center. They need more volunteers and
donations to cover the influx of wildlife rescues…their number is
805-966-9005. The rabbits' names are "Spot" (one has
a spot on its head) and "Jesusita."

Thursday, May 7, 2009
Tacone Closes:
Tacone, a
cafe located in Paseo Nuevo that specialized in wraps, has closed.
Cadena's Fresh Fish: There is a
company in town that offers home delivery (and restaurant delivery) of fresh fish. Cadena Yules, owner
of Cadena's Fresh
Fish, sent me information about her service:
Cadena's Fresh Fish is located in beautiful Santa Barbara and
specializes in locally caught seafood. We offer home delivery and
service to restaurants providing seafood caught off our local coast and
islands. Cadena's is commited to minimizing the time between the boat
and your plate to ensure the freshest catch available. How seafood
should be-fresh from the boat to you!
The concept of Cadena's was derived from the passion for meeting the
needs of seafood consumers. We are dedicated to providing healthier
seafood to Santa Barbara and local surroundings. Our priorities are our
customers, high quality product and sustainability. For more information
call 698-8554 or visit
cadenasfish.com
Off Topic: My house is full of fire
evacuees now. Here is a photo taken from the freeway yesterday
afternoon. Also pictured are two rescued baby rabbits (about 3 inches
long). Momma rabbit was
gone and six of their siblings were taken away by crows. The vet gave us
special formula & a dropper to feed them. They were very hungry!

Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Mother's Day: Here are more Mother's
Day options for you:
-
Owner Tina says: "Come Celebrate your Mother at
Elements Restaurant & Bar
by enjoying our a la carte special menu on this Mother's Day. Call
now for reservations, 884-9218, and enjoy our beautiful patio dining
overlooking the Courthouse Sunken Gardens.
Click here to preview menu."
-
Reader Ann says: "I noticed you had a list of Mother’s Day restaurant
activities on your blog and I’d like to send you information about ours,
in hopes that we may be added. Our Mother’s Day Brunch & Family
Celebration will be held at
SOhO Restaurant &
Music Club on Sunday, May 10, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., and will
feature local teen talent. Proceeds benefit Cottage Children’s Hospital.
There will be great food, great entertainment and promises to be great
fun … all for a great cause! See
press-release. Questions may be directed to Maria Zate, 879-8986."
Photo Blog: I went to the Ellwood
Bluffs yesterday and took pictures of the
satellite launch
from Vandenberg Air Force Base that occurred at 1:24pm.
Off Topic: I have four Jesusita
Fire evacuees staying at my home (and keeping me busy) so no more
blog today. See you tomorrow!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Here Comes California Crisp: A
sandwiches & salads cafe named California Crisp will be
opening in the downtown area this summer at 718 State Street, the
former home of Fatburger.
California Crisp was established in 1979 with the mission "to
provide delicious, healthy food made to order, using fresh
ingredients, in a fast service format." They have grown to fourteen
stores located in regional shopping centers and food courts that span
from San Diego to Portland, Oregon.
Their first store was located in the original Sherman Oaks Galleria
named "Potatoes Potatoes Potatoes" since the menu featured only Baked
Potatoes, Potato Skins, French Fries. In 1984 California Crisp's
concept changed and the menu now features sandwiches and their
signature specialty salads, which are assembled and tossed to order
with house made dressings. Wraps are made with fresh lahvosh and their
panini sandwiches are served on freshly baked ciabatta. Both are
served with their "famous jumbo potato chips" that are made on the
premises.
For more information visit
californiacrisp.com.
April Surprise: For the first time
since I started keeping restaurant statistics three years ago, the
South Coast went an entire month without a single closure.
During the month of April all area restaurants, bakeries and coffee
shops remained in business. I don’t know if this means that the local
economy has passed a magic threshold on the way to prosperity but it
certainly is great news.
Rumor Machine: Yesterday I was
dusting off the Rumor Machine as part of my annual spring cleaning
when I noticed what appeared to be a headline from a supermarket
tabloid sticking out of the paper tray. Upon closer inspection I could
see the words “Actress Reese Witherspoon is looking to buy
commercial retail space on/near State Street to open a restaurant
here.” As always, this rumor might be completely false or a brilliant
forecast of future events. Your call.
Petros Update: Petros Kafe, a Greek
restaurant coming to Fess Parker’s Wine Country Inn & Spa in Los Olivos
is currently scheduled to open May 15.
Teavana Update: Specialty tea
retailer Teavana,
with more than 80 locations nationwide, will be opening in Paseo Nuevo
on May 22, in the space formerly occupied by the
Santa Barbara
Roasting Co.
Film Fest Bash: I am on the
committee for the Santa Barbara International Film Festival’s 25th
Anniversary Bash that takes place at the Doubletree Resort on July
19, 2009. We are looking for restaurants, catering services and a
brewery to provide dishes or beverages for 1000 guests. Food &
beverage sponsors will be mentioned in the upcoming radio & print
advertising campaigns, receive exposure at the event and will get
frequent plugs from the Restaurant Guy. For more information you can
email me at
info@SantaBarbara.com or call 1-800-SantaBarbara.
New Menu:
Eladio's restaurant at 1
State Street has introduced a new menu that leans towards the
Mediterranean style. Highlights include:
-
Sherry Cherry Pork Chop - A natural bone-in pork chop served with a
sherry, cherry tomato & balsamic reduction. Served with wild rice &
green beans - $19.99
-
Salmon with Ancho Chili & Honey Glaze - Salmon, charbroiled with an
Ancho chili & honey glaze. Served with wild rice & black beans - $16.99
-
Mahi Mahi with Saffron Sauce & Bell Pepper Risotto - Mahi Mahi,
charbroiled & served with a saffron lemon butter sauce. Paired with
creamy Arborio rice bell pepper risotto - $20.99
-
Green Peppercorn Sirloin Steak - Sirloin steak, cooked to order with a
green peppercorn, marsala & fresh thyme reduction. Served with mashed
potatoes & asparagus - $19.49
Photo Blog:
Here are 45 pictures from last Sunday's
Sensational
Sustainable Seafood event at the Ty Warner Sea Center.

Monday, May 4, 2009
Fiesta Update: Here is my first
assignment as the Fiesta food reporter for the Old Spanish Days
committee: The 2009 Fiesta kick-off event "La Primavera" is
Sunday, May 17th starting at 4pm at the Carriage and Western Arts
Museum, 129 Castillo Street.
Mobile Home Boys provide live music and the Los Padres
Outfitters is catering a Mexican-themed feast that includes BBQ
Cabaza Pork Sausage, Steak Tacos, Fish Tacos, Refried Beans, Mixed Green
Salad, Spanish Fried Rice & Pasta Salad. Cupcakes courtesy of
Crushcakes Cupcakery.
The no host bar features beer and margaritas plus wine donated by
Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard and Winery.
Dress for this event is Fiesta or Cowboy/Western and tickets are
$55. Proceeds from this event will fund the Fiesta events that are free
to the public including Historical Parade, Fiesta Pequeña and Noches de
Ronda. For more information call 962-8101.
Cinco De Mayo Special: The owners of
Here's the Scoop
in Montecito passed me a message about their Cinco de Mayo special:
Hi John,
Just wanted you and your readers to know that HERE'S the SCOOP will be
celebrating CINCO de MAYO by making and serving a MAYAN "hot" CHOCOLATE
SORBET, made with our imported cocoa, chili pepper and a hint of
cinnamon and a MARGARITA SORBET. These flavors will be available May 1st
through May 10th. Let your readers also know that our much requested
LEMON-LAVENDER SORBET is back for the summer as of May 1st. We here at
HERE'S the SCOOP just celebrated our fifth anniversary on April 2nd. We
want to thank you, your readers and all our loyal customers for their
support.
Regards,
Bob & Ellie Patterson
Mother's Day: I received some more
emails about Mother's Day activities at local restaurants:
-
Owner Jim says: "Just to let all know, we will be serving a "Rustic
Italian" Mothers Day Brunch buffet at
Milano Italian Kitchen. It will
include champagne and wines all for $16.95. Serving from 9am-4pm."
-
Owner Philippe says: "As featured in the news press 2 days ago,
Stella Mare's
will be serving our special Lobster Eggs Benedict for Mother's day
Brunch, as well as other exciting choices We will be serving from 10am
to 2:30pm. And the menu is on our website under "holiday menus."
Photo Blog: Here are three pictures of a
cruise ship that visited Santa Barbara over the weekend. Photos were
taken from Shoreline Park, Cabrillo Blvd and Stearns Wharf.

Friday, May 1, 2009
Yogurtland Update: The owners of
Yogurtland, coming to 621 State Street, tell me that they hope to
open Friday, May 8th. When Yogurtland arrives it will mark the first
time that two local frozen yogurt shops are located right next
to each other. Immediately across the street is
Rockin' Yogurt
at 620 State Street (just one address number apart!)
Tale Of Two Delis: Did you
know that Goleta now has two, unrelated eateries named "European
Deli"? There is the
European Deli in the Fairview Shopping Center and the new
European Deli &
Market at 4422 Hollister Ave.
Happy Hour:
Pierre Lafond Wine
Bistro at 516 State Street has introduced a new Happy Hour
Mon–Fri 4:30–6:30pm, featuring the wines of Santa Barbara Winery:
Sauvignon Blanc $5, Pinot Gris $5, Chardonnay $5, Pinot Noir $6.5, Syrah
$6.5.
Chef Nathan’s Appetizers: Hummus with Grilled Garlic Flatbread $5,
Steamed Mussels $8, Cured “Carpaccio” & Crostini $7, Artisan Cheeses $9,
Prawn & Artichoke Pesto Flatbread $9, Smoked Chicken & Roasted Red
Pepper Flatbread $8, Garden Tomato & Arugula Pesto Flatbread $6, Salami
& Sundried Tomato Romesco Flatbread $7.
Poll: Mother's Day: If you know of
any restaurants in town that are planning to have a special Mother's Day
event or Mother's Day-specific meal offering please send me an
email and
I will post it here.
-
Manager Julie says: "Fresco
Cafe North will open early on Mothers Day
(9:30am) and have a light breakfast fare menu including a 3 Egg
Scramble, Breakfast Sandwich, Salmon Bagel and Breakfast Pastries. We
will also offer a complimentary mimosa or glass of champagne to all the
Mothers. The breakfast menu will continue through the day until 2pm (we
will begin our regular menu at 10:30 as usual)."
Restaurant Of The Month: The
Restaurant of the Month for May is the new
Root 246 in
Solvang. I was lucky enough to have been invited to a special dinner for
"media" at Root 246 recently that included news directors from KCOY
and Univision. Pictured below is our group enjoying dinner in the
private "Chef's Room." Also below is a photograph of yours truly with
Jonathan Hall (executive chef, left) and Bradley Ogden (chef/consultant,
middle). Food and service were outstanding!

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