Wednesday, September 30, 2009

"Shrimp Fest": Beachside Bar Cafe at 5905 Sandspit Road in Goleta is having their annual "Shrimp Fest" starting October 1st. You can pick up your Shrimp Fest coupons at the Beachside during the day. They must be presented at the Host Desk before dining. You can also pick them up at various locations throughout Santa Barbara County. One coupon will buy a complete Shrimp dinner for $9.95. Each person purchasing a Shrimp dinner will need a coupon. The coupons may be redeemed through October 31, 2009. Reservations are recommended. For more information call 964-7881.

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Tuesday, September 29, 2009

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:

• Los Tarascos (Goleta) October
• Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro (downtown) October
• Saigon In & Out (Five Points) October
• Three Pickles (Goleta) October
• Ultimate Bagels (downtown) October
• Whole Foods Market (Upper State) October
• Cabana (downtown) November
• Intermezzo (downtown) November
• Nugget (Goleta) November
• Sweet Alley (Goleta) November
• Wine Cask (downtown) November
• Mel's Lounge (downtown) February

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Monday, September 28, 2009

Oktoberfest: This just in from Brewhouse at 229 W. Montecito Street:

It’s back! The Brewhouse is once again hosting Santa Barbara’s only authentic Oktoberfest celebration. This weekend, Friday October 2nd and Saturday October 3rd , the Brewhouse parking lot will be transformed into a German Beer Garden featuring authentic music, costumes, food, glassware and of course beer. “I really enjoy Oktoberfest Bier” says brewmaster Pete Johnson. “This style has been described as a liquid poem to the glories of malted barley”. The Brewhouse will feature traditional Oktoberfest beers from two of Munich’s great breweries (Spaten and Hofbrau) as well as theirr own interpretation of the style. “Our version is fairly traditional, smooth and malty, with a touch more hops than the classic German versions” say Pete.

In addition to beer there will be great food. Bratwurst with sauerkraut and fresh baked pretzels will be available in the Beer Tent, with the full Brewhouse menu available in the restaurant. And speaking of bratwurst don’t miss the Shalhoob Bratwurst eating contest. “This event is always great big fun” says Pete. “The last few years we’ve had world hot dog eating champion Joey Chestnut give us a demonstration of how it should be done. Sadly this year a previous commitment forced him to cancel, but I’m sure our local gluttons can still put on a great show.” There will be lots of other games and prizes, including a German costume contest, beer trivia game, and a stein carrying competition.” Friday night will feature Hans the Red Baron playing the sounds of Oktoberfest and leading us in many Prosts. Saturday night Oktubafest, a 12 piece tuba band, will take the stage. Ach du lieber!

Tour De Cuisine: The SBCC School of Culinary Arts is putting together their annual "Tour de Cuisine," which is an event to spotlight their culinary accomplishments. Along with the wonderful food the School of Culinary Arts will also be pairing wine. They are looking for corporate sponsors and donations are tax deductible. If you are interested in being a sponsor send email to Jessica Anticouni at jessicaanticouni@yahoo.com

Open House: ABC/Qupé at 4665 Santa Maria Mesa Rd (on the Bien Nacido Vineyard) is having an open house Sunday, October 11 from 11am-3pm. Open to the public only twice a year - visit the "Under One Roof Gang" of Au Bon Climat, Qupé, Verdad, Clendenen Family Vineyards, Il Podere, Ici/La-Bas, Barham Mendelsohn, Vita Nova and Makor. Price is $15. For more information call 937-9801.

Off Topic: Today I added a hike to Montecito Peak via E. Camino Cielo to the SantaBarbara.com Hiking Guide.

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Friday, September 25, 2009

Live @ Enterprise: Enterprise Fish Company at 225 State Street is bringing back their late night happy hour. Starting October 1st from 9 pm -11 pm Thursday nights are going to be called "LIVE @ Enterprise," featuring local bands and local food. The music will be live, beers starting at $3, many appetizers under $5 and bottle service starting at $50. Enterprise's October 1st kick off party will include a live performance from Santa Barbara’s One Two Tree.

Bakery Closes: Boris Cake Bakery at 423 N. Milpas Street has closed.

Sea Change: This just in from Seagrass at 30 E. Ortega Street:

Chef John Pettitt Joins Seagrass Restaurant as Executive Chef
Pettitt takes the helm and puts his own spin on Santa Barbara-style “Coastal Cuisine”

Santa Barbara, CA — Chef John Pettitt joined Seagrass Restaurant as executive chef, leading the established team of chef de cuisine Greg Murphy and sous chef Adriana Heiler. Pettit comes with impressive credentials, having worked for high profile restaurants in San Francisco (Gary Danko, Masa’s and the Dining Room at the Ritz Carlton), Los Angeles (Melisse and Michael’s) and more recently Santa Barbara (Wine Cask and The Hungry Cat).

“Chef Pettitt is a seasoned professional who brings stellar talent to the table along with valuable management expertise,” comments Proprietor Mitchell Sjerven. “Patrons will be delighted by the evolution of the menu and enjoy his frequent presence in the dining room. While he will absolutely be hands-on in the kitchen, the strength and depth of our kitchen team will allow him to interact with guests on a regular basis, too. I am a firm believer in making the dining experience personal, and am excited to see Seagrass flourish and reach new culinary heights under chef’s leadership!”

The menu has been completely revamped by Chef Pettitt. New offerings include local ridgeback prawns with blood orange and fennel; beef ribeye with wild mushrooms and sauce bordelaise; and Pacific cod with chorizo and razor clams. Seagrass will continue to feature regionally-sourced ingredients, fresh catch from local waters—predominantly Santa Barbara and exclusively Pacific—and a meticulous selection of Santa Barbara County Wines.

Seagrass isn’t all about seafood, despite what the name might infer. “Coastal Cuisine” is more of a philosophy than a genre or category. Seagrass celebrates local bounty and embraces the local lifestyle—from the rich natural resources at our fingertips to the relaxed-yet-refined atmosphere that permeates Santa Barbara. While seafood is a core specialty, the menu is diverse enough to cater to all tastes and fluid enough to keep regulars’ palates entertained. Seagrass supports local farmers, fishermen and purveyors, and participates in the Ty Warner Sea Center Sustainable Seafood Program.

ABOUT CHEF PETTITT
A California native, John began cooking while in college. What began as a part-time job for extra cash became a love for the fast-paced excitement and camaraderie that encompasses the restaurant kitchen. He was immediately hooked and moved to San Francisco to pursue his passion, proceeding to work his way through several of the city’s finest restaurants including Gary Danko, Masa’s and the Dining Room at the Ritz-Carlton. While the sous chef at Masa’s under Ron Siegel’s tutelage, John began to develop his own style and appreciation for simple yet refined food. After four years of working with Siegel, John took the executive chef position at the acclaimed Michael’s in Santa Monica. One year later, he became the chef de cuisine at Melisse, leading the kitchen in earning two Michelin Stars and the top rating in Los Angeles’ Zagat guide. Next, John became the executive chef at Wine Cask in Santa Barbara where he thrived on tasting menus. He also did a short stint at the Hungry Cat, Santa Barbara.

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Thursday, September 24, 2009

Frozen Dessert Taste Off: As part of epicure.sb and 1st Thursday - the Santa Barbara Downtown Organization and the Independent are teaming up to do a taste off of Frozen Desserts and they have asked The Restaurant Guy to MC the event. Judges will be Kate Schwab (Santa Barbara MTD), Adam Lundquist (KJEE 92.9FM), Das Williams (Santa Barbara City Council) and George Yatchisin (Food Editor, The Independent). Desserts will be provided by Spoon, Live Culture, Rockin' Yogurt, Ben & Jerry's and Cold Stone. The event is Thursday, October 1, 2009 at Borders Books, Music, and Café (900 State Street) from 5:30 - 7:30pm.

Breakfast: This just in from Silvergreens at 791 Chapala Street:

John,

Silvergreens Santa Barbara is now serving breakfast 7 days/week. Homemade waffles, breakfast burritos, Acai energy bowls, fruit and yogurt parfaits, and organic coffee drinks; All reasonably priced, served quickly (even carry-out orders to eat on the road ), healthy and delicious. Open at 7:30 Mon-Fri and 8:30 Sat and Sun. We also cater breakfast office meetings. Silvergreens: Eat Smart, Live Well.

Ron Gleiberman
Regional General Manager
Silvergreens Restaurant & Catering

Half Size: Blenders In The Grass now offers 12 oz smoothies (in addition to the standard 24 oz version). When you order the half size smoothie you can take $1.25 off the posted price. Visit drinkblenders.com for a list of their seven area locations.

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Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Off Topic: Due to a fatal traffic accident on the 101 freeway this morning traffic backed up around town more than I can remember. I created a mosaic of maps showing the gridlock from Goleta to Montecito.

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Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Dogtown Opens This Week: Isla Vista's newest restaurant “Dogtown” opens this week at 888 Embarcadero del Norte, the former home of CaliRoll Express. Owner Grant Robertson offered me some details:

   “We will be providing a range of various sausages and hot dogs, along with criss cut fries, onion rings, and beer. Everything from the buns, chili, house ketchup, various types of mustards, and added condiments compliment the high quality of meat. To add a little California flavor, customers will be given the option to add such condiments as bacon, grilled onions, guacamole, cheese, and jalapenos.”

   Sausages such as Bratwurst, Cajun-Andouille, Chicken Apple, Polish, and Louisiana Hot links are just a few of the specialized dogs they will be serving. Dogtown will also have three beers on tap (domestic/imported) as well as bottled beer and soda.

   Hours of operation are Sunday-Tuesday 11am-1am, Wednesday-Saturday 11am-3am. For more information call 685-7474.

   View an early version of Dogtown's menu

Restaurant Wrap Up: Here is a list of local eateries that have opened in the last six months:

• September 2009: California Crisp 718 State St, 845-2254
• August 2009: Pastavino 6920 Marketplace Dr, Goleta, 685-7300; Sushilicious 956 Embarcadero Del Norte, Isla Vista 968-1600; Union Ale Brewing Co. 214 State St, 845-8243
• July 2009: Creekside Grill 4444 Hollister Ave, Goleta, 964-2209; French Press 1101 State St, 963-2721; Holdren's Steaks & Seafood, 6920 Marketplace Dr, Goleta, 685-8900; Pasta House 6546 Pardall Rd, Isla Vista, 845-5856; Saigon In and Out 424 State St, 962-0707;
• June 2009: Chino's Rock & Tacos 714 State St, 962-5320; YoYumYum 5915A Calle Real, Goleta, 683-6500
• May 2009: Burger Bus, mobile: 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; Enjoy Cupcakes 2971 Grand Ave, Los Olivos, 451-0284; European Deli & Market 4422 Hollister Ave, Goleta, 964-6600; Root 246 420 Alisal Rd, Solvang, 688-9003

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Friday, September 18, 2009

Cupcake Wars: Columnist Richard Mineards is reporting in the Montecito Journal that Whodidily, a cupcake service at 1150 Coast Village Road in Montecito, has been selected as a finalist in the popular Food Network show "Cupcake Wars." Owners Dave and Wendy Jones were selected as one of four finalists in an audition of hundreds of professional cupcake shops across the U.S. The show will air later this month.

East Beach Wine Opens: East Beach Wine Co. has completed their move from lower Milpas Street. Their new address is 1114 State St., Suite 24 which is right next to where Acapulco & Stateside use to be in La Arcada.  Enjoy Friday night wine tastings 4-7pm for $8. No arrivals after 6:45 p.m. On Saturdays they offer casual tasting from noon-5pm for $5. For more information call 899-1535.

Photo Blog: September 16, 2009 - Reds Wine Bar hosts the Santa Barbara Young Professionals Club

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Thursday, September 17, 2009

Java Jones To Become "Jitters": This just in from the new owners of Java Jones at 728 State Street:

Hey John,

I read your column weekly and would just like to let you know that my wife and I have just purchased the Java Jones at 728 State Street. We took over a few months ago and have attempted to clean it up and bring it back to its former glory. We are renaming it Jitters Coffee. For nine years I owned the Old Kings Road, but after having two children decided that maybe the bar business was not the one for me anymore!

Our aim is to be a locally owned business and support locally owned businesses. At the same time we are being very earth conscious. All our coffee is certified organic fair trade and roasted by Greenstar in Goleta. Our teas are all organic fair trade and currently come from Ojai but we are in the midst of finding a more local (How much more local can you get? Well, we'll see!) organic, fair trade tea. We are also talking to local farmers from the farmers market to get our produce organic and local. All my bakery products come from Jacks Bagels in Carp. or Spudnuts on Upper State.

All our paper products are either recyclable or compostable, although compostable is not the way to go in Santa Barbara due to there being non commercial facility here. It is all also purchased from local suppliers. We have invested in an electrical usage minimizer and solar powered fans, as well as a high powered hand dryer that minimizes waste and cost less than $1 per 1,000 drys.

Just thought I would let you know what is going on down here and that we hope local Santa Barbarians will support us in our effort to support them. It is as important to support local as any other environmental initiative. Lets stop sending our money to corporate offices in other cities, States or even countries.

Thanks for your time John,

Ross and Bridget Cathie

Avocado Festival: The California Avocado Festival on Linden Avenue in Carpinteria takes place October 2, 3 & 4, 2009. Hours are Friday: 4-9pm, Saturday: 10am-9pm, Sunday 10am-6pm. Ongoing events schedule for the annual festival include three live music venues staging the performances by over 60 bands. 70 arts and crafts vendors will be participating in the festival and there will be over 30 fun food booths and over 30 commercial vendors. The festival is home to the world's largest vat of guacamole amongst many other avocado & food dishes to pick from. If you are interested in entering your guacamole in the Best Guacamole Contest call 684-0038. For more information visit avofest.com.

Off Topic: The annual California Coastal Cleanup day is this Saturday, September 19, 9am-noon. For information about how to volunteer at local beaches visit http://www.lessismore.org/Programs/ccd2009.html

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Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Arts & Letters Cafe Starting Dinner Service: This just in from Arts & Letters Cafe at 7 E. Anapamu Street:

ARTS AND LETTERS CAFÉ TO OPEN FOR DINNER

Arts and Letters Café in association with Sullivan Goss – An American Gallery is pleased to announce that the ALC (Arts and Letters Café) will offer dinner service beginning this Saturday, September 19th at 5:30p.m. Located in Santa Barbara’s most romantic courtyard, the ALC will offer a new dinner menu created by Chef Erick Simmons and an expanded wine list Wednesdays through Sundays.

Headed by Chef Erick Simmons, Operations Manager Melissa Chojnacki and veteran General Manager Lisa Neustadt, the ALC has been recently renovated to accommodate evening patrons. A new canopy system as well as heaters will offer protection and warmth in the coming winter months. The most exciting new feature of the café’s layout is the newly installed full-service bar featuring a fine selection of cocktails and California wines for the discerning Santa Barbara market.

Diners will enjoy a selection of new options to choose from on the dinner menu as well as old favorites such as the pumpkin soup praised by the New York Times. Chef Erick Simmons and his staff will use local, organic produce and sustainably raised seafood to prepare dishes like the roasted local halibut as well as the grilled flat iron steak. Trained at the California School of Culinary Art in Pasadena, Erick has worked at several of the nation’s most prestigious dining institutions. He was the Sous Chef at the 2004 James Beard Foundation Award winning Bradley Ogden Restaurant at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, the Executive Chef at MK Restaurant in Chicago, and most recently, the Executive Chef at the Hungry Cat in Santa Barbara. Since joining our staff in May, Erick has created delectable, unique menu items for our sell-out Opera Under the Stars dinners over the summer.

The ALC will also welcome new Operations Manager Melissa Chojnacki. With over twenty years of experience at local fine dining institutions such as the Montecito Café and more recently, the Chase Lounge and Restaurant, Melissa is pleased to join the ALC staff in bringing unmatched customer service to the dining experience at the ALC. Veteran ALC General Manager Lisa Neustadt will continue to oversee the Café’s lunch operations as well as plan special events during our evening hours. Parties up to 16 will be able to enjoy a special bar menu on our redesigned front patio, while parties up to 25 will have the option to book the De Forest Gallery.

Arts and Letter Café as well as Sullivan Goss – An American Gallery are pleased to announce their opening for dinner service beginning Saturday, September 19th at 5:30 p.m. Dinner entrees range in price from $17 to $22. Individuals wanting to make reservations may call 805-730-1463 or book online at www.sullivangoss.com/café/

Fresco North Update: This coming Saturday, the 19th, from 5-7pm Fresco Cafe North will be hosting a fundraiser for the Kellogg School. They will be donating a percentage of the sales to help fund the Sixth Graders Astro Camp Trip.

And The Winner Is... Based on SantaBarbara.com web site statistics here are the three most-viewed photos from Monday's Taste of the Town photo gallery. For the first time ever we have the same person appearing in both the #1 and #2 most-viewed photos. Congratulations Stacie!
 

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Tuesday, September 15, 2009

New In The Guide: Today I added California Crisp to the restaurant guide. They are located at 718 State Street (the former home of Fat Burger) and serve sandwiches, salads, wraps, paninis and pizza.
   I spoke with manager Kyle Hopkins and he told me that the most popular items people have been ordering are the California Dreamin’ panini, spicy chicken wrap, Thai chicken pizza, and the carved tri-tip roast sandwich. “Over the border” and “Asian persuasion” are the two most popular salads. The late night crowd has discovered the pizza menu (prices start at $5.99) and diners start swarming in around 10:30pm. California Crisp has had to stay open later than posted hours to accommodate everyone.

California Pasta Update: California Pasta has officially opened in Five Points shopping center and their new “California Pasta” business sign is now on display. California Pasta Five Points will be offering some weekly specials like endless pasta on Tuesdays and kids eat free on Wednesdays. On Sundays all house wines are $4 and the first Friday of each month they will be hosting a free wine reception from 4-6pm. For more information call 683-1411

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Monday, September 14, 2009

Photo Blog: September 13, 2009 - Pictures from the Arthritis Foundation's 28th annual Taste of the Town fundraiser
 


Watch a video of Taste of the Town created by Arthur von Wiesenberger, founder of Nippers.com

Thank You: On September 3rd reader Karen asked blog readers for help finding a Happy Hour get together location for a celebration of being cancer-free for 5 years. I just received this follow-up message:

After posting a notice on SantaBarbara.com stating that I was looking for a nice Happy Hour spot to celebrate being cancer-free for 5 years, I received an invitation from Stacey, Director of Events, for Elements Restaurant & Bar. After telling her we'd have 30-35 people in attendance, she reserved the entire lower patio for us (which overlooks the gorgeous Courthouse Sunken Gardens--especially beautiful at sunset). I ordered several appetizers, including warm, roasted nuts, marinated olives and several cheese platters. Not only did the food exceed my expectations, but the service was excellent too. A big thank you to our waiters, Ben and Robert, as well as Stacey for making this an evening I will always remember. 
 -- Karen Lee Stevens

New Menu At Blush: This just in from Blush Restaurant and Lounge at 630 State Street:

CELEBRITY CHEF SCOTT LEIBFRIED, CO-STAR OF TV’s HELL’S KITCHEN, DESIGNS NEW MENU ITEMS FOR BLUSH

(Santa Barbara, CA) The Santa Barbara dining scene’s newest player, restaurant & lounge BLUSH, has tapped celebrity chef Scott Leibfried to design new menu items of seasonal California cuisine in collaboration with Executive Chef Mossin Sugich (formerly of San Ysidro Ranch).

With nearly two decades of professional experience, Leibfried got his start at the Four Seasons Beverly Hills before becoming the Executive Chef at Los Angeles Westside favorite, Napa Valley Grille. While there he worked on television shows for the Food Network including Party Starters and Challenge before joining the hit Fox reality show Hell’s Kitchen as Gordon Ramsey’s Sous Chef.

Leibfried currently runs his new consulting firm, HJL Restaurant Advisory Group, and continues to work with Ramsay on Kitchen Nightmares as a kitchen consultant. Recently, he designed a menu for the Santa Monica Seafood Café, one of the hottest new venues in Los Angeles, as well as for Soliel@K in San Diego’s famed Gaslamp District.

BLUSH Menus blend a wide range of seasonal selections. Current dinner specialties consist of a 16oz Dry Aged Rib Eye, Grilled Filet, Spinach Ravioli, Roasted Chicken Breast, Atlantic Salmon and Alaskan Halibut. Small plates include Ahi Poke, Duck Confit Tart, Grilled Shrimp, Oysters on the ½ Shell, Petite Hanger Steak and Grilled Artichoke. The Sandwich Menu is composed of a Kobe Beef Dip, Seared Ahi, Grilled Chicken “BLT,” and signature Burger. The Late Night Menu includes a Buttermilk Short Stack, Paquillo Poppers, Ahi Duo, Lobster Mac-n-Cheese and Short Rib Grilled Cheese.

BLUSH is located at 630 State Street. Formerly the site of Zelo’s, the newly remodeled establishment has been transformed into an elegant, contemporary-meets- classic setting. Warm ambient indoor seating, an expansive outdoor patio, two full bars and lavish drink menu combine to create a unique social dining experience. Open 5pm – Midnight (Tue – Sun), with late night menu. Serving lunch Saturday and Sunday.

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Friday, September 11, 2009

Cafe Buenos Aires Update: This just in from Cafe Buenos Aires at 1316 State Street:

Us, at Cafe Buenos Aires, would like to make sure you are aware of what is happening at our restaurant.

We have decided to make some changes on our menu by replacing a few items and adding a few more. We are offering more Latin American dishes but at a lower price. This changes will be effective by the end of this week.

We are also offering 2 happy hours, one at 4 pm until 6 pm from Monday to Friday where we serve discounted house cocktails, wines and beers and special appetizers at only $5 each. The second is only on Thursdays and Friday at 9 pm. Where we offer 2 for 1 on drinks.

We have had for many years live music on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturday with no cover charge, now we are adding Thursdays to the list . Let me describe our shows and events:

• Mondays: Tango lessons with Brian and Fey. This class is an introduction to the basics of Tango dancing. $22 per person (glass of wine and 10% off on your food included)
• Wednesday: Argentine Tango. Come and enjoy the elegance of one the most exotics dances in the world.
• Thursdays: Argentine folkloric music and dance show Jorge Malambo with a traditional BBQ. Discover the artistic traditional music and dancing of the Argentine Gauchos while enjoying a typical Asado (BBQ) with a 4 course menu with a glass of wine for only $37.
• Fridays: Andean folk music with the Wayeris. South american guitars, flutes, percussion, and vocals.
• Saturdays: The great rythms of the Martinez Brothers. One of Santa Barbara's best entertainment band plays every Saturday different latin rythms like Jazz, Bossa Novas, etc.

All shows and events start at 7 pm.

Thank you
Martin Lertora
Cafe Buenos Aires

Off Topic: Today I added a hike to Camino Cielo via Cold Spring Trail (8.36 miles) to the SantaBarbara.com Hiking Guide. After this hike I finally decided to buy a Camelbak so I would no longer run out of water!

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Thursday, September 10, 2009

Poll: Who Serves The Best Fish Tacos? Reader Kent tells me he just returned from Hawaii where he enjoyed great fish tacos and is now wondering which local restaurant serves the best fish tacos. Many readers offered suggestions for Kent, posted below.

• Reader Alisa says: "Sounds weird, I know, but Carl's Jr. has great fish tacos. Great baja sauce, two soft corn tortillas and salsa bar to dress it up. Shoreline Cafe also has awesome fish tacos with a delicious creamy chipotle sauce on the side."

• Reader Lauren says: "Hand's down - Shoreline Cafe."

• Reader Chris says: "Hollister Brewing Co in Goleta has great fish tacos. Grilled fish, not fried. Yum! Lots of fresh veggies and a killer cilantro sauce of some sort."

• Reader Caitlin says: "Hungry Cat tacos... tortillas made to order, grilled swordfish, fresh guac, so good!"

• Reader Carrie says: "Without a doubt, it SB Shellfish Co. on the Pier or Boathouse. They are pretty much the same since both restaurants have the same owners. Choose between lobster or shrimp. Both are sautéed with garlic and shallots and are absolutely delish!!!"

• Reader Jonathon says: "Although some would argue otherwise, a true fish taco is and should be a lightly battered piece of fish on two CORN tortillas, chopped cabbage, and a drizzle of white sauce. Accompanied by lime wedges and a chile based salsa. Unfortunately SB has too many places that bastardize the classic perfection of flavor and texture. I'd have to say I have yet to find a truly great fish taco in Santa Barbara, but if you get a craving the ones at Mexican Fresh Taqueria on the Mesa and Esau's in Carp are both pretty decent. Both suffer though from usually being oversized and falling apart. A fish taco should be something you can easily consume holding the taco in one hand a cold cerveza in the other at a roadside stand."

• Reader Deena says: "SB Shellfish Co. of course!!! They are the best. Great now I am hungry."

• Reader Jonathan says: "Minnow Cafe. Down in the marina around the corner from Brophys."

• Reader Jeff says: "Of course I'm a little biased when the subject of fish tacos comes up, but I've been told by many of our customers that we have the best in town. Our formula is simple: we exclusively serve Ono, and we do it either flame grilled or blackened spicy on soft corn tortillas with a little cheese, cabbage and our fresh Pico de gallo. Kent, come give Wahoo's a try! All the best, Jeff, Wahoo's Fish Tacos"

• Reader Laura says: "Enterprise Fish Co. and Coast have great fish tacos and Boathouse has great shrimp tacos. Yum, yum, yum, yum, yum!"

• Reader Meghan says: "I love the fish tacos at Wahoo’s!! They are a great deal, great taste and a great restaurant to enjoy them at!!"

• Reader Josh says: "Just found a terrific little hole-in-the-wall... "La Carreta" in the K-mart shopping center has phenomenal fish tacos (several varieties). They had a sort of 'tropical' seared shark taco, and a sort of creamy almost stewed salmon taco. Delicious."

• Reader Jayne says: "I really think Epiphany has GREAT fish tacos!!"

Heirloom Tomato Tasting: Restaurant Julienne at 138 E Canon Perdido Street is offering an Heirloom Tomato Tasting Menu on Tuesday September 22. It will be seven courses featuring tomatoes from Roots Farms, Tamai Farms & Earth Trine Farms. There will be wine pairings with all the courses as well. The price for this event is $125 per head inclusive of tax and gratuity. Julienne is offering 46 seats to this event and I am told they tend to go quickly. For more information visit restaurantjulienne.com or call 845-6488.

Little Alex's In and Out: Perhaps Little Alex's in Montecito should add a drive-up window to their restaurant. The construction happening on Coast Village Road is causing big traffic backups and, consequently, drivers are taking a "shortcut" through the Vons parking lot right past Little Alex's. There is and endless chain of cars creeping through there all day now and I am sure that serving the hungry drivers food while they're waiting would be a win-win for everyone. But I wouldn't go so far as to recommend they change their name to "Little Alex's In and Out" lest they draw the wrath of lawyers from In-N-Out Burger (see yesterday's blog).
 

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Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Eateries In Name Dispute: In-N-Out Burger has sent a cease-and-desist notice to local Vietnamese restaurant Saigon In and Out claiming that Saigon’s name is “confusingly similar.” On July 22 legal representatives of In-N-Out Burger of Irvine, CA delivered a letter to Saigon owner William Lam stating that the use of “In and Out” in Saigon’s business name may lead to “likelihood-of-confusion” and that doing business under the name “Saigon In and Out” may constitute trademark infringement.
   Local attorney John J. Thyne III is representing Mr. Lam and disagrees with In-N-Out’s assertion. In a three page response Thyne compares the differences between each company’s name and logo and includes the statement “The strength of your client’s mark does not preclude use by others of the phrase ‘in and out’ without additional factors that could result in a likelihood of confusion on the part of consumers.” Thyne’s letter to In-N-Out ends with the statement “Your client’s mark is not being affronted and despite your allegations there is no likelihood of confusion between our clients’ products.”
   I spoke with Mr. Lam who tells me “We have nothing to do with In-N-Out burger. We are a Vietnamese restaurant and are totally different. We have a completely different logo and ours ends with the phrase 'In and Out" while theirs begins with the joined words 'In-N-Out'.”

• View In-N-Out Burger's demand letter (PDF)

• View Saigon In and Out's response letter (PDF)

• Reader Tom: Hey John - I ate at Saigon I&O and the food was great; I would agree that the name is too similar though..... :)

• Reader Robert: They are also on Mileage Plus Dining... S I&O family is related to the California Cleaners' folks... Both good local businesses

• Reader Roy: John, thank you for posting those letters. John's reply to their attorney is not only a literary masterpiece, he kicks em right in the head like they should be ! Bravo! Thx for sharing, I enjoyed every word of it

• Reader Eric: Ya, I often go to Saigon and mistakenly ask for a Double Double. Stupid.

• Reader Julie: How can a phrase like "in and out" be trademarked? "In-N-Out" is different. Like can someone say they "own" the word "cafe"? Anyway, John, thanks for a great column.

• Reader Aileen: I am always pulling up to In-N-Out and asking for the Pho. Yes... very very confusing. "In-N-Out - that's what Pho is allll about!!

• Reader Becky: John J. Thyne III is my new hero! And I definitely intend to go seek out Saigon and have a meal. I'll be darned if I can figure out why folks choose In'N'Out when they have the choice of Hamburger Habit or Cal Taco, who serve similar, better food, at better prices... Then again, I usually favor local businesses over national chains. Reminds me of MooseHead Beer threatening Moose Drool Beer over the similar name. MooseHead is big (and OK tasting); Moose Drool is tiny (and wonderful, according to my beer loving friends).

• Reader Mike: The response letter from John Thyne III is brilliant. I believe this is the same gentleman running for city council. Your blog is great!

Sweet Alley Coming To Camino Real Marketplace: When McConnell's Ice Cream in Camino Real Marketplace in Goleta closed last July I received dozens of emails from locals asking me if I know what business will be taking their place. Today I have an answer: Sweet Alley. Sweet Alley is a popular self-serve frozen yogurt and ice cream shop at 955 Embarcadero del Mar in Isla Vista.
   I spoke with owner Geoffrey Friedman and he tells me that he finalized the lease last Friday and hopes to open in November. Sweet Alley will continue to offer 24 flavors of McConnell’s Ice Cream in addition to providing 10 flavors of self-serve frozen yogurt, 30 toppings and an assortment of bulk candy. Friedman added “What McConnell’s had done there for so long is wonderful. It’s a great product. It’s locally loved. We want to take it to what we think is the next level.”

Off Topic: Today I added the Cold Springs Trail Loop to the SantaBarbara.com Hiking Guide.

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Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Blues Brews & BBQ: The Barbecue Company at 3807 Santa Claus Lane in Carpinteria has recently started offering live music during dinner (after 7pm). This Friday, September 11, your entertainment will be provided by Skye Ferguson Blue Band. For more information call 684-2209.

Zoo-B-Que: Friday, September 11 from 4:30pm-7:30pm enjoy the annual "Zoo-B-Que" and the Santa Barbara Zoo 500 Niños Drive. This popular after-hours picnic at the Zoo is open to the public. Activities for the kids, a BBQ dinner, live music, and Zookeeper talks are all part of the fun. Tickets are $17/adult, $15/child and SB Zoo Members get $2 off. To purchase, call (805) 962-5339, ext. 127.

Specials: Emilio's at 324 W. Cabrillo Blvd has rolled back prices including $10 starters, $15 Flat breads & pastas, $20 main courses and a $29 three-course prix fixe menu (offered Mon-Wed). For more information call 966-4426

Cafe Coyote: I was recently in Old Town San Diego and the most popular restaurant in the area was Cafe Coyote. The Mexican restaurant has an amazing indoor/outdoor paseo ambiance, has several different dining rooms & bars and offers great food (The margarita shrimp tacos were absolutely unbelievable and I might return just to try them again.) They are located at 2461 San Diego Avenue in San Diego. For more information call 619-291-4695.
 

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Friday, September 4, 2009

New Breweries Guide: Today I added a new sponsored main category to the restaurant guide: Breweries. Telegraph Brewing Company is the first sponsor to be highlighted.

Open For Dinner: Jake's Cafe at 2911 De La Vina St is now open for dinner 4pm-9pm and has added BBQ to the menu:

• Bar-B-Q Pork Ribs: Half Rack $ 9.95, APLENTY $12.95
• Bar-B-Q Pulled Pork: Marinated Charbroiled, Sandwich $ 7.50, Plate APLENTY $ 9.50
• Bar-B-Q Chicken: Charbroiled in our South Carolina Secret Sauce, Quarter $ 8.50, Half $10.50
• Bar-B-Q Jumbo Shrimp w/bell peppers, onion, tomato, rice, potatoes: Half Stick (3 pieces) $10.50, Full Stick (5 pieces)  $12.50

Whole Foods Update: I received this message from Whole Foods Market coming to upper State Street this October:

Whole Foods Market will be opening in early October at 3761 State Street in Santa Barbara. Local farmers, food manufacturers and winemakers will enjoy premium space on the store shelves, as soon as I have the full list of participating local vendors, I will be happy to share those as well.

We are going to have many events, including a sneak-preview tour just for area media, in the coming weeks. Right now, our target date to open the store is October 7th.

First off, some lucky area students are going to see their artistry become a permanent part of the store itself. This Wednesday, Hope Elementary School’s 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students will participate in a Tile Project sponsored by Whole Foods Market and 2000 Degrees, a Santa Barbara paint-it-yourself ceramic studio.

When: September 9th, 2009 2:00-3:00PM
Where: Hope Elementary School, Multipurpose Room, 3970 La Colina Rd, Santa Barbara

Whole Foods Market conducts the Tile Project as an education piece on teaching kids the benefits of eating fresh, delicious, natural and organic food. The children are encouraged to paint images of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, seafood and meats, all items that will be found inside the store. The children's tiles will be installed as a bright and colorful mural to welcome all visitors at the store's entrance.

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Thursday, September 3, 2009

Make A Wish: During September Cold Stone Creamery (504 State St and 5718 Calle Real) is partnering with Make-A-Wish Foundation. Here is the press-release:

TRI-COUNTIES, CA – During September, Cold Stone Creamery locations will host a month-long fundraising celebration to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Tri-Counties.

These twelve stores will work together raising funds to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions throughout Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties. Cold Stone Creamery has partnered with the Make-A-Wish Foundation since 2002, generating $3.2 million in donations. Five-year-old wish kid Jack teamed up with Cold Stone Creamery’s Tastemaster Ray Karam to create his own ice cream Creation to celebrate the alliance this year. Jack was named “Junior Tastemaster” as he created his special Creation with sweet cream ice cream mixed with brownie, sprinkles and fudge.

Throughout the month, every Cold Stone store will sell paper Wish Stars for $1 each. The celebration will reach its peak with the eighth “World’s Largest Ice Cream Social.” On Sept. 24, 2009, Cold Stone locations will give away a 3-ounce portion of Jack’s Creation from 5-8 p.m. in exchange for a donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

“This month-long fundraiser is a great and easy opportunity for our community to support such a heartwarming organization,” said Mike Briggs owner of Cold Stone Creamery in Goleta and Santa Barbara. “Cold Stone ice cream, children and wishes coming true create the perfect combination for a joyful experience.”

Beer Tastings At Canary: This just in from Coast Restaurant & Bar at the Canary Hotel 31 W. Carrillo Street:

Hey John,

I wanted to drop you a line and let you know about the special beers tastings that we are doing here at Coast Restaurant the month of September. We have partnered with Firestone Brewery to offer a flight of there four most popular beers: Double Barrel Ale, Pale 31, Union Jack, and the Stout. These four beers will be available all month and together as a flight on Wednesday’s. Later in the month we will have their Oktoberfest special Brew on draft. We plan to offer this same style tasting throughout the year with other local breweries.

Brian Parks
Executive Chef

Poll: Best Happy Hour? If you can help reader Karen please send me an email and I'll post it here.

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Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Simply Pies Opening Storefront On Saturdays: A local bakery "Simply Pies" sent me a press-release yesterday to share with you:

Santa Barbara’s First Organic Pie Shop and Bakery To Open
Simply Pies, the only local organic pie, quiche and cheesecake bakery,
Launches Saturday storefront service on September 12
 
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Simply Pies, the only Santa Barbara-based bakery specializing in organic pies, quiches and cheesecakes, announces new Saturday retail operation hours beginning with a grand opening on September 12. The bakery located at 2611 De La Vina in Santa Barbara will be open Saturdays from 11AM to 3PM. At their retail opening, fresh baked whole or sliced pies and quiches along with take-and-bake frozen pies and crusts will also be on hand. Crust options include sweet, savory, gluten-free and vegan. Customers can order in advance for pick up on Saturday to ensure their favorite baked item will be available.

Simply Pies specializes in pies, quiches and cheesecakes made with organic ingredients purchased from environmentally friendly neighborhood businesses, farmers and co-ops. It is the first and only Santa Barbara bakery to offer gluten free, vegan and regular sweet or savory crusts. Sugar free alternatives are also available on some of their pies. Everything is homemade and handcrafted, just like Grandma used to make.

“Our customers love to tell us about childhood memories that our pies evoke,” said Nancy Blau, co-founder of Simply Pies. “The tastes and smells coming from their mom’s and grandma’s kitchens were warm, delightful experiences. Unfortunately, for many this tradition has been lost in our fast food culture. Simply Pies wants to take you ‘back to the basics’ and fill that void with baked-to-order, fresh, delicious pies baked with only the best produce from local farmers.”

Simply Pies offers a variety of sizes for every group and occasion. Six and nine-inch pies and quiches, and cheesecakes in four and eight-inch sizes are available. They are also fondly known as makers of the “pielet,” a three-inch version that has been a favorite with diners at the Santa Barbara Art Museum’s Museum Café, an early Simply Pies customer. Now, visitors to the Simply Pies bakery will be able to create and enjoy their own custom “flight” of three 3-inch pielets to sample a variety of different flavors. The pielets have also been a popular choice for weddings and other special occasions.

In addition to the Saturday storefront service, items can be ordered any day of the week for pick up or delivery through the Simply Pies web site or by phone. For added convenience, all items can also be received through the Plow to Porch organic produce home delivery service.

About Simply Pies
Simply Pies is a Santa Barbara-based bakery specializing in delicious organic pies, tarts, quiches and cheesecakes. Committed to supporting community farmers, Simply Pies uses only locally grown seasonal organic fruits, vegetables and antibiotic and hormone free free-range eggs in their handcrafted bakery products. All other organic ingredients, including dairy items, are purchased from environmentally friendly neighborhood businesses and co-ops. This focus on quality enables Simply Pies to guarantee the finest, freshest ingredients to create and deliver healthy, delicious and satisfying bakery products for any occasion. Simply Pies is a member of the American Pie Council an organization dedicated to preserving America's pie heritage and promoting America's love affair with pies. For more information about Simply Pies, visit www.simplypiessb.com

Photo Of The Day: I spotted this anonymous note tucked in the front door frame at 1114 State Street, the former home of Stateside and Acapulco.
 

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Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Taste of the Town: The 28th annual “Taste of the Town,” a fundraiser for local programs and services of the Arthritis Foundation, takes place on Sunday, September 13, from noon to 3 p.m. at Riviera Park & Gardens, 2030 Alameda Padre Serra.

   Advance tickets are available for $100 per person. If still available, tickets at the door will be $125 per person. Attendance is limited, so be sure to make reservations early by calling the Arthritis Foundation at 563-4685 or visiting TasteofTheTownSantaBarbara.com

   For 25 years, the honorary chair of the event was John Downey. Three years ago, the baton was passed to Tina Takaya and Richard Yates, of Opal Restaurant & Bar.

   More than 80 Santa Barbara County restaurants and wineries will offer food and wine samplings. Currently, this year’s restaurants/ purveyors include: Ballard Inn Restaurant, Beachside Bar & Grill, Bella Dolce, Ca’ Dario Ristorante, Café Luck, Café Shell, Caribbean Coffee, Chef Karim’s Moroccan Restaurant, Coast Restaurant & Bar, Crocodile Restaurant, Crushcakes Cupcakery, Elements Restaurant, Emilio’s Ristorante & Bar, Epiphany, The Faculty Club at UCSB, Fresco Café, Green Star Coffee, il fustino, Jade Restaurant, Los Agaves, Los Arroyos Mexican Restaurant, Louie’s California Bistro, Marmalade Café, Michael’s Catering, Mirabelle Inn & Restaurant, Neo Chase Restaurant & Lounge, opal restaurant & bar, Outback Steakhouse, Pacific Beverages, Petros, Piatti, Pierre Lafond, Renaud’s, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Shepherd’s Salad, Miro at Bacara Resort & Spa, Square One, Sweet Buttercup Cupcakes, Via Maestra 42, Vineyard House and Zaytoon.

   Wineries include: Adelaida Cellars, Alma RosaWinery&Vineyards, Au Bon Climat, Babcock Vineyards, Beckmen Vineyards, Bedford Thompson Winery &Vineyards, The Brander Vineyard, Bridlewood, Buttonwood Farm Winery, Clendenen Family Vineyards, Coastal Winery, Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard, Curtis Winery, Daniel Gehrs Wines. Dierberg Vineyards, Eberle Winery, Fess ParkerWinery&Vineyards, Giessinger Winery, Gleason Refugio Winery, J. Kerr Cellar, Jaffurs Wine Cellars, Laetitia Winery& Barnwood Vineyards, Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards, Mandolina Wines, Melville Winery, Mosby Winery, Pierre Lafond Winery, Qupé Wine Cellars, Rancho Sisquoc Winery, Rideau Vineyard, Robert Hall, Roblar Winery, Sanford Winery & Vineyards, Santa Barbara Winery, Stearns Wharf Vintners, Summerland Winery, Tolosa Winery, Ventena Vinyards, Whitcraft Winery and William James Cellars.

Off Topic: Tomorrow the Internet celebrates its 40th birthday (see video). Few were paying attention back on Sept. 2, 1969, when about 20 people gathered in a laboratory at UC Los Angeles, to watch as two bulky computers passed meaningless test data through a 15-foot cable. That was the beginning of the fledgling “Arpanet” network which later became known as the Internet. By the end of 1969 UC Santa Barbara, Stanford Research and the University of Utah joined UCLA as the first 4 nodes in what became a world wide computer network.

   The 1970s introduced e-mail and on May 3, 1978 a marketing manager for Digital Equipment Corp., Gary Thuerk, became the world’s first e-mail spammer. The '80s gave birth to domain names (for example “SantaBarbara.com”) and in 1990 British physicist Tim Berners-Lee, working at a European physics lab, invented the Web.

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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.

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

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.

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

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.

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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.
 

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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.

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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
 

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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.

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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!
 

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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.

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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.

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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.
 

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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)

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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.

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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.
 

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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.

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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."

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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
   

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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!

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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."
 

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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!
 

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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!

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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.
 

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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.
 

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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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Thursday, April 30, 2009

New In The Guide: Today I added Red Mango to the restaurant guide.

Free Yogurt! This Saturday May 2nd Red Mango in the Five Points Shopping Center (next to Blenders) is having a grand opening party. Everyone who arrives between noon and 5pm receives a free small frozen yogurt with up to three toppings. The first 100 guests also receive a free gift basket. For more information call 967-4492 or visit redmangousa.com.

First Year Anniversary: Fresco Cafe North at 5940 Calle Real in Goleta is having a celebration that begins this Sunday. The owners sent me an email about their plans:

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Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Late Night Dining: The Szechuan Restaurant at 1994 Cliff Drive on the Mesa has announced that it is the first and only local Chinese restaurant open until 1am. Lunch & dinner hours are Mon 11:30am-9:30pm, Tue-Sun 11:30am-1am. For more information call 564-7651 or visit szechuanrestaurantsb.com.

Hollister Specials: The Hollister Brewing Co. in Goleta’s Camino Real Marketplace has announced some new specials: Monday is pint night with selected house beers for $3/pint. Tuesday is brewer’s choice with $2.50 pints and $10 pitchers all day. For more information call 968-2810 or visit hollisterbrewco.com

Drinking Coffee With A Straw: I was at Anna's Bakery in Goleta with a friend recently and noticed that she was drinking her coffee with a straw (in this case, a hollow plastic stir stick poked through the sipping hole in the lid). I told her that, in my entire life, I have never seen anyone drink coffee with a straw before. She said that she drinks all colored beverages with a straw to keep her teeth from becoming stained. Even though she had never used teeth whiteners before she did, indeed, have a bright white smile. This habit makes a lot of sense though I don't see myself changing my traditional coffee sipping ways anytime soon. Do you drink coffee with a straw?

• Reader Geno says: "My wife and myself do drink thru a straw, but only while driving on a vacation or on a long drive....it is safer driving that way and I was convinced to this method after complaints from the boys down below."
• Reader Aimee says: "I'm writing in response to your blog entry about drinking coffee through a straw. My mother always warned me against drinking hot beverages that way, lest I inadvertently burn my esophagus! Sage advice, I think..."
• Reader Ken says: "Just read your note about drinking coffee with a straw. Here's one for you: Have you ever thought about why in Asian cultures you never see people drinking tea from a cup with a handle? That is, why is it you never see handles on tea cups in Japanese or Chinese restaurants?
     I don't know if this is true or not, but I was once told that in the Asian cultures the lips are very sacred and therefore to be protected from the possibility of extremely hot water. With handle-less cups the drinker can feel whether the cup is hot or not. In Western cultures, on the other hand, having handles can deceive a drinker to the temperature of the cups' contents by never getting a "true" feel of the cups' heat. Seems pretty logical."
• Reader Linda says: "I always get a straw for my coffee at Starbucks! Without a straw I seem to get tiny coffee stains on my shirt. What can I say - the straw does the trick. Never thought avoiding straining my teeth, but good for me!"

And The Survey Says...: Based on SantaBarbara.com web site statistics, here are the most viewed photos in this week's pictures galleries of Reds (60 photos) and Wine Futures (58 photos). It is interesting to note that the lady on the right in the winning Reds #1 photo is the same lady from the #2-ranked photo from last week's Nights gallery. She is on a roll!
 

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Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Breakfast With The Beasts: This Saturday, May 2, 8:30-11am the Santa Barbara Zoo is offering a "Breakfast with the Beasts." Enter the Zoo before the public and enjoy a pancake breakfast. Afterwards, you’ll help prepare “breakfast” for some of the animals. Recommended for families with children over four; all ages welcome. Members $25, Non-members $30, Children under 2 free. Must pre-register by calling 962-5339 or visit sbzoo.org.

Speaking Of The Zoo: The Santa Barbara Zoo has finished renovation of the hilltop area and opened a new cafe & event support facility called “The Wave.” The menu at The Wave features a mix of informal Mexican-inspired dishes. Fountain beverages and bottled water are available as are many dessert items.
 
   The new cafe’s hilltop location boasts sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez mountains. The building also houses new restrooms, a bridal changing room and a catering kitchen to accommodate the Zoo’s many special events plus more than eighty weddings and corporate events held at the hilltop each year. The Wave is open daily 11am-4pm. For information about private events at the Zoo call 962-5339.

Sensational Seafood: This Sunday, May 3, from 6-8pm the Ty Warner Sea Center is having an evening of “sensational and sustainable cuisine.” Experience ocean-friendly seafood and enjoy wine tasting with sunset ocean views. Meet local chefs & fishermen, enjoy live cooking demonstrations and explore the Sea Center’s new sustainable seafood exhibit. Members $35, non-members $45. Pre-registration required. For more information contact Heather Lahr at 682-4711 ext. 170.

Remodel: The building at 424 State Street, the former home of Pep Boys, has completed extensive exterior remodeling and will unveil a whole new look this week, including a new balcony with French doors. The building is currently being transformed in to a dining & retail destination and will be the future home of a third location for Saigon In & Out restaurant.

Photo Blog: Here are pictures from a jam-packed grand re-opening party at Reds last Saturday night 4/25/09.
 

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Monday, April 27, 2009

Radio Show: Local food and wine writer Michael Cervin (SB Magazine, Independent, News-Press, Wine Enthusiast, Wine & Spirits, Decanter, Central Coast Magazine, Carpinteria Magazine) has just launched his weekly radio show, "Cervin It Straight: No ratings, no scores just straight talk about wine, spirits and beer." The show airs Thursdays at 11 a.m. and 9 p.m., and Saturday's at noon on KZSB AM-1290. Cervin interviews winemakers, master distillers, brew masters, as well as recommends local wines each week. He also released his first book, "Generous Fiction," available at Chaucer's and his website, michaelcervin.com.

At The Melting Pot: Ladies’ Night is this coming to the Melting Pot restaurant at 608 Anacapa Street Tuesday night. It’s sponsored by Van Gogh vodka, with flavored martini specials, as well as a reduced price 4-course dinner $35pp (normally $45pp). Also, Mothers’ Day is coming up on May 10th, and Melting Pot will open early at 12pm for lunch that day. They are offering a prix-fixe menu that’s available online at meltingpot.com/santabarbara

Photo Blog: Elements Restaurant & Bar presents: Santa Barbara Wine Futures at the Courthouse last Saturday evening 4/25/09
 

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Friday, April 24, 2009

New In The Guide: Today I added European Deli & Market to the restaurant guide.

1st Birthday: Spoon at 1222 State Street is celebrating their first year anniversary this Saturday, April 25th. They will be offering $1.00 off every size of gelato from 12 noon - until 10pm. Their girls will be hoola hooping from 1-3pm & 6-9pm.

Kids Special: Silvergreens downtown (791 Chapala Street) and in Isla Vista (900 Embarcadero Del Mar) have a new special: half-price for kids on Sundays. Valid for children 10 or younger off their kids' menu.

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Thursday, April 23, 2009

New In The Guide: Today I added Blush Restaurant & Lounge to the restaurant guide.

Breakfast: The Brewhouse at 229 W. Montecito Street now serves breakfast Saturday & Sunday 8am-11am. For more information call 884-4664.

Lunch Combo: Aldo's Italian Restaurant at 1031 State Street now has lunch combos for $6.95. 1/2 sandwiches, pastas and salads served with soup or salad. For more information call 963-6687

Photo Blog: Here are pictures from the SB Young Professionals Club mixer at the Melting Pot.

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Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Jake's Cafe Reopens: Yesterday reader April and reader Shelby and reader John and reader Gary and reader Anonymous and reader Primetime let me know that Jake's Cafe at 2911 De La Vina Street has reopened, after having slept in the restaurant cemetery for little more than a week. Even Jake himself passed the word, telling me "The Re-Opening of Jake's! (thanks to our landlord!!!). New hours: 7am-3pm, 7 days week. New menu & the launch of Jake's Cafe Easy-Go menu! Also, introducing our new Catering & Events Director Linda Boisky of Santa Barbara."

European Market & Deli Opens: The International Deli & Market closed last month at 4422 Hollister Ave in Goleta and that location has reopened under new ownership as "European Market & Deli."

Blush Menu: The new Blush Restaurant & Lounge at 630 State Street, the former location of Zelo, sent me their menu which I have now posted online.

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Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Reds Reopening Saturday: Dana Walters, owner of Reds Tapas & Wine Bar at 211 Helena Ave (in the Funk Zone), sent me an email with an update:
   “Reds is scheduled to open Saturday, April 25th at 7pm. Free appetizers. We will have live music from professional Spanish guitarist Chris Fossek, Ishmael Amin on the box drums, and Marisol Cabrera performing flamenco dancing. They will be performing from 8-10 pm and then DJ Fab will be spinning world music until 2 am. Our wine menu consists of about 25 wineries from Santa Ynez and Paso Robles and we have tap and bottled beer from local breweries and elsewhere.” - Dana Walters

Red Mango Opens This Week: A popular frozen yogurt chain named Red Mango will open this week at 3967 State Street in the Five Points Shopping Center next to Blenders in the Grass. Founded in 2002 in South Korea, Red Mango operates more than 130 stores in its native country and 40 stores in the U.S. spanning from New York to Hawaii.
 
   Owner Alex Lee tells me that Red Mango will have a have a blender option to mix yogurt with your favorite toppings. Lee says that an official grand opening is planned for the near future and will include free yogurt all day. The hours are Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. For more information call 967-4492 or visit redmangousa.com.

Pettitt Joins Hungry Cat: Hungry Cat General Manager Timothy Clune tells me that he has hired star chef John Pettitt. Pettitt, formerly the chef at the Wine Cask restaurant, starts working at Hungry Cat this week. Pettitt also worked as the chef de cuisine at Melisse in Santa Monica, a restaurant that has earned a coveted two-star rating from the Michelin Guide, making it one of the highest-rated places in Southern California.

Turning Two: Two years ago today The Restaurant Guy debuted in the Daily Sound newspaper. The current issue is my 105th consecutive weekly food news column. What was the chain of events that lead to its creation?
 
   Having run my SantaBarbara.com Restaurant Guide for more than a decade, I found myself surrounded with a lot of restaurant news that I would pass on to my friends. One day in mid-December 2006 I decided to create a food news blog called “As If You Care…” where I started posting everything I knew about the South Coast dining scene. The blog title later was changed to “The Food Forum” and finally “The Restaurant Guy.”
 
   I first met Daily Sound publisher Jeramy Gordon at a Christmas party in Carpinteria just after I started the blog and we ran into each other from time to time in early 2007. Each time we met the conversation eventually turned to a discussion of publishing my food news blog in his paper. On a Monday in mid-April 2007 I decided to send Jeramy an email with a week’s worth of blog material that he published the very next day.

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Monday, April 20, 2009

Salsa Especial: The next time you are in Trader Joe's pick up a jar of Salsa Especial under the Trader Joe's label. It is made by local resident David Hernandez. David tells me the story about how this family recipe came to be:

My mother moved to Santa Barbara when she was just four years old. The eldest of four children she grew up then raised her own family in the Carpinteria area. Through the years, being such a wonderful cook, I think all that had visited our home had tasted her homemade salsa at one point or another. She was always told that she should do something with her recipe, but caring for her family of seven was top priority! She was such a wonderful mother.

One day I told her that if she wasn’t going to do anything with the recipe that I would like to. She never thought it would amount to anything. I persisted and through a mutual friend got it introduced to Trader Joe’s. Out of 13 products initially be introduced, the salsa was the first to be accepted. I was so thrilled informing my mother, still having doubts that it would ever make it to market.

Well, it did and it has now been there almost 7 years. She passed away at 78 right before it was to hit the market. As a lasting to tribute to her, it remains to be one of their best sellers. I know she is very proud and continues to look after her family. Thanks mom! All who knew her remember and continue to buy the salsa making this a lasting tribute to her. - David Hernandez, Carpinteria

Oil & Vinegar: Reader Judy tells me that Il Fustino, which sells oils and vinegars, will be opening in mid-May at 3401 State Street, near the San Roque post office. For more information call 888-798-4740 or visit ilfustino.com.

Mix & Melt: The Melting Pot restaurant at 608 Anacapa St will be hosting the SB Young Professionals Club mixer this Wednesday, April 22nd from 5:30-7:30pm. It's free for members and $10 for non-members. SBYPC is a group of young and talented business professionals 40 years old and under, interested in networking, building friendships, and serving our community through various civic activities.

And The Winner Is: Based on SantaBarbara.com web site statistics, here are the top five most viewed photos from last week's gallery of 91 pictures taken at Nights at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Ladies do seem to be popular. No photos of guys made the top 10.
 

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Friday, April 17, 2009

Photo Blog: Last night I attended Nights at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and took 91 people pictures for your viewing enjoyment.

Blush Opens: Blush restaurant and lounge at 630 State Street, the former location of Zelo, had a soft opening this week. Owner Asaf Dimant sent me an email with details about Blush:

Hi John,

In an attempt to iron out the kinks and streamline our restaurant operations, we have been conducting mock service, soft openings and limited restaurant openings this week. Since we are still in the process of completing our build out (our outdoor patio in particular) and intend to truly create a unique restaurant/lounge atmosphere that operates for extended hours and does not fit your standard dinner house mold, we will be opening in a limited capacity over the next several weeks. Our grand opening is scheduled for memorial day weekend. At that time, we will be unveiling our final product including:

- Complete dinner & cocktail menus
- Late night dining menu (kitchen open till midnight)
- Entertainment programming for dinner, lounge & brunch (a gospel brunch with a live gospel choir is in the works)

We hope that Blush stands out in the competitive Santa Barbara marketplace as a standalone restaurant & lounge that combines refined dining with a social atmosphere that transcends from evening to nighttime while keeping its local roots.

Please advise your readers that we are not fully operational and are still in the process of fine-tuning our operations. We will be taking limited reservations and walk-ins based on how far along we are. Your readers can call 805-957-1300 for reservations and will be able to use open table (www.opentable.com) after May 1st.

I will send you marketing and design materials (including interior & exterior photos) as soon as they arrive.

Thank you,

Blush restaurant/lounge

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Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Cookbook: Chef and cookbook author Michele Carbone, a Montecito resident, will be having a book signing May 1st, 7pm at downtown Borders. In addition to signing copies of her book "Friday Evening: Creating La Dolce Vita, one bite at a time" Carbone will conduct a short demonstration by breaking down a complete chicken. “People think it’s hard to do, so instead they spend a lot more money purchasing chicken breasts to cook. But I can do it quickly and easily, to show people just how it’s done,” Carbone explains. She will also conduct a food tasting, using simple recipes from her book.

Island Brew: The Island Brewing company on Linden Avenue in Carpinteria has just completed their new patio. This means that the hugely popular local gathering spot can once again be an indoor and outdoor experience.

Off Topic: Universal Pictures moved up the movie shoot from Thursday to today. I have to be on the set at 8:00am.  They also asked me if they can use my Prius for the shoot because they apparently think it seems "local." I guess we're all Prius lovers here in SB in the eyes of Hollywood. On a side note, reader Primetime tells me this morning that Global Gardens in Los Olivos has been specially asked to make gift baskets for the movie stars in the film.
 
   FYI, this blog has a Twitter account. It's online at: http://twitter.com/sbdotcom. I might just tweet throughout the day since I likely will have a lot of idle time. I'll try to get Meryl Streep to leave a message!

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Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Wine Cask To Reopen: The Wine Cask disappeared just over a year and a half after long-time owner Doug Margerum sold the popular restaurant in 2007. It now appears that Knight Margerum has donned his shining armor, mounted a white horse and is galloping in to rescue the restaurant-in-distress. Here is an email I received from Margerum last weekend:

“The Wine Cask closure has captivated everyone and I've been quoted as saying that I may try to save part of the historic business. It is in process. Can’t comment on it right now but it looks like a Phoenix will rise from the ashes and I expect to be along for the ride.” - Doug Margerum

Jake's Closes: Reader Shane let me know that Jake's Cottage Cuisine at 2911 De La Vina Street went out of business last Sunday. The restaurant opened in May 2007.

Rest In Peace: Here is a list of all local dining destinations that have closed in the last six months:

• April 2009: Jake's Cottage Cuisine 2911 De La Vina St
• 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
• November 2008: Bricks Cafe 509 State St; Sesto Senso Ristorante 1026 Coast Village Rd, Montecito

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Monday, April 13, 2009

Chicken Fried Steak Poll Results: Here are the results of last Friday's poll to determine which local restaurants offer Chicken Fried Steak. FYI, it's the largest poll response this blog has ever had!

• Reader John says: "Chile's has chicken fried steak."
• Chef David says: "At the Harbor/Longboards, we have Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs for Breakfast Sat/Sun.
  Also I have a special eggs benedict: Chicken Fried Steak Benedict, Chicken fried sirloin steak, melted fontina cheese, buttermilk biscuits and country gravy."
• Reader Diego says: "It's everywhere! Besides Denny's and IHOP, I've had chicken fried steak recently at Cajun Kitchen, Beachbreak Café, and the Breakwater Restaurant."
• Reader Tiffani says: "My boyfriend just ordered chicken fried steak the other day at the Cajun on De La Vina. I am sure they have that on all the Canjun Kitchen’s menu. Garrett’s on Mission and State makes a pretty good one too."
• Reader Huyen says: "You have probably already had people tell you this, but Jake's on De La Vina serves it."
• Reader Lauren says: "I 'believe' that the Beachbreak Cafe serves chicken fried steak, although I cannot seem to find it on their online menu."
• Reader Anita says: "I tasted the chicken fried steak at Tupelo Junction the other day and it was the absolute best and the gravy is amazing! Esau's is very good too!"
• Reader J says: "Cajun Kitchen has chicken fried steak and eggs that's very good. I don't know about how authentic it is but dang good."
• Reader Deena says: "Cajun Kitchen Café has Chicken Fried Steak."
• Reader Anonymous says: "Cody's Cafe severs a good chicken fried steak. I really not recommend the one at Cajun Kitchen. The best I know of in the area is in Santa Ynez at a little place called the Long Horn Cafe."
• Reader Glenn says: "From a websearch: Cody's Cafe, Jake's, Tupelo Junction Cafe, Esau's Cafe"
• Reader Jeff says: "Sorry, I don’t have any suggestions for chicken fried steak in the immediate Santa Barbara area, but I do know that just down the road in Ventura, the Busy Bee Café serves both chicken fried steak and chicken fried chicken. I’ve not visited in some time, but I found both to be delicious whenever I tried them!"
• Reader Laurie says :"Cajun Kitchen does – on their breakfast menu as one of the meat/side options for 2 eggs. Esau’s too!"
• Reader Cory says: "My favorite place for Chicken Fried Steak is Cajun Kitchen. When I was at UCSB, I would go to the Caj at Storke & Hollister and get the Chicken Fried Steak with two eggs, bran muffins, and their delicious home fries. Sambo's has it too, but I preferred Cajun Kitchen's. But I will say, being from Texas, the size of the Chicken Fried Steak at Cajun Kitchen might not whet his appetite. I've seen CFS in Texas, and it's at least twice the size as the one from Cajun Kitchen."
• Reader Justine says: "I haven't had it there myself, but a good friend of mine has ordered chicken fried steak several times at Jake's and loves it."
• Reader Jonathon says: "Chicken Fried steak is one of my guilty pleasures and I feel it's a great way to judge a 'greasy spoon' type place. There's a TON of places in SB that serve Chicken Fried Steak and I've sampled most of them; quite a few good ones and of course some greasy chewy disappointments. I'd say Jake's Cottage Cuisine on De La Vina just might be my favorite. Fried perfectly, not super greasy, tasty gravy, and perfect with their excellent homemade biscuits!"
• Reader Jon says: "Farmer Boys does a good chicken Fried Steak. Not for the heart healthy but good !!!"
• Reader Ben says: "I think Chili's serves chicken fried steak."

Off Topic: Last Friday I met with Universal Studios wardrobe/casting department to try on outfits that I will wear as an extra in a movie scene with Meryl Streep this Thursday. What's interesting is that, as an extra, we bring our own clothes (several outfits) and they mix & match. I had always thought one wears duds supplied by the studio. Welcome to life at the bottom of the Hollywood totem pole!
 
   They then took several photographs of me wearing various combinations of clothes and emailed them to the director (Nancy Meyers) in New York. I'll probably be wearing blue jeans/gray t-shirt/green pull-over or blue jeans/white collar shirt/olive sport jacket. I bring all the outfit choices with me and the director will decide what I wear at the last moment.
 
   They handed me a sheet of paper indicating the rules extras must obey on the set which was kind of interesting so I included it in today's blog.
 
   FYI, all the extras get paid $8/hr for 8 hours, even if we are only there for a short while, and they supply free food all day. I will be somewhere downtown this Thursday, not sure exactly where. The sheet says "State Street pedestrian" (not a glamorous title for sure) but I wouldn't be surprised if they substituted an off-State location to create less disruption. I will call them after 6pm Wednesday evening to find out exactly where the extras go.

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Friday, April 10, 2009

Poll: Who Serves Chicken Fried Steak? Reader Jonathan is from Texas and grew up eating Chicken Fried Steak. He asked me to ask you if you know of any local restaurants that serve it. If you can help Jonathan please email me and I will post your answer here.

El Hombre Restaurante: I had a meeting yesterday with the kind and generous folks who bring you the annual Old Spanish Days celebration and they have asked me to be their unofficial Fiesta foodie. They will be sending me information about food vendors and restaurants that contribute to the various events (parties, Mercados) and I will post it on a new "Foods of Fiesta" page in this restaurant guide. I have been trying to think of what my title would be and "Fiesta Food Czar" seemed a bit too important so I am leaning towards El Hombre Restaurante.

Anonymous Tip Line: Starting today I have setup a way for you to send messages to me anonymously. There is a permanent new link in this blog (upper-right) to a submission form that simply has a message box and a submit button. Now this doesn't mean the blog will suddenly start dishing out dirt from sordid tips. That's unlikely. But hopefully it does result in more information coming my way about the South Coast restaurant scene.

Off Topic: I have put together a tribute page for Lynne Carpenter Martyniuk (a Santa Barbara native and my high school classmate) who passed away on April 4th.

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Thursday, April 9, 2009

Earth Day: The Community Environmental Council’s 39th Annual Earth Day Festival -- featuring a wine and beer garden, live music, healthy organic food vendors, a children’s area with hands on activities, and about 250 exhibitors -- will take place on Sunday, April 19 at Alameda Park, 1400 Santa Barbara Street. This is a new location for the festival which runs from 10am-5:30pm. Food & beverage vendors include:

• Papa N' Mama
• Silvergreens
• IDA E's
• Siam Bar-BQ
• Feel Good World (non-profit)
• Full of Life Flat Bread Pizza
• Barefoot Wine
• Red Nectar Ale

Recession Specials: Cafe Int'L (5664 Calle Real, Goleta and 6578 Trigo Rd, Isla Vista) and have two "recession specials" available on weekdays, Mon-Friday:  Breakfast: Buy any breakfast combo and get a free coffee. Lunch: Buy any full size sandwich and get a free side.

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Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Off Topic: News stories have been written recently about Lynne Carpenter Martyniuk who took her own life last weekend at Cold Spring Bridge. Like many others, I graduated from Santa Barbara High School with her and she was just the most wonderful and kind lady. She will be missed. Her funeral is this Friday at 11:00 a.m. at Free Methodist Church, 1435 Cliff Drive on the Mesa. Here is a photo of Paul, Lynne and their children Sydney, Shayne and Jason.
 

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Tuesday, April 7, 2009

New In The Guide: Today I added Root 246 to the restaurant guide.

Solvang Welcomes "Root 246": Celebrity chef Bradley Ogden brings his James Beard Award-winning experience to the Santa Ynez Valley with the soft opening of his newest restaurant Root 246 last Friday evening. The eatery, located at 420 Alisal Road in Solvang, is part of the new Hotel Corque (formerly the Royal Scandinavian Inn) and is owned by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. The grand opening of the restaurant and hotel will be in June.
 
   Jonathan Hall is executive chef, John Church is chef de cuisine and Bradley Ogden is chef/consultant. Root 246 features fresh, contemporary American cuisine using local, organic ingredients in Ogden’s signature farm-to-table dishes. The menu changes frequently.

Starters include:

• Finley Farms garden party, goat cheese and spring onion croquettes
• Twice-baked blue cheese souffle, wild watercress, Hibbits walnuts
• Local squid frito misto, citrus glaze, lemon dill
• Berkshire pork belly, tamale pancakes, avocado salad

Entrees include:

• Grilled Artic Char, spring vegetables, late harvest citrus
• Prime rib eye steak, root vegetable gratin, broccoli di cicco
• Santa Barbara sole, house made linguini bloomsdale spinach
• Double lamb chop, wild mushrooms, fennel and fava bean salad

Desserts include:

• Root 246 banana split, house made fluff, local strawberries, hot fudge
• Double dark chocolate pudding cake, chocolate malt ice cream

   Last Saturday evening I was given a personal tour of the restaurant and it was obvious that no expense was spared to make it beautiful, comfortable yet very functional. Local architecture/interior design firm DesignARC worked closely with Ogden during development. Outside there is a patio with a fireplace. Once inside you first encounter a glass display case with 1,800 wines (90% local) that has separate temperature controls for red and white wines. The restaurant includes a 47-seat dining room, a 12-seat glass-walled “Chef’s Room” for private dining, a bar area, a lounge and a banquet room.
 
   Root 246 is open for dinner daily 5:30 pm-10 pm and for brunch on Sundays 10:30 am - 2:30 pm. Lunch will be available Wednesday - Saturday starting April 15^th. For more information call 688-9003.
 

The chefs of Root 246 in Solvang. Left to right: John Church (chef de cuisine), Bradley Ogden (chef/consultant) and Jonathan Hall (executive chef).

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:

• Blush (downtown) April
• Reds Urban Wine Bar (funk zone) April
• European Market (noleta) April
• Burger Bus (mobile) May
• Petros Kafe (Los Olivos) May
• Yogurtland (downtown) May
• Yo Yum Yum (Goleta) May
• Chino’s Rock & Tacos (downtown) June
• Saigon In & Out (downtown) June
• Three Pickles (Goleta) June
• Holdren’s (Goleta) July
• Pastavino (Goleta) July
• On The Side (Isla Vista)
• QuesaDilla Rilla (downtown)
• Red Mango (Upper State)
• Teavana (Paseo Nuevo)
• Whole Foods Market (Upper State)

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Monday, April 6, 2009

New In The Guide: Today I added Hummingbird Cafe to the restaurant guide.

Dinner Buffet: Uncle Chen at 1025 Casitas Pass Rd in Carpinteria now has an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet Fri-Sat 5-8pm for $10.95. Uncle Chen's cuisine includes Mandarin, Szechuan, vegetarian and seafood.

Name Change: Reader Glenn let me know that Manhattan Bagel at 2000 Cliff Drive is now "Bagel Market Cafe." I suppose the lack of 80-story skyscrapers on the Mesa contributed to the change.

Photo Blog: Here are 58 pictures from Friday's "Dressed in White" benefit party at Stateside Restaurant & Lounge

Off Topic: The Restaurant Guy has been asked to be in a movie scene with Meryl Streep being filmed on State Street in mid-April. No need to ask for my autograph though. Apparently I will just walk by in the background. Perhaps if I walk by with intense emotion, battling my personal demons, yet have humor and sensitivity in my stride, I'll be discovered?

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Friday, April 3, 2009

Photo Blog: I took pictures last night at First Thursday (Carr Winery, 33 Jewels & Live Culture) and at the Costa Verde International Art Exhibit & Concert at 1129 State Street.

Gelato: Spoon at 1222 State Street is featuring Olive Oil Gelato this week and next.

Now Serving Dinner: Hugo's Restaurant at 1029 Casitas Pass Rd in Carpinteria now serves dinner Tue-Sat 5-8pm

Off Topic: An arrest has been made in the hit-and-run that killed Santa Barbaran Adrianna Bachan. A memorial page for people to leave messages for her family is online now at: SantaBarbara.com/adrianna. Information about a memorial service and memorial fund have been added to the site.

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Thursday, April 2, 2009

April Fools: Not to say that anyone was actually fooled, but it is my obligation to inform you that Brophy Bros. is, of course, not being replaced by In-N-Out Burger. On April Fools day 2007 Brophy's became a McDonald's (and Joe's Cafe became a non-alcoholic juice bar). Last year Brophy's was replaced by a Taco Bell (see photo).

Survey: Easter Brunch: I would like to put together a list of restaurants that offer Easter Brunch this year. If you know for sure that a local eatery is planning to have a bunny buffet, please send me an email.

• The Restaurant Guy knows about Fess Parker's Doubletree and Root 246
• Owner Justin suggests Julienne
• Reader Nicole suggests Stonehouse
• Owner Michelle suggests Epiphany
• Chef David suggests Harbor Restaurant - see menu
• Chef Brian suggests Coast at Canary Hotel - see menu
• Owner Clay suggests Holdren's
• Reader Jacquie suggests El Paseo
• Director Scott suggests Glen Annie Golf Course
• Owner Philippe suggests Stella Mare's - see menu
• Reader Cindy suggests Marriott in Buellton - see menu
• Reader Anne suggests Bacara

European Market: Reader Glenn tells me that the recently closed International Deli & Market has a new sign out front that reads "European Market Opening Soon"

Off Topic: I have been contacted by the family of Adrianna Bachan (the Santa Barbara girl who died in a hit-and-run at USC) and was asked to setup an official memorial page for people to leave messages. It is online now at: santabarbara.com/adrianna

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Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Brophy's To Become An In-N-Out Burger: In another sign of the recession's heavy toll on local restaurants, it has come to my attention this morning that Brophy Bros. at the harbor is scheduled to be replaced by an In-N-Out Burger. In-N-Out spokesman Carl Van Fleet said in a press-release: "Brophy Bros has always had long lines of happy customers and we intend to continue the same tradition with the new In-N-Out Burger at the Santa Barbara harbor." See artist's rendering of the new facility. This new restaurant will have the nation's only "sail-up window" where you can order a burger & fries without getting out of your boat. Construction is set to begin in the fall.

Google Stalks Restaurant Guy: If you view 1219 State Street on Google Maps (the address of Unity Shoppe) and click on "Street View" you will see the Restaurant Guy standing on the curb talking on a cell phone. I am wearing a bright red shirt and blue jeans. The Google Cam drive by apparently occurred last December while I was waiting to open my Santa Claus Call Center. Also pictured are Mrs. Claus volunteers Elizabeth Castillo (blue shirt) and Carol Sauceda (Santa hat).

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Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Hummingbird Ready To Fly: Hummingbird Cafe opens this Thursday at 1101 State Street, the former home of Java Jones. Hummingbird offers breakfast, organic local salads, sandwiches, soups, wraps, tamales, specialty desserts, organic fair trade coffee and teas, green juices, smoothies and more. They will also offer raw and vegan options as well as organic free range chicken.
 
  Owner Kristi Curtis, who has lived in Santa Barbara for 10 years, worked at John Givens organic farm for 6 years and worked as the director of Shape of Voice, a local youth newspaper focusing on social justice.
 
   Curtis describes her new café this way: "We are creating a conscious community café, providing a total eco-friendly atmosphere where you can feed your belly and your spirit. Most of our food is from local organic farmers and has been intentionally selected handmade with love. While feeding the community we hope to educate and inspire people to nourish themselves and become socially conscious."
 
   Hummingbird Café is supporting as many local businesses as possible including Arcobaleno Trade, a fair trade global import store which occupies the back section of the café. The cafe will also provide exhibit space for artists and community organizations. Restaurant hours are Sun-Thu 8am-9pm, Fri-Sat 8am-10pm. For more information call 963-9800.

Chino's Rock & Tacos: A Mexican restaurant named “Chino’s Rock & Tacos,” based in San Luis Obispo, is planning to open a new location at 714 State Street, the former home of Matador and Piranha Sushi. Opening is scheduled for June. For more information visit chinosrocks.com.

Restaurant Wrap Up: Here is a list of local eateries that have opened in the last six months:

• 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
• November 2008: Pattaya Bar & Grill 5918 Hollister Ave, Goleta, 964-2800; Silvergreens 791 Chapala St, 962-8500; Jane 1311 State St, 962-1311; Backyard Bowls 331 Motor Way, 845-5379; Peet's Coffee 1131 State St, 722-1912; Jungle George Grill 5722 Calle Real, Goleta, 845-3333; Korean BBQ House 956 Embarcadero Del Norte, Isla Vista, 968-1600
• October 2008: Cafe Int'L 6578 Trigo Rd, Isla Vista, 968-2255; Crushcafe 1315 Anacapa St, 963-3752

Off Topic: I think it may be time to call Eric David Greenspan at Make It Work and have him send over a red Mini Cooper to give the Rumor Machine a tune-up. Yesterday the Rumor Machine popped out some non-restaurant-related news that its faded, coffee-stained manual says should never happen. Specifically the print-out read: “The retail space formerly occupied by Linens & Things in Camino Real Marketplace may become a Kohl’s department store.” Kohl's sells moderately-priced apparel, footwear, accessories and soft home products in 1004 stores in 48 states. As always, this rumor might be completely false or a brilliant forecast of future events. Your call.
 
   Speaking of Camino Real Marketplace, Best Buy is scheduled to have a soft opening on May 8^th and their grand opening is May 15^th.

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Monday, March 30, 2009

Bread For Bread: The Summer Solstice Parade committee has launched a "Bread for Bread" fundraiser based entirely on food donated by Pascucci restaurant at 729 State Street: Here is the press-release:

Welcome Back Shari: Recently in this column I mentioned that I was seeking an intern to help with the workload at SantaBarbara.com. Interest in SantaBarbara.com (the whole site, not just the dining guide) has exploded in the last year and I can no longer keep up with the demands of businesses that want to be included on the site. Plus I now answer dozens of emails & phone calls every day from tourists asking for tips about Santa Barbara.
 
 I ended up going in a different direction and brought in Shari Falter, a talented web designer, graphic artist & writer to work in a paid position. Shari worked on SantaBarbara.com briefly ten years ago and created the winery guide, beaches guide, parks guide and many other sections of SantaBarbara.com. I may still bring on an intern to help out with additional duties.

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Friday, March 27, 2009

Yellow Pages: In your 2009 phone book's yellow pages you may have noticed that some restaurants try harder than others to get your attention. Some restaurants list just a name and phone number. Others have 1/8 page, 1/4 page, 1/2 page and 3/4 page ads. A select few restaurants, however, have gone the extra mile to let their services be known by taking out a full-page color ad. They are:

• Verizon Yellow Pages: All India Cafe 431 State St, China Pavilion 1202 Chapala St & 1070 Coast Village Rd, Montecito; Eladio's 1 State St; Mandarin Palace 3955 State St; Rose Cafe 1816 Cliff Dr & 424 E. Haley St; Silvergreens 791 Chapala St & 900 Embarcadero Del Mar, Isla Vista; Uncle Chen 1025 Casitas Pass Rd, Carpinteria
• AT&T Yellow Pages:  China Bowl & State St Cafe 440 E. Ortega St; Neo Chase 1012 State St; Rose Cafe 1816 Cliff Dr & 424 E. Haley St

Wine Days: Pierre Lafond Wine Bistro at 516 State Street has announced "Wine Days" running April 1-4:

• Wed April 1 - Passport to the World of Wine $25, 6pm
• Thu April 2 - Free wine pairing with every entree, all day
• Fri April 3 - Complimentary appetizers with wine purchase
• Sat April 4 - All wines by the glass $5, all day

Photo Blog: Here are pictures from last night's Santa Barbara Downtown Organization mixer at Hotel Santa Barbara. The food at the mixer was donated by four Downtown Organization restaurants: The Greek House Café, Pascucci, Pierre Lafond Wine Bistro and Silvergreens.

Off Topic: I recently noticed an oddity in the numbering system of downtown Santa Barbara addresses on the east-west roads (for example Carrillo St). West of State Street, on the north side, address numbers are all even. Yet east of State Street, on the north side, address numbers are all odd. Why does the address numbering system change once you cross State Street? If you know the answer, or care to offer a wild guess, please send me an email and I will post it here.

• Reader TG says: Generally speaking (and I emphasize, it only generally) as you travel a street from its origin (#1) through increasing street address numbers, the even numbered address will be on the right and the odd numbers on the left. Since street addresses on Carrillo (and other "east-west" streets) find their origin at State St., the the north side/south side orientation of even and odd addresses will naturally be reversed. Notice that State Street, with origin at Stearns Wharf, follows the same even-right and odd-left pattern, as does the wharf itself, with the Harbor Restaurant (on the right) at 210 Stearns Wharf, and Char West (on the left) at 221. Warning, this is not necessarily true everywhere, especially in places like New York, specifically Manhattan, where to the uninitiated, figuring out address numbers requires an advanced degree in mathematics. - TG

• Reader Deena says: The following information is drawn from the Santa Barbara News-Press obituary of August 28, 1988:
  Richard S. Whitehead was born July 11, 1907, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He moved to San Mateo, California, in 1913. He later received his BS and MA degrees from MIT. From 1946 to 1969 he worked for the County of Santa Barbara, as director of planning. Among his projects were the first master plan for airports in the county and planning for the Lake Cachuma recreational area. He also helped acquire six county beach parks and several inland parks, as well as establishing a uniform street numbering system in the county. He was a licensed land surveyor and registered civil engineer, a member of the State Water Pollution Control Board, the American Institute of Planners, the American Society of Civil Engineers, and the Channel City Club. He also was the author of Citadel on the Channel: The Royal Presidio of Santa Barbara, Its Founding and Construction, 1782-1798, edited by Donald C. Cutter. Whitehead died in Santa Barbara, August 25, 1988.

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Thursday, March 26, 2009

Restaurant Stats: I put together some restaurant stats comparing South Coast openings/closings during the first three months of this year with that of previous years. The stats include restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries and dessert destinations. Though it appears that closings are on the rise, there has been an even larger percentage increase in the openings, which is welcome news.

• 2009 January - March: 15 openings, 14 closings
• 2008 January - March: 9 openings, 11 closings
• 2007 January - March: 10 openings, 7 closings

New Kahuna Special: Beginning in April, Kahuna Grill, located in Camino Real Marketplace and Paseo Nuevo, launches their "Monday Stimulus Special" which will be available Monday evenings after 5pm. Order any burger and turn it into a combo at no extra charge. The free fries and drink with your burger is a big savings and this special will undoubtedly be popular. Kahuna Grill's recently ended "Big Wednesday" offering was a smash hit by every measure and the new Monday Stimulus Special looks to be the same. Way to go Dale!

Off Topic: The Muscular Dystrophy Association's annual Black & Blue Ball has been canceled this year. Here is a message from Steve Golis, director of this year's fundraiser:

"It was sad news that MDA Corporate in light of our current economic climate has decided to postpone this years Black and Blue Ball. They will revisit at the end of the year and decide on if the event will happen in 2010. MDA National on the events they have done this year so far have all brought in substantially less revenues than the previous years so they feel they kind of see the writing on the wall for this year. MDA Corporate has instructed Regional and Local Offices to focus on small projects that folks can contribute a dollar or two, like fill the boot, and buy a shamrock." - Steve Golis

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Tuesday, March 24, 2009

QuesaDilla Rilla: A new late-night restaurant named “QuesaDilla Rilla” is coming to the downtown area. They will be open until 4am and offer a variety of popular and specialty quesadillas (with salsa) including the “sprouted soy cheese adilla.” Other menu options include chocolate-dipped bananas and fresh juices. They will support the local community by using fresh, local ingredients.

Melting Pot Events: Owner Jeb Wilson sent me information about events at the Melting Pot restaurant, 608 Anacapa Street:

• Happy Hour: Sun-Thu 5-7pm in the bar area, $6 Skyy martinis (all varieties), $6 select house wines, “2 for $22” deal: 2 glasses of select house wines and a cheese or chocolate fondue for $22.
• Ladies Night: The last Tuesday of every month, including Tuesday, March 31st. Official description: "A great excuse to get out! Grab the ladies and enjoy a four course fondue dinner for $35. Also featuring select specialty drinks and house wines for $6! Cheese & Chocolate fondue for $16. BeautiControl, StudioLash, and Bangles, Baubles & Beads by me, Wendy Lea will be in house to show off their wares."
• Merryvale Wine Dinner: Thursday, April 16th. Three Course fondue dinner with wines paired by Merryvale's own winemaker. $55 per person (tax & gratuity not included). Only 30 reservations are available for this event.

Whole Foods Update: Whole Foods market will be opening this Winter (instead of Fall) at 3761 State Street, the former home of Circuit City.

Off Topic: It appears that rental photo booths are all the rage now. Last week I took pictures at the "Saks & the City" benefit for the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation and saw everyone lining up to take their turn at a very popular photo booth. I spoke with Ricky Mia, owner of "Photobooth Santa Barbara," and he tells me that the booths are popular at all events including birthdays and weddings. At wedding receptions the new trend is to give guests at each table an empty picture frame that they can then fill with a 4x6 mosaic of photos while still at the party. For more information visit photoboothsantabarbara.com.

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Monday, March 23, 2009

Sushi 7: Sushi 7 restaurant next to Vons in Montecito has closed and is planning to reopen soon in a new location on Coast Village Rd.

Burger Place: Construction has stopped at a new restaurant named "Burger Place" next to Vons in Montecito and plans to open the eatery have ended.

Speaking Of Burgers: Santa Barbara's mobile cheese burger service called the "Burger Bus" is planning an early May launch. The roving restaurant will have its home base at Earl Warren Showgrounds. Burger Bus will be featured in the "around the town" section of Santa Barbara Magazine in the May/June issue.

Yogurtland: Yogurtland was scheduled to open at 621 State Street in early March. I stopped by yesterday to see the progress and it seems to be way behind schedule (see photo). It appears that a summer opening is more likely.
 

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Friday, March 20, 2009

Poll: Favorite Dish? Today I ran a poll that will be published in next Tuesday's Daily Sound. The question was "What is your #1 most favorite dish in town and which restaurant serves it?" I started off the poll by including my #1 favorite dish of the moment (it changes from time to time). Thank you for all your answers!

• The Restaurant Guy says: "Crab Cakes with hollandaise & mango relish at Cafe Del Sol. It’s phenomenal."
• Reader MSS says: "This is an easy one: Spicy bacon-wrapped dates at Epiphany. Chef Pink is a genius."
• Reader Susan says: "At Ca Dario: Ravioli al Burro e Salvia - Pasta pillows filled with spinach and ricotta with browned butter and sage sauce."
• Reader Cameron says: "Without a doubt, Crab Enchiladas at Los Arroyos Montecito!"
• Reader Kathryn says: "Stella Mare's Pan seared fresh foie gras and sautéed lobster medallion on brioche, with sautéed apples and a Port wine sauce."
• Reader Nicole says: "Trip tip sandwich with bbq sauce and au jus on the side from Country Meat Market. Those guys are the best!"
• Reader Joe says: "In my opinion, the best dish on the South Coast is Lobster and White Truffle Mac and Cheese at Corktree Cellars in Carp. Awesome."
• Reader Maria says: "The best is the Chilaquiles from the Rose Cafe on the Mesa."
• Reader Branden says: "Roz's omlette with a side of pancakes and home fries at Cajun Kitchen. It would be my last meal if I had a choice."
• Reader Gloria says: "My favorite dish is the Kahlua Pork with creamy polenta at Jade on upper State, it just melts in your mouth!"
• Reader Christine says: "My favorite meal in SB is Tacos de Rajas at El Sitio Fairview."
• Reader Merideth says: "Polenta with Shrimp at the Brewhouse."
• Reader Lemonjelly says: "My current favorite is Aburi saba on the izakaya menu at Kobachi!"
• Reader Anita says: "The Tofu Wonton Pillows at Sojourner Cafe - Even if you are a meat eater, these are amazing!"
• Reader Cara says: "The #17 at El Rincon Bohemio in El Mercado or Old Town Goleta - sub ground beef taco (for the chicken) and ground beef enchilada (for the cheese). Ground beef is not on the menu...gotta ask for it...unbelievable!! :-) And start it off with the best freshly fried tortilla chips and spicy salsa. Esther, Carmen and all the staff is AWESOME!! :-)"

New Spring Menu: Pierre Lafond Wine Bistro at 516 State Street launches a new menu March 30th. The new menu is designed to be "accessible and wine friendly & complimented by a list of wines from around the world" and includes:

• Prawn & Artichoke Pesto Flatbread, grape tomatoes, red onion and shaved parmesan
• Smoked Chicken and Roasted Red Pepper Flatbread, garlic cream, roasted corn & provolone
• Seafood Salad w prawns, scallops and calamari with frisee, shaved fennel, red onion, radishes, carrots and
  citrus vinaigrette
• Grilled Steak Salad w frisee and mizuna with seasoned "wedge" cut potatoes, grilled onions, tomatoes, corn and mustard vinaigrette
• Grilled Pork Tenderloin, creamy polenta and spicy ratatouille, Lafond SRH Pinot Noir
• Grilled Veal Paillard, artichoke and mushroom panzanella with tomato "jam" Pra Suave Classico
• Lobster Putanesca, tomatoes, garlic, olives, capers and asparagus with angel hair Cristalino Brut
• Ratatouille Stuffed Artichoke, parmesan gratine, SB Winery Saugignon Blac

Photo Blog: Here are pictures from last night's "Saks & the City" benefit for the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation.
 

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Thursday, March 19, 2009

New In The Guide: Today I added Pea Soup Andersen's in Buellton to the guide.

Philanthopizza: If you dine at California Pizza Kitchen today, 20% of your check benefits the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden.

Deli Update: Reader Glenn let me know that International Deli & Market is closed. My investigation revealed that it recently changed ownership and will reopen within a month.

Photo Blog: Here are pictures from last night's SB Young Professionals Club mixer at Inn on Summer Hill 

Internship Available: After 13 years of working solo on SantaBarbara.com the load has finally exceeded what I can handle. Far exceeded, actually. SantaBarbara.com now has an internship available that may lead to a full-time paid position in the future.

• No previous work experience required.
• An applicant must have at least a year of experience in both web design and Photoshop to be considered and should send the URLs of examples of their work.
• This is not a restaurant-related position so restaurant-related skills are not taken into consideration.
• Duties include web page building and Photoshop use. You need to be somewhat familiar with web site creation and Photoshop to get things done at SantaBarbara.com.
• Duties include helping handle sales inquiries, general inquiries
• Duties include building web page advertisements for advertisers
• Duties include doing pretty much all things Santa Barbara, taking pictures of it, writing about it and posting it online.
• You will work at home (or wherever your laptop happens to be)
• Ability to write ASP programming language a plus but not required
• Ability to write thoughtfully and creatively a big plus
• Positive professional attitude and great people skills are a must!
• If this type of work sounds interesting to you, please send your resume in PDF or Word format to info@santabarbara.com. Also include the URLs to web pages you have designed. Be sure that the email subject is "Internship."

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Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Mediterra Cafe & Market Closes: Reader Mike passed this message to me: "Mediterra in Goleta has closed its doors - sign on the door saying that they're seeking someone to operate the facility before reopening." I called Mediterra and their voice mail says they will be closed "until we can find qualified personnel."

Bug Squashed: I fixed a nasty bug in the restaurant guide's search engine. It used to explode anytime you searched for a restaurant name that included an apostrophe. Now you can search for Chuck's of Hawaii, D'Angelo Bread and Woody's BBQ to your heart's content!

New In The Guide: I gave a friend the Sideways tour last weekend in the Santa Ynez Valley. While passing through Buellton I was able to take pictures of AJ Spurs (highlighted in the movie) and added them to the guide today. I had never been there before and it is an amazing experience. Think of it as Cold Spring Tavern on steroids.
 

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Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Giovanni's Opens On The Mesa: Giovanni's Pizza has opened at 1905 Cliff Drive on the Mesa. I stopped by last Friday evening and it was packed. Owner Daniel Babai sent me a message with the details:
   "Hello Restaurant Guy! We are excited to announce that we have officially opened our doors on the Mesa at 1905 Cliff Drive. Giovanni's on the Mesa will offer the same great menu as our first and original Giovanni's at 3020 State Street and will be operated by myself and my family. We have our lunch specials daily until 3:30 and will be offering specials to Mesa Residents via mail in the coming months as well as our famous award winning Pizzas, Salads, Subs, and Pasta dishes." - Daniel Babai
   Hours are Mon-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm and Sun Noon-9pm. For more information call 560-7492 or visit giovannispizzasb.com.
 

(Left photo) The staff of the new Giovanni's Pizza at 1905 Cliff Drive on the Mesa. Pictured (left to right): Giovanni's Founder Danny Babai, pizza cook Eder Beltran, owner Daniel Babai, owner Loni Babai, managers Tucker Gocke and Alfredo Hernandez.

St. Patrick's Day: Today is the national holiday of Ireland, a day that has also been celebrated in North America since March 17, 1737, when the Irish Society of Boston organized what was the first Saint Patrick's Day Parade in the colonies. Locals interested in enjoying today's green scene have many entertainment venue choices across town. Here are three for your consideration:

• Dargan's Irish Pub & Restaurant, 18 E. Ortega Street - Open 10 am. Abbreviated menu all day: Corn Beef and Cabbage, Irish lamb stew, bangers and mash, fish n' chips and chicken Caesar salad. Irish Folk Music: Shepherd Pie 12:30pm to 2:30pm, Dannsair from 6:30pm to 8:30pm, Bagpipers from 6:00pm to 6:30pm.
• SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, 1221 State Street - Spencer at SOhO: Back from an extended stay in Mexico and just in time for St. Patricks Day it's the Irish, Mexican, Folk, Pirate sounds of "Spencer and The Worried Lads", live and direct at SOhO, 5-9pm. Kids of all ages welcome.
• Coast Restaurant & Bar, 31 W. Carrillo Street - Coast will be offering festive St. Patrick's Day-inspired cocktails, including an "Irish Manhattan" and of course green beer. Happy Hour from 4 - 7pm features special pricing on Smithwicks, Jameson, and Bushmills, as well as a great selection of Irish beers. Chef Brian Parks creates amusing Happy Hour appetizers, specially priced in honor of St. Patrick.

Teavana: Specialty tea retailer Teavana, with more than 80 locations nationwide, will be replacing the recently-closed Santa Barbara Roasting Co. in Paseo Nuevo. Their website teavana.com offers the following description:

"The Teavana dream began with an idea that people would enjoy fresh, high-quality tea in a place that was part Tea Bar, part Tea Emporium. We wanted to introduce people to the aromas, textures, and beneficial qualities of loose leaf teas while enlightening them with the history and variety of teas available. And this is how Teavana was born.
 
As our name implies, Teavana's goal is to be a heaven of tea and to offer our customers the healthy lifestyle and wonderful tastes of tea. This unique name is meant to describe the experience each customer has with our tea and our staff.
 
After considerable research, only those teas with rich flavors and superior health benefits are selected for Teavana. We opened our first teahouse in Atlanta, Georgia. Since then we have opened over 80 Teavana locations throughout the US and Mexico."

Rumor Machine: To minimize my electric bill during the recession I have kept the Rumor Machine unplugged. I turn it on occasionally to keep the parts in working order and when I did so yesterday, the inkjet motor suddenly fired up and a printed message popped out that read: "A Brazilian restaurant is considering moving into 113 W. De La Guerra Street, the former home of Saffron." As always, this rumor might be completely false or a brilliant forecast of future events. Your call.

Rest In Peace: Here is a list of all local dining destinations that have closed in the last six months.

• March 2009: Kona Ranch House 5685 Calle Real, Goleta; Restaurant Marcella 2860 Grand Ave, Los Olivos; Santa Barbara Roasting Co. in Paseo Nuevo
• 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 - Dowtown 1103A State St
• November 2008: Bricks Cafe 509 State St; Sesto Senso Ristorante 1026 Coast Village Rd, Montecito
• October 2008: Dish Cafe 5722 Calle Real, Goleta; Eclectic I.V. 6530 Pardall Rd, Isla Vista