This just in from Philippe Rousseau, owner of Stella Mare’s Bistro at 50 Los Patos Way:
Dear friends and family of Stella Mare’s Bistro,
You may have heard rumors about Los Patos. The Stella Mare’s building is now part of a purchase by an LA developer. We just found out last week that our lease, once expired, will not be renewed. Stella Mare’s is not part of the new Los Patos development project. We are not closing yet as our lease expires at the end of 2023. It will be business as usual until then. We are looking forward to a very busy 2023.
We have been in business for 28 years and were absolutely NOT planning on closing anytime soon. This comes as a shock to us and we are devastated with the outcome. At this point, we are considering all options including relocating to a new home. We appreciate the community’s continued support. We will keep you updated.
We have always looked forward to and made reservations at your restaurant At every visit to Santa Barbara, new and special memories were made! This spot for you has always been special and perfect! Ii hope with community help and support, a new spot which may have upgraded potential with open for you❤️❤️
Drat. Another stand by bites the dust.
This is so heartbreaking!!! Love your restaurant for years!! Sad how our small town vibe is changing … no longer resembling the charming oasis that has always been such a draw for tourists and friends…
landlords are killing this town, block by block
Such terrible news for you and for this community! We love your restaurant for so many reasons – it was the one place I could bring my finicky parents and they would always be happy.
Looking forward to many visits until the end of the year.
This is very disappointing news, we love your restaurant and hope you will be able to find a new home.
Does the developer plan to demolish your historic building ?
If not couldn’t you get a new lease at him ?
Such a unique and charming location. 29 years is an amazing run.
This is always a possibility and risk when a business leases and doesn’t own. Wishing Little Alex’s success in their new location and SM in their success in their search for a new location.
This is so sad- there is no replacement for Stella Mares- the food, the welcoming staff, and the unique ambiance. The restaurant and building are beautifully suited for that particular spot- it’s truly magical. It is both quintessentially Santa Barbara and a piece of Provence. The greenhouse with a fireplace and all the little rooms. It is so perfect as it is.
It is a regrettable decision on the new owner’s part. As if they don’t understand what makes Santa Barbara so wonderful.
I am a Santa Barbara painter who has painted frequently at the Bird Refuge. There is one of my paintings of Stella Mare’s restaurant in the March 2023 art show at the Faulkner Gallery. It was awarded an honorable mention. Someone connected to Stella Mare’s may be interested in this painting. It is for sale. Take a look!
(It is also visible on my website janehurdpaintings.blogspot.com. Go to bottom of first page, click older posts, then go down to the 5th image.)
I am so sad! I just celebrated my 70th birthday (today) at Stella Mare with my family and dear friends. I am so disappointed. We will be back to see you before the end of the year.
This is so sad.I hosted my daughter’s best friend’s wedding shower there.It was a beautiful affair and the staff was amazing!The building is so beautiful and special. The location is like something out of a movie.
Please, please open at another location when you can. We have been coming to Stella Mare’s for years and it is always a highlight of our vacation. Best quiche ever.