New Restaurant Roundup
New year, new exciting restaurants! This year, Santa Barbara county is welcoming several restaurants, from new fine dining and quick bites to new outposts for local favorites. We are excited to share a list of just a few up and coming dining experiences you can look forward to in 2026.
MONTECITO
Bogavante: Honoring Santa Barbara's rich culture, Bogavante will serve Northern Mexican cuisine featuring fresh, locally sourced sea food and ranch-raised meets.
Nobu: Serving Chef Nobu Matsuhisa's iconic Japanese-Peruvian fusion menu, Nobu is opening it's Montecito location at the historic Four Seasons Resort: The Biltmore Santa Barbara.
SANTA BARBARA
Lily's Doughnuts & Pops: Set to open on State Street and in the Public Market, Lily's offers a variety of tasty treats, including donuts, popsicles, and coffee.
The Chase Restaurant: After temporarily closing their doors, this beloved State Street restaurant is back in business, serving New York-style Italian food.
Jonesy's Fried Chicken: First opened in Old Town Goleta, this tasty fried chicken joint is expanding to a second storefront in Santa Barbara.
CARPINTERIA
The Palms: After the The Palms Bar & Grill restaurant closed down a few years ago, the historic building at The Palms is planning to open new market/cafe retail area, with an event space and rooftop bar.
Rincon Hill Market: Formerly Oaxaca Fresh, Rincon Hill Market is set to provide produce from Rincon Hill farm, prepared foods, breads, juices, and more.
GOLETA
Raising Canes: The popular fast food chain is making its way to Santa Barbara, offering quick and affordable favorites like chicken fingers and crinkle cut fries.
Drover's Doughnuts: The Santa Ynez Valley donut shop will make it's Goleta debut on Calle Real, ready to serve up delicious breakfast bites.
The Goleta Spot The Spot plans to host multiple food trucks offering a variety of delicious food, along with an indoor space for guests to dine at.