Author: Erik Torkells

December 3, 2023

A Wave of Change Is Headed for Montecito

The status quo long reigned in Montecito, for better and for worse. Then the pandemic inspired an influx of affluent new residents, and now an extraordinary amount of change—including ten new restaurants and dozens of shops—is following in their wake. 16

Newsletter: December 3

The Siteline newsletter is the best way to follow the website. To subscribe, click the link at the bottom of this post. And you can unsubscribe at any time.

Where in Santa Barbara…?

Know where this was shot? Prove it in the comments. (Update: We have a winner!) 2

December 2, 2023

2023 Shop-Local Gift Guide, Part 1

This holiday season—and year-round, really—make an effort to support Santa Barbara's wonderful independent shops. I’ve done some advance work, but get out there and have a look for yourself! 2

December 1, 2023

Ultimate Privacy on a Toro Canyon Hilltop

Noteworthy new listings also include two Montecito properties bought two years ago; equestrian compound east of Los Olivos; appealing Goleta house with minimal backyard; California cottage on Eucalyptus Hill; and more. 2

November 30, 2023

“Holiday Disco Extravaganza” at the Harbor

Plus: Anderson Aquatics has opened in the Funk Zone; Faitell Attractions closing sale; likely explanation for the Glen Annie Golf Club rumor; free California poppy seeds; Brothers Osborne play the Santa Barbara Bowl; hang-gliding recommendation. 4

November 29, 2023

Azul Has Finally Opened

More food news: Café La Fonda soft-opens on Friday; Kings Carey has a new tasting room in Solvang; profile of the new Santa Barbara Fish Market shop/restaurant in Goleta; Dutchess chef Saw Naing is dropping in on Na Na Thai; Queso Oaxaca recommendation. 2

Newsletter: November 29

The Siteline newsletter is the best way to follow the website. To subscribe, click the link at the bottom of this post. And you can unsubscribe at any time.

November 28, 2023

Montecito House With Chardonnay Vineyard Sells for $12 Million

Last week's sales also include a French country pocket listing in Birnam Wood; midcentury abutting Knowlwood Tennis Club; 1963 French Normandy that looks like it's below street level; Alma del Pueblo one-bedroom condo; and more.

November 27, 2023

Potential Highway 101 Wildlife Crossing Near Gaviota

Other recent news: The northbound Highway 101 rest area closed immediately after reopening; final installments in the Santa Barbara Zoo's origin story; new conservative website; protections added to 24,000 acres of land; the tree of the month. 9