Author: Erik Torkells

January 3, 2022

The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern Has Begun Taking Reservations

Plus: Kismet lingerie-and-jewelry boutique is already expanding; Isla boutique in the Hotel Californian has closed; Maune Contemporary art gallery opens this week; more on a prominent Channel Drive property; book recommendation for people who love Santa Barbara history.

January 2, 2022

More on the Restaurant Opening in the Former Mollie’s Space

More food news: An exciting new Ojai restaurant debuts this week; JJ's Diner is no more; Padaro Beach Grill has reopened; Saigon Vietnamese Restaurant's downtown outpost has closed; more on Beans BBQ's forthcoming State Street restaurant.

Newsletter: January 2

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January 1, 2022

Where in Santa Barbara…?

Know where this was shot? Prove it in the comments. (Update: We have a winner!) 1

December 30, 2021

The State of the Site

A look back at the year’s most popular posts—two of which involved a giant red shoe—and a reminder that feedback is genuinely welcome.

December 29, 2021

Quintessential Montecito at Butterfly Beach

While the shoreline is the indisputable star of the Butterfly Beach area, there's plenty more worth exploring—including the Music Academy of the West's splendid campus and drop-dead gorgeous Santa Barbara Cemetery. 5

Newsletter: December 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.

December 27, 2021

Dreamy Cielito Compound Sells for $7 Million

Last week's sales also include Hope Ranch midcentury, a couple on East Valley Road, a four-bedroom in San Roque, and 6,400 square feet of living space near San Antonio Creek.

Everything Inside Botanik Is 50% Off

Plus: Upcoming concerts and events at the Arlington Theatre; public meeting about new recreational programming at Plaza de Vera Cruz; details about the proposed five-building complex off Old Coast Highway; the enhanced intersection of Santa Monica Road and Via Real; "Juxtaposed" show at Sullivan Goss.

December 26, 2021

The Faces of Santa Barbara (Part 2)

If you look closely, there are faces all around town—although they tend to have expressions that range from blank to despairing.... 1