Author: Erik Torkells

October 26, 2021

Dreamy 1922 Riviera Villa Sells Off-Market for $7 Million

Last week's sales also included a knoll-top property near Toro Canyon; Montecito house with a glamorous semi-circular pool; Hope Ranch Tudor flip; Eucalyptus Hill house with abundant charm; Upper East grande dame that needs updating; and many more.

October 25, 2021

The New Carp Kitchen & Grocery Has Sandwiches, Salads and More

More food news: First look at the menus for Timbers Roadhouse and Whiskey Joe's, now open in outer Goleta; more on SeaLegs, taking over the old Goleta Beach restaurant space; a profile of Riviera Bar; something "like a Finney's" is coming to the former Outback Steakhouse building; El Pollo Loco is now Pueblo Pollo; Crazy Jim’s taqueria has closed; Costa is a nice place for a drink. 3

October 24, 2021

When the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern Is Now Expected to Open

Plus: The first exhibit of Huguette Clark’s artwork since 1929; the giant red stiletto's backstory; upgrades to Casa Las Palmas in Chase Palm Park; mystery activity at the corner of De La Vina and Mission; that time Jeff Shelton made a giant pencil; a peek inside the Pepper Hill mound house.

Newsletter: October 24

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October 23, 2021

Do Greek Islands Live Up to the Fantasy?

Like many Americans, when my husband and I were finally able to go abroad, we went to Greece. Athens proved more interesting than it gets credit for, and one of the island resorts was the prettiest hotel I've ever seen. But beauty isn't everything. 6

Where in Santa Barbara…?

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

October 22, 2021

Shooting for the Moon on Ortega Ridge

Noteworthy new listings also include 1970s-meets-Mediterranean; a Hope Ranch fixer flip; turnkey San Roque for $3.2 million; a vacant lot near Padaro Beach; and more.

October 21, 2021

What the Heck Is Going on With Bellosguardo?

Other recent news: The season's first real rainfall is expected on Monday; more than 70% of eligible county residents are now fully vaccinated; Thousand Steps construction to happen before next summer; Hope Ranch mulls offshore desalination. 7

The City Is Considering Another Pedestrian Bridge Over Highway 101

Plus: Hotel rates continue to climb; checking in on the Plaza Granada renovation; feedback sought about De La Guerra Plaza revamp; Montecito mansion gets $5 million price cut; new exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art and Caldwell Snyder.

October 20, 2021

First Look at Montecito’s New Stone Tower House

When it came time for interior designer Mary Beth Myers to rebuild after the debris flow, architect Jeff Shelton suggested a tower clad in stone. Inspired by castles, mills, and lighthouses, she replied, "Let's do it!" 6