Author: Erik Torkells

December 6, 2019

A 1949 Riviera Villa Ready for a Light Touch

Also newly reduced: "Castle in the Sky" with partially finished wraparound moat/pool; "Japanese farmhouse" where the kitchen is the star; Upper East/Lower Riviera gem with a pretty sunroom; Montecito estate now $5.6 million off the initial asking price.

December 5, 2019

The New Debris-Flow Risk Map Is Live

The shrinkage was mainly in upper and western Montecito.

Shop-Local Gift Guide, Part 1: Gear and The Blue Door

If you want Santa Barbara to have wonderful independent shops, you need to support them. So this holiday season—and year-round, really—make an effort to spend your money here.

Newsletter: December 5

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

December 4, 2019

A 1931 Cottage on a Secret Lane

Highlights from this weekend’s open houses: Geodesic dome way up the mountain; a veritable showroom of interesting ceilings; redone ranch with wide ocean views; super-contemporary in Montecito.

The Look of the Sprouts Store Opening on Milpas

Plus: New condors at the Santa Barbara Zoo; "listening workshop" about a new farmers' market location; Drishti yoga boutique and Ransom junk store have closed; makers' market in the Funk Zone.

December 3, 2019

Local Real Estate Broker Sentenced to 34 Months in Australian Prison

Other recent news: Savoy Wines is closing; Tiffany & Co. is leaving La Cumbre Plaza, but a salon and church are opening at the mall; Route 154 has reopened; fire restrictions reduced in Los Padres National Forest.

What’s the Story With the Half-Finished Lot Next to the Montecito Country Mart?

"Is it part of the shopping center? Is there any hope it'll be developed at some point?" —S. 4

December 2, 2019

Breakfast Culture Club Has Closed

The laid-back café was known for its concerts, art shows, and events such as the recent Coffee with a Muslima. But the owners promise that "something new will be opening up soon."

Onus Donuts Is Now Open on State Street

More food news: Local restaurateur charged with soliciting four murders; sourdough loaves for sale at The Daisy; reservations and cover charges for some Pearl Social shows; smoke then fire at the Miramar resort.