The ARTS District has been a longtime favorite neighborhood to locals, and a destination where visitors can soak up the local way of life.
Anchored by local landmarks like the Granada, Arlington, and New Vic theaters, the ARTS District of Santa Barbara is one of the city’s most vibrant and thriving neighborhoods, home to art galleries, retail boutiques, and some of the best bars and restaurants in town. When you sign up to become a member of the ARTS District, you’re joining a growing and connected community that’s committed to supporting local artists, restaurants, theater and cultural arts, small businesses, and a strong downtown. Their 2024 Membership Drive is happening now—click here for details, and read on for a glimpse of all there is to experience in the ARTS District!
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Arlington Plaza features a curated collection of the very best locally owned dining, retail and service establishments in Santa Barbara. The collection includes Blossom Salon, Carlitos Cafe y Cantina, DIANI Boutique, DIANI Shoes & DIANI Living, Folly, Marisa Mason Jewelry, Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro, and Treat. The plaza is located across the street from the iconic Arlington Theatre on State Street. With signature Santa Barbara red tile roofs, patio dining that beckons, and a truly unique retail experience, Arlington Plaza offers something for everyone. 1324 State Street, arlingtonplazasb.com.
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In the heart of the Arts District, bouchon Santa Barbara offers California Wine Country Cuisine with a French twist. From 5 p.m. nightly, join us for a convivial, bustling, and bistro-like experience, with top-notch service, and a true passion for the fresh and local approach. Join bouchon’s Executive Chef every Tuesday afternoon and Saturday morning at the local Farmer’s Market for an informative “foodie stroll” to learn about how bouchon sources the best ingredients, followed by a wine-paired dinner designed to engage the senses and spirit. 9 W. Victoria Street, bouchonsantabarbara.com.
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If you’re looking for that quintessential Santa Barbara spot where you can sit on a sun-drenched patio, enjoy inventive Mexican food, and the margaritas keep flowing from day to night… look no further than Carlitos. Nestled in the heart of the ARTS District in downtown Santa Barbara, this spot has won the hearts of locals and tourists alike, celebrating good times for 45 years. With handcrafted cocktails and a menu curated by Chef Olegario Mateo, Carlito’s will always be calling you to return. 1324 State Street, carlitos.com.
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A visit to the Colette Cosentino Atelier + Gallery is like an escape to an ethereal world of imagination and creativity. Her paintings turn any environment into a retreat, calling upon the elements that surround us like the sea, sky, and land. Discover her latest creations including paintings, illustrations, and drawings as well as murals, wall coverings, and artful gifts. 11 W. Anapamu Street, colettecosentino.com.
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La Arcada Plaza features a curated mix of locally owned boutiques, brand flagships, galleries, wine tasting, and restaurants with indoor and patio dining in downtown Santa Barbara’s ARTS District. The premier destination for a relaxing day of shopping, dining, and exploration in a charming historic location with international flair. 1114 State Street, laarcadasantabarbara.com.
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Sophisticated and comfortable, opal restaurant and bar radiates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Their diverse Eclectic California cuisine, Wine Spectator Award–winning wine list, full bar, and genuinely caring service style have made opal a locals’ favorite. 1325 State Street, opalrestaurantandbar.com.
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ITALIAN, THREE WAYS! Meander through Victoria Court and you’ll find three restaurants operated by husband-and-wife team Alberto and Elaine Morello. Their flagship restaurant, Olio e Limone Ristorante, serves simply sophisticated Italian fare accompanied by a Wine Spectator Award–winning wine list. Head next door to Olio Bottega for Italian breakfast, lunch and retail delights. Want something more casual? Olio Pizzeria for artisanal pizza plus a full array of menu items, extensive wine list and full bar. oliocucina.com.
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A talented artist and designer, Peter Horjus is passionate about creating original art every day. Whether working on a logo, editorial illustration, or a piece of fine art—through each project he’s able to tell a meaningful story. There’s a good chance you’ve seen Peter’s work around town and beyond. His portfolio spans the scope from Fortune 100 companies to small business, and from top national magazines and newspapers, to local publications. 11 W. Figueroa Street, peterhorjus.com.
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Established in 1984, Sullivan Goss – An American Gallery has represented the work of American artists for 40 years. The gallery hosts approximately 20 exhibitions each year, including solo shows for contemporary and historic artists as well as curated thematic exhibitions. With an inventory of over 3,000 paintings, watercolors, drawings, prints, and sculptures, Sullivan Goss is the premier West Coast gallery positioned to help build private and public collections of important American art. 11 E. Anapamu Street, sullivangoss.com.
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To mark its centennial celebration in 2024, The Granada will present a series of special programming, showcasing outstanding performing artists from all disciplines, with a special focus on highlighting local Santa Barbara talent. The celebration kicks off with a free screening on April 3, commemorating the theater’s rich history and cultural significance in Santa Barbara. The festivities continue on April 12, 13, and 14 with Centennial Festival Weekend, featuring three fun-filled nights celebrating The Granada’s Historic Past, Vibrant Present & Exciting Future. For details and tickets, visit granadasb.org/centennial-celebration.
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BECOME A MEMBER! ARTS District members enjoy benefits including inclusion on the website and district map, marketing exposure through social media and community outreach, participation in special events, co-marketing opportunities and more. Click here to join today!
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Sponsored by the ARTS District of Santa Barbara.
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