Blog

The Most Magical City in the World

Venice is fundamentally unique, like something out of a fantasy novel; it shouldn’t exist, and of course, someday it probably won’t. And I love it.

Where in Santa Barbara…?

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

40-Acre Avocado Farm in Noleta

Noteworthy new listings also include contemporary swagger times two in Hope Ranch; French country outside, elegance inside; hot potato west of Hot Springs Road; house-turned-retreat above San Roque: downtown commercial that could go residential; and more.

Return of the Santa Barbara News-Press

Other recent news: Author and historian Erin Graffy has died; drought conditions are back; changes in city garbage collection; Bungalow Haven historic designation update; the Isla Vista Food Co-op’s financial crisis; recapping the meetings about space launches; commuter train to launch service this fall.

Chef Thomas Keller’s Reinvention of Tyde’s Will Include a New Name

More food news: A series of soft-openings at Cutler’s Distillery & Public House; Masala Spice has opened on the Mesa; Judge for Yourself Café has closed; Breakwater Restaurant is closed for renovations; croissant loyalty card at Alessia Patisserie & Café; Old Town Coffee opened in Isla Vista; Elubia’s Kitchen is going to open in Isla Vista; Hunt & Gather returns this Saturday; Sade Turkish Coffee in Carpinteria has closed; Trattoria del Sole is sounding very iffy about State Street.

How Should UCSB Use This Big State Street Storefront?

Plus: Where to comment about the proposed increase in space launches; visits to two new shops at The Post; a giant troll of upcycled materials is being built in the Santa Ynez Valley; Solvang hotel changed its name; Goleta homeowners want to build a meeting facility.

Pepper Hill Spanish Sells for $21 Million

Last week’s sales also include Tiburon Bay Lane for $20 million; top-of-the-Riviera views; 105 acres in Happy Canyon; Oak Creek Canyon hot potato; X-shaped house in Cielito; 1930 Tudor on the Lower Riviera; and a 1924 Riviera fixer.

The 31 Restaurants Expected to Open in Coming Months

On the menu this year: A pair of bagel shops; Aperitivo’s spinoff; two establishments from chef Thomas Keller; beachside dining in Goleta; creative sandwiches; an outpost of Nobu; exciting additions to the Upper Village; major additions to Carpinteria and Ojai; and much more.