Everyone’s a Critic

December 14, 2022

First Impressions of L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele

The new L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele—the second U.S. outpost of an Italian chain established in 1870—is a welcome addition to State Street, with pizza that lives up to the hype. 4

October 16, 2022

First Impressions of AMA Sushi at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort

As you'd expect, the Miramar's new sushi restaurant is pinch-me pretty. But can the food and service keep pace? 8

February 20, 2020

Paradise Cafe Is a Classic Reborn

New owner Acme Hospitality—the company behind the Lark, Loquita, et al—has upgraded the experience without ruining what makes the restaurant special.

December 2, 2019

The Easy-Breezy Restaurant State Street Has Been Waiting For

The Daisy is more proof that Santa Barbara's dining scene is most exciting at the fast-casual level.

November 20, 2019

The Café at Field + Fort Is a Game Changer for Summerland

The menu is far more interesting than anything this side of Merci Montecito and Bettina, and the setting—at a communal table inside or out on the terraces—couldn't be lovelier. 1

November 14, 2019

The New Cocktail Bar from the Folks Behind the Lark

When you go to a cocktail bar, you're not just buying a drink—you're buying an experience. Pearl Social delivers on looks, music, and mixology. But one key aspect is iffy....

November 4, 2019

Malibu Farm at the Miramar: A Tale of Two Restaurants

If dinner at Malibu Farm can leave you wondering what the point of the place is, other than a Plan B for people who can't get into Caruso's, lunch there makes delightful sense.