May 6, 2026
Now that the county has allowed restaurants to reopen for dine-in service, they're doing just that—some only at their outdoor tables, others inside, too. Here's a running list.
Other local news: Interview with Santa Barbara's economic development chief; many Old Spanish Days Fiesta events will be held online; OstrichLand update.
More food news: The Honor Bar is open for dine-in service; Helena Avenue Bakery is half-opening; Bibi Ji and Lilac Patisserie expanded their hours; in praise of novelty, as experienced at Zaytoon, Taqueria Santa Barbara, and Secret Bao.
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May 21, 2020
Two area pools have reopened, with intense competition for the few available slots.
Other local news: County to get federal funding after all; Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is reopening to members only; eight white sharks tagged off Carp; Montecito's water situation; the garlic shortage.
Plus: Montecito Fire Department to bring in sheep for grass control; checking in on two big projects on E. De La Guerra; reader asks why a certain house hasn't sold; what's next for the massive Funk Zone development.
Other noteworthy new listings: 1920s Hedgerow house priced to move fast; funky mini-compound in Carp; beach getaway off Olive Mill Road; San Roque cottage with nicely renovated kitchen.
May 20, 2020
And part of State Street will be closed to cars so restaurants can spill into the streets. Other local news: Santa Barbara Zoo's shoe-wearing penguin died; possible traffic safety improvements on Highway 154; former mayor has a new book about urban planning here.
More food news: Cava and Green Table have reopened; olive bread at Field + Fort; Buena Onda family meals for now or later; PizzaRev in Paseo Nuevo has closed; free oat-milk drinks at Low Pigeon on May 29.
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Great list!! I have to get the patatas bravas every time I go to Little Mountain. I need to try the Pastrami sandwich. Thanks for… — Kimi JM
Agree, but the Oat morning bun is better than anyone else’s. — toasteroven
Funny u touted the Strut! I live near MC and have had sandies from them often. Had the Strut for the first time and it… — Jeff Yolles
So much news to unpack here, but overall I'm thrilled to see this update from Laura Knight about trying something new that's more true to… — lemonjelly
It's difficult to get past the Frosnapper at Oat Bakery to try any other sweet! — Meridith Moore
Great list - I would add the falafel sandwich at Merci and the sweet potato starter at Bettina! — Howard
The renderings of Cliff Drive 'after' are misleading as the telephone/utility poles disappear. It is my understanding that the poles are NOT going to be… — Emma H.
So on 2910, a property tax bill of $600k or so. And more depending how it is finished out, and if the improvements are reported… — Judy's Older Brother
Agreed 100%! — Mia
My husband and I love your posts. Keep up the good work!! You keep us informed and aware of new places to visit and we… — Carol
Recent Comments
Great list!! I have to get the patatas bravas every time I go to Little Mountain. I need to try the Pastrami sandwich. Thanks for… — Kimi JM
Agree, but the Oat morning bun is better than anyone else’s. — toasteroven
Funny u touted the Strut! I live near MC and have had sandies from them often. Had the Strut for the first time and it… — Jeff Yolles
So much news to unpack here, but overall I'm thrilled to see this update from Laura Knight about trying something new that's more true to… — lemonjelly
It's difficult to get past the Frosnapper at Oat Bakery to try any other sweet! — Meridith Moore
Great list - I would add the falafel sandwich at Merci and the sweet potato starter at Bettina! — Howard
The renderings of Cliff Drive 'after' are misleading as the telephone/utility poles disappear. It is my understanding that the poles are NOT going to be… — Emma H.
So on 2910, a property tax bill of $600k or so. And more depending how it is finished out, and if the improvements are reported… — Judy's Older Brother
Agreed 100%! — Mia
My husband and I love your posts. Keep up the good work!! You keep us informed and aware of new places to visit and we… — Carol