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....

Newsletter: November 14

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.

Is There a More Buildable Lot in the Riviera?

This weekend's open houses also include: George Michael's former Cielito retreat; a hilltop castle, complete with crenellated tower; Tuscan pastiche on East Valley Road; a ranchette in the hills above Summerland; and many more.

Whitney Avenue in Summerland

When you slow down for a stroll, you see so much more. In this installment: The highest street in Summerland. 1

Dispute Over Parking at New Funk Zone Restaurant

Other recent news: Another earthquake nearby; public input on Baron Ranch on the Gaviota Coast; California might not require solar panels on new houses; saving the white abalone; distemper outbreak at Pinnacles National Park; the tree of the month; suspicious hair.

First Look at Mesa Burger’s Upcoming Montecito Outpost

More food news: Opening day set for the Daisy on State Street; more on Onus Donuts; Bar Seven turns seven; Bar 29 on Chapala has closed; dining by choice at an assisted-living facility.

George Washington Smith’s First House Is for Rent

Plus: Netflix is looking for an "ultra-modern" home to shoot in; Kendall Conrad bailed on her Montecito Country Mart shop; geodesic dome house hits the market; rocks for sale.

Habitat Home & Garden Promises Boho Chic at Affordable Prices

After 25 years, San Luis Obispo–based Habitat Home & Garden has branched out to Santa Barbara with a big new store on State Street. Prices are often lower than those at Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware, and at Habitat, you get something unique.

Newsletter: November 11

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.

A Visit to the New Virtual Reality Studio on State Street

Other recent news: Initiatives to curb homeless encampments get stymied; more on the new debris basin in Montecito; Caltrans has a plan to deal with Highway 1 traffic in Big Sur; one of the last drive-in theaters on the Central Coast is in peril.