September 30, 2026
When Drew Barrymore put 1270 Pepper Lane on the market in 2013, it was ready for a bit of TLC. The house got all that and more, from new owners who didn't just renovate it—they polished it.
August 29, 2019
In other recent news: A visit to the new-ish SeaVees store in the Funk Zone; questioning the appropriateness of palm trees (and another discussion about the Olive Mill roundabout); how Montecito streets got their names.
The grandes dames of the Upper East rarely come available, and certainly not ones with this caliber of workmanship.
August 28, 2019
Plus: The sweet old days of Summerland; former hostel site is on the market; accommodating an oak tree in style; Toro Canyon house sells for a million off the listing price.
August 27, 2019
After buying this 1950s Cielito house in early 2018 for $3.5 million, Xorin Balbes embarked on a thorough renovation and redecoration—but without changing the footprint. Now he has listed it for just under $9 million. The house is certainly something to see....
August 26, 2019
In other recent news: Restaurateur James Sly has died; Laura Capps will run against Das Williams for county supervisor; Southern California Edison's fire mitigation efforts; Carpinteria moves to acquire the Rincon Bluffs Preserve.
The Castle in the Sky has personality to burn—along with a swimming pool moat, hot tub grotto, circular platform bed, and helipad, complete with hangar.
August 24, 2019
Plus: The French Press has officially changed its name; Giovanni's Pizza is down to just one location; Viva to become Eleven 14; Mosto Crudo has rebranded; Sama Sama Kitchen is partnering on an endeavor in Los Alamos.
August 23, 2019
"We're vibing off of In-N-Out," says Low Pigeon co-founder Dennis Medina, explaining the menu's tight focus. "We want you to know that the is coffee always on point." 3
August 22, 2019
And in other local news: Updated debris flow risk map should be out in October; the growing problem of homeowners unable to get insurance; strip mall to be redone before Sprouts's arrival; bike paths, crosswalks, and roundabouts planned for Cliff Drive; new closing time for city parks; parking in Montecito; missile testing from San Nicolas Island.
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I’ve always found Matt Kettman’s reviews/articles to be honest, and interesting. I look forward to them weekly! — Anita S
We took almost the exact Highlands trip last May. The Farmhouse was an amazing stay. I’d add biking to the menu, as it provided for… — Curtis
You are absolutely correct. The Ranch was badly deteriorated, the plumbing failing, the electrical system hopelessly lacking and run down and neglected. If it looks… — Penelope
DITTO! Beyond tacky — Kim
Several of us recently gave Elwood another try, since we'd found it overpriced. They made big announcements about redoing everything, from the offerings to the… — Seth
What has happened to the Fish restaurant that was to open in Stella Mare. I think it was to be called Bogavante? — Linda Beuret
I'm in favor of more places in SB recognizing the Chumash heritage, happy to hear that's being considered for Calle Cesar Chavez! — Annie
Recent Comments
I’ve always found Matt Kettman’s reviews/articles to be honest, and interesting. I look forward to them weekly! — Anita S
We took almost the exact Highlands trip last May. The Farmhouse was an amazing stay. I’d add biking to the menu, as it provided for… — Curtis
You are absolutely correct. The Ranch was badly deteriorated, the plumbing failing, the electrical system hopelessly lacking and run down and neglected. If it looks… — Penelope
DITTO! Beyond tacky — Kim
Several of us recently gave Elwood another try, since we'd found it overpriced. They made big announcements about redoing everything, from the offerings to the… — Seth
What has happened to the Fish restaurant that was to open in Stella Mare. I think it was to be called Bogavante? — Linda Beuret
I'm in favor of more places in SB recognizing the Chumash heritage, happy to hear that's being considered for Calle Cesar Chavez! — Annie