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. 15

Newsletter: January 26

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Where in Santa Barbara…?

Know where this was shot? Prove it in the comments. (Update: We have a winner!) 1

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. 7

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. 7

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. 1

Newsletter: January 22

The Siteline newsletter is the best way to follow the website. To subscribe, click the link at the bottom of this post. And you can unsubscribe at any time.

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. 24