It’s so very interesting that the Montecito Association would focus on such a topic. Rental rates dictate the success of a small business more than a community association ever will. I think the MA should do some research and see for themselves, that an entity like Restoration Hardware is the only type of “formula retail” that can afford the old firehouse. Or, as Siteline mentioned Jenni Kayne; a large retailer that can afford their space. Mom and pop are a thing of the past in Montecito due to rental rates— Not because they’re being pushed out by chain retailers that can afford it. A perfect example of this would be the Country Mart.
Back in the 90’s state street was mostly locally owned businesses. Bookstores, boutiques, restaurants. The “market” decided to push those businesses out in favor of American Eagle, Marshall’s, Vans, etc. This not only killed the soul of state, but ultimately lead to where we are now, a bunch of post-corporate-bankruptcy vacant storefronts. I support the upper village ban
Had the takeout and WOW! You two are going to kill it! We are so excited to have such amazing food and amazing people so close to us. The community has been wanting this for so long its like a dream come true! See you on the 26th!
Any news on the Mackenzie market project..? I see lots of movement going on the last few weeks. Can you give us an update?
SRM
The most ridiculously overpriced and pretentious restaurant in town! Service is confused, the portions are smaller than a child's appetizer menu, drinks are small and insanely priced. A recent visit with spouse: 4 .00 each oysters that were the size of a kernel of corn, horrendously salty fish entre': (4-5 bites) Crab entre' 'cannoli style' 2-3 small bites (size of a small 'taquito' , confused service with entres appearing at different times. The experience was a Seinfeld episode where everything goes wrong. The theme of the menu should be: "What happens when the kitchen runs out of food". ('Dinner' for 2, 1 drink each- $140.00.) . Not only an insult to customers but an embarrassment. However if your intent is to show off how precious and pretentious you are to your fiends, while the occasional homeless person walks by, this is your place! --while it is still open
Gelsons is about to install self checks, too.
Former US Army Recruitment Center at State and Las Positas.
I peeked into The Landing space a couple months ago when the fencing was down and it was definitely being framed for two separate businesses. Thanks for the intel (as always!) about Lighthouse going in.
No! You are not the only one. I’d like to visit an oil rig platform too!
Not the only one - would love to visit P. Holly!
So excited for this opening and it is 100% worth the drive from SB. My husband and I got takeout in May and I was literally almost crying it was so good. One of those meals where every thing I tried was a new high (we ordered all but one thing on the menu) and I couldn’t stop exclaiming, “oh my god!”
Good info
Amen Chris
Veneco offered a tour of the oil slicks (natural seepage of 10,000 gallons a day) out in the Channel at one time- it was amazing to see, the opalescent sheen. Very strong odor. It was a very informative charter .
WOW, the community wide estate sale...love it!! Go Casa, go Casa!!
While I agree that illegal street food vendors should be cracked down on, the city’s approach to non brick and mortar eating should be reexamined.. Santa Barbara is in no way a world class food city…but it should be. Encouraging lower cost of food options would bring in needed diversity and creativity, up the overall dining scene as well as tourism.
Visited it last fall: https://www.sitelinesb.com/first-look-at-the-plan-for-montecitos-dorinda-triangle/. I'm sure there's a lot of new stuff and encourage you to check it out.
I've noticed the new Santa Barbara Hives store on upper State -- what's the "buzz" on it?
Hardly a bashing. It was accurate and balanced.
How awesome is the Catering Company calling itself Senoreata ‘s? #winnerwinner
My mom does.
After reading these comments, I have to wonder, does anyone actually READ your articles????
What do you think?? You are the best reviewer I know in the entire world!!!
You are so right! the red asphalt roofs......omigod.....who decided that? It was a leftover someone thought would be a good idea to do again? No. It wasn't. I was so hopeful for this place with such happy childhood memories. (there were probably red asphalt roofs, but that was no reason to repeat it). Sob.
I am afraid they won't. But they won't like this. It is unfinished. If they had bought bigger plants, and had a better "aesthetic director" it would have made it. It may after awhile. But the tiny plants, and the red roofs, and the bad furniture outside......it really missed the bulls-eye. I am fearful for its success. Oh well.
