••• The new Goleta location of Cajé Coffee Roasters (5340 Hollister Avenue) has opened. —Noozhawk
••• The folks behind the “storytelling bar” Beau aren’t done with world-building. They have plans for a restaurant called Esther’s, but they’re being coy about the location. (There will be a scavenger hunt with clues; details on that TBA. Obviously, there’s a newly available spot nearby….) What we do know is this: “Esther is Beau’s love interest in the book series hence the second location opening and it’s all tying in to book release next year. And she’s a time traveler so this place is going to be very different.” The Instagram profile promises breakfast daily, “noon plates,” tea and espresso, “tonics and elixirs,” cocktails, “supper fare” on Fridays and Saturdays, and an “apothecary.”
••• M. sent word that Islands restaurant at La Cumbre Plaza is closing, which Noozhawk confirmed with the date (September 27).
••• The Point Market on Storke Road in Goleta now has a drive-through window, “offering specialty coffee along with made-to-order breakfast and lunch sandwiches.” —Restaurant Guy
••• Monte’s came through with its new lunch menu.
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Has anyone visited “Beau”? The whole concept—and AI driven website and copy—is incredibly pretentious.
Yes I’ve been many times and it’s anything but pretentious. The owners are fantastic people, always trying something new and fun. I have met so many lovely and engaging people there. Perhaps less labeling and more adventure on your part ?
The concept of a “storytelling” bar is pretentious by definition. Their website and instrgram copy, much of which is written by AI, adds more proof to the pudding. No thanks.
You seem compelled with something that you say is not compelling? Can we get a sleuth on that?
Beau has been an incredibly welcoming space for everyone. We appreciate all their social media for keeping us well informed on what is happening next in their comfy and very cozy space. Thank you Bruce and Star for all that you’re doing to make Santa Barbara a fun place to be.
How do you know its AI “driven” and what’s wrong with that?
Businesses need to use the tools that make them efficient and competitive.
Don, not only is the website AI generated, the copy reads as if it were ChatGPT’s first pass. I hope the owner’s are successful and kudos for trying something different – but it’s a bit ironic to open a story-telling bar and to then outsource the creative to AI
Tiny fact check: the Beau website was designed with exactly zero AI. Human concept, human design, human creative. We do use AI as a marketing tool… proudly, but apparently it’s now getting credit for work it didn’t even do. 😂
I’ve visited Beau twice and loved it! The room is cozy and welcoming with lots of couches and corners to snuggle into with a friend or several. It’s also fun to sit at the bar and meet others who thus far, have been amiable and interesting. I drank an N/A beer and a sparkling water on my first visit in June. My friends and I read the book excerpt and enjoyed our sleuthing to discover the first three clues. For my August visit, we gathered on the outdoor patio and noshed on charcuterie. I had a yummy mocktail and listened to the live music. Beau is a resounding, “Yes!”
I’m not too familiar with AI writing but with the other mentions this post is suspect…
Beau has been such a breath of fresh air as a wine bar in Santa Barbara with new and changing concepts, events, lists and ideas! Can’t wait to see what they do with Esther’s.
Beau has a great vibe and Starr and Bruce are terrific hosts. Kudos to them for creating such an interesting place.
I’ve been to Beau a few times. I’ve been pleased with the wine selection and the cocktails are tasty and creative. However, AI heavy marketing and the push of the storytelling aspect kind of ruins it. It just feels like they’re trying too hard.
The remodel is lovely, it’s a very inviting space, the menu is solid, and the staff makes you feel welcome. That should be all they need, I know that’s all I am really looking for.
I don’t want to knock any business for trying something different, the concept was clearly a labor of love, but I just don’t know who they’re marketing to. It feels targeted towards tourists looking for a gimmick, rather than locals looking for a new favorite spot. I wish them well, but I don’t see myself becoming a regular.
One thing I will give them credit for is getting their branding on the side of the building facing the parking lot. I don’t know why any of the many bars that have came and went in that space have never asked to do that.
Apparently we’re an AI-driven storytelling bar. Which is wild because AI still hasn’t shown up for a single bartending shift. For the record, ChatGPT has never poured a glass of wine, booked a band, hosted bingo, moved a couch, cleaned a bathroom or stayed until midnight talking to a wonderful and intriguing stranger at the bar. We’re working on its work ethic. 🤣🤣
Thank you Bruce and Starr for all that you’re doing to keep Santa Barbara a place full of music, cocktails, comfy vibes, and a great place to meet good people.
What a very kind comment to leave thank you very much David! Made our day! + All of the other comments of support and love mean so much to us.
I really want to check out Beau, it looks like a fun place to hang! Soon, hopefully, soon. Why would someone be trying so hard to give negative reviews to a bar they’ve never even been to!?
JD, I couldn’t agree more.
I’m fairly new to the area and have been intrigued by some locals who never seem to visit downtown but complain about it. There are many business really trying to make SB a better town. I suggest instead of complaining, check out some of the newness and of course the long standing establishments.
Is the lunch at Monte’s free? Menu with no pricing is suspect on what they will be charging lettuce, etc..??
You can’t blame restaurants for releasing menus without prices when the first thing people do is complain about how expensive everything is.
I’ll check it out: the comments have shown me otherwise, and seems they’re building a good community over there.
Looking forward.