Once an old and sleepy warehouse district, the Funk Zone has recently become the “it” spot in Santa Barbara for nightlife and great restaurants. Here are some of our favorite spots to enjoy!
RESTAURANTS:
Lucky Penny ($$) – Delicious restaurant located in the historic Santa Barbara Fish Market building. Takeaway orders. Our favorites: Margherita Pizza, Pulled Pork Sandwich, and the Market Greens.
The Lark ($$$) – An upscale American full-service restaurant in the historic Santa Barbara Fish Market building. Reservations taken.
Mony’s Mexican Food ($) – Let the lines speak for themselves! Santa Barbara locals, as well as travelers going up and down the coast have made it known that Mony’s is a staple, and well worth traveling for.
Finney’s Crafthouse ($$) – A fun bar/restaurant that is always popping, especially on game day. Our favorite: the Impossible Burger, Buffalo Cauliflower, and Ahi Poke Tacos. Pro tip: skip the line by checking in on Yelp.
Holdren’s Steakhouse ($$$) – A delicious steakhouse with an award winning wine list, with service that never disappoints. Our favorites: Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Shrimp, Grilled Castroville Artichoke, and the Filet Mignon.
Tyger Tyger ($$) – A hip restaurant featuring coastal Asian cuisine in a casual environment. Street foods inspired by food carts from Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Our favorites: Crispy Rice Salad, Crispy Chicken Wings, and the Drunken Noodle.
BARS:
Test Pilot ($$) – Unique and playful tiki inspired cocktails. Great mood and vibe inside, not usually overly crowded during the day.
Finney’s Crafthouse ($$) – A fun bar/restaurant that is always popping, especially on game day. Our favorite: the Impossible Burger, Buffalo Cauliflower, and Ahi Poke Tacos. Pro tip: skip the line by checking in on Yelp.
Lab Social ($$) – Coffeehouse by day, speakeasy by night.
Lama Dog Tap Room ($$) – Laidback tap room to hang and drink beer or wine.