COASTAL CHARM MEETS CULINARY EXCELLENCE: 12 CASUAL CHIC REHEARSAL DINNER SPOTS IN SANTA BARBARA
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Congratulations! You are beginning a new and exciting chapter in your life! As you embark on your journey to plan the perfect wedding there's one event that often gets overlooked in the whirlwind of preparations - the rehearsal dinner. While the wedding day is no doubt the most anticipated event of your wedding weekend, the rehearsal dinner can set the tone for what lies ahead, and is a wonderful opportunity to create even more memories with the special people in your life.
If you’re seeking a more relaxed and casual vibe in the Santa Barbara area we have compiled a list of charming rehearsal dinner spots that perfectly capture the essence of this vibrant coastal city. From quaint bistros to seaside eateries, Santa Barbara offers an array of dining options to suit every taste and style. Whether you're craving farm-to-table fare or fresh seafood with a view, these local favorites promise to add a touch of coastal charm to your pre-wedding festivities.
(From the website)
The Lark, named for the sleek overnight Pullman train of the Southern Pacific Railroad that serviced Santa Barbara from 1910 -1968, is situated in the heart of the Funk Zone, a vibrant arts and entertainment district near the Waterfront in downtown Santa Barbara. Our menus are locally sourced and responsibly grown, using the highest quality seasonal ingredients based on the abundant bounty of the Central Coast. Our food is beautifully plated featuring bold flavors designed to delight the senses while staying rooted in the climate, geography and inspiration of Santa Barbara, the American Riviera. Our space was designed with an urban style that integrates vintage and repurposed materials for a sophisticated yet casual sensibility with a nod to our neighborhood’s industrial past. Original lighting, handmade furniture and a 24-seat live-edge communal table stacked on vintage radiators create a space that is warm and inviting. The Lark’s full bar features classic and modern craft cocktails using the finest in artisan spirits, mixers and seasonal fruits and vegetables. Our wine list highlights small Santa Barbara County producers as well as artisan winemakers from afar.
To make a large party reservation for parties of 9 to 15 guests, please email host@thelarksb.com.
If you are interested in a private event booking, please contact the events team at events@thelarksb.com | 805-456-6804
(From the website)
La Paloma Cafe’s menu celebrates the cuisine of the Californios, early Californian settlers who incorporated Spanish and Mexican influences into indigenous ingredients cooked over fire. Paying tribute to the age of the ranchero, our thoughtfully crafted California barbecue reflects both the past and present of our region and local community. Our food focuses on the traditions of Santa Maria and influences from Baja, Mexico.
To make a large party reservation for parties of 9 to 15 guests, please email info@lapalomasb.com or call 805-966-7029.
If you are interested in a private event for 16 or more guests, please contact the events team at events@lapalomasb.com
(From the website)
Loquita showcases authentic Spanish food including hot and cold tapas, wood-fired grilled seafood and meats, and seasonal paella. The Mediterranean climate and terroir of Santa Barbara County mirror that of Spain, making the translation of locally sourced produce, meats and seafood an ideal match. The wine list is comprised almost entirely of Spanish wines with exceptional local wines that pair well with the cuisine.Loquita’s cocktail list showcases Spanish vermouths, farmers’ market Sangria, hand-crafted cocktails and a rotating selection of Spain’s king of cocktails, the Gin Tonic.
To make a large party reservation for parties of 6 to 12 guests, please email host@loquitasb.com.
If you are interested in a private event booking, please contact the events team at events@loquitasb.com or call 805-456-6804.
(From the website)
Stella Mare’s focuses on French Country Bistro cuisine, emphasizing on classic and seasonal dishes paired with French and American wines. We also offer a wide selection of beers as well as handcrafted cocktails from our Full Bar. French Country Bistro design meets casual Santa Barbara in our historic landmark house on the Bird Refuge… for close to 24 years, Stella Mare’s has been known and recognized for hosting Private Dining Events and offers an excellent selection of private dining rooms. Stella Mare’s has been the number one destination for private Events in Montecito and Santa Barbara. From intimate events of 10 to fully customized events of 70 to 130, Stella mare’s is the ultimate destination for social events such as Wedding receptions, Showers, Rehearsal Dinners, after wedding brunch, baby showers and more as well as Corporate Events.
For reservations call 805 969-6705 or for large group reservations please visit their website to complete an inquiry form.
(From the website)
Debuting the latest concept from restaurateur Carlos Luna and the talented team behind the Los Agaves Restaurants. Our Executive Chef Ricardo Garcia presents a modern contemporary Mexican cuisine, rooted in Mexican flavors and traditions that also celebrate local and seasonal ingredients from the Santa Barbara and surrounding regions.
Come celebrate with us at Santo Mezcal restaurant for an unforgettable experience! Our on-site event coordinators are here to take care of all the details - from decorations and catering to entertainment. Whether you're planning a family gathering, corporate function, social occasion, or holiday celebration, we can accommodate your needs and customize a plan tailored to your taste, style and budget.
For reservations call 805-883-3593. For groups over 20 please visit their website to complete an inquiry form.
(From the website)
With a seating capacity of 275, El Paseo offers a perfect venue for your wedding reception, quienceañera, or any celebration, with options of buffet or plated dinner! At an average price of $65.00 per person, our buffet provides four appetizers, two salads, starch, vegetable, and four entrees. Plated events include four appetizers, one salad, and three entrées. A dessert bar requires an additional $10 per person (choice of four desserts).
Our bar is customized to what you would like to host; all beverages are charged on consumption. Included are choice of linens, dance floor, exclusive use of restaurant for six hours or up to 11pm (Start time after 4pm on Sunday). Clients are responsible for entertainment, DJ, or band. Clients provide center pieces, flowers, candles, escort cards, table assignments and table numbers for guests, wedding cake, and photographer.
For reservations call 805-962-6050 or email manager@elpaseosb.com.
(From the website)
Contemporary Oaxacan cuisine + craft mixology, overlooking the Santa Barbara waterfront From the creators of Los Agaves & Santo Mezcal! For an experience unlike any other, come celebrate with Flor De Maiz restaurant. Our in-house event managers will do all the work for you, and can customize a celebration for all tastes, styles, and budgets. Family gathering? Corporate event? Social affair? Holiday celebration? No matter what your needs may be, we can help.
For reservations call 805-770-2963 or for groups over 12, please visit their website to complete an inquiry form.
(From the website)
Bungalow | 626 offers a unique design that allows for open indoor and outdoor accommodation. A Private Intimate Venue in the heart of Downtown Santa Barbara, one block from State Street, & three blocks from the Funk Zone. We are a historic Craftsman bungalow that is perfect for any private gathering! Ideal for Business Lunches & VIP Dinners, Cocktail Receptions, Rehearsal Dinners, Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties & Wellness Healing.
For reservations call 805-965-9121 or contact them through their website.
Convivo Restaurant at the Santa Barbara Inn
(From the website)
Just off the lobby, pool and pool area, Convivo Restaurant offers a captivating oceanfront setting for enjoying classic Italian fare ranging from wood-fired oven pizzas to fresh seafood and grilled meats and homemade pastas. On the outdoor terrace, gas lanterns and an outdoor fireplace offer the perfect romantic complement to the dramatic Pacific Ocean views.
For reservations call 805-845-6789 or email reservations@convivorestaurant.com.
(From the website)
In the heart of the Theater Art District of Downtown Santa Barbara, California lies a "tried" and "true" restaurant where the locals love to dine. Jane is located in the historical Spanish building two doors down from the Arlington Theater (which hosts the annual Santa Barbara Film Festival) on the bustling main drag of State Street. From an intimate balcony table overlooking the purple-hued mountains of Santa Barbara to our large communal table shared by all, there's something at Jane for everyone. With a floor to ceiling fireplace the atmosphere is warm and cozy. Each mouthful you can taste the authentic homemade flavors of California Cuisine and each dish is made with love from scratch. With over 30 years of quality consistent service in Santa Barbara, it's hard to beat the hospitality, food and atmosphere you'll find at Jane.
To inquire, email janerestaurantsbevents@gmail.com.
(From the website)
At opal restaurant and bar, the entire dining room staff is available to take care of each table. The goal is to not only to give you exceptional service, but also to serve you in a manner that is warm and engaging, and properly nuanced to your mood and situation. To that end, we hire people with a heart who genuinely care about giving you the best possible experience. We are always evolving and will continue to do so in order to create a place you can continue to enjoy for many years to come: a restaurant that is the kind of place we’d like to eat at: elegant, sophisticated, yet comfortable and friendly with a genuinely caring hospitality.
To inquire call 805-966-9676 or email info@opalrestaurantandbar.com.
(From the website)
From a custom curated 3 course dinner here at our venue, a dinner in your home or a working luncheon delivered to your office. State & Fig's catering team will work with you to personalize your special occasion, delivering a memorable experience for you and your guests. The elegant setting within the La Arcada courtyard is truly a quintessential Santa Barbara experience.
For reservations call 805-965-1730 or email through their website to inquire.
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