Santa Barbara sunshine pairs perfectly with vibrant, plant-based cuisine. Imagine strolling along State Street, the scent of blooming jasmine in the air, knowing that a delicious, ethically-sourced vegan meal is just around the corner. Visiting Santa Barbara as a vegan? You’re in for a treat! This coastal city, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, is more than just stunning beaches and Spanish architecture; it’s a burgeoning hub for plant-based food lovers.
Santa Barbara, with its relaxed California vibe and commitment to sustainability, offers a surprisingly diverse and delicious range of vegan options. From cozy cafes serving up organic bowls to upscale restaurants crafting innovative plant-based dishes, the city caters to a wide spectrum of tastes and preferences. The growing popularity of veganism is undeniable, with more and more people embracing a plant-based lifestyle for health, ethical, and environmental reasons. Santa Barbara has responded admirably, with numerous establishments embracing vegan options and a growing number of dedicated vegan restaurants taking root. This guide aims to navigate the vibrant landscape of vegan food in Santa Barbara, ensuring your culinary journey is both delicious and rewarding.
Overview of Santa Barbara’s Vegan Food Scene
The vegan food scene in Santa Barbara is generally impressive, offering a delightful blend of creativity and accessibility. You’ll find that uncovering satisfying plant-based options is remarkably easy, whether you’re craving a quick bite or a celebratory dinner. The city embraces a variety of vegan cuisines, reflecting the diverse palates of its residents and visitors.
Expect to find healthy, nutrient-packed bowls brimming with fresh vegetables, grains, and legumes. Comfort food gets a vegan makeover with plant-based burgers, pizzas, and even indulgent mac and cheese. Ethnic cuisine is also well-represented, with restaurants offering vegan versions of Thai curries, Mexican tacos, and Mediterranean mezze platters. And, of course, no vegan experience is complete without dessert, and Santa Barbara delivers with delectable vegan ice cream, cakes, and pastries.
One prominent trend is the emphasis on organic and locally-sourced ingredients. Many restaurants prioritize partnering with local farms to ensure their dishes are not only vegan but also sustainable and bursting with seasonal flavors. This farm-to-table approach adds a distinct California touch to the vegan dining experience.
Accessibility is another key feature of Santa Barbara’s vegan scene. While some upscale restaurants offer refined vegan dining experiences, you’ll also find plenty of affordable options scattered throughout the city. Vegan-friendly establishments are not confined to a single neighborhood but are readily available in downtown Santa Barbara, the Funk Zone, and even in the surrounding areas.
Top Vegan Restaurants and Cafes
Let’s dive into some of the must-visit vegan restaurants and cafes that truly shine in Santa Barbara:
Mesa Verde Restaurant
Located at 1919 Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara, Mesa Verde is a dedicated vegan restaurant celebrated for its creative and flavorful plant-based cuisine. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxed lunch or a special dinner. They focus on organic ingredients.
Signature vegan dishes include the Jackfruit Carnitas Tacos with homemade tortillas and the Raw Lasagna which features thinly sliced zucchini instead of pasta. Mesa Verde is a must-visit for vegans because it elevates plant-based dining to an art form, offering innovative and delicious dishes that even non-vegans will adore. As one reviewer raves, “Mesa Verde completely changed my perception of vegan food. It’s not just healthy, it’s incredibly delicious!”
Rori’s Artisanal Creamery
Rori’s Artisanal Creamery, with multiple locations in Santa Barbara including one at the Santa Barbara Public Market (38 W Victoria St), while not entirely vegan, boasts an impressive selection of plant-based ice cream. The atmosphere is bright and cheerful. It’s perfect for an afternoon treat.
The vegan ice cream flavors vary by location and season. They almost always have coconut-based ice cream. Rori’s is a must-visit because it proves that vegan ice cream can be just as decadent and satisfying as its dairy-based counterparts.
Backyard Bowls
With locations at 3315 State St and 630 State St, Backyard Bowls offers a delicious and healthy array of acai bowls, smoothies, and other plant-based creations. This is a breakfast and lunch staple for many Santa Barbarians! It’s a perfect spot for a quick and nutritious meal. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming.
Signature vegan dishes include the “Green Bowl” and the “Island Bowl” (double check there is no honey) that is bursting with tropical flavors. Backyard Bowls is a must-visit for its commitment to fresh, organic ingredients and its customizable menu that caters to various dietary needs. “Backyard Bowls is my go-to spot for a healthy and delicious breakfast or lunch,” says one loyal customer. “Their bowls are always packed with flavor, and I love that I can customize them to my liking.”
Lilly’s Taqueria
Located at 310 Chapala St, Santa Barbara, while not exclusively vegan, Lilly’s Taqueria, a local staple, offers incredibly delicious and affordable vegan options. The atmosphere is casual and authentic, reminiscent of a traditional Mexican eatery.
Their signature vegan dish is the Veggie Taco, which can be customized with various toppings, including grilled vegetables, beans, and salsa. This taqueria is a must-visit because it provides a budget-friendly and flavorful vegan experience, allowing you to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine without compromising your dietary choices. Many reviews highlight the quality of the tortillas and the freshness of the ingredients.
Vegan-Friendly Restaurants with Options
Beyond dedicated vegan establishments, many restaurants in Santa Barbara are embracing plant-based cuisine by offering thoughtfully crafted vegan options on their menus. This makes dining out with non-vegans a seamless and enjoyable experience.
The Lark
Located in the Funk Zone (131 Anacapa Street), The Lark is a farm-to-table restaurant known for its creative and seasonal dishes. The overall dining experience is upscale and sophisticated. With a vibrant atmosphere.
Vegan items on the menu typically include roasted vegetable dishes, salads, and grain bowls. It’s a good option for vegans eating with non-vegans because it offers a diverse menu with something for everyone, ensuring a satisfying meal for all. The Lark is known for accommodating dietary restrictions, making it a reliable choice for vegan diners.
Bettina Pizzeria
Located at 1014 Coast Village Rd, Montecito, Bettina Pizzeria offers a variety of delicious pizzas, some of which can be easily customized to be vegan. The atmosphere is lively and convivial.
Vegan items on the menu include the marinara pizza, and the chefs are always happy to make accommodations for other pies. Bettina is a good option for vegans eating with non-vegans because it provides a crowd-pleasing menu with customizable options. Vegans can enjoy a flavorful pizza while their companions savor other dishes.
Vegan Desserts and Treats
No vegan culinary adventure is complete without indulging in some delicious desserts and treats. Santa Barbara boasts several locations where you can satisfy your sweet cravings with plant-based goodness.
Handlebar Coffee Roasters
With multiple locations, Handlebar Coffee Roasters is known for their coffee, but also offers vegan baked goods. You can get a vegan muffin or cookie with your coffee.
Tips for Finding Vegan Food in Santa Barbara
Navigating the culinary scene in a new city can be daunting, but with a few helpful tips, finding vegan food in Santa Barbara becomes a breeze.
Leverage online resources like HappyCow, a comprehensive website and app that lists vegan and vegetarian restaurants worldwide. Yelp is another valuable tool for discovering vegan-friendly establishments and reading reviews from fellow diners. Veg Visits is a great resource as well!
Don’t hesitate to ask for modifications at restaurants that may not have clearly marked vegan options. Many chefs are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and can often create a delicious vegan dish based on available ingredients.
The Santa Barbara Farmers Market is a treasure trove of fresh produce and vegan-friendly vendors. Explore the market to discover seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as artisanal vegan products like sauces, dips, and baked goods.
Before visiting a restaurant, take a moment to check their menu online. Most restaurants now publish their menus online, making it easy to identify vegan options and plan your meal accordingly.
Consider using delivery services like Grubhub or DoorDash for convenient access to vegan food. Many restaurants listed in this guide offer delivery services, allowing you to enjoy plant-based meals in the comfort of your own home or hotel room.
Conclusion
Santa Barbara truly shines as a fantastic destination for vegans. The city offers a remarkable blend of dedicated vegan restaurants, vegan-friendly establishments, and a commitment to fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Whether you’re craving a hearty bowl, a gourmet pizza, or a decadent dessert, Santa Barbara’s plant-based culinary scene has something to satisfy every palate.
From cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, the city provides a welcoming and diverse range of vegan options that are sure to delight both seasoned vegans and those curious about exploring plant-based cuisine. Santa Barbara offers a welcoming environment with so many delicious options.
So, pack your bags, embrace the California sunshine, and embark on a culinary adventure through Santa Barbara’s vibrant vegan food scene. Discover your own favorite vegan spots, savor the flavors of the coast, and experience the joy of plant-based dining in this beautiful coastal city.
Don’t wait any longer; visit Santa Barbara and experience the plant-powered paradise that awaits you! Your taste buds (and the planet) will thank you.
