Los Arroyos Los Arroyos

Los Arroyos Awards

Traditional Mexican food in the heart of Montecito.
Openings: Lunch & Dinner daily


Los Arroyos Restaurant Review:


This Mexican restaurant’s strong drawing power in tony Montecito is a testament to its quality. The food is fresh and flavorful, served with house-made tortillas and zesty salsas. But, of course, you’d find that at any number of nearby Mexican eateries; it’s the rest of the dining experience that distinguishes Los Arroyos. The bar is stocked with nearly 100 tequilas, and the candlelit ambience is reminiscent of an elegant old-world hacienda. The kitchen takes a clean approach, toning down the spice and Americanizing dishes without drowning them in melted cheese. For those who like it picante, the salsa bar is arguably the best in the county, with fiery orange habanero and smoky salsa quemada. Seafood is also noteworthy: tacos del mar are made with fresh fish or shrimp and drizzled with creamy chipotle sauce. Desserts go beyond traditional items like homemade flan to embrace the creative side of Mexican cooking, as in sweet tamales with walnuts and cinnamon complemented by cappuccino ice cream.