Since 1969, restaurant, hotel, travel & other witty reviews by a handpicked, worldwide team of discerning professionals—and your views, too.

Café del Sol

30 Los Patos Way (Coast Village Rd.) Send to Phone
Santa BarbaraCA 93108
805-969-0448
Café del Sol offers Mexican flavors in one of Santa Barbara's most attractive settings.

Cuisine

Open

Lunch Mon.-Sat., Dinner nightly, Brunch Sun.

Features

* Click here for rating key

Café del Sol's main draw is its tucked-away setting on the shores of Santa Barbara's bird refuge, a short walk from East Beach. The bar is a trendy locals’ hangout, with margaritas as famous for their variety of flavors as for their octane. Dishes are liberally spiced, from the chicken tacos to the heaping tostadas. The cheese enchiladas come generously stuffed and bathed in a tangy ranchero sauce. Look for specials such as large shrimp filled with herbs and wrapped in bacon, and lamb shanks served with Spanish-style pasta. For lunch, the café is popular for its omelets and sandwiches, many of which are health-conscious. The service can be a bit lax, and for authentic Mexican food there are myriad better choices nearby, but the charming setting keeps patrons coming back.

User Ratings & Reviews for Café del Sol
 
Weleda's new Pomegranate Body Care Line
Soothe

Whether you want a new hair regimen or new body care products, our favorite spa products will help you look and feel better. Check out Weleda's new Pomegranate Body Care Line, featuring organic pomegranate seed oil and more.

Libations!
Sip

We've reviewed libations of all sorts—everything from Top Wines, Top 10 Vodkas, Top 10 Spirits and Top 10 Prestige Cuvées to bottled water and fine tea from around the world.

Gift ideas!
Give

Looking for a gift? You'll find great ideas for foodies and fashionistas, globetrotters and gourmands. Our categories include Top 10 Valentine's Day Gifts, Top Spa Gifts and more. Nothing like the present!

Wine Country Cooking by Joanne Weir
Serve

Try out a new international cuisine or plan your next dinner party with help from our cookbook reviews. We've explored everything from desserts and sweets to books by famous chefs from around the world.

 
 


RESTAURANT AWARDS

Just published! Our annual restaurant issue features the Best Cheap Eats and our Top 40 U.S. selections, including including Corton in New York and more!