The Lark Santa Barbara

I really like this restaurant. The food was great and so was the ambiance. We ate outside and enjoyed our dinner tremendously. Started with the sashimi and worked our way through five or so dishes. While I liked this place a lot, you should note that the place is a lot more expensive than the menu indicates. In a way it is a tapas place. The dishes are small. Even the “main” courses are not a meal. So two people probably need four or five dishes. It adds up quickly. If you can handle the price, the place is great (and romantic).

The perfect start to the New Year! ​The Lark continues to be one of our absolute favorite spots in Santa Barbara, and our visit on New Year's Day reminded us exactly why. ​We brought our dog along this time, and the staff were incredibly accommodating, setting us up comfortably in the covered outdoor area. It was such a relief to have a great meal without worrying about our pup. ​As always, the food was outstanding. We started with the Tutti Frutti Farms salad, which was fresh and perfectly balanced. The Superior Farms lamb ribs were a standout—tender and flavorful—and we finished the meal with the date cake (a must-order!). We paired everything with a local Pinot Noir that complemented the meal perfectly. ​Great service, amazing food, and a dog-friendly atmosphere. Highly recommend!

The Lark was outstanding from the start and easily one of the most memorable meals I’ve had in Santa Barbara. The complimentary chili-lime pickled popcorn was surprisingly addictive, even for someone who doesn’t usually like pickled flavors. The skillet cornbread was rich, decadent, and one of the best I’ve ever had. We also tried the fried chicken, seasonal pappardelle, and coconut sorbet for dessert. The chicken dish had incredible flavor and texture, while the sorbet was a refreshing and unexpected standout at the end of the meal. The pasta was good, very tomato-forward, though I’d probably try a different option next time. Drinks were solid. My mocktail was refreshing but small in size, and the wine pairing was well chosen with help from the staff. The service was friendly, knowledgeable, and patient, which made the experience even better. The restaurant itself has a lively, welcoming vibe in a shared dining district, making it perfect for a date night or a special stop on a day trip. Prices reflect the shareable, elevated plates, but the quality and creativity of the food make it worth it. If you’re visiting Santa Barbara, The Lark is a must-stop for a memorable dining experience.