Aegean started as a popup, but now has its own restaurant near State street. Efe Onoglu is a superb chef and brings Turkish/Mediterranean food to Santa Barbara. We got the hummus with a herbaceous zhoug sauce, which was smooth, nutty, and not too tart. I can't stand extra tart hummus. We also got an extra order of pita because one was not enough to scoop up all those delicious hummus. I didn't taste the kofte because I don't like the gaminess of lamb, but they looked beautifully grilled. The levrek on the other hand was insanely good. It came highly recommended by our server who seemed very passionate about all the delicious food that she was serving. She said people even drank the sauce the fish came in. Yep, she was correct and I did drank all the sauce. I normally only get fish in Asian restaurants, but this seabass was perfectly cooked to tender flakiness, bathed in a savory and delicate sauce with dill, lemon, and oregano. read more

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Nice hole in the wall in downtown Santa Barbara. Service initially was pretty bad but eventually it got better. Seems they were understaffed for the night. Highly recommend you get a reservation on open table. Limited seating and parking can be a hassle. We ordered the bread with hummus which was incredible. The green goddess salad was good, especially the dressing. For main we got the chicken and the sea bass. The chicken at first seemed a little underwhelming but the chicken was super tender and the garlic was sauce was stupendous! The sea bass was also very good. I would argue that the price is a bit high for the amount you get but the food is good. Restaurant is Amex platinum Resy eligible at the time of this review. read more

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A new restaurant in SB that's destined to be in the top 3 for the city! Maybe the most creative chef in the city putting out one great dish after another . You can taste his love in every dish. Love the vibe as well. You feel Like family. So excited to go back again and again. read more

We went here on a recommendation from a friend and overall good reviews. The tables are pretty close together in the patio and inside. We sat on the patio, beer and wine only, I had the spritz. Menu is $17-35. Offered 2 specials, split pea hummus with kale salad and fried calamari. We had the special hummus with a basket of bread/pita, and we enjoyed the appetizer. Then we had the greek salad, and for some reason there was radishes in it that were not listed as an ingredient and a lot of them, def would omit the radishes. They we had the chicken entree which was very tender. Overall I would dine here again with friends. read more

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Nothing brings me more joy than seeing a chef go from weekly pop-ups and special events, to opening a restaurant. Congratulations Chef Efe Onoglu! I already knew the food would be good here after trying Chef Efe's cooking at a pop-up event. After my recent visit at the restaurant, I'm already anticipating my next visit! We started with crispy falafel. They were perfect little balls bursting with flavor. Presentation on point. We also enjoyed the farmers market tzatziki. Totally different from the typical Tzatziki I'm used to but honestly way better! Made with fresh veggies, garlic yogurt and fresh herbs. Make sure you order the bread basket to go along with this. The Aegean fries are also a must! They are more than just fries, they were next level. Seasoned with Greek oregano and lemon zest, finished with feta and dipped in creamy Greek yogurt. Zesty, lemony and so addictive! For the mains, my son ordered the Chermoula salmon which was perfectly cooked. It was bright, herby, and layered with preserved lemon over creamy garlic couscous. I ordered the lamb kofte which is made with lamb belly and American Wagyu. The mini kebabs are juicy tender bites, balanced by sumac onions, blistered shishitos, and cool tzatziki. And the Tavuk chicken kebab? So juicy and full of warmth from the harissa and yogurt marinade, paired with roasted peppers, tomatoes, and garlicky toum. The presentation of each dish was incredible. The colors were vibrant and clearly fresh from the farmers market. Every bite felt vibrant, comforting, and delicious. To end the night in celebration of my sons birthday we ordered two desserts. A baked Mastic rice pudding and the flourless chocolate cake. The rice pudding was creamy and delicious. It reminded me of arroz con leche, but better. The flourless Varlhona cake was dense, fudgy and not too sweet. Such a lovely presentation. Overall, a wonderful experience. The staff here was attentive and friendly. Be sure to make reservations in advance. read more

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Amazing food and great service overall. Everything we tried was delicious, and our waitress was wonderful. A couple of things to note: the food did come out a bit slow, and the halloumi was a letdown price-wise. It was $19 for just two very small pieces, which felt pretty unreasonable. Either the portion should be larger or the price lower. That said, the flavors were excellent and we truly enjoyed the meal. Would definitely come back and try more dishes! (Also plenty of options for Gluten Free) read more

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Solid spot! I recommend the Aegean fries. Seriously the best fries I've had - extremely flavorful steak fries with a wonderful garlic yogurt dip. The $12 price point may seem steep but worth it. The lamb and chicken kebab dishes were excellent as well, however at the price i would have expected a little more. read more

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Fantastic! Salmon was amazing! We got 3 appetizers to share and they were all fantastic! Centopassi White Wine from Sicily was also great! Definitely going back!! Service was great! read more

Aegean - Appetizers, brussel sprouts, fries, cauliflower, fantastic! - Mediterranean Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Cute little date night spot! Food was delicious, servers were attentive & the service was fast.

Such a great addition to downtown Santa Barbara! The chef is very creative, and I love the farmer's market specials. I highly recommend getting a reservation; otherwise, be prepared for a wait! My favorite dish here has been the sea bass. read more

Aegean - Wagyu - Mediterranean Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Timeless Mediterranean with great twists in such a cute space! Service from Julia was thoughtful and casual (in an appropriate good way) with great knowledge. Patio is small but spaced and decorated to feel like you're on vacation. Loved the halloumi app with sweet notes from the dates, and the salmon entree was smokey and flavorful with amazing garlic couscous! Also got the brisket which was cooked perfectly. Small but fair priced plates, great for sharing as nothing is too rich. Great neighborhood spot and will be back read more

Aegean - Mediterranean Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Cannot recommend this place enough. I tried to grab some pictures of the food, but it was hard to stop eating!! This is the cauliflower salad, I'm forgetting the name. But it was an appetizer. Everything I ate was full of flavor, lots of yummy spices. The service was superb. The ambiance is lovely. I wish I had enough space in my stomach to try everything on the menu. It all looked so good. I was very pleased with my experience here and can't wait to come back again!!! read more

Aegean - Cauliflower salad - Mediterranean Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Had the pleasure of dining at the Aegean Sofra ( chef table tasting event). Honestly Chef Efe may be one of the best, most talented chefs in SB! His dishes are so incredible, and each one has a story behind it. Many of the bites were what I refer to as close your eyes moments. Can't wait to return. A must try! read more

Aegean - Mind blowing dessert! - Mediterranean Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Service was amazing. Outdoor seating was nice and intimate. I got the tavuk kebab and it was really good. Portions are okay, you might be hungry after. Great dinner spot. read more

Aegean - Flourless varlhona chocolate cake - Mediterranean Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Greet food, friendly server (Hannah was great) the owner came out and greeted us sharing he's the amazing chief as well ! Darling, off the beaten path, location as well! read more

Found this little gem on a recent weekend trip and was absolutely blown away! Mediterranean food is my favorite, and I can say without exaggerating this was one of the BEST meals of my adult life! Portions were just right, and we ordered family-style so we could try several different dishes. I would absolutely drive the 3 hours to Santa Barbara solely for a meal here. Divine!! Thank you to the chef (also the owner, I think) who clearly puts his heart & soul into the food - he stopped by our table and I had the pleasure of telling him how much we absolutely LOVED his food. read more

Aegean SB (also known as Aegean Neotaverna) is a highly-rated Mediterranean "hidden gem" in downtown Santa Barbara that focuses on fresh, seasonal Greek and Turkish cuisine. Opened as a permanent location in late 2025 by Chef Efe Onoglu, it has quickly gained a reputation for its authentic, flavor-packed dishes and welcoming "local hideaway" vibe. read more

Aegean - Outdoor patio. - Mediterranean Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

let's start off with a good stuff - the food was amazing! The chef is extraordinary and should be applauded for his efforts to serve really healthy amazing food in Santa Barbara Barbara. let's start off with a good stuff - the food was amazing! The chef should be applauded for his efforts to serve really healthy amazing food in . That being said, our rating of only two stars is based on the fact that we had a two hour reservation. But they started trying to kick us out at an hour and a half. Basically told us we could not order dessert unless we sat on a bench side! We still had a full glass of wine each from their quite expensive wine list and wanted to enjoy that. We were reminded three times during a 15 minute period that we needed to leave! from quite expensive wine list and wanted to enjoy that. We were reminded three times during a 15 minute period that we needed to leave! So we did leave and unfortunately I will not go back, no matter how good the food is. A real shame that the staff does not understand a two hour window is what the customer . A real shame because Efe deserves to have his restaurant succeed. read more

The chef is in the kitchen involved with everything and the food is very very good. As a Turk who just returned from Türkiye, his food was delicious. Must try read more

Aegean - Mediterranean Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Great little gem on a backstreet. Innovative menu with fresh ingredients. Attentive and informed staff. Eat on the outside patio. Delightful. read more

Visiting family in town and we loved it here so much we had to come back twice! The levrek was my favorite and I had it both nights! Though I did pick off my families plates as well; they all chose wonderful dishes like the wagyu meatballs, chicken kebab, and the crudo! I was able to try other options the next day as well, like the hummus, goddess salad, tzatziki, falafel, and marinated olives. I could only wish for a location to come down to San Diego! For dessert of course, I had the flourless chocolate cake both nights and it is to die for! I wish I could've taken a tray of it home with me! The atmosphere is very nice as well, it feels like you're eating at home with family and the service was fantastic as well. You won't find another place like this and I can't wait to come back. read more

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This restaurant is by far the best food I have ever had in my life! Not only was the food great but the service was excellent as well. The servers were so friendly and knowledgeable! We were also lucky enough to meet the chef who was such a nice person and shared with us how the restaurant came to be and how his staff is all like family to him. It was very heartwarming to hear. For appetizers we had: Hummus with Zhoug - the freshness and flavor of the herbs in the Zhoug mixed with the hummus and olive oil was incredible! Karnabahar - the cauliflower was perfect with the sauce. The raisins gave it the perfect amount of sweetness while the lemon tahini added the perfect amount of tang. Incredible flavors! Halloumi - the different textures and flavors were perfect! For main courses both recommended by our amazing waiter: Sac Kavurma - the perfect amount of spice and sauciness with the tender brisket and vegetables was so great with pita bread! Levrek- hands down the best sea bass I have ever had! It was like melt in your mouth delicious! Sides: Vegetarian Rice Pilaf - again the flavor! Aegean Fries - delicious and went so well with the garlic yogurt! Dessert: Flourless Varlhona Chocolate Cake - decadent cake with all the other flavors added was amazing. I am so happy to have found this restaurant! I highly suggest it!!! I can't wait to go back! read more

Aegean - Left to right: Levrek, Aegean fries, vegetarian pilaf rice, Sac Kavurma - Mediterranean Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Aegean: Santa Barbara's new spot for authentic Mediterranean Perfection Tucked away on State Street, Aegean is the kind of place that reminds you why you fell in love with food in the first place. A hidden gem that Santa Barbara didn't know it was missing, this restaurant delivers a truly authentic Mediterranean experience. The kind that instantly transports you to the sun soaked coasts of Greece and Turkey. Chef Efe Onoglu, whose global culinary background includes work in Michelin-starred kitchens, has created something extraordinary here. Every dish is a work of art... thoughtfully composed, soulfully seasoned, and plated with an artist's eye. You can feel his passion in every detail not only in the food, but in the restaurant itself... with stories shown through pictures of the history of chef Efe Onoglu's family, dedicated to his late grandfather, who inspired him most of all. Having traveled through the Mediterranean myself, I can confidently say this is the most authentic Mediterranean cuisine I've found in California; and I've lived here for over fifteen years. The flavors are honest and bright, the ingredients vibrant and balanced. Oh and EVERYTHING IS LOCALLY SOURCED. From the infamous santa Barbara farmers Market to the famous Uni (if you know you know) Complimented with hand picked local wines. Whether you're dining in or planning an event, Aegean's catering is another level entirely!! A perfect choice for a wedding or any celebration where you want your guests to remember the food long after the night ends. Do yourself a favor and order the full menu, every single dish tells its own story, and together they create something truly unforgettable. Santa Barbara has found its culinary masterpiece in Aegean. read more

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Best Mediterranean Food in Santa Barbara. We heard about Aegean from friends of ours that really enjoyed it and it exceeded our expectations. All of the food tasted fresh and delicious, especially the Karnabahar, the smoked Labneh, the green goddess salad, Wagyu Kofte, and the slow cooked Brisket Suk Kavurma! The atmosphere was enjoyable on their patio overlooking their garden of the fresh ingredients they use in their cooking and the service was also outstanding. Chef Onoglu was so kind and charismatic and took some time to greet us. If they continue in this direction, I could see this place getting a Michelin star! Highly recommended! read more

We had reservations from a week in advance and the hostess wanted to sit us by the restroom. I asked to be seated elsewhere which was taken care of. Our server Jose was inadequate and disappointing. I asked for sparkling water and he brought the bottle without a glass assuming I will pour it inside the regular water glass that was on our table. He brought another glass when I asked for it. We ordered a Greek salad which was brought in a timely manner however we waited over 30 minutes for the halloumi and wild salmon. All the other tables that were seated after us had their meals delivered sooner while we waited. The server would come by once in a while to fill the sparkling water. I asked is the halloumi and wild salmon . On its way and he said yes. The halloumi never arrived as he did not place that dish on order and the so called wild salmon was a Scottish salmon and not wild. My friend knows where they get their fish from and knew it was not wild based on its color. There are other places that have a lovely courtyard, delectable food and fabulous service near there, hence definitely not returning to Aegean. read more

The menu selection was one page and a list of specials. It's focused on complimentary dishes that can all be mixed and matched with one another. The restaurant was nearly fully when we arrived- we wanted a bit of a sampling so we ordered mostly appetizers to split. The falafels were a classic choice, tender inside and crunchy outside- with good fresh flavor - we could taste the different fresh herbs used! Nice. The hummus was a favorite and we ended up getting extra bread - loved the zhoug in the center and again, fresh ingredients and able to taste all the herbs and spices. We then had the prawn special.. oMG.. that radish salsa that the prawns rest on was divine and the prawns were perfectly cooked. A tiny bit messy but using your hands was sort of the point of most of the food we had ordered- and they brought wet cloths to wash up! Wine was delicious and brands were not familiar with.. and are now searching where we can buy locally because it was sooo good. The service was good- they were packed and only had 2 service staff, but they navigated the room well and brought us everything. They were exceptionally welcoming and took extra time to chat and share their favorites with us. And the chef stopped in to check on his each of guests as well. His care and passion for food are articulated in his communications well as his cooking and you can tell he loves what he does- and to cook for people. The location was in De La Guerra Circle, it was quiet from the noise of State street, well located for parking. The seats at the table are comfortable and we were not rushed out of the restaurant -highly recommended and I didn't get but one photo because we are everything too fast. read more

Aegean - Hummus. Really healthy size portion. - Mediterranean Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Chef Efe and his team from Aegean catered a special dinner for us, and everyone unanimously said it was one of the best dining experiences they've ever experienced! Makes sense since Chef was an Executive Chef for both Jose Andres and the Four Seasons Hotel. You can tell the chef and his kitchen team take pride in what they do, only using the freshest, in-season ingredients and cooking each dish to perfection. The service and presentation were perfect, and I highly recommend trying Chef's food whether it's at Aegean, through a private dinner experience, or through one of his Chef's table experiences. read more

Go to Aegean; you will be glad you did. The first thing you'll notice is that all the waitstaff is happy to be there and loves the food. Efe himself is a chef with a CV, vision, and incredible skills. All he touches becomes delectable. The atmosphere is relaxed yet upscale. The food delicate yet flavorful. The portions reasonable, and the prices as well. read more

What a great place! The food is incredible and service is top notch! Loved every bite

The hummus and the meatballs were amazing. The yellow fish was also good but not very filling.i really enjoyed the freshness of the taziki that came with the meatballs and how warm the pita bread was. The meatballs were seasoned very well. I would definitely come back and order the meatballs and the hummus. The Kombucha was refreshing and had a great taste as it wasn't too sweet. read more

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Very small portions, pricey. Had to ask for ice 3 times. Food was well spiced. The 4 of us were asked to leave 1.15 minutes as they had another reservation . read more

Lovely little Turkish place in downtown. We went in thinking wow, the menu is small -- which it is -- but we came out thinking wow, there is so much we didn't try! It's clear that we would want everything in due course. The Mezze is all nice. The sea bass was excellent but we didn't try any other entrées. The wine list is tiny but they're not going to serve a bad wine -- or a bottle that's been opened yesterday. Or bring in a bottle. Weather permitting, the patio is much nicer than the dining room. Locals really should support this rare gem that is NOT "Cali-Itali" or "Cali-Med." It's the real deal. read more

Now one of my favorite spots in SB, that was a kick ass dinner yummy yummy yummy, Isabella was the best! whatever she recommends you should get. read more

Aegean - Brussels sprouts - Mediterranean Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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This restaurant is almost too good for Santa Barbara. We have been for brunch and for dinner and all of the meals we have had here were excellent. Chef Efe creates beautiful Turkish / Mzediterranean dishes with well thought out flavors. Stand out dishes include a salad with olives infused with orange peel and fennel served with fresh feta (the good stuff), market tomatoes and so much good olive oil you could swim in it, marinated chicken kebabs that are succulent and clearly good quality meat, and veggie dishes like cauliflower with a preserved mango sauce and dressing that sings. The service is great and the ambiance charming; at night, the terrace is lit up with a view of City Hall and the News Press building across the plaza. read more

Despite the many great restaurants we have in Santa Barbara, the diversity of cuisine is somewhat limited, and Aegean is such a wonderful addition. Everything we tried was absolutely delicious--the falafel, cauliflower, chicken kebab, and lamb were all outstanding. I'm so glad the chef has finally opened a full restaurant in addition to the pop-ups. #TurkishFood read more

New spot on State, great ambience and is staying very busy, make sure you get there early. Meatballs, great. Brussels, great. My favorite part was the dessert. The flourless chocolate cake was so decadent. Definitely worth checking out read more

Sometimes you read reviews of new restaurants and you wonder if it isn't too good to be true, but in this case the raves for Aegean are fully deserved. A delightful place, attentive and charming service, fair prices, and some pretty remarkable food. Interesting, varied, deeply flavored, and inventive. We had Brussels sprouts and Humous, both enough for a crowd (the accompanying bread superb), halloumi, chicken and bass, a glass of wine each, no room for the dessert (next time). Every dish was delicious, maybe the sprouts were my favorite, but gonna have to go back. Our server Isabella was lovely, happy, and knowledgeable. A new favorite in Santa Barbara! read more

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Aegen is so delicious and such a great addition to Santa Barbara! Highly recommend the meatballs and all the dips and sauces. Everyone working there was so nice. Cannot recommend enough!!! read more

Ok the best hummus I've had in my life. Even internationally! And the sea bass in a broth with large white beans. Not to mention the humble chef and outstanding server. Open only for dinners Wednesday thru Sunday. Oh my gosh. 5 star plus. read more

This restaurant is amazing. I love the delicious Turkish cuisine and I come back every week for their weekly specials and the Sunday brunch is my fav. read more