Oh boy the amount of times I have been inebriated here. Birthday parties, coming home celebrations, cheeky post-work cocktails that accidentally turn into two in the mornings; New Years Eves, Potlucks, Aloha Sundays, Halloweens and everything in between. This is a great bar and there's just no way around that. The drinks are tough, the vibes are immaculate, the bartenders have teeth and the regulars are absolutely bananas. I love it here. It's probably the only bar you can roll into by yourself as a woman and feel comfortable. As if things couldn't get any better, there's a treasure of a human in there who spins vinyl on Friday nights (maybe Saturdays also, but don't quote me) and you really shouldn't miss that experience. Thank you Imperial and staff for your phenomenal service. You've truly cultivated something wonderful. read more

What an amazing hidden gem in Goleta! While visiting the town, we were looking for a lounge walking distance from our hotel. We found this cool spot via yelp. A for atmosphere. You are transformed into a tiki/tropical/ vintage/bohemian not sure what to call it atmosphere. Super mellow and chill. We sat at a corner couch across from the bar. Comfy and relaxing, and dim lighting. Drink menu was diverse. Great selection. From cocktails to all types of alcohol. With an average price range of $15. Bartender knew his craft. All drinks ordered were great! C for service. The service dept needs some help, and I get it, with one person serving 15+ people. It is impossible to provide a5 star service. Initially service was great with a smile when we first arrived @ 6 pm. But soon after the bar became super busy. The wait was 20-30 minutes for an order. It was time to leave. We asked for our check and it came non-itemized. If it was 2 or 4 drinks that would be fine, but we were party of 3 with over 10 drinks. Then we had to wait again after asking for an itemized check. Waiter stated they need to hand write as their "machine" was not working. That took more time than needed. Ahhhhhh.... Ah well.. you can't get it all. Hence the 3.5 stars. I recommend, to sit at the bar and maybe pay cash to avoid hurdles I experienced. read more

Amazing atmosphere and great service! The staff were friendly and attentive, the drinks were excellent, and the vibe was perfect for relaxing with friends. Everything was clean and well organized. Definitely one of the best lounges I've visited -- highly recommend. ‍ Relaxing, stylish, or cozy environment,Great lighting, music, and seating,Perfect place to unwind or socialize. Friendly and attentive staff,Fast service and helpful recommendations Staff make you feel welcomed. love the beardedGotti's of SB read more

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Needed a place to impress some out of town visitors. Always a great experience when visiting the Imperial. read more

The Imperial - Lounges Near Me - Goleta, California

Amazing chill speakeasy-like bar/lounge. It's snuggled away in the back of a plaza so it's easy to miss, but adds to its hole-in-the-way aesthetic. The bartenders are obviously passionate about their craft and will happily pour you a custom drink based on your preferences. TL;DR pull up a good Friday night and order the nectar affectar. It's sooo yummy and you can't taste the alcohol at all. AND it can totally get you hammered. I swear it's black magic read more

Loved this place! Feels like Palm Springs in the 60s. Super mid-century tiki lounge find in an unlikely spot.

When you go on vacay and find a neighborhood staple that treats you like a regular, that's a win in my book! My friends and I hit up spot after our hotel bartender recommended this place, and we weren't disappointed. A true cocktail bar w/ a tiki living room vibe. They seriously can make you anything. I asked for a hot toddy b/c I didn't get the memo that Santa Barbara was on the chilly side. I came in these cute holders. The bartenders were really great...friendly and attentive. We like this place so much we went back to their 10 year anniversary party...the Tom Selleck invite LOL. If you're in the area, definitely check them out. read more

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Came here alone while on a work trip just to check it out and had the best time! Wonderful bartenders, ambiance and conversations. Not to mention the most DELICIOUS drinks. Coming here again if I'm at all in the area. read more

The best bar in SB!!! They staff is always great and everyone in my circle of friends love coming here. Their drinks are great and the atmosphere is great for a late night drink! Ps. Change the drink name to Flying Dutchman read more

The Imperial - Paper plane, aka Flying Dutchman - Lounges Near Me - Goleta, California

Amazing experience coming here! Hidden gem with great drinks, service, and atmosphere. Definitely worth checking out, I know I'm coming back! read more

Staying in Goleta for the weekend and found this little gem. Great atmosphere, like stepping back in time! Good crowd, lively but not too loud, nice cocktails and friendly staff. Highly recommend read more

We went to the Imperial for a special evening to have cigar and raise a glass with a VERY nice cocktail to my lovely late wife who's been in Heaven for 11 years now. Donald, who was the bartender and bought the place from Dawn a few years ago reserved two large seating areas in the outside patio for us. The atmosphere was perfect - subtle lighting and soft jazz music in the background. The patrons were almost as nice and accommodating as the staff. Our server was always there when we wanted or needed anything. She kept an eye on our cigar ashtrays to make sure they were never close to full and picked up all the empty plate to take to the trash - they allowed us to bring in food for our event!! Overall, this has to be by far the single best cocktail bar in all of Santa Barbara/Goleta. Great ambiance, Great service and incredible cocktails!!! read more

Donald was amazing and he and I are Chardonnay lovers. It was so nice of him to share his favorites with me! I will definitely be going back! read more

This will finally be my last time at The Imperial. This is not a snap decision- I've been going to this place once in a while since I moved to Santa Barbara ten years ago, and I have always tried really hard to see the good in this place. The cocktails ARE good. The patio IS nice. The experience being here, however, is demeaning every time. The bartenders have been rude, pretentious, and mean to my friends and me enough times. I've had to run home to get an ID because the bartender didn't let my partner order a Diet Coke without one. I've had a bartender tell off one of my friends for a mistake he made himself. Enough is enough. Support businesses run by good people. read more

Owner and staff are trained to to be such a kiss azz. Fake and totally brown noses every customer. Thinks he hot poo cause he's in a band and all and the. Continuously insults me. Good first tinder date place. Good luck. read more

Master mixologists serve up excellent cocktails and are thoroughly professional yet chill. Inside feels like a Palm Springs Rat Pack hangout. Outdoors patio offers several enclaves for parties of various sizes. read more

Such a cool spot! It's a a speakeasy so expect it to be difficult to find the door and dark inside lol. It's around the back of the building and there's a sign out but it doesn't say imperial. Our server Claire was phenomenal, great recommendations and just an all around sweet person. We were one of two tables there Saturday at 5pm right after the sunset. It filled up by the time we left two hours later, I think it was only Claire and the bar tender - need more staff!! The drinks were delish, quite a selection and vibes immaculate. read more

The Imperial - Lounges Near Me - Goleta, California

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A gem in Old Town Goleta! This hidden speakeasy is unique and amazing. You will NOT see a large sign with "Imperial" on it. You will see a small neon sign with Bak Dor on it. This is the former bar at this location. The friendly bartender Donald told me that the Imperial was purchased from the 92 year old owner of Bak Dor and in his honor, they kept the sign. There is a faint "Imperial" etching on the door. The interior is dark, cool, intimate with a lot of comfortable seating (booths, couches). Then there is the beautiful patio with equally comfortable seating. Win-win!! They have wonderful cocktails but only one beer on tap (a Pilsner). There is an assortment of bottled beers, No real food to order (just bar nuts for $5) but they offer free potato chips! This is a special place. Go. read more

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Great bar, great bartenders, great folks... it feels like home... the bestest... but it could be a little more "family," you know "friends of Dorothy," or like Subaru-ian... read more

Other than the guy chasing me down in front of everyone to check my ID (which was really weird, btw. He wasn't near the front but ran over to me through the crowd and popped up in my face out of nowhere asking for ID...) I'd say I like this place. It's small in size but it's very intimate and has bar seating, intimate inside seating as well as a nice sized patio that feels warm and inviting. They took full advantage of the space and somehow created extra room even though it's small. Some of the patio chairs sat VERY LOW...so just be mindful that you're going to have to squat way down to sit on some of the furniture, but overall, the place is fun and would make for a fun first date. Just tell the guy working ID's not to comment on people and age. He told me "good job" for not looking 40. Yikes. read more

The Imperial - Hanging out - Lounges Near Me - Goleta, California

This is a dark retro tiki bar ambience. They also have a beautiful large private outdoor area. Cocktails are out of this world! 10 out of 10. But be careful, they are strong. Excellent service the times we have been there. read more

Food - only serves chips upon request. Service - phenomenal Ambiance - spectacular and sufficient read more

The Imperial - Two delicious Mai Thai/Mai Chai's at Imperial!!! My favorite way to spend quality time on a Saturday evening. - Lounges Near Me - Goleta, California

I was reminded last Friday that I love this place and that one Mai Tai needs to be my limit. Oh yes, a second one sounds good but then there is a strong possibility that I will forget what happens after the second Mai Tai because that is one strong drink. Happily, there are many other great options and if the listed drinks didn't suit, the bartenders know enough to mix you something "especial." I tried to photograph my and my companions drinks. No, I didn't drink them all! Things I like, the dim interior with the classic bar and the fresh outdoor space. I also appreciate the collection of spirits and the staff who know how to use them. In addition to the aforementioned Mai Tai our group enjoyed the Jungle Bird , a Last Word and an Aviation plus a few more. They have proper ice and fun barware which is a plus. Finally, people are generally friendly. They don't have a kitchen but somehow the ruffled chips and warm nuts are just what you need, after a Mai Tai. So, while I usually enjoy relaxing at home on Friday evenings. Getting out and hanging here made for an excellent change of pace. If you decide to visit, remember those Mai Tais are strong. read more

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Drinks never disappoint and always get the best service! Ambiance was calm but was a vibe like old fashion and it's always busy

Best bar in town! This place is a gem. The drinks are made to perfection. They are not weak, they are stiff but very well balanced. Donald the owner is great! Very friendly and welcoming. The vibe is everything, from the staff to the music to the drinks. This will be your new go-to! read more

NOT VET FRIENDLY I was seriously looking forward to the jungle bird. I am a disabled vet psychiatric service animal. Two time combat and Purple Heart recipient. The host was really rude and turned us away. Under the ADA and California law, state and local governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations that serve the public generally must allow service animals to accompany people with disabilities in all areas of the facility where the public is normally allowed to go. Please change your policy. There are people have fought for this country and our way of life. They deserve to be treated with dignity. read more

The Imperial Lounge is everything you expect in a quintessential speakeasy. It's hidden away in a nondescript strip mall behind a bike shop - definitely a destination! You won't see "Imperial" signs guiding you there. Instead, there's a small neon "Ba'k Dor" sign, homage to the 92-year old former owner of that bar who sold to the Imperial. The ambiance and décor are awesome; the place is dimly lit and intimate, with comfortable seating and an outdoor patio. Things were crowded the night we were there, but we were lucky enough to get seats at the bar. The bartenders are all friendly, welcoming and most importantly, amazing mixologists! We found it best to give some guidance on what we like and let them do their magic. Such exceptionally well-crafted cocktails! This little Goleta gem is the perfect place for date night or for a gathering of friends. The only downside is that there's no food, other than bar nuts. So plan to eat before you go and then sit back and leisurely enjoy some after-dinner cocktails. read more

Nice little out of the way place if you want a good drink and laid back throwback speakeasy atmosphere without overly loud music. If they had much on the food menu besides a bowl of warm nuts, I didn't see it. This is definitely more of a cocktail lounge. Found it while on business travel. My coworker and I were probably the oldest people there. Pretty eclectic crowd, but not to the point that I felt out of place at all. Bartender was attentive and unobtrusive. Too busy to chat, but not harried or unfriendly. Professional. Nothing negative happened for the four stars... I like to visit a place at least twice before I give it the full monty. Looking forward to another trip to Goleta in a few months... which isn't something I would have said before finding this place. read more

went there for a special event on Thanksgiving Eve. Got there early to reserve a booth for friends. Some booths were taken or had a reserve sign on them and found one that didn't have a sign on it and was told after 10 minutes. It was in fact reserved for someone else even though it was not marked as reserved.... Did not appreciate the way they treated us at all and wouldn't have stayed except for the fact that it was a friend's birthday who we invited to go there. They obviously don't care about the fact that I will never go there again, but it is still wrong What they did and the way they did it. read more

This bar is truly a hidden gem in Santa Barbara/Goleta. Just by reading the other Yelp! reviews we stopped by . . . and it was even better than we could have imagined. On the menu, we had the Mazatlan Mule and the Cucumber Margarita. Our bartender, Scott, mixed some fantastic original concoctions including a Hot Tamale and his best attempt at a Mexican Candy Shot. The ambience is fantastic . . . Definitely a cool, speakeasy vibe . . . with and old school hi-fi system pouring out tunes and plenty of leather seating areas. Seriously, this is a perfect bar. read more

Super fun and engaging bartenders, fantastic atmosphere and amazing cocktails! This is a perfect place to start or end your evening. They don't serve food, but I believe food can be brought in, and they have awesome kettle chips to munch on with your cocktails. read more

Love this place! The cutest hidden gem- like what others say, it's very much a speakeasy vibe. Super cool ambiance. Chase is the best bartender! Love it!!! Thank you for a great experience! read more

The Imperial - Mai Thai - Lounges Near Me - Goleta, California

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There's a reason Imperial has garnered five-star reviews from almost anyone has reviewed it: it's because it's REALLY GOOD, y'all. This place has a distinct speakeasy vibe. Located in the back side of a bike shop, it's pretty easy to miss (hint: look for a sign that says "Ba'k Dor Lounge"). On the plus side, there's a parking lot and plenty of spaces! The decor here is amazing. An impressive vinyl collection punctuates the tiki-cum-speakeasy vibe, and the lighting, furniture, and noise levels are all conducive to catching up with friends, or maybe even meeting some new ones... ;) On the intercom, I heard Tom Jones and Buena Vista Social Club and I was reaaaally enjoying the vibe. The outdoor area was a tad chilly, but offered even more room and visual diversions. Taking a seat here felt cozy and welcoming. Donald greeted me upon my entering and steered me to a fantastic cocktail called a Clover Club. Raspberry, lemon, egg white and gin took their turns dancing on my tongue and the result was tremendous. I got a taste of the Oaxacanut and a mystery Holiday Special and those were both also to die for. There are also plenty of food options in the area if the bar nuts that Donald and the crew serve don't sate your hunger. Could not throw enough support behind this business. Get there already! read more

The Imperial was recommended to us by a fellow wedding vendor. We came in pretty late after a wedding weekend and the bar staff was really sweet. Our bartender made us custom cocktails and chatted about weddings. We sat in a comfy boot and it was just what we needed! read more

The Imperial - Custom cocktails. - Lounges Near Me - Goleta, California

Attention, attention! I have a favorite bar in Santa Barbara! ... well, I guess technically Goleta, but the excitement still stands. Don't let the unassuming exterior fool you--this is anything but a dive. Step inside and the decor feels like you've stepped into a secret speakeasy from the 20s. It's the perfect spot to cozy up with a cocktail for an intimate conversation. My favorite kind of bar is one where you can tell the bartender what you like and they'll whip you up something perfect. This is that place. Everyone I've encountered behind the bar is an expert cocktail maker and I have not had one bad sip. I loved one of the creations so much I asked what it was, and the bartender shrugged and said "I don't know, it's just my favorite thing to make right now." An Imperial original! The outside is perfect for large groups (call ahead if you can), but the line inside can get a bit long since there isn't a server to bring drinks out there. Also, be sure to keep an eye on your tab. Good quality cocktails come at a premium, and it's easy to spend more than you mean to when they're this good. Overall, I'll be back. Again and again and again. read more

Very cool atmosphere and good drinks! I wish they had a wee bit more vodka specially cocktails but they have one I really like.

Definitely a hidden gem with a speakeasy feel. Came here with some girlfriends and we all loved the cocktails that were on the menu. It has cozy seating arrangements and a very nice interior. read more

The Imperial - Lounges Near Me - Goleta, California

Theyyyyyyy're baaaaaccckkk!!! After being closed due to the pandemic, The Imperial have reopened. The mixologist are thrilled to be back, serving up yummy drinks and advice. The Imperial gives off that 70's vibe with a speakeasy feel. It actually jogs my memory of my parents living room of when I was a teen. No, my parents didn't serve up drinks in their living room. The drinks are amazingly tasty. Cucumber gimlet, Imperial Mai Tai for me, and an Old Fashion for the hubs; each made with care and love by the mixologist. The vibe of this establishment is friendly and homey. You can plop yourself down on big lounge couch, booth, sit in the patio or belly up to the bar. My choice is the bar. You can exchange banters with the bartender or fellow patrons. There's nothing negative about this establishment. Ample parking and hidden for those of you who are secret drunkies. LOL Just an all around amazing bar. read more

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It's a mid-century lounge. The Imperial is a perfect example of an intimate, friendly, warm, and inviting lounge. If the décor strikes you as authentic and comfortable you'll be happy to discover the small group of people who operate The Imperial are truly happy to make sure their customers are taken care of. I mean, that's rare. Chas was mixing the night we were there. A very pleasant woman, whose name I don't know how to spell, was also mixing that night. Both are the at the top of my very short list of local bartenders who know what the "ef" they are doing. Clare mixes as well and was in the process of training Crystal who was serving. I picked a drink from their program. It was a variation on a gin martini which they have tweaked the bitters for a slight hint of orange. My partner ordered a Paper Plane from the program. Bourbon, amaro, Aperol, & lemon juice in equal parts. You're welcome. Both drinks were very well done. A customer changed their mind about a drink before it was delivered to the table so there was mixed drink with no where to go. The staff poured it out into shot glasses and passed them out to a few of us. I think it was a Reilly's Kitchen. A specialty cocktail unique to The Imperial. Next up we ordered and split a French 75 which was perfectly mixed. They used Prosecco instead of Champaign. Last, I ordered an Improved Whiskey Cocktail. Chas needed to go look it up, which he gladly did, and then proceeded to create the drink. It's a great recipe and Chas agreed. To quote Chas, there isn't a bad bottle of liquor in the house. Also, they don't use "mixers". You know, that unlabeled plastic bottle with a pour spout and a pale yellow liquid inside. Surely it comes in a powdered form and might taste vaguely like citrus. No! The Imperial uses fresh produce for mixes. Good liquors, good mixers, good bartenders, friendly staff, warm lounge atmosphere, not too loud, drinks outside if you want. If you want Studio 54 look elsewhere. Get real and go to The Imperial. read more

This was such a nice spot for a solo drink or two. Beautifully presented cocktails which were balanced, dimly lit with tasteful decor, and the mixed nuts are great. read more

The Imperial - Mai tai - Lounges Near Me - Goleta, California

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