The James Joyce

540

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5715

4 years ago

The James Joyce - Kinsella Band back to the Joyce heck yes like old times - Irish Pub Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Ali B.

1963

751

7707

8 years ago

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Shannon B.

2 years ago

on a bar crawl for a friends birthday. Bartender was very unprofessional. Refusing to make shots. Being rude to person asking for the shots. Telling him this isn't high school. If you want those shots go to another bar. Bartender was non-Caucasian, balding male in a black and white bowling type shirt. When inquired about who the manager was, I was told he was management. Very disappointing. If you don't want to make drinks, don't be a bartender. Owners should know attitude matters. won't ever recommend coming back here. read more

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Victoria O.

Elite 23

992

1099

494

5 years ago

I hadn't been here in many years and had fun the other night. You go in to order and drink in the back or the front. Tried a vodka I LOVED and was pleasantly surprised to find it was not expensive. EFFEN cucumber is only 25 a bottle at Bevmo! Great service. Bartenders are really friendly. I had forgotten how large it was. And I didn't remember that there was a parking lot in the back. There's a reason this place has survived so long in a town so many places come and go. I'm a fan. The crowd is really young so it's not a place I'd go to drink by myself at the advanced age of 49. I could be the mother of everyone who works there, without even having gotten knocked up in my teens. Oy. read more

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Adrian S.

124

5 years ago

This will be a short review because, well, it's a bar. Haha. If you like HEAVY poured drinks at cheap prices, then this is your place. It is very much a dive bar feel in the middle of a bunch of other very trendy spots. We had a good time here. I will visit again next time I'm in the area. read more

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Aliyah H.

509

350

7 years ago

"Maybe this isn't the bar for you" - the bartender "That's funny.. you're playing Lindy Hop & Swing music so I assumed this was a place with courtesy and class.. did I get that wrong?" - me "Can I get a straw?" - me "Straws are illegal in California." - the bartender "That's funny because every other place in California you can give me a straw if I ask for it." - me "Yeah well that's what it is." - bartender The Bartender here on Saturday night was surprisingly rude. Doesn't deserve any tips and apparently doesn't like repeat business. read more

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Kristy O.

295

1737

7 years ago

Best Irish coffee and live music Saturday morning experience! I think the music is just an impromptu trip that practices Saturdays so it might not be every week but we were lucky. Love this peanut bar, great local vibe and I always get great service! read more

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Marty M.

5 years ago

First time at James Joyce and everyone treats you like you've known each other for years. Everyone is super friendly. I wished I live here. Love the small town vibe. Everyone knows each other. Would move hear in a heart beat. The irish coffee is amazing. You buy one and they give you 3 more for free. read more

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Tom C.

5 years ago

So this bar has been sold to a owner who has changed everything around. Came tonight and I'm having a hard time dealing with all the drinks. He wants to make this place into a club feel. Dumb. Place is literally Old and looks like a bar. The Irish car bombs are sold in super small cups and you can't even enjoy them like real car combs. My girlfriend ordered vodka crans and they only do half vodka crans now. So half a shot. What a joke. Born and raised in Santa Barbara and never thought this place would ever change. Gonna miss this place. Peace James Joyce. Awesome staff. Changes.. wack... this place is a bar! Not a club. Owner is way out of touch with its clientele. read more

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Isabella B.

184

5 years ago

Used to be such a great spot. Now they are changing it up??? WHAT?? I loved james Joyce growing up but now after my visit tonight I will not be coming back. Apparently they are under new management. I used to get vodka cranberry's and they use to be of good liquor amount. Now they are maybe half a shot of vodka. STEER CLEAR OF THIS PLACE. It used to be a gem but now it's turned into somewhere you DO NOT WANT TO GO!!!!!!!!!!!! read more

The James Joyce - A vodka crab with HALF A SHOT OF VODKA. upsetting and not ok. - Irish Pub Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Zip Z.

107

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3 years ago

Bartender was great. Bus boy actually refused to wipe my table. Bartender gave me a towel for diy.

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Jim W.

870

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13 years ago

Spoken in an Irish brogue: I stumbled upon this pub of sorts It's focus drink and darkened wood Sitting here amongst the snobby cohorts In a Santa Barbara neighborhood The barkeep was amiable In an offhand way And served the drinks That quelled my stay I spoke to her of the namesake drink Expecting it a frequent choice But visitors may not highly think And order in their lowly voice And so it was I had me drinks And stumbled on me rambling way Into the salty air To stumble 'round another day FYI, here is The James Joyce Cocktail, order it up: * 1 1/2 ounces Irish whiskey * 3/4 ounce sweet vermouth * 3/4 ounce Cointreau * 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice And now to close with an actual poem by Joyce himself which is fitting for the central coast: All Day I Hear the Noise of Waters All day I hear the noise of waters Making moan, Sad as the sea-bird is when, going Forth alone, He hears the winds cry to the water's Monotone. The grey winds, the cold winds are blowing Where I go. I hear the noise of many waters Far below. All day, all night, I hear them flowing To and fro. James Joyce @SBJamesJoyce read more

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Brenda B.

3 years ago

I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to every single Patriot that was there that evening that I showed up as in complete stranger and an outsider. I went to Santa Barbara looking for my dog yes I know. My dog was stolen from San Fernando valley. I went to Santa Barbara not knowing anybody, not knowing anything about Santa Barbara! I had only been there once with the individual that stole my emotional therapy dog. I walked in to James and Joyce passing out flyers looking for my golden color fawn long hair emotional support dog, Mimi me. The people the Patriots so I just started was and completely a mess emotionally. They immediately embrace me everyone there at this pub took me in as family as I already known them for years. I'm grateful to say that they did help out and Mini me successfully have been reunited by the grace of God! Thank you thank you to all the staff thank you to all the locals and thank you to those that embrace me and took me and his family! I had to give this testimony I had a great time although my mind was a mini the whole time. It was the bartender who by the way make the most amazing drinks! And everyone else that embraced me and took me in and comfort me at the time when I needed the most I'll be back soon! I made a promise too just send James bar pub to come back with her and we're coming back people to celebrate so bartender keep them coming! read more

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Delilah P.

2 years ago

Your security guard allowed me to almost be sexually assaulted. I was drinking here this past Friday and the line for the female one stall bathroom was overwhelmingly full and there was zero people waiting for the men's ONE STALL BATHROOM. I nearly soiled my pants so I ran into the men's bathroom as I was scared to make an accident and felt safe under the prospect that it was a singular ROOM. These men walked in on me and i apologized as i was finishing up. They proceeded to call security since I was a female in the men's bathroom, security guard comes over referring to me as a "stup*d b*tch" over and over with the other men outside the door as i'm washing my hands. THE SECURITY GUARD THEN ALLOWED THE MEN INTO THE BATHROOM AS THEY EXPOSE THEMSELVES TO ME WHILE THE DOOR SHUTS BEHIND. Someone had to put their foot in between the door so it wouldn't close fully so i could get around the group of exposed men in this SINGLE ROOM. If that door closed i could have been assaulted under the PERMISSION of ur security guard who for whatever reason felt so physically offended by my use of an empty bathroom with no line outside since i was going to have a literal accident that he verbally assaulted me and allowed these men to come inside as if it was an open invite as my "punishment" for being in there. Absolutely vile i can not believe i experienced such horrific treatment that had potential to be a horrific moment over just having to use the restroom. Fire him please. read more

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Pamela R.

2 years ago

Even better than his cousins' bar in Salthill.....No Darts or billiards in there. Good craic and open until 2:00 am in SB! Yay! Love you Tommy Byrne!!! read more

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Tammy D.

211

102

7 years ago

Excellent hybrid: part dive bar and part Irish pub with a fun, diverse mix of people. When I went there was a live jazz/swing band playing. It was very cool to see college students dancing with "Greatest Generation" guys who still know all the steps. If you are a Guinness fan, then you will love the pour this place does. It is expertly slow-poured, angled just right and the foam is optimum. (run off nitrogen as it should be!) Also, they don't put a shamrock on the foam and will probably hit you if you ask for Chambord to drizzle on top. Big barrel of peanuts to make you thirstier and thirstier as the night wears on. Fun place if you keep things in perspective. read more

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Ruby F.

3 years ago

If I could give 0 I would. Do not come here if you respect women or care for customer emotional/physical safety. The staff does not and never have had respect. if you have an ounce of empathy for those wronged by drunk bar workers do not come here. Touching a heater as a customer should not be a reason for the security to kick people out and cuss at customers. Rusty maybe is his name ? White hair, older man that told my partner he was rude, had attitude, called him fucking dick etc. all because he wanted to turn the heater on for me. Rusty, the security was talking/flirting with a woman customer and didn't ask if we needed help or let us know that the heater wasn't in fact working. This is not the first time we had a problem with the occasional angry drunk security guard here. He said "You probably don't go out often, do you think it's ok to touch a heater that's not yours? If you wanna catch attitude with me you can just leave". Mind you we just sat down with fresh drinks and we said we were sorry for touching the property. My bf tried to take responsibility while requesting him to please calm down. Him "it's not fucking cold out anyways, don't tell me how to do my job..." As a server, I don't care if customers adjust the heater especially if im not giving adequate service. He was wrong to asume anything and talk the way he did. But for him talking with the customer and talking bad to us was his priority. Another male worker came settled rusty down and only listened to my bf not me. He only listened to my bf because he said he did jujitsu. Where he has learned about respect and managing your temper. It felt demeaning for everyone involved. "Oh I noticed your swollen ear from a far while you ordered your drink". Only giving respect to those who he thought fit the description of who he thought deserved it, shook his hand even. Out of 4 people my bf was the only man. We did not feel safe here. We just wanted to be heard out in the beginning. Not monitored until we finished our drinks. We have gone here only twice in the passed, this was our third chance, as we have lived in sb for over 4 generations. The front guard said "why come back then?" We we're trying to give it a chance as rusty shouldn't be the face of James Joyce. But he totally is. It wasn't a spot to go out of the way for and certainly will never be again. I appreciated the front guard for finally saying "sorry don't mind him on the way out" but it took my bf to explain all these things first. Ps bar tenders seemed like the only ones working hard to provide good service. Date: 7/27/23 read more

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Carl L.

8 years ago

Having a Black Velvet and enjoying some great music at The James Joyce in Santa Barbara, California. read more

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Kacey M.

4 years ago

Bouncer with the long blond hair is a douchebag and denied our real ID's for literally no reason, fool gave them back to us instead of taking them bc he knew he was wrong and couldnt give a reason they were fake... was a complete tool bag feeding his ego by acting all tough because he was butthurt. Went back later with a better bouncer and got in because our ids were REAL. And the drinks were weak, what a shit hole. read more

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Youri Y.

975

818

3649

14 years ago

Great pub with a lively atmosphere with various bands playing on certain nights and free peanuts in a big ass barrel by the front entrance :) The scene here is not really a college clubbing atmosphere at all but a mature bar-hopping experience and a great place to start a Friday night. It can get crowded at times but everyone is pretty sociable and they have cool games like darts lol Just don't wear flip flops because the peanut shells and whatnot get all up in your feet :( read more

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Lemonjelly L.

134

428

907

17 years ago

Good on a weeknight when it's more mellow. Does not suffer from ghastly lighting. Long bar to reduce bottleneck, horizontally and vertically. Let me tell you about vertical bottleneck sometime. It's a short person thing. Those big barrels of peanuts help stave off hunger, and thankfully with shells on, help stave off bar hand contamination (guys, seriously, wash your damn hands after your visit the bar restroom, okay?). YOU get to shell your peanuts and throw the shells on the ground. *I* get to stomp on them and get that satisfying crunch underfoot. Weekends can be a scene. Otherwise, A--OK! Definitely better than the other bars along those blocks. read more

The James Joyce - the bar on a weekday night - Irish Pub Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Jamie V.

587

3055

12 years ago

Had a few Ice cold Black and Tan's on one of the hottest days in Santa Barbara this afternoon. They play great music like The Jam, and The Clash. Very nice Irish lady bartender. Well done James Joyce Pub. Cheers! read more

The James Joyce - Black and Tan. Cheers! - Irish Pub Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Kim P.

Elite 22

555

163

19 years ago

My favorite bar on the planet. I wish I could take it home to Boston with me. I lived in Santa Barbara for six months and became a "regulah" with my friends. Pool, peanuts on the floor, smoking cigs in the back, authentic Irish staff, freedom to get drunk and stupid because the surroundings are so comfortable. Fuck Tonic, go here. It's second to none. And everybody in Santa Barbara is goodlooking. The best part is the "no dancing" sign hung on the wall. That's because they got their dancing permit revoked some time ago. Did you know that dancing permits existed? Think twice before throwing your next dance party. read more

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Dino M.

9 years ago

Very eclectic bar. Has a little of something for everyone. Peanuts, peanuts and more peanuts. Best part, is you get to throw down the shells...Good for soft shoeing! Age ranges 21- 95. We came by around 945 and were drawn in by old blusie dance folk jammin' music. Live loud music and lots of dancing. It was a full house of people getting down and dancing. Now while this may not sound like your cup of tea a train week is often hard to look away. It was an array of all kinds of people, different ages dancing in a circle causing a sort of dance off. Was a sight to see! Ordered a couple of ciders and people watched. The live music was over at 10:00 and saw they had pool and darts. The music became more of jukebox variety and had good tunes. Quaint bar. Decent service - we had to really try to get someone attention. read more

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Scott J.

Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

6 years ago

The outside area (COVID) was ok, the service was mediocre at best. They were serving for from two adjacent restaurants, it didn't work well because I had three different checks to pay. I would pass on them until COVID is over, they might be fun/fine if you could sit at the bar inside. read more

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More info about The James Joyce

513 State St
Santa Barbara, CA 93190
Directions
(805) 962-2688
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.thejamesjoyce.com

Hours

What time does The James Joyce open?

The James Joyce opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does The James Joyce close?

The James Joyce closes at 2:00 AM (Next day) on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM (Next day)

Payment methods

Does The James Joyce take credit cards?

Yes, The James Joyce takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does The James Joyce have a happy hour?

Yes, The James Joyce has a happy hour.

Does The James Joyce serve alcohol?

Yes, The James Joyce serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does The James Joyce allow dogs?

Yes, The James Joyce allows dogs.

Does The James Joyce have TVs?

Yes, The James Joyce has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does The James Joyce have bike parking?

Yes, The James Joyce has bike parking.

Does The James Joyce have outdoor seating?

No, The James Joyce does not have outdoor seating options.

Does The James Joyce have parking?

Yes, The James Joyce has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Does The James Joyce allow outdoor smoking?

Yes, The James Joyce allows outdoor smoking.

Does The James Joyce have free WiFi?

No, The James Joyce does not have free WiFi.

The James Joyce Reviews in Other Languages

Portuguese
1 Review

Ask the Community - The James Joyce

Is it 18+? My friends and I would like to go to a karaoke night, but some of them are under 21.

Yeah I know this great bar but unfortunately yes it has to be 21 after 7 pm :-(

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How late do you serve food?

The bar itself doesn't serve food, but take-out can be reliable until 10pm.

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When does karaoke happen?

Sunday and Wednesday from 9-1 Saturday from 10:30-1

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Review Highlights - The James Joyce

“Erik and I were walking down State Street and the bar pulled us in by it's fun and lively atmosphere.”

Mentioned in 16 reviews

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4.1(370 reviews)

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went to Dargan's last week, and it took over five minutes to get my drink. I called out a few…read moretimes, but the bartender ignored me, and then still asked for a tip, which left me really disappointed.

Dargan's was the perfect venue for our wedding after party! The whole night was absolutely…read moreperfect--the music, vibes, service, and food were all fantastic. They created exactly the atmosphere we were hoping for to keep the celebration going, and our guests had such a blast. Growing up in Santa Barbara and being longtime Dargan's regulars, it was so special to share that place with all our family and friends. The energy was infectious, and it was the perfect way to end our wedding night. Having that space to continue celebrating with everyone who wanted to keep the party going was exactly what we dreamed of. They were also incredibly flexible when we had to shift our timeline due to my cancer treatment, rolling with all the changes so smoothly. If you want an amazing venue with great energy to cap off your wedding night, Dargan's is it!

Irish whiskey burger and fries

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O'Malleys Bar

2.8(204 reviews)

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We had a good time here, so I'm shocked at the negative reviews. Security out front was super…read morechill. Not too chill, they still did their jobs and ID'd us of course. One of my turnoffs for going out is when security is overly mean and intimidating, but that didn't happen here! Drinks were strong. Even if the prices are a bit steep they didn't skimp out on our drinks, I couldn't even finish mine! I was a little thrown off though how the receipt didn't have specific itemized prices it's all just one price. I have trust issues and I always wonder if places wrongfully charge me, so I always check the receipt to make sure things add up! Too bad I couldn't do that here. Two drinks in the photo were $32 all together before tip which seemed a little steep but they were strong. Makes you wonder though.....

Music is always on point. Drinks are good and well priced in my opinion. Does get very crowded but…read morethat's because Sharkeez's DJ sucks so everyone ends up coming to O'Malleys. There is an upstairs and outside area so that helps if you need a breather. Definitely recommend this place when visiting SB.

And sometimes you are just in a mood for a great Martini.

They actually refer to this particular glass (they only have one) as "Doug's Glass". Very flattering

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Old Kings Road

3.8(105 reviews)

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Tara was the best!! A group of friends and I went in at opening and she lifted the atmosphere!!…read moreCome to find out her birthday was the night before, same night as my friends! Loved this place and will be back again!!

They don't respect the alcohol limits. Today I had a terrible experience. I went to pick up my…read moreboyfriend, who was already drunk, and the bartender, knowing that the alcohol level was already high and that he shouldn't have sold him any more drinks, did so anyway. A man even bought drinks for my boyfriend, and I told him not to! The man got furious and started yelling at me. I recorded him, the bartender, and the bar staff too! I had to leave the place. I would like to file a report!Four months ago, the same thing happened! My boyfriend ordered some tequila shots, and I put my hand over the glasses to stop him from getting them. I told him he couldn't see the alcohol level, and the bartender got angry. I told him it was illegal to serve them like that! He didn't get them, but I had to intervene; otherwise, he would have gotten more drinks!

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4.5(326 reviews)

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Locally owned & operated

Certified professionals

We had a great time at the Red Piano! Jimi the fabulously…read moretalented piano player and singer was especially kind playing all our favorite tunes as we sang out of tune. Thank you for making our Birthday pal feel special!

We walked in from the fun vibe and of course the piano music. Just had dinner and wanting a…read morenightcap. I've been to Santa Barbara loads of time and this was the first time walking into this place. They did have a security guard in front checking ID. The crowd was pretty lively for Saturday night but not too overly packed. Piano man was having his moment. Hence the reason we walked in. Tables and booths were pretty much taken but we manage to get a seat at the bar counter. Cocktail menu had all you drinks, both mixed and specialty. It's a full bar so whatever you're craving I'm sure they could create. We got a few drinks as there was a couple of us. The bartenders was really sweet and fun. She was having a good time and taking care of everyone. It was only her when we walked in but a few others showed up a couple of minutes later. One of the cocktails was a bit too sweet for me so I opted for another. Went with a beer which was ok. Drink wise, about 18-20.00 per cocktails. About average wherever you go to now. Even though we were at the bar counter, a waitress came over to take our order. Piano man was very good. When we walked in he was taking request from the audience. Afterwards, the song choices were pretty great. And the sing along with everyone was fun. Hence why people love a good piano bar. Would I come back, yes. The vibe was great. It was fun place with a good amount of seating. There's a nice big bar area as well as patio seating in front. I don't know if food is offered. Would definitely come back for a fun night.

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As a couple in our mid 30s, we really enjoyed the vibes at this pub/dive bar. It's a casual spot…read morewith all of the classics, nothing fancy. They have both indoor and outdoor tables and we were able to grab our own little secluded spot in the window. As quite a few reviews have mentioned, they're very dog friendly. It would also probably be a great place to catch a soccer match.

It's somehow gotten worse. The entire establishment smells of urine and raw sewage. There are…read moreliteral digs urinating on orioles belongings. The selection of beer is extremely limited, the service was terrible as expected and the clientele was a wasteland of degenerates who may or may not be homeless. I wouldn't be caught dead here if I had it my way.

Wet floor. DOG URINE being described as a water leak.

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Finney's Crafthouse - Santa Barbara

4.2(1.7k reviews)

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W Spot W Vibes W Taquitos…read more Came here for some apps and a drink and left with tremendous energy and a new found love for Taquitos. Probably one of the best appetizers I've had in a long time. They have managed to somehow perfect Steak Taquitos -- the crunch, tender steak, and gorgeous sauce amount to a beautiful bite and experience. Cant wait to be back for those bad boys

Came here after Moxi with the family and it hit the spot. Got the A5 sandwich, truffle fries,…read morecarnitas nachos, and mac & cheese kids meal. The A5 sandwich was solid juicy and flavorful. Truffle fries were crispy with good seasoning, definitely one of the better ones. Carnitas nachos were loaded and great for sharing. The mac & cheese kids meal was simple but perfect for the kids. Prices were pretty affordable for what you get, which made it even better. Service was smooth and food came out quick even though it was busy. Only reason not a full 5 is it can get a little loud and crowded, but overall a great spot after a long day out.

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4.6(456 reviews)

0.7 mi

The Good Lion is my go to whenever I'm downtown. They always nail it when it comes to creative…read morecocktails. I especially love the names they come up with for each drink. The environment is casual, with indoor and outdoor seating. I love to people watch here! Located next to the Granada and the perfect spot to grab a few drinks before a show. Happy hour is Monday - Friday from 4-6pm and offers a small menu of $9 cocktails. Sometimes it gets pretty crowded depending on what events are happening downtown. My only gripe is that I wish they had two bartenders during the busier nights. They could be short staffed though. Nonetheless, it's still a great spot for good quality cocktails.

STEPH JUDGEMENT: Cool artsy bar with great cocktails…read more We were looking for a place to wet our whistles before dinner and this place looked promising. Located right next to the Granada Theater on the main drag, it looked to have undergone recent renovations and had a very chill but stylish ambiance. There was plenty of seating on a Wednesday night, and our bartender was a friendly young woman. The hubby got the spiced rum old fashioned, which had an ice cube with a lion's face etched onto it--a nice touch. I got one of their tiny Negronis, which came in a cute tiny mug and cost $5 (it sounded fun). Both tasted great and we had a nice time sipping our drinks and taking in the decor. Alas we had to be on our way so couldn't linger long, but we'd definitely love to stop by again the next time we're in town.

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Edgar - Ken-tiki Kentucky

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Joe's Cafe

3.6(1k reviews)

0.1 mi

Joe's Cafe on lower State Street in Santa Barbara, opens at 7:30 am to showcase its extensive menu…read more There are numerous attractive items and I had a tough time choosing. However, by the time I got there, it was past noon and selected their daily special which was a stuffed chicken dish. Think of something like cordon bleu, white meat stuffed with 3 different cheeses and spinach, then breaded on the outside and deep fried. The dish arrives hot and sliced in 3-4 good sized pieces. Lovely aroma and optics. The chicken meat was moist and tender, the cheeses melting in harmony and each bite delivered a piece of that crispy outside. For the sides, I chose the mashed potatoes and vegetables (zucchini and carrots), both of which complemented the main perfectly well. Service was attentive, caring and friendly. This eatery has a spacious dining area and the place can get busy. Not surprising, because there are so many options on the menu (for breakfast, lunch and dinner), that there is every reason to come back, so you could try more of the vast menu.

Had to come to Joe's Cafe while here. Had a drink because they are legendarily large pours…read moreaccording to local lore. Umm. Can neither confirm nor deny that claim. Recommend you check it out and report back! Enjoyed the wines and service at the bar. Reasonable drink prices. Great place! An institution.

Inside

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Eureka!

3.8(1.2k reviews)

0.3 mi

Tried their wings for the first time, super yummy!…read more Sat at this corner lounge area with couches and a nice view. Prompt service!

Overall, it's a pretty good spot with reasonable prices. We got the mimosa flight -- totally worth…read moreit and really tasty. My favorite was the passion fruit one. We ordered two burgers: the Bacon Jalapeño Jam (not spicy, which I liked) and the Fresno Fig. One was well done, the other medium rare, and both were cooked correctly. The meat tasted great, and the fries were crispy outside and soft inside -- super fresh and delicious. The restrooms were clean, the atmosphere was cool, and the seats were comfortable. The only downsides: the water tasted bad, and the forks we got were dirty with food still on them. We didn't use them and just ate the burgers with our hands. Would be a great place if not for those two things. Overall, still good. Music is moderate and not loud.

Recently renovated space!

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4.2(661 reviews)

0.7 mi

ONE OF MY FAVORITE SPOTS IN SB!!!…read more This place has been one of my favorites for years. My best friend and I come every time I'm in town & they are always on point from the service, to the amazing food & beautiful drinks! Monday night our server was very attentive, quick with water refills (which I love) and very pleasant. We also sat inside for the first time as we usually sit on the outdoor patio which is no longer in place, and I was happy with the indoor ambiance. We ordered a variety of our favorites - the some brie sauce, date with a pig, PB&J sliders as well as some new items - the shrimp tacos & veggie sliders (both were outstanding). I cannot recommend this place enough & I would eat here every night if I could!

Great service. Friendly and attentive. Also nice lively ambiance. It is located off state street…read morebut close to the action proximity. This restaurant has multiple booth tables for two people tucked in the back facing the open kitchen. It would be nice on a date night. We got six tapas and one entree. Enough for four of us. My favorite is cauliflower, beet it salad, and that is my jam. The lamb rack has tasty mushroom risotto- can't stop eating it! City parking offered 75 minutes free parking.

Intimate couples date seating

Bacon Wrapped Dates

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Brussels Sprouts

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47 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Ella B.

Elite 7

638

16 years ago

Weird s* happens here. First time: these old, er, "older" men would not stop hitting on my friend after she basically said my friend (that would be me) is here, I'm going now... the dude proceeded to ask me about my friend and what her "problem" is.. uh, the "problem" would be YOU since you are nearly twice our age and won't stop talking about what a bitch your last gf was. smooth move, loser. Second time: scary dude siting in the corner says he wants to kick one of the guys that we are with in the face! wtf. I don't care who you think you are mr. ex cop now bailiff or whatever person. You don't go around threatening people for no good reason a*hole. The bouncers seemed to think it was all ok that the guy was a jerk. anyway, whatever, this place is eh. they draw an older crowd but when when a Jamison on the rocks is $5, you know why. read more

DJ T.

9 years ago

There's shells and sawdust on the floor for that old-timey feel, and darts because yeah, let's give drunk people lethal projectile weapons. Hipsters and losers of all ages hang out at the James Joyce, an establishment that does not live up to its namesake. The karaoke is painful and a clear sign of desperation for The James Joyce business managers, trying to find a niche but sadly outclassed by the bar across the street. As far as Irish pubs go, I think one of the lazy security guys is like a quarter Irish, and that's about as authentic as it gets. Locals know to stay away from the JJ and tourists don't know better, so for now the place is still operating. read more

M M.

8 years ago

Tom is unreasonable person. His bar threw me out one afternoon 4 years ago while I was cold stone sober while watching baseball on tv. The bar never gave me a reason. Why don't you stick a potato up yours Tom & company, go back to Galway you mrhrfks, stuck-up mihcS. Take your Frankenstein sisters too, Hibernian trash. Updated June 2018. Same stinkin bar. Went in & had a beer Sunday June 10th, 2018. Hadn't been into JJ in 4 years. Same bartender with nose hair down to her waist. Smell was something out of Jurassic Park birthing room. Pee all over inside restroom. It'll be another 4 years before I go in. Might be covert female mutilation headquarters. read more

Stacey D.