4.5
(
499
)
Arnoldi's Cafe offers authentic Italian fare in a historic Santa Barbara setting, featuring generous portions and a casual vibe.
The space includes outdoor seating with bocce courts and a bustling bar program. Reservations are recommended, especially for special events.
What to Expect:
🍝 Hearty traditional Italian dishes
🍸 Well-crafted cocktails and wine list
🎾 Outdoor bocce court fun
🌿 Cozy, historic ambiance with patio seating
Important Information:
Reservations recommended; accepts credit and debit cards, mobile payments
Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms
Free street parking and valet available, though parking can be challenging
Perfect for romantic dinners, group celebrations, and casual nights out in Santa Barbara.
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🍝 Generous Portions: Arnoldi's is known for huge servings, so come hungry or plan for leftovers.
🎾 Bocce Courts: Patio includes bocce ball courts, ideal for a fun gathering before or after dining.
🍸 Happy Hour: Daily from 4–5 PM, enjoy discounted cocktails and bites in the historic bar.
🎉 Event Friendly: Popular spot for weddings and large parties with flexible event planning and private dining options.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 4 PM–9 PM
Tuesday: 4 PM–9 PM
Wednesday: 4 PM–9 PM
Thursday: 4 PM–9 PM
Friday: 4 PM–9 PM
Saturday: 4 PM–9 PM
Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
👉 Best For
Groups, romantic dinners, celebrations, casual dining
Arnoldi's Cafe
600 Olive St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101
Review Sentiment
.svg)
Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Arnoldi's Cafe enjoys praise for authentic Italian dishes, large portions, and lively atmosphere enhanced by bocce courts and patio seating. Exceptional service and drink offerings also delight patrons. While many rave about its charm and quality, a few reviews mention inconsistent food quality and occasional service hiccups, yet the overall feedback leans very positive.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Go For
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Chicken Parmesan, Gnocchi, Spaghetti, Short Rib Ravioli, Arancini, Eggplant Parmesan, Salumeria Plate, Cannoli, Affogato, Italian Beer, Cocktails, Wine
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit Sunday for lunch or early dinner to avoid crowds; weekdays at 4 PM during happy hour offer a lively but less packed atmosphere.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, restrooms, and seating. Some areas may require advance notice for accommodations.
Reservation Policy
Reservations recommended; specify outdoor seating preference in advance
Join the Crew
The best of the Catskills, delivered to your inbox every Tuesday. Trusted by over 40,000 locals, weekenders, and wanderers.
Join for Free
Similar
Montecito Coffee Shop
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
🍳 Breakfast
–
•
Heading
4.5
Cozy cafe offering American breakfast and brunch favorites with outdoor seating and great coffee in Santa Barbara.
Harry's Plaza Cafe
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
🍔 American
–
•
Heading
4.6
Classic Santa Barbara bar serving generous American comfort food, strong drinks, and old-school vibes in a casual, cozy setting.
Panda Express
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
🥡 Chinese
–
•
Heading
3.8
Fast-food chain serving classic American Chinese dishes with quick service, health-conscious options, and casual vibe.
Szechuan Restaurant
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
🥡 Chinese
–
•
Heading
4.3
Regional Sichuan dishes with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and vegetarian options offer authentic Chinese dining in Santa Barbara's Alta Mesa.
Finney's Crafthouse - Santa Barbara
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
🍔 American
–
•
Heading
4.5
Brick-lined gastropub with a copper bar serving unique eats, local beers on tap, and craft cocktails in a lively Santa Barbara setting.
Eureka!
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
🍔 American
–
•
Heading
4.3
Hip spot for elevated burgers, craft beer, and whiskey in a chic industrial setting with a lively vibe.
Topa Topa Brewing Co.
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
–
•
Heading
4.7
Airy brewery with a lively mix of craft beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe, boasting a spacious patio and friendly service.
Sam's To Go
$
Goleta
•
$$
🍔 American
–
•
Heading
4.5
Casual sandwich shop serving fresh, made-to-order subs and burgers, known for generous portions and quick service in Goleta.
Tortilla Beach Santa Barbara
$
Santa Barbara
•
$
🌮 Mexican
–
•
Heading
None
Casual Mexican spot offering quick bites, comfort food, and fresh tacos with outdoor seating and friendly service in Santa Barbara.
SB Biergarten
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
🥨 German
–
•
Heading
4.4
Casual German beer garden with a broad craft beer selection, hearty comfort food, and a lively indoor-outdoor atmosphere in Santa Barbara.
Chad’s Cafe
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
🍳 Breakfast
–
•
Heading
4.4
Classic beachside breakfast spot serving all-day favorites like chocolate chip pancakes with ocean views and a retro vibe.
El Encanto, Santa Barbara
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$$$
–
•
Heading
4.6
Luxe Santa Barbara hotel with elegant rooms, infinity pool, boutique spa, and upscale California Coastal restaurant.
Back to Restaurants
✅ Cancellation Policy
None
