Any suggestions for great restaurants in Santa Barbara?

Try www.chowhound.com . That's the PRIME resource for foodies. Do a search on SB when you get to the CA board there.

San Ysidro Ranch is lovely for dinner.

When I was there, we ate at 2 places at completely different ends of the spectrum. One was Citronelle, which was lovely--fantastic food, beautiful room, stupendous views. Then, on our way out of town, we stopped at a very famous Mexican takeout place; I can't remember the name, but you can find it in most travel books (or maybe another poster will know it). It's been heralded by Julia Child. Nothing to look at--you'd probably end up eating in your car--but it was terrific and ultra cheap!

Another vote for Citronelle. Wonderful!

Karen

The tortilla stand that gab was referring to is La Super-Rica Taco. It is definitely worth a visit. Also good is the Wine Cask.

La Super Rica Taco is over-rated. It's okay, but nothing that special. It's been debated in past postings.

I live in SB and a place that everyone's talking about that is relatively new is Tupelo Junction on Chapala St. Filled with locals who love good food, fresh ingredients, simply made. Prices are average to high (ie., 17-25 dollars for dinner) but food is fabulous.

Chad's is very good - charming setting as well. Wine Cask was good the last time I was there (2 yrs ago). I like Rudy's and La Super Rica for take-out Mexican, and The Palace is a really fun, more casual place for dinner (but there's a long wait -no reservations). I guess you would term the food as Cajun. Chowhound.com is a great resource- check it out!

Cindy,
I second the vote for Tupelo Junction. They have excellent food. Other favorites: Chad's, Palace, Palazzio.