As the winter season descends on Santa Barbara with colder weather and earlier nights, comfort food satisfies in a deeper way, and Fresco Cafe’s reemergence is just the ticket to warm your belly and your heart.
After amassing a loyal following at their Five Points location for more than 20 years, closing and opening a location briefly on Canon Perdido, their outpost, which opened at the Santa Barbara Public Market in July finally feels like home.
“The idea to re-open Fresco emerged from a desire to bring back a beloved local spot that had a strong connection with the community,” Public Market Manager Natalie Ramos, who is running the new spot with original owner Jill Petarca, said. “I recognized the demand for a vibrant, welcoming place that offers fresh, quality food in a lively environment. The Public Market’s unique ambiance also provided the perfect backdrop for this revival.”
My first time at Fresco, I was greeted with bright and passionate service from my cashier Aleeya. The vibrant gorgonzola salad with candied pecans, chopped tomatoes, and an addictive balsamic vinaigrette was just as bright as her smile. It’s no wonder this dish is one of the many favorites that put them on the map as a go-to spot back when they opened in 1996, and their personable service continues to be a defining quality of the restaurant.
In a land of expensive small plates that can leave you searching for the closest In-N-Out afterwards, Fresco’s filling and straightforward fare feels like having dinner at your mom’s house, or your friend’s house whose mom is a really good cook.
The menu contains favorites from the original Fresco menu. These include their succulent quiche, which changes daily, their creative sandwiches, such as the Hot Mushroom Combo with Dijon and Brie cheese, and the classic Cesar Salad with plenty of shaved parm.
“While we remain committed to quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere, we have made adjustments to align with contemporary culinary trends and customer preferences,” Ramos said. “This includes the incorporation of seasonal ingredients whenever possible, along with a rotating daily specials menu, all while preserving the core essence that made the original Fresco so beloved.”
I look forward to checking out their Daily Specials which add novelty to your lunch or dinner routine. A recent Eggplant Parmesan Calzone served hot with a zesty marinara sauce really wow’d my tastebuds and left me eager to continue checking their specials on Instagram. I’ll be first in line next time it makes an appearance.
Other highlights from the menu include the housemade Turkey Burger which comes with your choice of cheese (I always go for provolone!) melted atop a tender patty and served on a fluffy brioche bun drizzled with their special sauce, lettuce and tomato. The Chicken and Smoked Mozzarella sandwich, a melty balm of tender grilled chicken, topped with roasted red peppers, gooey smoked mozz and served on fresh levain sourdough. Entrees are served with their delightful soups or salads, and it’s important to note that their incredible dressings, such as the Caesar or Sesame Ginger also come bottled for purchase from their refrigerator, so you can bring back that homemade goodness to your own pantry.
“We pay close attention to where we source our ingredients,” Ramos said. “We prioritize local and sustainable suppliers to ensure freshness and support the community. For example, our bread is sourced from a renowned local bakery, D’Angelos, that uses traditional methods and high-quality ingredients, which enhances our offerings.”
Complete your treat of a meal with one of their cult-favorite desserts, such as the rich chocolate mousse, vanilla cheesecake or banana cream pudding.
“I love our homemade pastries, which reflect our commitment to quality and craftsmanship,” Ramos said. “The cheesecake, the cream cheese brownies, the flourless cupcakes – you cannot go wrong.”
It’s certainly hard to take a wrong turn when, in the midst of the bustling public market, a visit to Fresco feels like you’ve landed at mom’s house and she’s making you exactly the dish you crave. So the next time you need a little comfort or just a simple and nourishing meal on a chilly night, head to Fresco for that warm hug in food form.
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