8 Historic Santa Barbara Bars That Are Still Pouring Drinks Today

Santa Barbara’s dining scene is more than a collection of places to eat and drink; it reflects generations of history shaped by changing ownership, shifting neighborhoods, and time. Several bars and restaurants across the county have endured for decades, adapting to modern tastes while retaining much of their original character.

From former stagecoach stops to long-running Italian restaurants and neighborhood lounges, these establishments continue to offer places to gather, celebrate, and experience Santa Barbara’s past.

Take a Look at Historic Bars in Santa Barbara

1. Cold Spring Tavern

Location: 5995 Stagecoach Road, Santa Barbara

Cold Spring Tavern began operating as a stagecoach stop in 1868, with portions of the original structure dating to around 1860. The buildings that now include the Long Room and kitchen reflect this early period. Later ownership under Adelaide Ovington helped transition the property into a restaurant while preserving its historic character.

Today, Cold Spring Tavern is known for oak-grilled tri-tip sandwiches, ribs, and traditional fare. Its hillside location and preserved interiors continue to draw visitors.

2. Mattei’s Tavern

Location: 2350 Railway Ave, Los Olivos

Mattei’s Tavern, now known as “The Tavern,” in Los Olivos traces its history to 1886 and reflects California’s ranching and agricultural heritage. The historic bar remains a central feature, with elements that date back to its early years. The establishment is also known for its extensive wine program.

The restaurant locally sources ingredients, including produce from nearby farms and its on-site garden. Its menu highlights grilled dishes, seasonal vegetables, and composed entrées. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it functions as both a dining destination and a social gathering place rooted in the Santa Ynez Valley’s rural past.

3. Joe’s Cafe

Location: 536 State Street, Santa Barbara

Joe’s Cafe opened in 1928 after Joe Ferrario purchased what was then known as the Channel Bar. The State Street location had previously housed several businesses, reflecting the area’s changing commercial history. Despite opening just before the Great Depression, Joe’s quickly became a fixture in downtown Santa Barbara.

Following the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the cafe resumed serving draft beer. Over the decades, it has developed a reputation for classic cocktails and a lively atmosphere. The menu includes traditional breakfast plates and familiar American fare.

4. Arnoldi’s Cafe

Location: 6oo Olive Street, Santa Barbara

Arnoldi’s Cafe was founded in 1936 by Giuseppe and Ilda Arnoldi. Several years later, Giuseppe constructed the current stone building using locally quarried materials. The restaurant has long been known for its Italian cuisine, garden setting, and bocce courts.

Since the 1940s, Arnoldi’s has hosted musicians and dancers, contributing to its role as both a restaurant and a community gathering place. While ownership has changed in recent years, Arnoldi’s continues to operate with many of its longstanding traditions intact. The menu features Italian-inspired appetizers, pastas, and meat dishes.

5. The Pickle Room

Location: 126 E. Canon Perdido Street, Santa Barbara

The Pickle Room Bar originally opened in 1947 as Jimmy’s Oriental Gardens. After remaining closed for an extended period, the space reopened under its current name in 2013. The bar maintains a connection to the site’s past while operating as a casual neighborhood establishment.

The menu includes deli-style sandwiches, salads, soups, fried items, and cocktails. The Pickle Room functions as both a neighborhood bar and an informal dining spot.

6. Tee-Off Restaurant and Lounge

Location: 3627 State Street, Santa Barbara

Established in 1964, the Tee-Off Restaurant and Lounge reflects the style of a traditional neighborhood steakhouse. Small in size and straightforward in layout, it has remained focused on steaks, chops, seafood, and classic cocktails.

Known for its no-frills approach, the bar has attracted regular customers over the years. Its longevity is tied to consistency rather than reinvention, making it a familiar stop along State Street.

7. Harry’s Plaza Cafe

Location: 3313-B State Street, Santa Barbara

Harry’s Plaza Cafe opened in 1968 and is known for its interior décor featuring historic photographs of Santa Barbara. The restaurant was founded by Harry Davis and later restored by John Scott, who emphasized preserving its original character.

Serving American comfort food along with cocktails, beer, and wine, Harry’s has remained a popular gathering place. The Ranchero Room provides space for group events, reinforcing its role as a social venue.

8. Chase Restaurant

Location: 1012 State Street, Santa Barbara

Chase Restaurant opened in 1979 and has long been associated with Italian-inspired cuisine and a prominent downtown location. The restaurant features indoor dining along with limited outdoor seating.

In October 2024, the restaurant was damaged by a fire and is undergoing rebuilding efforts. Known for its pastas, flatbreads, cocktails, and wine program, Chase remains part of State Street’s long-running dining history.

Together, these establishments reflect Santa Barbara’s history beyond headlines and postcards. Each represents the era in which it was founded while adapting to changing times.