Referrals

Can edhat readers recommend a reputable shop or mechanic to do some work on a nearly 20-year-old BMW? I'm trying to avoid the dealership and their $200/hr for labor alone, it's ridiculous. Thanks for the help!

Looking for recommendations around the Santa Barbara area for car painters. Any personal experiences out there and what did you pay?

Are there any local charities that accept car donations without going through an organization based in Rhode Island -- I'm looking for a local transaction. The car is not junk, it runs well and has only about 100,000 miles.

Can anyone recommend a reliable and competent pool service company?

Can people recommend a somewhat mellow hiking trail that's still a bit challenging and offers great views? My nieces and nephews are coming to visit this weekend and their ages range from 8 to 14 so I'd like to find a trail good for all of them. Not too boring for the older ones and not too hard for the little ones. Thanks for the tips.

I am wondering if edhatters know any person/place that does vibration therapy for the purpose of bone regrowth/stimulation?

I've been having a debate with my co-workers all morning about the best pizza in town. Granted we all like different styles of pizza, but we noticed a few places seemed to stand out as favorites. I was curious what places other people think makes the best pizza and why? [Disclaimer: we were not considering price in this debate, purely taste]

What are some places that edhat readers enjoy for Taco Tuesday specials?

Looking for reputable Nail Technicians with training and expertise in caring for the pedicure needs and nail health of senior-citizen clients.

I'm looking for a local caterer with reasonable pricing to cater a small event I'm hosting. Nothing fancy, just some basic appetizers and nibbles. Thanks for the help! 

I need a dress hemmed for a wedding ASAP. Can edhat readers recommend a seamstress who does great work with a good turn-around time?

Do edhatters have a recommendation for a skilled wedding photographer who knows the area? We're getting married at the University Club and would like someone who knows the surroundings and has creative photo ideas. Thanks for your help!

I am looking for a referral for a (small job) rain gutter installation. Does the edhat community have suggestions? Thank you!

My wife and I are looking for pre-planned cremation service. Can any Edhatters recommend providers to look at or avoid?

Can edhat readers recommend a reliable attorney that does wills?

I'm looking for a private chef ... not a high-priced celebrity chef, but rather someone who can prepare & deliver simple, quality, reasonably priced meals for people too busy to cook. Can edhat readers recommend one?

Well... it's National Margarita Day and now all I can think about is having one for happy hour. But I'm curious, which is the best place in town that edhatters like to drink margaritas?

Can an edhatter recommend a CPA or EA who can handle tax returns for expats?

Can edhat readers recommend a local family portrait photographer? I've had a hard time getting a good photo of my 6-month-old and 2-year-old together and would love someone who's talented and patient. Thanks for the suggestions!

Ok, I'm just going to ask what a lot of people are thinking. Now that marijuana is legal (as of Jan 1), where can we buy it in Santa Barbara County? I'm aware that the City of Santa Barbara has been ridiculously strict in allowing the businesses within the city limits, so is there anywhere in the county we can visit?

We are looking for a location for a rehearsal dinner in July. It needs to be downtown or further east and must accommodate 50 people. Suggestions, please?

Is now a good time to change the air filters on our cars or should we wait a little longer due to the Thomas Fire ash?

What's the best vantage point tonight for viewing the meteor showers? It's supposed to be the best in decades. Thanks.

Does anyone have suggestions for the best neighborhoods for Christmas lights?

Where's the best place to view the Super Moon in Santa Barbara County?

Does anyone have recommendations for an attorney that specializes in education and special needs? Thank you in advance.

Does anyone have suggestions for an attorney versed in solar easement issues? We installed solar panels many years ago. A neighbor has planted large trees on the fence line that are now blocking the sunlight. He refuses to deal with the problem after nicely being asked for many years. We are ready to take whatever action we can. Thank you!

Does anyone know of safe and well-lit places in SB to walk/run early in the morning with a dog?

Or, is there anyone out there looking for a walk/running buddy that would like to exercise 4:30-5:30am?

Can edhatters recommend the best local veterinarian (hopefully near the downtown/westside area) for an elderly dog?

I know that renting (upscale) hotel rooms by the hour is getting popular in larger cities. Does anyone know of a local hotel that charges by the hour or partial day?

I am trying to find the coolest, best playground for my 7-year-old granddaughter tomorrow since schools are closed and so is the Kids World at Keck Park. Can edhat readers help me out?

With the new time change, I'm wondering if any edhatters have go-to dog walking areas that have light? Thanks!

Can edhat readers recommend a dry cleaner for drapes?

I've been looking for a decent satchel/purse/messenger bag for men and am hitting a brick wall. There are myriad satchels/purses/messenger bags for guys online, but (a) I want to see close-up what I'm getting, and (b) I prefer buying locally. I've been to all the obvious places—Macy's, Nordstrom, H&M, REI, and several smaller retailers—but the supply of what I want is nonexistent. I don't mind spending up to a couple of hundred dollars, but first I've got to FIND something.

 I’m looking for recommendations for pre-made holiday dinners. Something that can accommodate about 30 family members.

Can Edhat readers provide their recommendations for best places to order pies for Thanksgiving?

What neighborhoods are the best for local kids to trick-or-treat? I moved to a new neighborhood and noticed hardly any of the family's trick-or-treat there. Where do all the kids go?

Has anyone gotten a residential solar system from Vivint Solar? I'm researching them. I'd be using a Power Purchase Agreement. 

I'm looking for a recommendation for a Food Truck for a non-profit organization event. It's not a huge event - not Lemon Festival or Avo fest size - so it would need to be someone who is ok with that. Thanks!

What month or time-frame do local edhatters think is the best for having an outdoor wedding in the Santa Barbara area?

Are there any hotels in the Santa Barbara area that have a mid-century modern themed decor? Thank you!

Does anyone know of a good gardener in the area? I need one for my front/backyard.

I need a recommendation for someone who can lessen the dip at the beginning of the driveway from the street. My car bottoms out. Ashphalt? Concrete? Who is good and not too expensive?

I need carpal tunnel surgery and am wondering if anyone would like to share advice or referrals. Thank so much Edhatters!

Looking for a recommendation for a local repair shop to fix my Fiat 500 Sport.

Edhatters: What suggestions do you have for a smallish restaurant in SB that is locally owned and operated and has a fairly healthy menu? I have some visitors coming to town who want to go somewhere different (they've been to the usual popular places). Two of them are vegetarians and two are meat eaters so a menu with variety would be helpful! Thanks!

Now that Santa Barbara Volkswagen is out of business, where are owners of late model VW's taking their cars for service and repairs?

I'm looking for a recommendation for a qualified individual who can fix my interior banister.  It wobbles.  The problem seems to be the newell post.

What are some favorite daily specials at local restaurants? Joes Café has some interesting ones, Cuca's has a burrito of the day, there must be others.

I've seen a lot of advertising from Cottage Hospital lately, are a lot of residents going to Ventura County or elsewhere for healthcare?