Where is the Best Steak in Santa Barbara, California?
My husband and I were in Santa Barbara to celebrate our 21st anniversary. Holdren’s was recommended by several locals we talked to. We arrived at 6:20, no reservations, and were seated immediately at the outside cafe. We started with the crab cake appetizers, served on pilaf. Delicious crab cakes, didn’t need the pilaf. My husband ordered the crab stuffed chicken breast. He ate about 4 bites, and couldn’t eat the rest. He didn’t enjoy the ‘odd’ taste. I ordered the house salad, good, but a little too much dressing. My entree was crunchy coconut shrimp with mango chutney- delicious and a large portion thankfully, because I ended up sharing with my husband (and he doesn’t really like coconut). For dessert, he ordered the double chocolate sin cake – enormous serving, and very tasty. I ordered the caramel apple cobbler with streusel topping. I took one bite and tasted onions, not to mention, it wasn’t completely cooked, and the ‘struesel’ was ‘gooey’. I expected more from the
Traditional American fare without the high trendy prices. It’s a Steakhouse in a strip mall. I had always seen this place, but never went there due to it’s location. However, one of my friends recommended it so I tried it. They have excellent service. They bring everything when they are supposed to, instead of bringing everything at the same time (i.e. appetizers and entrees). You walk in and you get the feeling that you’ve travelled into the past. They have soft cushioned vinyl/leather seats with the bronze rivets. The bar is in dark wood. They make good cocktails and the food is good. I had prime rib and my girlfriend had some seafood. I totally expected a high bill, but it was under $75 including drinks….and I drink.Pros + service, service, service, price, food, old school feelCons – It’s small
Ok, this is the kind of place you seek out because you want to sit on the beach, look at the ocean, or kids in the sand, or fishermen on the pier. The food is good, not really, really good, but satisfying. I had an over-sauced, crab-stuffed piece of halibut, that was tasty, but just missing perfection. My boyfriend’s salmon baked in parchment was very flavorful. The desserts lacked oomph (actually, the cake we had was store bought and too sweet). The drinks are fantastic. Probably a great spot for an afternoon snack and cocktail. Very crowded with every type of person imaginable. If it’s a cool day or night, ask to sit by the enourmous fireplace out on the patio. Very fun. Glad we found it.Pros + great patio, on the beachCons – hit or miss food
Neither my date or I were impressed with Chuck’s. I really don’t know why people rave about their salad bar — it was mainly ice-berg lettuce with picked-over containers of other things, including brown-ish sprouts. And I’d like to see them get real menus, instead of having to read their items silkscreened onto a wine bottle — and I’d prefer to read what the “specials” (ie halibut) are (and how much the cost) instead of having the listen to the waiter. If you like super-salty food, you’ll love the rice here — I don’t, so I couldn’t eat it. The accoustics and seating (chair arms prevent you from getting close to the table) should be improved. Overall, seemed rather expensive for the quality of the food and ambiance.Pros + parking
