Loquita Santa Barbara image

Loquita Santa Barbara

Restaurant Spanish restaurant

Farm–fresh Spanish tapas & craft cocktails are served at this busy haunt with a cozy vibe & a patio. People often mention great, service, paella, Loquita, restaurant, tapas, good, experience, amazing, Santa,


Address

202 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Website

loquitasb.com

Contact

(805) 880-3380

Price rating

$$$ $

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (1.2K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: 5 to 9 PM
  • Tuesday: 5 to 9 PM
  • Wednesday: 5 to 9 PM
  • Thursday: 5 to 9 PM
  • Friday: 5 to 9 PM
  • Saturday: 4 to 9 PM
  • Sunday: 5 to 9 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: great (21) service (20) paella (18) Loquita (15) restaurant (15) tapas (14) good (14) experience (11) amazing (11) Santa (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 3/5 Athena V. 2 years ago on Google
    The food was definitely authentic if you have ever been to Spain. The tortilla and the paella as well as the churro’s with the dipping sauces. The food is small servings so don’t expect huge plates it’s definitely tapas. The vermouth was outstanding as well as the wine. I was a bit offended as the person waiting on us kept making comments concerning how costly it could be if we ordered more plates. I felt a bit as if he judged what we could or couldn’t afford. It truly did make us decide to leave after our first bottle of wine.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yihao C. 1 year ago on Google
    Loquita is a Wonderful place to try great Spanish food! The small bites are delicious and innovative, and the paella is made great. Service and vibe is great also. The price is on the expensive side though. Still highly recommend for a visit.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Julia G. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing food! The octopus was out of this world and the paella was delicious. I highly recommend one of their gin and tonics. I had one that was more flower forward and it was so good. I would love to come back here - great food and great environment.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Justin D. 1 year ago on Google
    I tried this place for the first time tonight and it’s definitely become one of my favorites in town. The restaurant is on the upscale, fine dining side, meaning the food is more like an experience than a meal (if you know what I mean). Service was great, extremely professional. The restaurant has specialty gin and tonics which were smooth. The food was the highlight of the whole night - every bite was amazing and perfectly planned, although portions were very small. The server recommended 2 tapas plates per person and one paella for 4 people, but that was definitely not nearly enough food for moderately hungry people. That being said, the taste was like no food I’ve had before. Definitely worth checking out.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Nicole M. 2 years ago on Google
    Everything was good! We were able to get in without a reservation! We arrived around 8 pm on a very cold and chilly night. The wind was out of control but they had lots of heaters and blankets. I just felt like every dish had a little bit too much mayonnaise! It's Spanis /tapas style restaurant with California fusion!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 brett s. 1 year ago on Google
    Went here for my wife's birthday. It was a great experience. The paella was worth the trip. It took time but it allowed us to enjoy our drinks, which were amazing, and a few tapas. The octopus was a hit and the crudo (pictured) was the perfect bite. We will definitely return.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Erica Y. 8 months ago on Google
    It's good! Loquita's name is recognizable if you ask anyone but it isn't on the top of my list for Spanish tapas. 4/5 Food - You can't really go wrong with anything on their menu but I didn't have anything that I'll keep thinking about. Carpaccio de Carne - 4.5/5 | I liked it, get it if you haven't tried beef carpaccio! Flavors packed a punch. Pulpo - 4/5 | Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside just how I like it. Plating is beautiful! Piquillo pepper emulsion looked brighter than it tasted. I've just had pulpo with better flavor pairings. Paella - 4/5 | For transparency, it took about ~40 minutes (our reservation was at Sunday 4pm). It was good but would've liked it to be more spicy. The layer of rice is thin although the pan is very large. Love the squid, shrimps were decent, clams were ok. Chocolate ganache with sorbet/cherries - 4/5 | Ganache + the crumble were good but the cherries were not my favorite. 3/5 Service - Average service. I wouldn't say it's standout, although everyone has different experiences. Wasn't checked on verbally throughout the meal although the server was on top of the water. Was given the dessert menu and very short and concise explanations of the sorbete of the day/what their Chocolate dessert was when we asked. Interactions were straight to the point. 4/5 Ambiance - Brick patio was very pretty and was a good distance from the parking lot. It had lighting and greenery with great photo ops if you wish. I recommend sitting there if you want something more calm and quiet. They will set up umbrellas if it's sunny. They do have two patios (one brick, one black tile closer to their parking). All the seating options are great (indoor/brick patio) no matter where you book!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J K. 2 years ago on Google
    We ordered several tapas and paella for our party of 4. They are one of the best we have had in US, on par with the quality we experienced in Barcelona. The rice in paella is soaked with all the flavor and super tasty. Short rib is very tender and cooked perfectly.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 joe c. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely a must when visiting Santa Barbara! Best food in town. Truly fantastic flavors. My favorite spot but make a reservation well in advance. Fills up quick!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sou M. 1 year ago on Google
    Trendy vibe, tasty food, and friendly staff. We shared a few small plates and liked all of them. Our favorites were the grilled squid and flatbread with fig jam. This place is on the pricey side and if you dont have a reservation you might have to stand in line for an hour. I highly recommend stopping by especially if you are in town for a short time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Wei H. 1 year ago on Google
    It’s a nice and great restaurant for Spanish cuisines. All the paella is really tasty and traditional. We tried patata as well, and those are gorgeous!! Our dining area is at patio. It is pretty and nice!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anh N. 11 months ago on Google
    We came here for our anniversary and they were so nice to give us 2 free glasses of champagne and a cute little card. Friendly staff and great view as we sat by the window. We ordered the octopus and jumbo prawns and they both tasted fresh and delicious. Would definitely be back to try other dishes.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Omid A. 4 months ago on Google
    🧆 Food: I was thoroughly impressed with the culinary delights at Loquita. The paella was a standout dish for me, bursting with authentic Spanish flavors. Their tapas selection was equally remarkable, offering a creative array of choices that were both innovative and delicious. It was a memorable dining experience, elevated by the superb quality of the food. ⭐️ Service: The service at Loquita was top-notch. From the moment I arrived, the staff were attentive and professional, ensuring a seamless dining experience. Their recommendations were spot-on, adding to the overall enjoyment of my meal. 🌌 Atmosphere: The atmosphere at Loquita is charming and welcoming. Dining in their delightful courtyard was a treat. The relaxed yet vibrant ambiance made the evening even more special. It's the kind of place that immediately puts you at ease, perfect for a casual get-together or a celebratory meal. In summary, my visit to Loquita was exceptional. The combination of exquisite food, excellent service, and a warm atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot in Santa Barbara. I'm already looking forward to my next meal there!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Blackberry B. 6 months ago on Google
    The mushroom and ham are delight surprises! Each course is very unique and has complex texture. Previously tried paella but personally not crazy about it. Would like to visit again and try something new!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jeffrey C. 4 months ago on Google
    We shared several small plates here just a few nights ago and found it delightful! We arrived with reservations but were early. It was busy. We had one seat at the bar so I stood and we had a cocktail. The bartender was super friendly and knowledgable. As we got closer to our reservation there was an opening at the bar. There was a huge crowd at the door waiting. We just decided we'd give up our res and sit at the bar. The facility is nicely decorated and clean. The atmosphere is energetic and fast paced. We decided on tapas while enjoying our cocktails and landed on the Jamon Croquettas, Anchovy Toast and Potatoes Bravas with Jamon. All were delicious but the croquettes were the best. Crunchy on the outside moist and hammy in the middle! Our bartender provided great service and the back of the house had a quick turn around on the small plates. Fully recommend and will definitely return on our next visit. Urban Cowgill November 2023
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rickard J. 6 months ago on Google
    The food was great, and the service was super friendly. I highly recommend parking across the street at the train station. The absolute best thing about this restaurant is the outdoor atmosphere, when you make the reservation make sure you reserve a table on the patio.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brooke B. 3 years ago on Google
    First of all the service is very kind, the atmosphere is amazing and the food is very accurate and good. We'll return for sure next time in S. Barbara.

  • 5/5 Sarah P. 1 year ago on Google
    My husband and I came here right when they opened at 5pm and there was such a long line, I didn’t understand the hype until the food came. First of all, the wait staff is exquisite. Our waitress was so knowledgeable about the food and wine there it was so helpful to know what to pair with the meal. Getting paella here is a must do. Being Portuguese I’m used to a certain style but the Spanish paella here is amazing! So much food we had a lot left to take home

  • 5/5 Bottle R. 3 years ago on Google
    Most amazing experience. Food is on point. The bartender Sean made the night most remarkable. He’s got it going on! Thank you Sean!!

  • 5/5 Cheryl G. 3 years ago on Google
    My preferred spot for tasty spanish food. One of the best spots in the area. Atmosphere is similar to a cafe in San Jose I loved.

  • 5/5 Michael B. 3 years ago on Google
    We got A TON of recommendations on this place, boss, friends, gym buddies so we hit it. We WERE NOT disappointed. The service and food was beyond anything we’ve had in a tapas style restaurant before. DEFINITELY try this place if you’re in the SB area.

  • 5/5 Chantanee B. 3 years ago on Google
    Great food and service.

  • 5/5 Ronnie M. 3 years ago on Google
    Outstanding scene for tasty spanish food. i love snacking here. the service was very kind and attentive. the bill was reasonable. this place has many good reviews for a reason.

  • 5/5 Amanda T. 3 years ago on Google
    Some of the best food I’ve ever had! We tried about 8 different dishes and all of them were amazing. The outdoor patio had heat lamps and the tables were spaced out for covid. Excellent service as well!

  • 5/5 Vanessa S. 3 years ago on Google
    Great food and service in a pretty cool setting!

  • 5/5 Candice H. 3 years ago on Google
    Believe the hype. The food is amazing. The service is wonderful. And the setting is absolutely charming. Will return when we come back to SB.

  • 5/5 Sam K. 3 years ago on Google
    The food was really good. The atmosphere was also very nice. But our server made the night perfect. Ild give it extra stars just because the service was so good.

  • 5/5 Pei-Ching S. 2 years ago on Google
    All the foods are great! Got lucky without any wait on a Tuesday night. Recommend making reservations if you have plan to visit. Paella let me miss the food in Spain. Whoever love Spanish food should try out!

  • 5/5 Connor L. 4 months ago on Google
    Two words - Tapas & Vibes. Loquita is sneaky, unassuming, until you see the exquisite ham leg resting on the counter of the kitchen. Bucke up. Loquita knocked my socks off. Servers and hosts were so kind and informative, recommending their favorites. Couldn't choose so had to try them all. Octopus was cooked to perfection. Croquettes oozed blissful potato, ham and cheese. Persimmons and goat cheese... mind blowing. Full off tapas? Me? Never. Had to dive into the pork paella. And dive I did. Extremely flavorful and tender pork chunks nestles atop fluffy paella. It doesn't get much better . If you're still hungry after that, even if you're full, you have to get the churros. They're a must. Highly recommend Loquita

  • 4/5 Tom 7 months ago on Google
    I had a wonderful experience at Loquita in Santa Barbara. The paella was delicious, and I was pleasantly surprised that it didn't take a full hour to make, as the menu suggests. The restaurant had a nice atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and attentive. Highly recommend!

  • 5/5 Allison T. 4 months ago on Google
    Another amazing dinner at Loquita! The ambiance makes you feel like you are on a terrace in Spain, dripping in passion fruit trees and bougainvillea, with the spanish guitar playing in the background. The staff is the most friendliest, charming and helpful. Our server, was so sweet and stirred us in the right direction for our wine selection, but every other person who delivered our food or poured our wine, was delightful. Now, the food…The Dates, Olives, Persimmon Salad, Pan con Tomate and Seafood Paella were all perfect. Each items was flavorful and paired deliciously with our wine. One of my favorite dinner spots in Santa Barbara!

  • 5/5 George M. 1 year ago on Google
    I didn't eat here, but I stopped by twice (separate days) for drinks. It was crowded, but it was quick to order a drink at the bar. The bartenders were friendly and made excellent drinks. The Manhattan I had was perfect. The vibe was upscale and cozy. I'll definitely come back for drinks again, and probably some food too 😉

  • 5/5 David M. 3 years ago on Google
    Incredible flavor in every bite. Loved the Gin & Tonics, Carpaccio, and Pulpo

  • 5/5 Christine R. 3 years ago on Google
    Last night was our second time dining at Loquita. We flew in from out of state and never dreamed a repeat visit would live up to our first experience but it exceeded out expectations again! The food, service and atmosphere are all top notch. Sean in the bar is the best they come. We dine all over the world and this is by far one of our highlight restaurants!! Well done Loquita, don’t miss this if you are in town!!

  • 5/5 Gina G. 3 years ago on Google
    Loquita was our final carefree dinner before the pandemic when we dined under the stars on the patio and just had a lovely meal before a concert at the Lobero theatre. Since then, we've returned for the "modified" experience with masks and just last week with take out. The paellas are always delicious and the gambas al ajio are truly the tastiest ever. Great flavors, service and ambience...Go, order a paella and a Palomita and then you'll understand. This is an excellent restaurant.:)

  • 4/5 Anna H. 3 years ago on Google
    really good place!! The line wasn't too long when we were there. The portions are huge so it was essentially two meals for me lol I got the order with one slider and one tender and it was amazing!!!! I got the extra hot one and I really enjoyed it! If you have a high spice tolerance then definitely get that one, it's not that bad :)

  • 5/5 Seth K. 3 years ago on Google
    This place is a must visit when in Santa Barbara. Tapas is fantastic, wine selection is great too. If you’ve never tried Bellota, do yourself a favor and get an order. It’s pricey but worth it. The tortilla was a sneaky surprise favorite for the table too.

  • 5/5 Melia S. 3 years ago on Google
    We tried this Mexican restaurant, and it was all worth it. From foods down to its services, it was very phenomenal. We really enjoyed our time here because the foods are great and the services too. Truly an excellent Mexican restaurant that we will surely recommend to everyone out there. Good job, everyone! Keep it up!

  • 5/5 Bing 3 years ago on Google
    Tasty paella, tapas are on point too, I love the bites with dates in it ! Great dinning experience 🥰

  • 4/5 Evelyn B. 3 years ago on Google
    Genevieve's Little Gems - best salad they offer. I didn't like their Caesar too much, but we had to settle for it because the cheese on the Little Gems was out of stock. They actually took our order for the Little Gem still but failed to mention that the original cheese was replaced with goat cheese. We sent it back. The original cheese is what makes this salad - so they offered us the Caesar - but it was whatever.

  • 4/5 Justin S. 3 years ago on Google
    Delicious food! Paella was great but the chicken was a little dry. Octopus was perfectly cooked on larger pieces but a bit over on the thinner parts. Gin & tonics are dangerously good and any place with jamon iberico is my kind of place! Safety protocols were well followed, great spacing, masks, etc...

  • 5/5 Kristy M. 3 years ago on Google
    If you want the most superb flavors to fill your mouth the entire meal through... Please try Loquita! Super friendly, adorable staff, Mark was AMAZING! Giving great suggestions and always with a bright beautiful smile (I could see and feel his smile even through his mask!) They were quick, they brought everything out at a wonderful pace where we could truly enjoy every bite. Each dish was unique and so flavorful! There is no where else on earth I'd have rather been than enjoying every bite of the tapas on this beautiful patio garden oasis.

  • 4/5 Erica Y. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful patio in the back. Food quality was amazing but I found it a bit pricey, as they only serve a variety of tapas not entrées.

  • 5/5 Ken N. 3 years ago on Google
    Another must if you are in Santa Barbara. Unfortunately we had to take out but it was still delicious!

  • 5/5 Dave K. 3 years ago on Google
    Best place to eat in Santa Barbara

  • 5/5 Mike S. 3 years ago on Google
    My favorite restaurant in Santa Barbara.

  • 5/5 Mike O. 3 years ago on Google
    One of my favorite places to hit when I visit Santa Barbra! Great food.

  • 5/5 Peter L. 3 years ago on Google
    All the memories. Great cooking.

  • 5/5 Frankie F. 3 years ago on Google
    I had a wonderful experience in this restaurant. The server was certainly made my stay very unforgettable. All of their foods are so tasty and at a very affordable price. The serving of orders is so fast and worth sharing. The atmosphere is great and the interior designs are picture-perfect. Highly recommended!

  • 5/5 Dan B. 3 years ago on Google
    Fantastic service, ambiance, and food. I ordered what sounded like a run-of-the-mill mushroom plate (hongos). Was delighted with a suprisingly complex dish.

  • 5/5 Martin M. 3 years ago on Google
    Fantastic food and great service. We will come back.

  • 1/5 Martin C. 3 years ago on Google
    Completely overpriced

  • 5/5 Gloria M. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing food and service! My husband and I celebrated our anniversary. 9th years of marriage 🥂❤

  • 5/5 Lane C. 3 years ago on Google
    As a long time local this is my favorite restaurant in SB! I'm not sure which is better...the food or the stellar service. Try the croquetas and the vaca...and the handmade cheesecake ice-cream! They are also doing an excellent job with social distancing the restaurant while still keeping the atmosphere warm and romantic. We had Miko as a server and she was knowledgeable and friendly.

  • 5/5 Pooja G. 3 years ago on Google
    El Bulli olives and churros !! They do this the best !!

  • 5/5 Steele h. 3 years ago on Google
    Our 6th time at this fabulous restaurant and the service never fails

  • 5/5 Michael R. 3 years ago on Google
    Stick with the starters and tapas, they are an inspired gastronomical delight. Next time I would pass on the the paella (we got vegetarian) which was light flavor and fun.

  • 5/5 Colman J. 3 years ago on Google
    All the foods are delicious.

  • 5/5 Sather F. 3 years ago on Google
    This place is amazing. A must go. Food was 5.0. Service was 4.2. But still a must go.

  • 4/5 Gustavo W. 3 years ago on Google
    My favorite Spaniard food in SM.....the food is excellent!!!! not 4 start as their tables are way too close to each other...imitative but to intimate with your neighbors..

  • 5/5 Danny M. 3 years ago on Google
    VERY good food. Croquetas de Pollo, soooooo good. Pricey but worth the experience.

  • 5/5 Mark B. 3 years ago on Google
    Excelllent

  • 5/5 Laura A. 3 years ago on Google
    Loquita is a Santa Barbara classic. They change menu pretty often and I'm never disappointed. I really like the food and cocktails there. One of my favs!

  • 5/5 marco c. 3 years ago on Google
    My my my my my !!! Championes of champions


Call (805) 880-3380 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • ✓️ Free parking lot
    • ✓️ Somewhat difficult to find a space
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Late-night food
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
    • ✓️ Private dining room
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating
  • From the business
    • ✓️ Identifies as women-owned

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