Tuesday, August 31, 2010

SAVOY CAFE & DELI REOPENS: Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity, postulated in 1905, says that time slows down as a person approaches the speed of light and that it also runs in only one direction: forward. That theory might need to be updated because last week 24 W. Figueroa Street in downtown Santa Barbara suddenly jumped back in time to December 2008 with the reopening of Savoy Cafe & Deli. Original owner Paul Shields is back as is his popular salad bar, which had previously been voted "Best Salad Bar" in the annual SantaBarbara.com Restaurant Guide "Best Of" poll. Savoy, which also now serves breakfast, is open Monday-Friday 7am-6pm and Saturday 8am-4pm. For more information call 962-6611.

OWL SPOTTED: Zen Yai restaurant at 425 State Street will soon start sharing space with a new late night eatery named "Blue Owl." When Zen Yai closes for the night on weekends it will transform into Blue Owl restaurant and continue to serve food until the wee hours to the nightlife crowd. Among other things they will be serving Asian finger foods and steam buns which will be a nice addition for the hungry partiers who now rely on pizza and hot dogs to keep the energy flowing. The opening should be this week or next.

ENTER SANDMAN: Something seems to be brewing on the Sandman Inn property at 3744 State Street, formerly Downtown Brewing Company and Sandman Bar & Grill. Property owner Kellogg Associates has posted an application on the front door for a person to person transfer of an alcoholic beverage permit. It is being transferred from Downtown Brewing Company to Kellogg to be used as a "general eating place." There is no name posted yet for the business that will be occupying the space.

LET THEM EAT CUPCAKE: Whodidily, a popular dessert destination at 1150 Coast Village Road in Montecito is reportedly in the process of opening a second cupcakery on State Street in the downtown area. Though I don’t yet know the address, sources tell me it will open in a couple of months.

NOW SERVING BREAKFAST: The new Nugget restaurant at 5685 Calle Real in Goleta is now open for breakfast on weekends starting at 9am.

ARCH ROCK FISH: New seafood restaurant Arch Rock Fish at 608 Anacapa Street is scheduled to open late this week or early next.

PHOTO BLOG: August 27, 2010 - Here are pictures from last Friday's pre-opening party at Arch Rock Fish restaurant.

HELLO FROM SIN CITY: I took this picture of Las Vegas last night from the top of the Rio Hotel while dining at the Voo Doo Steakhouse on the 51st floor. I hope to be back later this week. See you then. 
 

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Friday, August 27, 2010

SUSHI IN THE CELLAR: Tonight at 6:30pm Oreana Winery (205 Anacapa Street) is having an event called "Sushi in the Cellar." Here is a brief overview: Champagne reception will be at 6:30. Fukiko Bishop from Studio Nihon will providea sushi introduction and demonstration at 7:00pm. At 7:30pm people will move into the dinning area where they will feast on sashimi and yaki appetizers followed by 3 types of Nigiri and a plethora of rolls. Dessert will be a trio of mini cupcakes, including Chocolate Wasabi, Green tea and Ginger. All the courses will be paired with the white wines of Oreana Winery and introduced by the Wine maker himself, Christian Garvin.

805 COFFEE: This just in from The 805 Deli at 135 E. Carrillo Street:

Hello John,

As of this week, The (805) Deli has become a full one stop shop coffee house in addition to the Deli its known for. We have placed new tables, WIFI, couches and specialty drinks in service. Please tell all of your readers to stop by and receive a buy one get one free coffee or smoothie on us. Just mention this article for the promotion. We are also featuring a new 805 Deli coffee mug (leather great looking) for only $10. The best deal is that your first cup is free and you get $1.00 off each time you use it.

Thanks,
The (805) Deli

OFF TOPIC: I'll be out of town visiting a friend in Las Vegas for the next few days. See you some time next week!
 

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Thursday, August 26, 2010

FLAMING GRILL OPENS: A new restaurant named Flaming Grill has opened at 6558 Pardall Rd in Isla Vista, the former home of Isla Vista Bakery Cafe which closed in March of 2008. The restaurant serves beef burgers, chicken burgers, rice bowls, grilled skewers, burritos and salads.

HERE COMES MEL'S: Edhat.com is reporting that Mel's Lounge, a fixture in Santa Barbara for nearly 50 years, is set to reopen at 209 W. Carrillo Street, across from Spudnuts, on September 2nd.
 

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Wednesday, August 25, 2010

THE CHEESE SHOP CLOSES: Last week The Cheese Shop inside Paseo Nuevo closed their doors. The business, which is based in Carmel, first opened in Santa Barbara February 2008. Here is a message I received from one of their employees:

It is with great sadness that we announce the permanent closing of the Santa Barbara Cheese Shop in Paseo Nuevo . I know I speak for all the employees who worked there that we will miss it terribly, especially our customers. We made many friends and had many, many good times. Most of us remain in Santa Barbara and look forward to seeing everyone again at whatever new venture we find ourselves.
We'll see you again with a baguette, some good cheese and a glass of great wine! Live well! The journey never ends but always takes new twists and turns.
Cheers! We love you all.

ANNIVERSARY: Today Los Arroyos - Montecito celebrates six years at its current location at 1280 Coast Village Road with festivities including live music, food specials, and more. Tony and Maria Arroyo opened Los Arroyos Montecito after five successful years’ operation of their first Los Arroyos restaurant in Downtown Santa Barbara.

EDC BENEFIT: Today the Enterprise Fish Company is hosting a "LIVE @ Enterprise Benefit" for the Santa Barbara Environmental Defense Center (EDC). The goal of the LIVE @ Enterprise Benefit is to generate awareness about local environmental issues while raising funds for the EDC, a central coast based organization, dedicated to preserving our natural environment through education, advocacy, and legal action. To generate funds for the EDC they will be requesting a $5 donation at the door tonight. The benefit features live music by environmentally conscious local artist, Justin Ratowsky, among other special guests. They will be offering Happy Hour specials throughout the night as well a raffle with prizes.

POLL: WHO SERVES A MEATLOAF SANDWICH? Reader David asked me to find out if any restaurants on the South Coast served a meatloaf sandwich. If you feel enough kindness in your heart to assist David in his quest, please send me an email and I will post it here.

• Reader Anonymous says: "Occasionally, Harry's Plaza will have a meatloaf sandwich as a daily special. Not bad."
• Reader Jonathon says: "Zooker's in Carp has one on their menu. It's not the classic which is typcially served open face and smothered in gravy, but an "updated" version; Turkey Mushroom Meatloaf, served with tomato, onion, lettuce, jack cheese, aoili, on a French roll. It's worth a try."
   

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Tuesday, August 24, 2010

PIZZA SURVEY: The folks at the popular local web site www.edhat.com recently conducted a pizza survey to compare the prices of large cheese pizzas across the South Coast. A “large” pizza comes in different sizes at different restaurants, typically 14 - 16 inches. The average price for a large cheese pizza in Santa Barbara is $14.96, up $1.66 from Edhat.com's last survey in 2006. Here are their results listed in order of price:

   Little Cesar's Milpas $5.44 14", Domino's Mesa $7.50 14", Valentino's $9.99 14", Petrini's $13.15 16", Gina's $13.95 16", Rusty's $14.00 15", Luigi's $14.08 14", Paesano's $14.54 16", Giovanni's Mesa $14.95 14", Pizza Mizza $14.98 16", Gino's $15.22 14", Pasta House $15.49 14", Woodstock's $15.49 14", Tony's $15.99 15", Mesa Pizza Co. $16.30 14", Pizza Shack $16.31 16", Sal's $16.88 16", Taffy's $17.39 16", Marty's $17.75 15", Pizza by the Slice $17.90 16", Pizza Guru $18.49 16", Uncle Rocco's $23.33 15”

A NEW DARGAN'S? Word on the street is that Dargan's Irish Pub & Restaurant (18 E. Ortega Street) is considering opening a new location in Camarillo at the old Sizzler spot, right on the 101.

WHAT’S IN A NAME? Periodically I search a Santa Barbara County database to see if any one has applied for a new business name or applied for a permit to sell alcoholic beverages that might be of interest to Restaurant Guy readers. Applying for a name doesn’t mean you will ever actually open a business and applying for a permit doesn’t mean you will be granted one, but it certainly raises the possibility. Here are a few applications that were filed this month: Back Seat Wines (business name), C’est Cheese (alcoholic beverage permit), Indulge Wines (business name), Isla Vista Brewing Company (business name), and Montecito Restaurant (business name).

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Monday, August 23, 2010

NEW IN THE GUIDE: Today I added Kogilicious to the restaurant guide. I also added Roll-A-Lot to the guide today. This is my third attempt to get their name correct. First I called them Roll Your Own. Then last week I called them Roll Your Way because those are the largest words on the sign above the counter.

KOGILICIOUS OPENS: Kogilicious has opened at 956 Embarcadero Del Norte in Isla Vista, the former home of Korean BBQ House, Sushilicious and Berrilicious.  Kogilicious has two separate walk-up windows: one for Korean BBQ and another for "Korean-style tacos & burritos." One of the things I like about restaurants in Isla Vista is that they are not afraid to try something different; this is not your father's taqueria. They have put the taste of Korean BBQ, fused it with spices and wrapped it in a tortilla. If you are a taco fanatic like I am, you must try Kogilicious. I plan to grab chicken and beef tacos ($1.45 each) at Kogilicious every time I am in town. They are amazing.

SPEAKING OF KOGI: This Saturday August 28th, Kogi BBQ truck will be coming to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Kogi is the most popular food truck in LA and is the brainchild of Chef Roy Choi, named one of the best new chefs of 2010 by Food and Wine Magazine.
 

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Friday, August 20, 2010

CAFE ZOMA COMING TO GOLETA: At the beginning of this month the owners of Coffee Cat in downtown Santa Barbara started leasing space at 7127 Hollister Ave (near Costco), the former home of Mojo Coffee. They tell me it will be a coffee shop named "Cafe Zoma." Their recently acquired Northstar Coffee Company on State Street will also become Cafe Zoma. The name of their flagship Coffee Cat location will not be changed. The new Cafe Zoma in Goleta will also include a bakery that will distribute baked goods to their three South Coast coffee locations. They hope to open in mid-September.

"ROLL-A-LOT" OPENS: A hundred feet away from the future Cafe Zoma a new sushi & frozen yogurt eatery named Roll-A-Lot opened today inside Albertsons at 7127 Hollister Avenue near Costco. You can have your sushi as a wrap or roll. You can pick from a list of standard rolls or build your own with a choice of seafood, veggies, sauces & spices. Sushi prices range from $5 - $6.50.

COUPON COLUMN: This September I will be having a special "coupon column" in the Santa Barbara Daily Sound newspaper. The column will contain a list of specials offered by local restaurants, coffee shops and bakeries. People will need to cut out my column from the Daily Sound and bring it with them to redeem the special. The specials will be valid for one week only. To add your free coupon listing to this special column please send an email to info@SantaBarbara.com with the following information:

• Business name
• Business address
• One sentence that contains your special promotion. For example: "Buy one muffin at the regular price and receive a second one free!"

HAPPY HOUR HOUSEWIVES: Last night I enjoyed meeting Santa Barbara's famous Happy Hour Housewives at the FisHouse restaurant. There was a big story written about them in yesterday's Santa Barbara News-Press. Our gathering was so much fun we ended up talking for 2 1/2 hours. Pictured from left to right are "Wine Wife," "City Wife" and "Party Wife."
 

 

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Wednesday, August 18, 2010

NEW RESTAURANT COMING TO STATE: Tom & Adam White, the owners of Boathouse, FisHouse and Santa Barbara Shellfish Company, are opening a new restaurant on the 300 block of State Street (at Gutierrez) next door to the newly-announced REI sporting goods store. Sources tell me it will be a high-end Mexican restaurant that will try to reach a new level of dining experience currently not available in that cuisine category. Here is the official press-release:

Local Restauranteurs lease 330 State Street for new restaurant
Located next to future REI, transforming State Street’s 300 block

After starting three successful Santa Barbara restaurants, Tom and Adam White are preparing to launch a fourth in the spring of 2011. The Whites, who own and operate Santa Barbara Shellfish Co., the Santa Barbara FisHouse, and the Boat House, have just leased 5,368 sf at 330 State Street for a new restaurant location. The space, formerly occupied by One World Imports, has a prominent corner location with parking at the corner of Gutierrez Street. It is also immediately adjacent to the building just leased by Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI) for its Santa Barbara store, also slated to open in 2011. Michael Martz, Kristopher Roth, and Steve Hayes of Hayes Commercial Group represented all parties in the transaction.

“These two leases show the resilience of downtown Santa Barbara, even at a time when most cities are struggling with high retail vacancies,” said Michael Martz of Hayes Commercial Group. “Here we have a national retailer and a local restaurant family both investing in the commercial potential of Santa Barbara. It’s a positive sign.”

The Whites have built a successful family business in Santa Barbara over the past 30 years. Tom White opened the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company on Stearns Wharf back in 1980, which began as a wholesale source for fresh fish and evolved into a popular eatery among locals and visitors alike. Almost 20 years later, with son Adam now a part of the business, they opened The Santa Barbara FisHouse at 101 E. Cabrillo Blvd. Most recently, the father-son team launched the Boat House at Hendry’s Beach in 2008. The fourth restaurant will be their first foray into the State Street retail corridor.

“This is an exciting opportunity for us, and the Hayes Commercial team did a great job putting this deal together,” Adam White said. “We are developing a new concept that we believe has the potential to become a Santa Barbara classic. Given the location outside the prime tourist zone, locals are key to the concept, and we are creating a place that Santa Barbarans will love.” The Whites will be extensively remodeling the space. Adam continued, “as we did with the Boat House, we are assembling a great team of local architectural and design minds to create an interesting and inviting atmosphere.” Their crew includes engineer Ken Dixon of Windward Engineering , contractor Skye McGinnes, and they are also talking to architect Jeff Shelton about creating a unique look for the interior.

330 State Street, and the adjacent building leased by REI, have a long and varied history. The complex at 316-330 State Street was originally built from 1911-1917 by Henry Ernest Bothin, a coffee and spice merchant based in San Francisco. At that time Gutierrez Street was part of the old Highway 101, and the buildings hosted various automotive businesses on the ground floor, such as the El Camino Real Motor Car Company, and the El Camino Hotel on the second floor. The buildings survived the 1925 earthquake, but the façades were lost and replaced with a Moorish-style arcade and façade which is still largely intact. 330 State Street’s distinctive tower was added in 1937 for Seaside Oil Company, which was headquartered there and operated a filling station there for decades. During World War II, 316-324 State Street was used by Douglas Aircraft to manufacture airplane parts. In 1974, the Bothin Helping Fund gave 330 State Street to the nonprofit Work, Inc. and sold 316-324 State Street to Marshall Howe. Ray Hicks and Georgette Topakas have owned 330 State Street since 2002.

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Tuesday, August 17, 2010

"THE SAVOY" TO REPLACE Q'S: The theater at 409 State Street, most recently the home of Q’s Billiards, is set to return as a hybrid restaurant/lounge/concert hall and nightclub using its original name "The Savoy." Here is the full press-release about it:

   The Savoy "Reinvented" - Built in 1889 and one of several historic landmarks in Santa Barbara, The Savoy makes a glorious return to 409 State Street. Drawing on the venue’s rich theatrical history, the beautifully renovated and restored Savoy will  showcase an extraordinary blend of cotemporary entertainment featuring artists from around the country;  a diverse and exciting range of live performance, including: Cirque, Aerial, Burlesque & Cabaret, as well as a variety of live music genres.

  A hybrid Restaurant/Lounge/Concert Hall and Nightclub, The Savoy boasts three floors, three full bars and multiple stages, including a large first floor lounge, VIP mezzanine, smoking patio and third floor penthouse with private bar and balcony overlooking State Street.

   With modern American cuisine conceived by Chef Jason Tuley and signature cocktails developed by local mixologists, The Savoy will be a truly unique addition to the Central Coast. The venue is slated to open in September and will be available for private events. For more information contact 805.957.4111 or www.savoysb.com

CHAMOMILE TO CLOSE: Deeahna Arrieta, owner of Chamomile Café at 915 Linden Avenue in Carpinteria, tells me that her eatery is planning to close September 5^th. Chamomile Cafe has been in business in downtown Carpinteria for eight years. Click here to read a personal message from Deeahna about the closure.

A VERY HAPPY HOUR: Last June I wrote about the “Happy Hour Housewives,” three ladies who go by the nicknames "City Wife," "Party Wife" and "Wine Wife" that have developed a web site that tracks the Happy Hour scene throughout Santa Barbara. Their web site is online at happyhourhousewives.com.
   They have invited me to join them for a happy hour this Thursday at 5:30pm at Fish House 101 E. Cabrillo Blvd. I immediately said yes and asked if I can invite readers of this column along to which they immediately replied yes. Come join us for a very happy hour!

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Friday the 13th

HOLDREN'S GRILL: At the end of this month Holdren's Steaks & Seafood in Goleta is getting a new name and a more casual concept. Here is a message I received from owner Clay Holdren this morning that explains the changes:

Hey John,

I wanted wanted to let you know that we are making some changes to our Goleta Holdren's. As of August 31, it will be called Holdren's Grill. We are keeping a lot of the Holdren's favorites and adding some more inexpensive appetizers and entrees. We will also have a little more casual atmosphere in the dining room to match this concept. It is basically a spin off of Holdren's, kind of like others have done in the past. There will be happy hour 7 days a week that will feature 2-for-1 drinks and half price appetizers. Some of the new stuff will include pulled pork sliders, buffalo wings, blackened salmon pasta, and kabobs among other things. The $39 special will still be available for a while as it has been hugely successful. With the economy not getting any better, we feel like these changes will be welcomed by the Goleta locals. I appreciate your help in spreading the word with this transition.

Thanks,
Clay Holdren
Holdren's Steaks & Seafood
www.holdrens.com

BEST 24-HOUR HOT SPOT: Travel & Leisure Magazine, a publication from American Express, has voted Freebirds World Burrito at 879 Embarcadero Del Norte in Isla Vista to be one of the top dozen 24-hour hot spots in the country. The reason I know this is that American Express contacted me last month asking to use my photos! Here is Travel & Leisure's write-up about Freebirds:

Across the street from the University of California Santa Barbara’s ocean-side campus, this nonstop burrito joint has been feeding famished co-eds since 1987. The portions here are so over-the-top that some opt to share a single burrito. But for a ravenous undergrad they’re the necessary fuel for a night of mayhem at this notor­­­­ious party school (or a way to recover from it the next morning).

What to Do at 3 a.m.: Top off a late night with a “quesarito,” a burrito wrapped in a quesadilla instead of a traditional tortilla.

ROLL YOUR WAY: A new sushi & frozen yogurt eatery named "Roll Your Way" is coming to Albertsons at 7127 Hollister Avenue near Costco in Goleta. Previously I had mentioned it was to be a "roll-your-own" sushi place which is incorrect. It just had a name that sounded like that! It is expected to open later this month or early next.
 

 

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Thursday, August 12, 2010

HOLA! Reader Lemonjelly let me know that a new Mexican restaurant named Taqueria el Refugio has opened at 730 N. Milpas Street, the former home of Mexican Grill (2005), DogHouse (2006), Chili Town (2007-2008) and La Chiripita Taqueria (2009-2010). She also sent me a photo of tacos from Taqueria el Refugio. The three tacos pictured cost about $4.
 

ADIOS! Reader Lemonjelly was also kind enough to tell me that La Chiripita Taqueria at 730 N. Milpas Street has closed as did La Gloria Taqueria at 336 N. Milpas Street. 336 N. Milpas Street is losing a few tenants to make room for Fresh & Easy Market.

BLOCK PARTY: Up and coming seafood restaurant Arch Rock Fish at 608 Anacapa Street is having a "block party" on Sunday, August 22nd from noon - 5pm. The event, which is a benefit for PAL (Police Activities League) will be held at the restaurant. The block party features live music, cooking demonstrations by Chef Scott and Chef Nathan, Cobi Jones and the LA Galaxy Soccer Players, raffle prizes, food, wine tasting, games, face painting and more. Arch Rock Fish hopes to have a grand opening at the end of the month.

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Tuesday, August 10, 2010

COMING TO UPTOWN: NICKY'S PIZZA: The ovens had barely enough time to cool but it appears that a new tenant is about to turn them back on. Pizza Hut, which closed at 2840 De La Vina Street last month, will be replaced by "Nicky’s Pizza."

SPEAKING OF PIZZA: Rusty’s Pizza Parlor, located throughout the South Coast and beyond, has introduced Garlic Cheese Bread. It is made with pan crust, covered with garlic and topped with mozzarella & jack cheese. The bread is available in small ($3.99) or large ($5.99) sizes and includes pizza sauce or ranch dressing.

TASTING TUESDAY: Each Tuesday from 11am - 3pm Whole Foods Market at 3761 State Street offers complimentary food samples from a variety of product vendors throughout the store. This includes vendors from every department, with the exception of wine and beer.

EDHAT: I have received many emails asking why The Restaurant Guy no longer appears on Edhat. Please see my July 20th blog (below) for an explanation. Basically Edhat has a new policy of not linking to my style of content.

THE CRYSTAL BALL: After intense concentration and a wave of my hand over the all-knowing Crystal Ball, my eatery oracle has revealed a list of locations appearing in your future:

• Arch Rock Fish 608 Anacapa St (formerly Melting Pot) - August
• Backyard Bowls 5668 Calle Real, Goleta - September
• Cabana 509 State St (formerly Bricks Café)
• Chipotle 270 Storke Rd, Goleta
• Flaming Grill 6558 Pardall Rd, Isla Vista (formerly I.V. Bakery)
• Fresco Valley Café 442 Atterdag Rd, Solvang - summer
• Fresh & Easy 336 N. Milpas St
• Islands Restaurant (location to be determined)
• Mel’s Lounge 209 W. Carrillo St
• Nicky's Pizza 2840 De La Vina St (formerly Pizza Hut)
• Panera Bread (locations to be determined)
• Roll Your Way 7127 Hollister Ave (inside Albertsons) - August
• Savoy Cafe & Deli 24 W. Figueroa St (formerly Cantwell’s Deli)
• South Coast Deli 10 E. Carrillo St - September
• TAP Thai Restaurant 2611 De la Vina St
• Twin Cups (near Calle Real & Patterson Ave)
• The Counter (location to be determined)
• The Tackle Box (location to be determined)
• Whole Earth Pizza 6576 Trigo Rd, Isla Vista
• 409 State St (formerly Q’s)

OFF TOPIC: My life-long friend Flip who lives near Houston, Texas has a dog named Chloe that loves to swim in their pool and retrieve rubber "torpedoes" tossed in the water. To say it is her favorite thing in life to do is an understatement. It is her obsession. She literally plays this game for hours a day.
   However, during her entire life, she refused to ever go below the surface to get them. I have played with her for years encouraging her to dive with absolutely no luck at all. If a torpedo sank more than a few inches she would just swim in circles above it, hoping someone will help her out. Then suddenly last week...
 

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Monday, August 9, 2010

PHOTO BLOG: August 7, 2010 - Here are pictures from Richard Auhll's annual Fiesta fundraiser bash last Saturday night.

MIGHTY MIXER: Every morning I have a protein shake for breakfast. To make my shakes I have been using a hand-me-down blender that has been in the family for about 30 years. I recently decided it was time to retire my breakfast buddy but didn't know which one to buy when I happened to stumble across the June 2010 issue of Consumer Reports. As luck would have it they had a section that rated blenders and awarded "Best Buy" to the Oster BCBG08 which costs $40. I searched on the web and end up buying it from Bed Bath & Beyond which was the only place I could find it in stock. I am happy to report that the Oster BCBG08 works great and that my former faithful food processor is enjoying retirement at the recycle center.

AND THE WINNER IS... Based on SantaBarbara.com web site statistics these are the most-viewed photos from the rooftop Fiesta party at Canary Hotel and the Dignatarios Fiesta celebration at the Santa Barbara Zoo.
 

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Friday, August 6, 2010

PHOTO BLOG: August 5, 2010 - Fiesta: Dignatarios at the Santa Barbara Zoo

PIZZA SWAP?: Sources tell me that a new pizza place is going to move into the space recently vacated by Pizza Hut in the Ralphs shopping center on De La Vina Street. I have not confirmed it but if I find out more I'll be sure to post it here.

CLOSING: The Roasted Bean Coffee House at 3558 Sagunto Street in Santa Ynez, after 15 years in business, is closing next Friday.

COPYCAT: Reader Primetime showed me a news story on the web about a new Mexican restaurant named Tinga on La Brea Avenue in Los Angeles that is modeled after Santa Barbara's hugely popular La Super Rica Taqueria.
 

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Thursday, August 5, 2010

PHOTO BLOG: August 4, 2010 - Fiesta party on the rooftop of the Canary Hotel. Watch the wandering video cam document the festivities.

$20 SPECIALS: Holdren's Steaks & Seafood in Goleta has some twenty-dollar specials available. Sunday-Thursday: steak & shrimp $20; Monday: all-you-can-eat ribs $20; Wednesday: 13oz prime rib $20. All meals include choice of side plus soup or salad. Holdren's downtown offers the same deal except there is no twenty-dollar special on Thursdays.

WELCOME ABOARD! The SantaBarbara.com Restaurant Guide welcomes new sponsor Stella Mare's.

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Tuesday, August 3, 2010

SAVOY CAFÉ TO REOPEN: Savoy Cafe & Deli, which closed at 24 W. Figueroa Street in December 2008, plans to reopen at that address. To make room for the return of Savoy, Cantwell's Deli, the current occupant, has closed. Here is a message to the public from Cantwell's: "Cantwell's would like to welcome back Savoy Café Deli opening soon. We are very happy to return this wonderful space back to the original owner Paul Shields. Please continue to patronize Paul as he is a top notch chef with an extreme passion for organic and healthy food preparation." In 2008 Savoy Café & Deli was voted "Best Salad Bar" in the annual SantaBarbara.com Restaurant Guide "Best Of" poll.

CANTWELL'S CLOSES: Cantwell's Deli at 24 W. Figueroa Street has closed to make room for the return of Savoy Cafe & Deli. Cantwell's two other locations (1533 State Street and 2580 Lillie Avenue is Summerland) are open as usual.

NEW IN THE GUIDE: Today I added photos of Lam's Vietnamese BBQ and Sandwiches to the restaurant guide.

FIESTA: I stumbled across the Fiesta live entertainment schedule for the uptown and downtown Mercados and have posted it online as a PDF.
 

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Monday, August 2, 2010

PHOTO BLOG: July 31, 2010 - Here are pictures from last Saturday's Taste of the Vine fundraiser at QAD that raised money for the Sansum Diabetes Research Institute.

FIESTA: Fiesta begins this week which means that it is time again for one of the biggest parties of the year: Dignatarios. The annual Celebracion del los Dignatarios will be held the Santa Barbara Zoo this Thursday, August 5th 5pm-10pm.
   Soul City Survivors will again provide the music and food sponsors are as follows: Albertsons (Culinary Circle Skewars), Aldo's, Arnoldi's, Elks, Green Star (Hot & Iced Coffee & Teas), Neo Chase (Chicken Piccatta, peppered white beans, porvako), Marmalade Café (Tuna TarTar), Pascucci, Pizza Mizza (Pizza), Rincon Catering (Mexican Wedding Cookies, Strawberries and Chocolate Fondue), State & A, Coast Restaurant, Ruth Chris (Tenderloin Sandwich & Sweet Potato Casserole), Crushcakes (Mini Cup Cakes), Joe's, Zoo Catering Services by Rincon (Grilled Corn on the Cob & Churros), The Wave (Grilled chipotle chicken sandwiches, artichoke hearts, Baked phyllo pastry, Bacon wrapped scallops). Wine is being provided by Beckman, Buttonwood, Carina, Carr, Consilience, Gainey, Hahn, Oreana, Toucan and Tre Anelli.
  Tickets are $85 in advance and $100 at the door. For more information call 962-8101 or visit sbfiesta.org.

• View pictures from Dignatarios 2008

WELCOME ABOARD! The SantaBarbara.com Restaurant Guide welcomes new sponsor Sly's Steaks, Seafood & Cocktails.
 

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Friday, July 30, 2010

OLIO PIZZERIA OPENS DOWNTOWN: An authentic Italian restaurant named Olio Pizzeria has opened downtown at 11 W. Victoria Street, the former home of Video Schmideo. The eatery, which is open for lunch and dinner, is brought to you by Elaine and Alberto Morello who own and operate Olio E Limone Ristorante. The pizzeria, which has a full bar and an extensive wine list, serves pizza, salads, antipasta, plates of sliced meats & cheeses, fried calamari and much more.
 
   I sat down with Elaine who told me about her new restaurant and I came away with the impression that they have gone to great lengths to be as authentic Italian as possible and to meet the high standards set by their popular Olio E Limone. They even hired a talented pizza chef who came over from Italy to Olio Pizzeria.
 
   The idea for Olio Pizzeria began to take shape even before they opened Olio e Limone in 1999, their fine dining restaurant immediately next door. The Morello's had always wanted to create a casual place with an emphasis on simple, delicious everyday artisanal Italian food. When comparing her newest restaurant to Olio E Limone, Elaine said "This is more casual, with those things that Italians eat every day. This kind of place you find around the corner from every piazza in Italy. So we are not reinventing the wheel. But we have added our own flair to our casual concept which we find in Italy all over."  At one point in our conversation Elaine pointed to a freshly baked pizza that was on the table in front of us.  "We tried five types of flour from Italy and this, the fifth one, is the one we settled on and liked the most," she said.
 
   In addition to the food, great attention was given to the interior of the restaurant, from the stone around the pizza bar, to the plastering and acoustic tiles on the ceiling. The Morello's brought in an Italian wood worker who created the bar and did the floors. Olio Pizzeria's attention to detail even extends to the placemat at your table. It contains a glossary of Italian food terms found on the menu, an Italian - English dictionary of common phrases so you can order your food while speaking Italian, and a brief history of pizza.
 
   Olio Pizzeria serves lunch Monday through Saturday 11:30am-2pm and dinner every night from 5pm-close. For more information call 899-2699 or visit oliopizzeria.com.

• View Olio Pizzeria's complete menu, brought to you exclusively by The Restaurant Guy.

TONYRAY'S OPENS: TonyRay's Restaurant & Cantina in De la Guerra Plaza opened this morning and I added them to the guide today.

428: A new night spot named 428 Lounge has opened at 428 Chapala Street, the former home of Sevilla and Scotch Bonnet. They are open Friday 4:28pm - 2am and Saturday 6pm - 2am. For more information call 962-4545 or visit their Facebook page.

GREEK FESTIVAL: Santa Barbara's 37th annual Greek Festival is tomorrow and Sunday at Oak Park. Experience live Greek music, authentic Greek food, Greek folk dancing, homemade Greek pastries and an Agora marketplace. For more information visit santabarbaragreekfestival.com.
 

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Thursday, July 29, 2010

PITA PIT UPDATE: This just in from reader Nicole: "Pita Pit hasn't closed its doors, they are under new management and just closed for the summer."

SPECIALS: Here are new specials from Coast Restaurant & Bar at the Canary Hotel 31 W. Carrillo St: Monday - Design your own Flatbread $10 each, Half Off Select Bottles of Wine. Tuesday – $5-$7 Wine & Appetizer Specials. Wednesday – Trio of Oysters & Champagne $18. Thursday – $2 Tacos All Day. Friday - 3 course seafood dinner $30 per person, fresh from local boats. Saturday – Farmer's Market Dinner $30 per person. Sunday – Happy Hour Sunday Brunch $24 per person.

RECEPCION  DEL PRESIDENTE: This Sunday, August 1, at 5pm, El Recepción del Presidente kicks off Fiesta week in the Rotunda of Fess Parker's DoubleTree Resort. Guests will enjoy Mexican cuisine and performances by the 2010 Spirit and Junior Spirit of Fiesta. Tickets are $65.00 per person. Call 962-8101.
 

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Wednesday, July 28, 2010

CAT CORA AT MACY'S: Iron Chef America's first and only female Iron Chef, Cat Cora, will make a personal appearance, host a cooking demonstration, and sign her latest cookbook "Classics With a Twist: Fresh Takes on Favorite Dishes" at Macy's La Cumbre Plaza (3805 State Street) on Friday, August 6 at 1pm. Chef Cat Cora is author of two other cookbooks, Cat Cora's Kitchen and Cooking from the Hip: Fast, Easy, Phenomenal Meals. At Macy's Cora will demonstrate how to simplify complicated classic recipes with quick, healthy twists. After the demo, Cora will sign copies of her new book. The event is free but seating is limited. Call 877-884-3751 to reserve a space.

See my pictures of Cat Cora taken at a local event last October.

CLOSED: Reader Rebecca passed word to me that the Pita Pit at 971 Embarcadero Del Mar in Isla Vista has closed its doors.

NEW IN THE GUIDE: Reader Glenn sent me photos of Panino - Santa Ynez (thanks buddy!) and I added them to the guide today.
 

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Tuesday, July 27, 2010

TONYRAY'S OPENS FRIDAY: The Rumor Machine swung and missed a few times in the last year but it appears to have hit a home run on June 18th when it announced that a new restaurant named "TonyRay's" is coming to 731 De la Guerra Plaza, the former home of El Cazador. I spoke with Executive Chef Enrique Godinez who told me that TonyRay's Restaurant & Cantina, which has a full bar, will be serving Mexican and American cuisine. The grand opening is set for this Friday.
   The eatery will be open for breakfast (served until 2pm), lunch and dinner seven days a week from 9am-8pm. There is seating indoors and on the patio that faces De la Guerra Plaza. Godinez recommends you try the Chile Verde and the Chilaquiles.
   The breakfast menu has an American section (Eggs Benedict, Steak & Eggs, Create Your Own Omelet, Breakfast Burrito, Traditional Two Eggs, Oatmeal, Pancakes & French Toast) and a Mexican section (Huevos Santa Barbara, Huevos Rancheros, Huevos Verdes, Chorizo & Eggs, Machaca & Eggs, Chilaquiles & Eggs).
   The lunch & dinner menus include salads (Caesar, Green, Cobb), sandwiches (Club, BLT), burgers, burritos, appetizers (Combo, Nachos, Taquitos, Quesadilla) along with kids selections. There is also a TonyRay's Favorites menu that includes Tacos, Chile Rellano, Enchiladas, Chile Verde, Fajitas, Tostadas, Chicken Alfredo, Pescado and Grilled New York Steak.
 

View TonyRay's full menu   Brought to you exclusively by The Restaurant Guy.

NEW THAI RESTAURANT OPENING UPTOWN: A new Thai eatery named "TAP" is coming to 2611 De la Vina Street, the former home of a rental kitchen shared by many local bakeries. The new eatery will be located across the street from Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch. I stopped by and took some pictures...
 

BACKYARD BOWLS COMING TO GOLETA: This just in from Backyard Bowls at 331 Motor Way (corner of State & Gutierrez), the makers of popular acai bowls and smoothies:

Hi John,

It is official, Backyard Bowls will be opening its second location in the Calle Real Shopping Center in Goleta. We will be located in the old Surf Country spot, right next door to Panino, and hope to open our doors by the middle of September. At the new Backyard Bowls customers can expect to find many of the same offerings that have made our downtown location a success, but there will be some unique new features on tap as well! Our core values will never change though, and we will continue to offer a truly healthy, delicious, and earth friendly option for a quick breakfast or lunch.

I will keep you posted with details as our build out progresses.

Thanks John!

Dan Goddard
Backyard Bowls

WELCOME ABOARD! The SantaBarbara.com Restaurant Guide welcomes new sponsors Bistro Eleven Eleven and Omni Fresco Catering.
 

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Monday, July 26, 2010

TASTE OF THE VINE: Sansum Diabetes Research Institute's 9th Annual "Taste of the Vine" fundraising event is being held this Saturday July 31 4pm-8pm at QAD headquarters 2111 Ortega Hill Rd in Summerland. John Palminteri and Gabe Saglie are co-hosts of the annual gala that includes more than 40 vintners, breweries, caterers and restaurants.  General admission tickets are $75 and can be purchased by calling 682-7638 x243.

BAJA FRESH: Baja Fresh (3851 State St, 7127 Hollister Ave) fans will be happy to hear that the eatery is bringing back their popular Mango Salsa starting today. The condiment was replaced last year with a pineapple concoction. Speaking of Baja Fresh, the restaurant chain just launched an iPhone app that lets you locate their nearest outlet as well as order food right from your phone for pickup at a later date/time.

REAL ESTATE: The building at 700 State St, the former home of Left At Albuquerque, has been sold. It had been listed for sale for $4.1 million. In other non-food-related news, sources tell me that US Bank Corp, the 5th largest bank in the U.S., just signed a lease for 5,708 square feet of retail space at the corner of State and Carrillo (936 State, next to the Apple Store) at record rents for the size of the space.

LETTUCE B. HUGE: My friend Anita stumbled across this giant head of lettuce at a farmers market recently. The picture doesn't really do it justice; it had the diameter of a trash barrel!
 

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Friday, July 23, 2010

DATE NIGHT: I had dinner last night at Holdren's Steaks & Seafood at 6920 Marketplace Drive in Goleta (the Hawaiian seared Ahi was fantastic) and noticed that they have a new special called "Every night is date night" available seven days a week. It is a dinner for two at Holdren's Goleta for just $39 (excluding tax and gratuity). This offer includes your choice of dessert or one appetizer of jumbo roasted garlic pepper onion rings, Cajun fried calamari rings or spicy crab and artichoke dip. The appetizer is followed by an entree choice per person of: pan seared salmon, 8oz prime top sirloin, herb crusted chicken breast or Jalapeno and pepper jack crusted pork chop. Includes your choice of soup or house salad and select side dish. Want dessert instead of an appetizer? Choose from either flourless chocolate cake, New York style cheesecake or s'mores on the campfire. For more information call 685-8900.

GREEK FESTIVAL: Santa Barbara's 37th annual Greek Festival is Saturday & Sunday July 31st & August 1st at Oak Park. Experience live Greek music, authentic Greek food, Greek folk dancing, homemade Greek pastries and an Agora marketplace. For more information visit santabarbaragreekfestival.com.

CHIPOTLE UPDATE: Chipotle restaurant, which is coming to the Kmart shopping center in Goleta (next to Rusty's Pizza) is showing its first signs of life. They have started to paint the walls and have put up a large "burrito-fication in progress" banner on the window. It looks like they have a few months of work ahead of them.
 

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Thursday, July 22, 2010

HAPPY HOUR: Billies restaurant at 413 State Street is offering a new happy hour menu. The menu includes cheesy hot wings, sweet chili wings, biscuits and gravy, house fries, and grilled cheese on sourdough. The price is $5 everyday from 3-7pm. They also have draft specials including $3 Pints and $5 Billies Bust Pitchers.
   Jade at 3132 State Street has a new happy hour that starts at 8:30 pm everyday. Half price on all starters and desserts. $5 house wines till closing.

ROOFTOP FIESTA:  On Wednesday, August 4th, 5-10pm The Perch, Canary Hotel's rooftop party zone, is having a Fiesta celebration. Enjoy Fiesta-priced specials on margaritas and house-made sangria and indulge on $2 tacos - Carnitas Canary-style, thanks to Chef Brian Parks, who will be roasting a pig for this special event. Music is provided by DJ Sparx who is mixing things up Fiesta-style with Latin trumpet player Rico DeLargo. Advance tickets are $20 or $25 at the door. For tickets call 877-548-3237 or visit canarysantabarbara.com

EARL WARREN: Gino Stabile, owner of Woody's BBQ at 5112 Hollister Avenue, has the license for the Earl Warren Showgrounds food service. He served food during off track wagering but wagering ended recently. Word on the street is that he plans to serve breakfast, lunch and dinner soon for locals and especially the crews in town for the big horse shows, RV shows and other events there. He also has a full liquor license.
 

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Wednesday, July 21, 2010

GULF BENEFIT: This just in from Hungry Cat at 1134 Chapala Street:

Hello John,

The Gulf Coast oil spill, regardless of BP's end game, is a disaster of stunning proportions. Both The Hungry Cat in Hollywood and in Santa Barbara will be hosting Gulf benefits on Tuesday, July 27th, with 30% of the day's total sales going to Adopt a Fisherman.

In addition to the full raw bar (crawfish, head-on shrimp), The Hungry Cat's menu will include: gem lettuces, with blue crab, egg, buttermilk and mustard; oysters en brochette; alligator beignets; gumbo with shrimp, crab and andouille sausage; trout amandine; soft shell crab po'boy; pan-roasted soft shell crawfish, with grits and fried green tomatoes; blackened redfish, with corn puree, succotash and crab pearls. Among the drinks on the cocktail menu: creole juleps; hurricanes, with Flor de Cana light and dark rum, passionfruit puree, lime and simple syrup; brother jakes, with hacienda vieja tequila, flor de cana light rum, carpano antica vermouth, lemon, and simple syrup. The menu will be the same at both restaurants.

And if you should feel a little circumspect while you're eating your alligator beignets and sipping on a vieux carre cocktail, you might consider those offshore oil platforms sitting serenely in the Santa Barbara Channel. Just a thought.

Best-
Branden

AND THE WINNER IS... Based on SantaBarbara.com web site statistics these are the most-viewed photos from Sunday's Silver Screen Bash put on by the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. Congratulations to winners (left to right) Kelly Daugherty & Dawn Sproul !
 

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Tuesday, July 20, 2010

TWIN CUPS COMING TO GOLETA: Reader Jeff sent me a tip about a coffee and frozen yogurt bar named Twin Cups that is planning to open in Goleta near Calle Real and Patterson Avenue. The company is currently running an advertisement on CraigsList for a Barista position that is available (one year coffee experience required, contact twincupssb@hotmail.com). The ad includes the following description of the business:
   "Twin Cups is a new and fast growing company featuring Santa Barbara's first 'stop and go' Coffee Barista and Live Culture Frozen Yogurt Bar. Pull in, order and you're on your way! Twin Cups was started with the idea to serve quality coffee and frozen yogurt to people on the go. We will proudly be serving all coffee and tea products from the local Caribbean Coffee Company. Twin Cups will be a place to grab a quick coffee, specialty coffee drink, pastry, frozen yogurt and much more with no parking headaches or long waits. With our ideal location just off the freeway one can get right back onto the freeway going north or south with no delay."

SPEAKING OF CUPS: A new business named Curious Cup is coming to Carpinteria. It will be a children's bookstore, serving coffee, tea and other goodies and will have a soft opening in November. A grand opening planned 1/1/11. People are invited to follow them on Facebook.

ROLL-YOUR-OWN SUSHI: Reader Kelly tells me that a new food booth is coming to Albertsons market near Costco in Goleta. It's still under construction, but a sign is up and it looks like it's going to be a roll-your-own sushi place.

NEW CHEF: Alessandro Cartumini has joined Four Seasons Biltmore as Executive Chef, bringing with him a fresh vision for the resort's Bella Vista restaurant.
   "It's the simplicity of the dishes that comes out as Italian," says Cartumini. "It's not the heavy traditional cuisine that most people think of, but more of a light approach to food with some Italian flavour profiles thrown in. The goal is well-balanced meals that will have people sleeping well and feeling great the next day."

BENTO BOX: Leslie Thomas from Spiritland Bistro at 230 E. Victoria St sent me an update on the restaurant:
   "We expanded dinner to 7 nights per week (Sunday-Thursday 5:30-9:00pm, Friday-Saturday 5:30-10:00pm), and we are now serving lunch 7 days per week from 11:30am-2:00pm. "Our lunch is all organic just like our dinner, however, it is much more casual & very affordable.
   "The mainstay of lunch is our delectable and health-conscious Bento Box, a combination which consists of seasonal vegetables plus a choice of 5 proteins (chicken, wild salmon, tofu, tempeh, seitan), 4 starches (roasted yams, buckwheat soba noodles, quinoa spaghetti, wild+brown rice) and 5 sauces (tahini, thai curry, marinara, ginger cream, chipotle lime kaeshi).
   "Whether people eat in or pick up to go (or request delivery for large orders), all food is packed in earth-friendly boxes, & utensils are made from recycled birchwood. We also offer several soups, appetizers, & side dishes for those wanting a lighter lunch or later snack. All items contain dietary notations, which is helpful for people with food sensitivies/allergies. And let's not forget dessert -- we offer a selection of healthy dairy-free & egg-free cookies for guiltless pleasure (triple chocolate anyone?)."

SPACE AVAILABLE: Reader Kris from Hayes Commercial Group passed me this message about new commercial space that is now available at 3000 State Street: "John: I read in your blog a while ago about Honeybaked closing. I wanted to let you know that Michael Martz and I are listing the property for lease. It has ample refrigeration space, lots of storage space and is located on a highly trafficked corner. It would work well for many uses including bakery, caterer, etc." For more information call 898-4361 or email kris@hayescommercial.com.

FREE WI-FI: Reader Karen tells me that Lazy Acres has posted a sign announcing that the store now has free Wi-Fi in their cafe.

EDHAT: On Tuesdays I submit this blog to Edhat.com and about 10% of my readers end up here this way. Last week Edhat stopped linking externally to anything promotional which I think is a good policy. Given that much of this column is about promoting restaurants, you will no longer find The Restaurant Guy listed there. Like most of Santa Barbara, I am a big Edhat fan (I visit the real-time local news page 5+ times a day) and "Ed" is a longtime friend. If you haven't visited Edhat check it out!
 

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Monday, July 19, 2010

PHOTO BLOG: July 18, 2010 - SB International Film Festival's "Silver Screen Bash"

PIZZA HUT CLOSES: The local branch of Pizza Hut at 2840 De La Vina St closed today.

REST IN PEACE: Here is a list of local food & drink destinations that have closed this year:

• July 2010: Pizza Hut 2840 De La Vina St; Xanadu French Bakery 1028 Coast Village Rd, Montecito
• June 2010: California Pasta - Five Points 3979 State St
• May 2010: Bay Cafe 131 Anacapa St; China City Restaurant 5688 Calle Real, Goleta; Mojo Coffee 7127 Hollister Ave, Goleta; Presto Pasta 5764 Calle Real, Goleta; Saigon Restaurant 424 State St
• April 2010: Chilango's Mexican Restaurant 503 State St; Encina Cafe & Cocktails 2220 Bath St; Hotcookie.com 2018 Cliff Dr; Quizno's 5723 Calle Real, Goleta
• March 2010: Caje 1007 Casitas Pass Rd, Carpinteria; Chef Karim's Moroccan Restaurant 1221 State St; Fosters Freeze 1924 Cliff Dr
• February 2010: Cities Barbecue 901 N. Milpas St; Downtown Brewing Co. 3744 State St; Epiphany Restaurant & Bar 21 W. Victoria St; Tuttini 10 E. Carrillo St 
• January 2010: Dean-o's Pizzarama 1950 Cliff Dr; 6558 Pardall Rd, Isla Vista; Melting Pot 608 Anacapa St; Ruby's Cafe & Spirits Lounge 734 State St

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Friday, July 16, 2010

VACATION: As some of you may have noticed I am on vacation again, enjoying an annual family reunion. Let's hope that I finally get back to work next week!

OFF TOPIC: Ross has opened in Camino Real Marketplace!

 

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Tuesday, July 13, 2010

RESTAURANT ADVISOR GROUP LAUNCHED: Longtime restaurant and hospitality veterans Jeremiah Higgins, Cobi Jones and Scott Leibfried have joined together to form HJL Restaurant Advisors Group, a new partnership that will counsel new and existing restaurant owners and management on how to improve their business. With 35 years of combined experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry, the partners will advise restaurant entrepreneurs with developing restaurant concepts, preparing business plans, achieving operational efficiencies, as well as branding and marketing.
   "Opening a restaurant can be one of the more challenging business ventures to undertake," said Higgins, HJL Group operations advisor and partner. "It takes as much passion and commitment as it does the right knowledge, especially of the best tools available. That's where HJL Group comes in. We look forward to sharing our combined knowledge and experience to help restaurants thrive."
   Recent local projects assisted by the HJL Group team include Marquee, Blush and Savoy. The team recently successfully opened sports bar On The Side in Isla Vista and will open Arch Rock Fish on Anacapa Street later this year. To learn more about HJL Restaurant Advisors Group or to contact the team for a consultation, visit hjlrestaurantadvisors.com.

FLAMING GRILL: A new restaurant named "Flaming Grill" is coming to 6558 Pardall Rd in Isla Vista, the former home of Isla Vista Bakery Cafe.

SILVER SCREEN BASH: The second-annual Silver Screen Bash, a fundraiser for the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, takes place this Sunday, July 18th at Fess Parker's Doubletree resort. VIP begins at 5pm and the event begins at 6pm.
   Food sponsors include Arnoldi's Cafe, Cold Stone Creamery, Fresco Cafe, Good Cookie, Hobnob Tavern, Live Culture Lounge, Los Arroyos, Marmalade Cafe, Rodney's Steakhouse, SB Farmer's Market, The Secret Ingredient, Wahoo's Fish Tacos and World Cuisine Express.
   For tickets ($75 general, $100 VIP) call 963-0023 or visit sbfilmfestival.org

PHOTO BLOG: July 11, 2010 - Italian Country Picnic fundraiser for Ensemble Theatre

SANTA BARBARA STYLE: I noticed a barbecue in the front of Mackenzie Market 3102 State St and asked owner John Demourkas what that was all about. He told me that for over 15 years he has offered a "Santa Barbara-Style BBQ" (using his Greek seasonings). Demourkas offers a tri-tip sandwich and a pork tri-tip. On weekends chicken, ribs and sausage are added to the menu. Catering is also available. For more information call 682-2051.

RUTH'S BISTRO: Ruth's Chris Steak House at 3814 State St (in La Cumbre Plaza) has introduced a lighter fare menu called "Ruth's Bistro." It is available in the lounge or in the dining room. The menu includes Ruth's-style sushi (the most popular item is the Surf & Turf Roll with spicy crab meat, rice, and wrapped in Carpaccio). Also available is a filet steak sandwich, a prime 10oz burger, grilled chicken sandwich and a variety of salads. Ruth's Chris is open Mon-Thu 5-9pm, Fri-Sat 5-10pm, Sun 4:30-9pm. For more information call 563-5674.

LOBSTER: Enterprise Fish Company at 225 State St is currently offering two-pound live Maine lobster Mon-Thu for $29.95 (regularly $47.95). For more information call 962-3313 or visit enterprisefishco.com.

THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY: Recently a good thing happened to me: I bought an iPhone 4 on the morning of the first day it was available (June 24th). Because most of my restaurant-related duties occur online, I like to have the latest and greatest iPhone around me at all times so I can get work done without being chained to the desk or lugging around a laptop.
   Last weekend a bad thing happened: I dropped it and I did not yet own a protective case. I pulled it from my pocket to check the time and before I had a chance to see the screen I noticed my brand-new iPhone 4 starting to take flight in front of me.
   Moments later an ugly thing happened: my iPhone 4 landed face-down on the street directly on the only pebble within sight and the front glass shattered. I quickly discovered that other ugly things happened as well to my formerly-pristine smart phone during that fateful moment but I have reached my pain threshold reliving the nightmare while typing this column.
   Fortunately I received a tip that THE person to contact for these sorts of emergencies is the "iDoctor," a local man named Bryan who specializes in iPhone repair for lower cost than Apple charges. My iPhone has surgery scheduled for this week. You can reach the iDoctor online at idoctorsb.com or by emailing idoctorsb@gmail.com.
 

 

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Wednesday, July 7, 2010

ME-N-ED'S: Before there was Dean-o's Pizzarama on the Mesa the pizza parlor at that location was called Me-N-Ed's. I received and email from readers Sid and Pauline that talks about this forgotten eatery and was surprised to learn that they are still around:

Hi, John,

Are you still missing Dean-O's great thin-crust pizza? We were until we remembered its history! When it first opened 50 years or so ago, it was called Me-N-Ed's. It was after a change of ownership that it was renamed Dean-O's but recipes stayed very much the same. We were delighted to discover recently that Me-N-Ed's is alive and thriving just down the road in Oxnard and the pizza is delicious. It is located in a spacious new building with giant-screen tv's adjacent to the water near Channel Islands Harbor. Address is 1601 South Victoria. The franchise is owned by Mike Manucharyan who also operates two other Me-N-Ed's locations in Camarillo (2390 Las Posas) and Moorpark (144 W Los Angeles Av). He currently has an excellent special: a large pizza with THREE toppings for only $10.00 .... makes the trip well worth while! Customers can choose between thin or thick crust and there is an appetizing fresh salad bar.. The menu also includes oven-baked sandwiches and calzones. Apparently the right to open a Santa Barbara Me-N-Ed's is owned by the franchisee in San Luis Obispo County. Maybe we'll have one here some day, but meanwhile let's all enjoy the Oxnard location.

Sid and Pauline

FUNDRAISER: Here is a press-release about a fundraiser at two waterfront eateries:

Restaurant Gift Certificates to Help the Fight Against Sexual Violence!

25% of Proceeds from Gift Certificate Purchases in July to be Donated to The Santa Barbara Rape Crisis Center

Chuck's Waterfront Grill & The Endless Summer bar-cafe are teaming up with the Santa Barbara Rape Crisis Center (SBRCC) in July to sell "Great Cause" gift certificates, valid for use at either restaurant, with 25% of the proceeds from special "Great Cause" gift certificates going directly to the SBRCC. The Certificates may be purchased at either location (contact information is below).

We all get appeals from many good causes, but we can't think of a better way to help than to give a loved one the gift of great food and beverage with family and friends; while enabling the SBRCC to do their great work like aiding victims of sexual violence who are less fortunate.

"We love to help the SBRCC raise money for their cause; they need every bit of help they can get. Our restaurant sees the importance of the work they do and that is why the owner (Steve Hyslop) and I have helped raise money for them over the past years," said Alvin Ferrara (Manager).

Chuck's Waterfront Grill & The Endless Summer bar-cafe are located at the beautiful Santa Barbara harbor overlooking the boats.

For further information and/or to purchase "Great Cause" gift certificates contact: Stephanie at the SBRCC located at 433 E. Canon Perdido Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805)-963-6832 or Alvin Ferrara (Manager) at Chuck's Waterfront Grill & The Endless Summer bar-cafe located at 113 Harbor Way suite 180 Santa Barbara, CA 93109 (805)-564-1200.

OFF TOPIC: I am away on vacation for the rest of the week. C U Monday!

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Tuesday, July 6, 2010

LAM'S VIETNAMESE BBQ OPENS: Last Saturday was the grand opening of Lam's Vietnamese BBQ and Sandwiches at 424 State Street, the former home of Saigon In & Out Restaurant. I spoke with owner William Lam yesterday and he told me that opening day was packed and that many people were watching soccer on the new flat screen TV in the restaurant. He says Sunday was equally busy. Lam's offers 14 types of sandwiches including the Grilled Pork sandwich (the most popular item) and the Special Sandwich (ham & pork meatloaf). The BBQ menu has many items as well including BBQ Bamboo (a kabob on a bamboo stick) which comes with beef, lamb or chicken. Lam recommends you try the BBQ Beef with Egg Noodles or the BBQ Shrimp Salad. Hours are 11am-11pm Sun-Wed and 11am-Midnight Thu-Sat. For more information call 962-0707.

BAKERY BURNS: Xanadu French Bakery at 1028 Coast Village Rd in Montecito was destroyed when an electrical fire started in a nearby attic. Long time owner Sepi Mashhoon said she suffered a total loss. She doesn't know if Xanadu will be able to reopen. Neighboring business Montecito Barbers (where I used to go for many years as a kid) was also destroyed. The barber shop hopes to reopen soon in another space in the building.

RESTAURANT WRAP UP: Here is a list of local eateries that have opened this year:

• July 2010: Lam's Vietnamese BBQ and Sandwiches 424 State St, 962-0707
• June 2010: Bay Roadhouse Bar & Grill 202 State St, 963-2215; Mac's Fish & Chip Shop 503 State St, 897-1160
• May 2010: Billies 413 State St, 966-9782
• April 2010: Las Aves Cafe 2220 Bath St, 682-7277; Panino 3569 Sagunto St, Santa Ynez, 688-0213
• March 2010: HobNob Tavern 21 W. Victoria St, 564-7100; On The Side 6521 Pardall Rd, Isla Vista, 685-2600
• February 2010: India House 418 State St, 962-5070; Saigon - Five Points 3987 State St, 964-0909
• January 2010: Chino's Rock & Tacos 6530 Pardall Rd, Isla Vista, 968-5118; Simply Pies 5392 Hollister Ave, Goleta, 845-2200

OFF TOPIC: I hope you had a great 4th of July weekend. I spent mine on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, CA. The photo on the left is the view from a family friend's home in Balboa where I stayed. The back of the house is on Balboa bay while the front faces the beach & pacific ocean. Coming to Balboa is such a family tradition that I have visited this same home during the 4th of July every year since age five.
 

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Friday, July 2, 2010

PHOTO BLOG: July 1, 2010 - Last night I wandered around town and took 81 pictures of the First Thursday art and culture tour.

PIZZA HUT UPDATE: I called Pizza Hut at 2840 De La Vina Street and they told me the restaurant is closing in a week or two.

NEW OWNERSHIP: Valentino's Take & Bake at 4421 Hollister Ave in Goleta is under new ownership, having been purchased by proprietor Shayre Olive-Jones.

NEW FLAVORS: Here is a press-release from Cold Stone Creamery (5718 Calle Real, 504 State St) about new flavors available this summer:

Santa Barbara, CA - (June 30, 2010) - Cold Stone Creamery in Santa Barbara and Goleta is introducing three new, refreshing fruit flavors from June to August, each a part of the Gold Cone collection. Throughout 2010, Cold Stone Creamery will be launching delectable Gold Cone flavors sure to delight taste buds.

Beginning June 30, Cold Stone Creamery at 504 State Street and 5718 Calle Real Road will begin featuring fresh fruit flavors, including Key Lime, Harvest Peach and Blueberry. Key Lime offers a scoop of tropical paradise with tangy meringue flavor packed with an extra burst of key lime yumminess. Harvest Peach is a refreshing taste of ripe, sun-kissed summer peaches where every spoonful is better than the last, while Blueberry is a tempting explosion with a tart and chilling sensation.

"Cold Stone Creamery's fresh fruit Gold Cone flavors are the perfect treat for families and friends to get together on a warm summer day," said Cold Stone Creamery owner, Mike Briggs. "Both sweet and refreshing, the new ice cream flavors make it easy to relax, indulge and enjoy those long summer days."

The fresh fruit Gold Cone flavors will be featured during their respective timeframes as Creations, pies and shakes. Cold Stone's Gold Cone signature ice cream descriptions for Key Lime, Harvest Peach and Blueberry are below:

Key Lime - June 30 - Aug. 24
Creation: Key to my Heart - Key lime ice cream, graham cracker pie crust, raspberries and whipped topping.
Pie: Key Lime Sunshine - Key lime ice cream with graham cracker pie crust in a graham cracker pie crust with fluffy white frosting rosettes and sprinkled with key lime candy pieces.
Shake: Pineapple Key Lime Pucker - Key lime ice cream mixed with pineapple.

Harvest Peach - June 30 - Aug. 24
Creation: Peaches and Creamery  - Harvest peach ice cream, graham cracker pie crust, peach pie filling and banana.
Pie: Sweet as a Peach - Harvest peach ice cream with graham cracker pie crust in a graham cracker pie crust with fluffy white frosting rosettes and sprinkled with graham cracker pie crust.
Shake: What a Peach - Harvest peach ice cream with graham cracker pie crust.

Blueberry - June 30 - Aug. 24
Creation: Blueberry Bliss - Blueberry ice cream, graham cracker pie crust, blueberries and whipped topping.
Pie: Blueberry Creme - Blueberry ice cream with graham cracker pie crust in a graham cracker pie crust with fluffy white frosting rosettes and sprinkled with graham cracker pie crust.
Shake: Blueberry Natural - Blueberry ice cream with blueberries.

These three flavors are available at the Cold Stone Creamery in Santa Barbara and Goleta. Following this fruity assortment, the Gold Cone collection will continue throughout 2010 with four more tantalizing flavors - so scoop up these flavors while they last because they will be gone before you know it!

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Thursday, July 1, 2010

ADIOS RUBIO'S: Reliable sources tell me that Rubio's Fish Tacos (scheduled to move into 734 State Street) was purchased by a private equity fund who decided not to move forward with a restaurant in Santa Barbara. Though I'm sure that people who dislike restaurant chains won't mind hearing that news, I can guarantee you there are many Rubio's fans in mourning today.

MANNY'S RETURNS: After an eight year absence the popular Durango-style Mexican restaurant named Manny's has returned to Solvang starting today. The sons of founder Manny Tovalin Sr have reopened the restaurant at 1693 Mission Drive, a few blocks away from its original location. The restaurant is open 6am-9pm daily and closed on Tuesdays. For more information call 691-9137.

NEW IN THE GUIDE: Today I added the new Thursday Farmers Market at Camino Real Marketplace in Goleta to the Markets section of the guide. This new farmers market starts today from 3-6pm and replaces the one previously held on Calle Real in Goleta.

NEW IN THE GUIDE: Today I also added La Tapatia Bakery at 832 N. Milpas Street to the guide. They have been around for years but had slipped under my radar.

NEW IN THE GUIDE: And finally I also added Mi Fiesta Market Deli & Grill at 410 Salinas Street. They have also been around for years but successfully avoided detection until yesterday.

UPDATED: Today I added photos of Mac's Fish & Chip Shop to the restaurant guide. While there I had a nice conversation with colorful and charismatic owner Grant McNaughton and of course tried out the fish & chips which were terrific. McNaughton told me that he has been swamped with business since he opened 11 days ago and that half of all customers said they heard about his eatery from The Restaurant Guy. I am starting to suspect that my mom might not be the only person in Santa Barbara reading this blog...

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Wednesday, June 30, 2010

THE BIG TWO OH OH OH OH: This morning reader David from Los Angeles submitted restaurant review number 20,000. The SantaBarbara.com Restaurant Guide debuted on March 4th 1996 and the review system was added in 2001. Thank you for helping support my ongoing online restaurant resource project. Reading your reviews each day is one of the things that makes my "work" so much fun.

PIZZA HUT TO CLOSE: The online commercial real estate behemoth LoopNet is reporting that the space currently occupied by Pizza Hut at 2840 De La Vina Street is available for lease starting in July.

BRAZILIAN CARNIVAL NIGHT: Cafe Buenos Aires at 1316 State Street now has a "Brazilian Carnival Night" every Thursday which includes typical Brazilian food and drink specials. If you print this flyer (and bring it with you!) you will receive a free dessert or Caipirinha when you purchase an entree.

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Tuesday, June 29, 2010

PHOTO BLOG: June 26, 2010 - Here are pictures from the Santa Barbara Wine Festival at the Museum of Natural History. This is the first event I have photographed using my new iPhone 4. The iPhone 4's flash is not quite strong enough for daytime use (I usually use a flash for every shot, night or day). The iPhone 4 CCD appears to have a much higher dynamic range than my old camera, meaning it handles dark areas such as shadows on faces far better. I carry a dedicated digital camera nearly everywhere I go (because the old iPhone camera was junk) and I have been eager to abandon the extra baggage. I am not convinced I can make the leap because many pictures clearly would have benefited from a flash.

NEW IN THE GUIDE: Today I added Mac's Fish & Chip Shop to the restaurant guide.

MAC'S FISH & CHIPS OPENS: The British are coming! Mac's Fish & Chip Shop has opened at 503 State Street, the former home of Chilango's Mexican Restaurant. Owner Grant McNaughton says "Welcome to MAC'S, an authentic British Fish & Chip shop in Santa Barbara, California where cod is our god, batter matters, mushy peas please, chips are hip and the pies appetize." The menu includes:

• Fish & Chips: whole fillets of premium, sustainable Alaskan Cod cooked to order in a thin, crisp coating of beer batter.
• Soon-To-Be Famous Fish Sandwich: crisp, beer-battered, fillet of sustainable Alaskan Cod served in a lightly toasted Kaiser Roll with crisp lettuce and house-made tartar sauce.
• Savory Pies: hand-made in-house from recipes inspired by British classics.
• Haggis: a traditional Scottish dish freshly made in-house and served in a crispy beer-batter.
• Sausages: 1/4 pound "bangers" (2 per order) paired with chips, beans and gravy or curry sauce.  Choose from plain, battered or in a lightly toasted Kaiser Roll.

 Hours are 11:30am-9pm Sun-Wed, 11:30am-2:30am Thu-Sat. For more information call 897-1160 or visit macssb.com.

LAM'S OPENS THURSDAY: Lam's Vietnamese BBQ and Sandwiches is having a grand opening this Thursday at 424 State Street, the former home of Saigon Restaurant. I asked owner William Lam if he had any specific recommendations from the menu for you and he suggested you try the Grilled Pork Sandwich, BBQ Beef with Egg Noodles or the BBQ Shrimp Salad. Hours are 11am-11pm Sun-Wed and 11am-Midnight Thu-Sat. For more information call 962-0707.

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Friday, June 25, 2010

SADDLE UP: Reader Primetime forwarded me a message this morning about a new restaurant named The Cowboy Way that has opened in Solvang:

This email is going out to all of our family and friends who have been so supportive and interested in our recent project - The Cowboy Way BBQ Restaurant. I'm happy to report that it is now open (finally!!). Please stop by when you can and let us know what you think.........Andy is there most days and can usually talk for a minute or two. Please join us for lunch or dinner..........and, we also offer easy take-out and catering. Phone # is (805) 691-9195.

The menu is great - mouthwatering slow cooked BBQ such as Brisket, Pulled Pork, Ribs, Tri-tip, Chicken all smoked over red oak & hickory. It's fantastic! Also offered are salads & sandwiches.

Here's where we are:
The Cowboy Way BBQ is located at 485 Alisal Rd, Solvang in Frederick's Court, on the corner of Hwy 246/Mission Dr and Alisal Rd. It's open daily except Tuesdays, from 11am to 8pm.......Fridays & Saturdays 11am to 9pm. The restaurant is upstairs in Frederick's Court - parking is available in the courtyard or directly across the street on Alisal (fyi - there is an elevator available if needed).

We hope you'll give us a try and spread the word.........thanks again for all your support!

Mary & Andy Bahnken

PIZZA HAPPY HOUR: This just in from Pizza Mizza in La Cumbre Plaza:

Pizza Mizza began a new FREE Pizza Happy Hour recently. Get a FREE Pizza of equal or lesser value when you buy any Large Pizza at normal price every night of the week from 8-9pm. It is for DELIVERY and TAKE OUT only.

We are already getting a great response from it. It's a solid deal for the summer time especially since people are eating so much later.

Take care!

Sean Ebadi
Pizza Mizza

OFF TOPIC: It will come as no surprise to you that I had no blog yesterday because I was busy testing my new iPhone 4 that I purchased at Best Buy. At first I was able to test everything except for the FaceTime video chat because I didn't know if any of my friends owned an iPhone 4. Apparently I wasn't the only person with that dilemma because Apple has launched a toll-free phone number where you can test FaceTime live with an Apple representative. I called 1-888-FACETIME (888-322-3846) and enjoyed a nice video chat with a gentlemen who walked me through various features of FaceTime. I was stunned how well video chat works and how easy it is to use. I had previously assumed that video calls on a mobile handset would be just a gimmick. I now think that phone-based video chat will go mainstream once other phone manufacturers adopt the open FaceTime standard. Apple's competitors (Qik, Fring, Skype) are going to have to ramp up their video share offerings quickly. FaceTime blows them all out of the water.
 
  My main objective, however, was to test the picture camera. I think I might be able to finally retire my digital camera as the main workhorse for SantaBarbara.com. It sure would be nice to be able to use the iPhone for my photo needs rather than carry two gadgets everywhere I go. Photo quality is certainly good enough, the main issue is the flash. The flash in the new iPhone 4 looks like it might be adequate for night time photos (we'll see) but I also like to use a flash to lighten up faces in all my daytime shots. I'm not sure if it can do that in all situations like my regular digital camera can. Below are my first tests of the iPhone 4 camera yesterday during a "working" visit to Red Rock in Santa Ynez.
 

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Wednesday, June 23, 2010

PIZZA GURU REOPENS: The uptown restaurant Pizza Guru at 3534 State Street has reopened. Owner Joshua Braun sent me a letter this morning with his perspective on recent events that have been widely publicized in local news outlets:

Hi John,

We noticed that you have Pizza Guru in the cemetery on SB.com. I am writing to let you know that we are open for business and very busy, thanks to our recent, uh, "PR campaign." I guess it is really true that no press is bad press.

In case you weren't already aware, I was the founder and Executive Director of the medical cannabis collective known as Hortipharm. Hortipharm has long been considered the most transparent and legitimate collective in Santa Barbara, and was voted best dispensary in Santa Barbara three years running in the Independent's Readers Poll. Why law enforcement believes we were "operating outside the scope of the Compassionate Use Act" is still a mystery to me, but I am confident that the error will be remedied before long.

As for Pizza Guru laundering money from Hortipharm, nothing could be farther from the truth. My wife, Dayli, has done an amazing job turning the place around since she took over the business--apparently such a good job that law enforcement decided that it couldn't be legitimate. Fortunately, we have meticulous records to demonstrate that their assertions are ludicrous, and I am furious that they dragged her into this fiasco. Her business and my collective were completely separate.

Our loyal customer base, from Guru as well as from Hortipharm, has been quick to support us through these trying times and we are excited that everyone now knows about Pizza Guru.

Yours Truly,
Joshua Braun

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Tuesday, June 22, 2010

PASTA LA VISTA: Readers tell me that it appears California Pasta - Five Points (3979 State St) is gone. I tried calling the restaurant and the phone number is disconnected. I'll post more information as it becomes available.

SB WINE FEST: The Santa Barbara Wine Festival at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History was the first festival of its kind when it began 28 years ago. Set along the banks of Mission Creek, it is a festival not to be missed. On Saturday June 26th from 2-5pm over 80 wineries and 30 food booths will participate, offering tastes of wine exclusively from the Central Coast.
   Food participants include: American Flat Bread, Bella Dolce, Brophy Brothers, C'est Cheese, Ciao Bella Gelato, Coast Restaurant, D'Angelos, E & L Foods, Elements, Full of Life, Global Gardens, Jessica Foster Confections, La Mousse, Marmalade Cafe, Michael's Catering, Pierre La Fond Wine Bistro, Renaud's, Rincon Beach Club and Catering, Savoir Faire, The Berry Man, The Spicy Gourmets Organics, Village Modern Food and Whole Foods Market.
   For ticket information visit sbnature.org or call 682-4711 ext 443. The profits all go to Museum programs.

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Monday, June 21, 2010

CHAD'S FLASHBACK HAPPY HOUR: Jodi House, located at 625 Chapala Street, the former home of Chad's Restaurant, is having a fundraiser July 7, 5-7:30pm. The event will resurrect the popular Chad's Happy Hour for one wonderful evening. $30 donation/cover charge includes two drinks and lots of hors d'oeuvres. Jodi House's mission is to provide supportive services to brain injury survivors and their families. For more information call 563-2882 x4.
   Take a trip down Memory Lane and view my photo album from the last happy hour at Chad's, July 26th, 2008.

MENU NOW ONLINE: Today I added Bay Roadhouse Bar & Grill's menu to the restaurant guide, brought to you exclusively by The Restaurant Guy.

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Friday, June 18, 2010

NEW IN THE GUIDE: Today I added Bay Roadhouse Bar & Grill at 202 State Street to the restaurant guide. They opened last Friday.

NEW IN THE GUIDE: Today I added Panino - Santa Ynez to the restaurant guide. The deli opened last April.

NEW IN THE GUIDE: Today I added Simply Pies at 5392 Hollister Ave in Goleta to the restaurant guide. The bakery opened last January.

RUMOR MACHINE: The occasionally reliable Rumor Machine recently output a message that Ruby's Cafe & Spirits Lounge, which closed their 734 State Street location last January, was reopening next door in De la Guerra Plaza, the former home of El Cazadore. Apparently it had blown a fuse, because when I changed out some parts yesterday a slightly different message appeared: "The space formerly occupied by El Cazadore at 731 De la Guerra Plaza will be opening in about a week. The name will be Tonyray's."

NEW BREAKFAST HOURS: This just in from Silvergreens at 791 Chapala Street downtown:

Hey John,

I would love to inform your readers about Downtown Silvergreens' new extended breakfast hours. Mon-Fri breakfast is served from 7:30am-Noon and Sat-Sun from 8am-1pm. We have homemade Belgian waffles, made to order breakfast burritos and scrambles, Acai energy bowls, fruit and yogurt parfaits, steel-cut oatmeal, bagels, organic coffee and fresh squeezed juices. We use only Cage-Free eggs and if you are looking for a non-greasy breakfast made quickly, look no further. You can even call your order in ahead of time on the way to work: (805) 962-8500.

Ron Gleiberman
Regional General Manager
Silvergreens

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Thursday, June 17, 2010

BAY ROADHOUSE OPENS: Bay Roadhouse Bar & Grill at 202 State Street, the former home of Paoli's, has opened. Bay Roadhouse is brought to you by the owners of Bay Cafe.  The restaurant is next-door neighbors with Union Ale Brewing Co. which opened last August.
   I spoke with proprietor Bob Montgomery, who also owns the successful Nugget restaurants in Summerland and Goleta, and he told me that Bay Roadhouse Bar & Grill has lowered prices a couple of dollars when compared to Bay Cafe and added menu items borrowed from the Nugget in addition to the seafood & pasta. Another idea borrowed from the Nugget: funky displays around the room including a marlin & tuna, glass balls & net, vintage automobile wooden wheels, pier pilings and old pictures of Santa Barbara.
   Managing partner Harish Prather tells me ""We tried to design the menu to be fair priced. Many of the items are under $20, most are under $14." Prather recommends you try the paella or the honey-dipped fried chicken. Hours are 11am-10pm every day. Bay Roadhouse will be starting a happy hour in a couple of weeks. For more information call 963-2215.

UP IN SMOKE: Pizza Guru restaurant at 3534 State Street closed after the owners got into widely publicized legal trouble. I don't know if the closure is temporary or permanent.

COLOSSAL: Ken Boxer, owner of Palazzio at 1026 State Street, sent me a message yesterday about his new 48oz drink called the "Colossal"

Hi John,

It was only a matter of time....Palazzio is known for it's rather enormous portions of food, now it will become recognized for our now gigantic pours. Here is our new 48oz Colossal. Palazzio is now serving the largest drink in town. The 48oz Colossal comes as a Margarita, Cosmopolitan, Belini-tini, Blood Orange, Pomegranate, Watermelon, Lemon Drop Martinis, and Hypnotiq Strawberry Splash and many other of our drinks are now
being made to our Colossal size. The price is 19.95 and four people can share one!!

Ken Boxer
Palazzio

 

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Wednesday, June 16, 2010

NEW RESTAURANT DOWNTOWN: William Lam, who closed his Saigon Restaurant (424 State Street) last month, will be opening in its place a new eatery named "Lam's Vietnamese Barbecue Sandwiches" next week. I am having lunch with Mr. Lam soon and will ask him for more details about it.

NEW RESTAURANT IN SANTA YNEZ: The popular sandwich shop Panino, with locations downtown, Goleta, Montecito and Los Olivos, has opened a new location at 3569 Sagunto Street in Santa Ynez. The eatery offers 30 different sandwiches, 9 salads and Italian-inspired soups. The most popular sandwich is the Curried Chicken Salad Sandwich, which includes roast chicken, organic greens, pine nuts, sliced apple, honey mustard dressing and dried cranberries. Panino is open daily from 10am-4pm. For more information call 688-0213 or visit paninorestaurants.com.

OFF TOPIC: Shane Bishop, National Producer for Dateline NBC, emailed me this morning to let me know that a special episode will be airing this Friday, June 18th at 9pm about the murders of Wendy Di Rodio and Brock & Davina Husted last year in Ventura. Dateline interviewed me along with many locals including Di Rodio's dance partner Rick Harmon and Di Rodio's dance instructor Sylvia Sykes. I run a tribute web site for Di Rodio at SantaBarbara.com/wendy. The Husted's murderer was arrested earlier this year but Wendy Di Rodio's has not been.
 

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Monday, June 14, 2010

MAC'S FISH & CHIP OPENS JUNE 25TH: This just in from Mac's Fish & Chip Shop owner Grant MacNaughton:

Morning John,

Hope you had a good trip.

I'm excited to report that the remodel of 503 State St is almost complete, the various permits have been obtained, our monster custom fryer has been delivered from Louisiana and the imported British items have arrived so we're going to be officially open for business from 11:30am on FRIDAY 25th JUNE. For our opening weekend we'll be offering FREE CHIPS with the purchase of any main item (fish, savory pie, sausage or haggis) and we'll be open until 2:30am so there's no excuse not to come and give us a try!

We'll continue to update our website (www.macssb.com) and we've also created a Facebook page (if you're into that sort of thing) which we encourage people to become a fan of because currently we only have a few friends and it's beginning to feel like high school all over again...

Cheers,
Mac

BACK IN TOWN: I returned last night from a week of hiking & camping. Here is a picture (left) from the top of Moro Rock in Sequoia National Park and (right) from Glacier Point in Yosemite.
 

 

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Tuesday, June 8, 2010

TIME FOR A VACATION: I have left for a vacation to Sequoia National Park and Yosemite. Unless there is earth-shattering food news to report you probably won't hear from me until next week. I have decided to load you up with news today that should hold you over until then:

ARCH ROCK FISH: The Melting Pot restaurant at 608 Anacapa Street, which closed last January, will be replaced by a new casual seafood restaurant named Arch Rock Fish. The restaurant is named after the famous rock on Anacapa Island. They are working with the Farmers Market and fishermen at the harbor to help develop the menu. When visiting Arch Rock Fish last week I spoke with culinary advisor chef Scott Leibfried, known to national television audiences as Gordon Ramsey's sous chef on Hell's Kitchen and also as a judge/host of many Food Network Challenges.
   Starters on the menu include ahi tuna, clam chowder, baked Kushi oysters, lobster bisque, ale steamed mussels, fried ipswitch clams, crab & smoked salmon fritters, iced shell fish, shucked oysters, crispy calamari, grilled artichoke, spicy sushi roll, handmade guacamole.
   Sandwiches include lobster roll, grilled yellow tail, grilled salmon burger, rare albacore tuna, piedmont beef burger and turkey burger.
   Main menu items include Atlantic cod fish and chips, rare ahi tuna, grilled salmon, grilled wild bass, steamed lobster, cioppino, crispy skin amish chicken, 16oz KC NY, pork chop millinaise, handmade ravioli. They will also offer fresh pasta daily in limited quantities.
   Arch Rock Fish will be open 11am-10pm Sun-Thu, 11am-11pm Fri-Sat. They will have a happy hour every night except Saturday. Call 805-845-2800, visit archrockfish.com or follow their progress on Facebook.
 

The crew from Arch Rock Fish:
Top (L-R): Mike Anderson, Jeremiah Higgins, Scott Leibfried
Bottom (L-R): Jennifer Higgins, Cobi Jones, Jaime Kostechko

NEW DOWNTOWN DELI: South Coast Deli will be opening a new location downtown at 10 E. Carrillo Street, the former home of Tuttini. "We're excited to open downtown and make South Coast Deli available to more of the community," says owner Jim St. John. He tells me that they hope to open the restaurant in September around Labor Day. You can follow the progress of their new location by visiting their page on Facebook.

RUMOR MACHINE: My home computer was recently hit by a computer virus (first time ever) which pretty much made the thing unusable. Rather than wiping the hard disk and reinstalling an ancient copy of Windows XP I went out and bought a brand-new Windows 7 computer at Best Buy in Goleta. One of the nice features of Windows 7 is that it automatically installs software for almost any device you plug into it. Last night I plugged the Rumor Machine into my new computer and Windows 7 quickly recognized it and, to my surprise, displayed a message on the screen that read "Ruby's Cafe & Spirits Lounge at 734 State Street, which closed last January, is planning to reopen later this year next door in a location formerly occupied by Papagallos/El Cazadore. It will only be accessible from De la Guerra Plaza." As always, this rumor might be completely false or a brilliant forecast of future events. Your call.

HAPPY HOUR HOUSEWIVES: Three ladies who go by the nicknames "City Wife," "Party Wife" and "Wine Wife" have developed a web site that tracks the Happy Hour scene throughout Santa Barbara. Get updated information about happy hours, specials and more. Visit their web site online at HappyHourHousewivesofSB.blogspot.com.

SPEAKING OF SPECIALS: Moby Dick Restaurant on Stearns Wharf has a happy hour special Mon-Fri 4-7pm: $5.95 for your choice of steamed mussels, steamed clams, calamari, mini salmon cakes, fried clams or hot chicken wings. They also have a surf & turf special: 1 1/2 lb fresh Maine lobster & prime cut top sirloin for $29.95.

REMODEL: Mimosa at 2700 De La Vina Street is being remodeled. The exterior is getting a fresh coast of paint which is why their signs are currently down.

ANNIVERSARY: Paradise Cafe at 702 Anacapa Street is celebrating 27 years in paradise June 7-9. Specials include $4 margarita, $5 chardonnay, $6 syrah, $8.95 cobb salad, $7.95 Paradise Burger and $6.95 Huevos Valenzuela.

CUPCAKE WARS: Local bakers Dave and Wendy Jones from Whodidily Cupcakes at 1150 Coast Village Rd will air on the Food Network's baking competition "Cupcake Wars" on July 6th at 10pm. Shannon Noormand, owner of Crushcakes Cupcakery at 1315 Anacapa St, will also be part of the series on June 22nd.

SOLSTICE FUNDRAISER: John Palminteri was the bartender at James Joyce (513 State Street) last night as part of a fundraiser for the Solstice Parade.

THE CRYSTAL BALL: After intense concentration and a wave of my hand over the all-knowing Crystal Ball, my eatery oracle has revealed a list of locations appearing in your future:

• Arch Rock Fish 608 Anacapa St (formerly Melting Pot) - summer
• Bay Roadhouse Bar & Grill 202 State St (formerly Paoli's & Bougainvillea) - June
• BevMo 3052 State St - summer
• Cabana 509 State St (formerly Bricks Cafe) - summer
• Chipotle 270 Storke Rd, Goleta
• Fresco Valley Cafe 442 Atterdag Rd, Solvang - summer
• Fresh & Easy 336 N. Milpas St
• Islands Restaurant (location to be determined)
• Mac's Fish & Chip Shop 503 State St (formerly Chilango's) - June
• Mel's Lounge 209 W. Carrillo St - June
• Olio Pizzeria 11 W. Victoria St - summer
• Panera Bread (locations to be determined)
• Rubio's Fish Tacos 734 State Street
• Savoy 409 State St (formerly Q's, not related to Savoy Truffles)
• South Coast Deli 10 E. Carrillo St - September
• The Counter (location to be determined)
• The Tackle Box (location to be determined)
• Whole Earth Pizza 6576 Trigo Rd, Isla Vista - June

OFF TOPIC: Apple Inc announced their new iPhone 4 today which will start shipping June 24th. In my April 1, 2010  blog I posted a set of predictions about the various features to be included with the next-generation iPhone (this was long before pictures of the phone leaked out to the web). Let's see how I did:

• Prediction: The next iPhone will be called "iPhone HD"
  Result: False! The latest gadget from Apple is called the "iPhone 4"
• Prediction: It will have a 960x640 double-resolution screen capable of displaying HD movies
  Result: True!
• Prediction: It will have a slightly larger screen
  Result: True!
• Prediction: It will be slightly thinner than the iPhone 3G/3GS
  Result: True! The new iPhone will be 24% thinner than the current model
• Prediction: It will have an "A4" CPU which is much faster than the current iPhone CPU and offers better battery life
  Result: True!
• Prediction: It will have a Universal Inbox that allows you to send and receive all your email from one inbox instead of requiring you to switch to different email accounts
  Result: True!
• Prediction: It will have multitasking for third-party apps (currently only the built-in apps can multitask). Hitting the home button twice will bring up the icons of currently running apps, allowing users to quickly choose the one they want to switch to.
  Result: True!
• Prediction: It will have an enhanced mapping program that features turn by turn navigation with spoken directions
  Result: False!
• Prediction: It will have a front-facing camera for iPhone-to-iPhone video calls in addition to a camera on the back
  Result: True! This new feature is called "FaceTime" and only works when calling another iPhone 4. For the time being video calls require you to be logged into a Wi-Fi network.
• Prediction: It will have an LED camera flash built-in to the camera on the back
  Result: True!
• Prediction: The camera on the back will have a 5 megapixel sensor (the iPhone 3GS has a 3.2 megapixel camera sensor)
  Result: True!
• Prediction: It will support Wi-Fi "N" technology, the latest version of Wi-Fi that replaces the common Wi-Fi "G."
  Result: True!
• Prediction: It will have integrated RFID technology (I won't bother explaining what that is!)
  Result: False!

Other iPhone features announced today:

• The iPhone 4 comes with an HD video camera and a full-featured video editor program called "iMovie"
• The iPhone 4 includes a gyroscope to enhance motion sensing
• The iPhone 4 flash can be used as a light for filming videos

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Thursday, June 3, 2010

ARCH ROCK FISH: The Melting Pot restaurant at 608 Anacapa Street, which closed last January, will be replaced by a new seafood restaurant named Arch Rock Fish.

TWO GOLETA EATERIES CLOSE: China City Restaurant at 5688 Calle Real in Goleta and Presto Pasta at 5764 Calle Real both closed their doors at the end of May.

SIMPLY HEINZ: For those of you who prefer sugar over high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), Heinz has just launched a new brand of ketchup called "Simply Heinz." Previously the only way to avoid HFCS was to buy their organic ketchup, which tends to cost more. Many companies in the food & beverage industries are now offering alternatives to their HFCS-based products including Coca Cola which now sells Coke made with sugar. I bought Simply Heinz yesterday and made sure it was in a plastic bottle to avoid yet another Catsup Catastrophe as detailed in an early blog.
 

 

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Wednesday, June 2, 2010

BAY CAFE CLOSES: Bay Cafe at 131 Anacapa Street closed its doors last Sunday in preparation to reopen soon as Bay Roadhouse Bar & Grill 202 State Street, next to Union Ale Brewing Co.

 

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Tuesday, June 1, 2010

PIADINA: Montecito Deli at 1150 Coast Village Rd has a unique lunch offering called a "Piadina" that I enjoyed the other day. It is a specialty sandwich from the Emilia Romagna region of Italy and I am told it is only available locally at Montecito Deli. It reminded me of a deli sandwich wrapped in a quesadilla instead of bread! The homemade flatbread dough is prepared fresh each morning and it is cooked to order. Cheese is melted with it and the whole thing is wrapped around your choice of meats and vegetables. It's excellent and worth a try.

BREAKFAST: Union Ale Brewing Co. at 215 State Street now serves breakfast starting at 8am.

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: Something's Fishy at 500 State Street offers early bird specials on their hibachi dinners before 6pm. Save up to $5 off of the selections of chicken, steak, shrimp and halibut hibachi dinners.
 

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