Downey's

I was sad to see they're going to be changing hands to retire somewhere around September. If you want some awesome food dessert that will give you chills it takes so good you have to try it. They are so friendly in there as well!! Wonderful service! Farmers Market food. Completely Gourmet! I didn't do their desserts Justice with my picture. Mmm so good I'm going back before it's too late! Little bit expensive but worth every penny.

Probably the best dining experience we have ever had. Relaxed yet extremely professional, the service was stellar, and the food was exceptionally and thoughtfully crafted without being overly focused on style over substance, as so many restaurants can be. Simply the best meal we have had at a restaurant at a long time, and this from a foodie family. This little gem of a restaurant is the feather in the cap of Santa Barbara dining.

The best restaurant experience I ever had in America. John Downey is a perfectionist. Trendy places appear every year in Santa Barbara, Downey's is perfection, simple, old-school. Not for everyone. And bring some money, great things in life are not cheap.

On the final night of our honeymoon, Kristine and I decided to treat ourselves to a fine dinner at Downey's. Fine indeed! The appetizers (mussels, local crab) were fantastic. The chilled tomato soup was well beyond expectations, but the entrees were the dishes that truly shined. The duck is John Downey's signature dish, and it is easy to see why. Finally, for dessert, we enjoyed the most incredible peach and almond ice cream with strawberry drizzle. It was out of this world!

This is a lovely, serene and very pleasant place to spend an evening - unlike so many of today's restaurants that thrive on noise. The food is well prepared and imaginative and excellent. The service is the best we've had anywhere. Unobtrusive and efficient. I have read many of the reviews and most are wonderful. The few that aren't are, I would guess, submitted by people who should not have been there. This restaurant is special and for discerning adults who appreciate it for what it is.

bring a bag full of $ to "the best restaurant in santa barbara." while the food and service were excellent, a much more innovative dinner can be had elsewhere for that kind of $. ask for their house specialty dessert. it was fabulous!

Alas, I will miss the exquisitely prepared meals and friendly and cozy dining experience. The goose! The desserts! The wonderfully curated wine list and the art on the walls. I wish them well in retirement.

Liz and John leaving the end of August?? A beautiful and sublimely created dining experience truly will be missed! Looking forward to dining with you before you leave on your new life adventure.

This was the best restaurant in Santa Barbara. Unfortunately it closed in late 2017 after decades of great food and service.