SANTA BARBARA, CA
Our mini road trip up and down the beautiful coast of California ended perfectly with an early dinner at Oliver’s of Montecito. Just me and my mom.
We chose a table on the patio, blanketed in the golden hour glow. The decor, the location, the weather, and the open-air seating—it all made for a wonderful dining experience.
Johnny 5 Alive
Cocktail hour
I love that even the cocktail menu is fresh and enlivening, crafted “with help from our friends at Juice Ranch,” an organic cold pressed juicery right across the street.
The Johnny 5 Alive was a must. Someone on staff at Oliver’s is obviously just as big a fan of the 80s film Short Circuit as I am. But aside from the name, the drink also includes some of my favorite ingredients: organic tequila blanco, apple, lemon, ginger, and cayenne, making for a delicious blend of sweet and spicy.
Brussels Sprouts
Sharing is caring
Not quite ready for a full dinner, we opted for several small plates instead. The Kung Pao Broccolini with cashew and Japanese chili (featured image) was our favorite dish. We also ordered the Brussels Sprouts, with dates and maple sherry glaze, and the Artichoke Crab Cakes: hearts of palm, corn, scallions, cherry tomato, arugula, and spicy aioli.
The intricate tastes had me wishing I was talented enough to prepare vegetables with such depth of flavor. Everything was light, healthful, and satisfying. Open for about six years, Oliver’s continues to thrive, with guests coming not only for the amazing food but the casual and elegant ambiance too.
Artichoke “Crab Cakes”
I’ve barely skimmed the surface of Oliver’s delectable, plant-based cuisine. Other small plates include White Asparagus Soup, with truffle oil and lemon; Hearts of Palm Ceviche, with local citrus, cucumber, avocado, celery, radish, lime leaf, and herbs; and two choices of flatbread: Pear and Gorgonzola Flatbread and Zucchini Flatbread.
1198 Coast Village Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
Next time you find yourself in Santa Barbara, please show this restaurant some love and stop by. They’ve created extraordinarily appetizing dishes, and no animals were hurt in the process. 💜
Pro Tip: Oliver’s is open for dinner every night of the week but Monday. Reservations are recommended. Although, if all you want is a stiff drink and to catch the night’s game, you might be able to snag a seat at the bar. Cheers!
