Santa Barbara Public Market - Image 1
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Santa Barbara Public Market

4.6
·1k reviews·Santa Barbara, United States

A vibrant indoor food hall celebrating locally sourced ingredients with diverse culinary delights and a lively atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Santa Barbara Public Market - Image 1

Santa Barbara Public Market

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant indoor food hall celebrating locally sourced ingredients with diverse culinary delights and a lively atmosphere.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"So many great food options all in one place—you can grab everything from fresh desserts to international flavors."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Perfect for Groups

Ideal for meetups where people can choose their own food and come/go as they please.

💰 Pricey Portions

Be aware that food portions can be small and on the pricier side.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Global Flavors Under One Roof

Global Flavors Under One Roof

Various Stalls

Explore a culinary journey with options from fresh desserts to international cuisine. A true foodie's dream!

Lively Atmosphere

Lively Atmosphere

Main Seating Area

Enjoy a dynamic and welcoming vibe, ideal for casual meetups and soaking in the local scene.

Empty Bowl Gourmet Noodle Bar

Empty Bowl Gourmet Noodle Bar

Empty Bowl Stall

Savor deep, flavorful noodles with a kick. A highly recommended spot for a satisfying meal.

Little Heart Cafecito

Little Heart Cafecito

Little Heart Cafecito Stall

Indulge in divine coconut rice pudding with pineapple glaze for a perfect sweet ending.

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Planning Your Visit

A Foodie's Paradise

Discover a vibrant indoor food hall showcasing locally sourced ingredients and diverse culinary delights. Perfect for groups with varied tastes, as everyone can pick their own adventure.

Timing Your Visit

While weekdays offer a more relaxed experience, weekends can get busy. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully savor the atmosphere and avoid long waits for your favorite dishes.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Friday evenings
Why
Lively, great for groups
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

SAVE this for your next trip to Santa Barbara and if you want to try a variety of local food and drinks… 😋 Santa Barbara Public Market is a unique food hall and a great way to get a taste of the city. It’s conveniently located in Downtown Santa Barbara, super family-friendly, and has such a fun, lively vibe. Featured in the video: 📍 Empty Bowl Gourmet Noodle Bar 📍 Three Monkeys 📍 Wabi Sabi FOLLOW ...
@californiajulez
5.2K likes • 247.6K views

🎯 Perfect for Groups

Ideal for meetups where people can choose their own food and come/go as they please. Reddit

💰 Pricey Portions

Be aware that food portions can be small and on the pricier side. Reddit

A tour of Santa Barbara Public Market #foodie #coffee #santabarbara #publicmarket
@stephenjeung
1.4K likes • 93.3K views
Exploring the Santa Barbara foodie scene? Stop by if you want to try a variety of local food and drinks… 😋 Santa Barbara Public Market is a unique food hall and a great way to get a taste of the city. @sbpublicmarket is conveniently located in Downtown Santa Barbara, super family-friendly, and has such a fun, lively vibe. Featured in the video: 📍 @emptybowlnoodle 📍 @threemonkeyssb 📍 @wabisabi.sb...
sbpublicmarket
634 likes • 20.5K views

🍜 Flavorful Noodle Bowls

Don't miss the Hangover Noodles at Empty Bowl for a spicy, deep-flavored experience. Reddit

🍰 Divine Desserts

The coconut rice pudding from Little Heart Cafecito is a must-try sweet treat. Reddit

Santa Barbara Public Market…a MUST when visiting Santa Barbara! @hallercoastalhomes @sbpublicmarket @cadario_ristorante @corazoncocinasb @emptybowlnoodle @falabar @littleheartcafecitosb @roriscreamery @shalhoobsatthemarket @valleytotheseawinery @wabisabi.sb #hallercoastalhomes #sbpublicmarket #seesb #visitsb #vacationrentals #downtownsb #santabarbara #santabarbarafood #805foodie #805living #vacat...
hallercoastalhomes
40 likes • 6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Perfect for Groups

Ideal for meetups where people can choose their own food and come/go as they please. Reddit

💰 Pricey Portions

Be aware that food portions can be small and on the pricier side. Reddit

🍜 Flavorful Noodle Bowls

Don't miss the Hangover Noodles at Empty Bowl for a spicy, deep-flavored experience. Reddit

🍰 Divine Desserts

The coconut rice pudding from Little Heart Cafecito is a must-try sweet treat. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore All Options

Take a walk around to see all the excellent choices before deciding what to eat. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Santa Barbara Public Market's incredible variety of locally sourced food and its lively, welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for groups with diverse tastes. While some find portions small and prices high, the quality and unique culinary experiences are consistently praised, with specific vendors like Empty Bowl and Little Heart Cafecito earning high marks.

"The Santa Barbara Public Market is a must-visit spot! So many great food options all in one place—you can grab everything from fresh desserts to international flavors. The service was friendly and helpful, and the whole atmosphere felt lively and welcoming. Perfect place to stop whether you want a quick bite, a drink, or just to hang out and explore. Highly recommend if you’re in Santa Barbara!"

Luis

"Alot of different food to choose from. Tacos were good and chicken sandwich was okay. Just keep in mind the food portions are small and pricey. Place has a good atmosphere to hang out spot for small groups of friends."

Francisco Ruiz Jr

"I shopped this market for years was always happy suddenly I'm stuck in a skilled nursing facility and I ordered several things from you through the delivery service and I hope this watermelon is organic because number one it hardly taste and it's slightly biter what's going on this place almost 7 dollars a pound for regular watermelon is outrageous and I'm trying to call you and I constantly get Publix in different names. Are you no longer lazy acres?"

Marcy Cifra

What People Like

Wide variety of food
Lively atmosphere
Great for groups

What People Dislike

Small portions
Pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Santa Barbara Public Market is centrally located in downtown Santa Barbara. Parking can be found in nearby garages and street parking is available, though it can be competitive. Public transportation options also serve the downtown area.

Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options in the vicinity. Be prepared for potential fees and limited availability, especially during peak hours.

Absolutely! The market is in a walkable and bike-friendly part of downtown Santa Barbara. Bike racks are often available nearby.

Local bus routes service the downtown area, making it accessible via public transit. Check with the local transit authority for specific routes and schedules.

The market is generally accessible, with ramps and elevators where needed. Most stalls are at ground level.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to enter the Santa Barbara Public Market. It's a public space where you can browse and purchase food from various vendors.

Operating hours can vary by vendor and day of the week. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on hours.

There is no admission fee to enter the Santa Barbara Public Market. You only pay for the food and drinks you purchase from the vendors.

The market itself doesn't take reservations, as it's a collection of independent food stalls. Some individual vendors might offer pre-orders or catering options.

The market often hosts special events, pop-ups, and themed nights. Keep an eye on their announcements for any upcoming happenings.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a diverse range of cuisines, including international flavors, fresh desserts, tacos, chicken sandwiches, and gourmet noodle bowls. It's a great place to explore different tastes. Reddit+1

Reviews suggest that food portions can be on the smaller side, and the prices reflect this. It's often recommended to try multiple items or share dishes. Reddit

The Hangover Noodles from Empty Bowl and the coconut rice pudding from Little Heart Cafecito are frequently recommended for their unique flavors. Reddit

With a variety of vendors, you're likely to find options that cater to different dietary needs, such as vegetarian or vegan choices. It's always best to ask the individual vendors about their ingredients.

Yes, many vendors offer a selection of beverages, including coffee, juices, and potentially alcoholic drinks depending on the vendor's license.

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, the market has a vibrant atmosphere and diverse food offerings, making it quite photogenic. The colorful stalls and artful food presentations are great for photos.

Focus on the colorful food displays, the unique architecture of the market, and candid shots of people enjoying their meals. The various vendor signs also add character.

Generally, it's acceptable to take photos of your food and the general market atmosphere. If you're focusing on a specific vendor or person, it's always polite to ask for permission.

Daytime offers natural light, which is great for food photography. Evenings can offer a more atmospheric, moody shot with the market lights.

While casual photography is usually fine, professional shoots or extensive filming might require prior permission. Check with market management if you have specific needs.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Santa Barbara Public Market is a fantastic spot for families, offering a wide variety of food options to please even the pickiest eaters. The lively atmosphere is engaging for children, and the ability for each family member to choose their own meal from different vendors makes dining out much smoother. It's a great way to introduce kids to different flavors in a casual, fun environment. Reddit

Tips for families: Consider visiting during weekday afternoons to avoid the biggest crowds. While portions can be small, sharing dishes can be a cost-effective way to let kids sample a few things. Look for vendors offering simpler options like tacos or sandwiches if your children are less adventurous eaters. The communal seating also makes it easy to keep an eye on everyone.

💰 Budget Travelers

While the Santa Barbara Public Market is known for its upscale offerings, budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy it. The key is to be strategic: share dishes with travel companions, focus on vendors offering more affordable staples like tacos, or opt for a single, well-chosen item rather than multiple small plates. Reddit

Tip: Explore all the stalls before buying to identify the best value options. Sometimes a single, hearty noodle bowl or a well-portioned sandwich can be a satisfying and relatively economical meal. Visiting during off-peak hours might also mean less pressure to make quick decisions and more opportunity to compare prices.

👫 Couples

For couples, the Santa Barbara Public Market offers a fun and flexible dining experience. You can each choose a different cuisine to try, then share bites and discuss your favorites. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a great spot for a casual date night or a relaxed lunch. Reddit

Recommendation: Consider visiting in the early evening when the market has a lively buzz but isn't overwhelmingly crowded. You can enjoy a diverse meal, perhaps followed by a shared dessert from Little Heart Cafecito, making for a delightful culinary adventure together.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Culinary Hub for Everyone

The Santa Barbara Public Market is more than just a place to eat; it's a community gathering spot that celebrates locally sourced food and drink. The market features a dynamic array of vendors, each offering unique culinary perspectives. From artisanal tacos to gourmet noodles and delightful desserts, there's something to satisfy every palate. This diversity makes it an excellent choice for groups with varied tastes, as individuals can explore different stalls and enjoy their preferred meals without compromise. Reddit

The atmosphere is consistently described as lively and welcoming, making it a perfect destination for casual meetups, family outings, or even a solo exploration of flavors. The indoor setting provides a comfortable environment regardless of the weather, and the communal seating areas encourage interaction and a shared dining experience. It’s a place where you can grab a quick bite, linger over a drink, or simply soak in the vibrant energy of Santa Barbara's food scene. Reddit

While the market is celebrated for its quality and variety, some visitors note that portions can be small and prices relatively high. This is a common characteristic of upscale food halls, where the emphasis is on quality ingredients and unique culinary creations. It encourages patrons to sample a variety of offerings rather than ordering large, single meals. Planning to try a few different things can be a rewarding way to experience the full breadth of what the market has to offer. Reddit

Navigating the Market Experience

When visiting the Santa Barbara Public Market, understanding the flow can enhance your experience. It operates as a collection of independent vendors, meaning each stall has its own ordering and payment system. This setup is part of what makes it great for groups, as everyone can independently decide where and what to eat. However, it also means you might need to queue at different spots for different items. Reddit

Parking in downtown Santa Barbara can be a challenge, so consider arriving early or exploring public transportation and ride-sharing options. Once inside, take a moment to walk through the entire market before committing to a purchase. This allows you to see all the available options, compare menus, and make an informed decision about where to dine. Many visitors find this initial exploration helps them discover hidden gems or plan their culinary journey for the visit. Reddit

For those looking for specific recommendations, the Empty Bowl Gourmet Noodle Bar and Little Heart Cafecito have received particular praise. The Hangover Noodles are noted for their deep flavor and spice, while the coconut rice pudding is a divine dessert option. These popular spots can sometimes have lines, so factor that into your timing if they are high on your list. Reddit

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