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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Santa Barbara Public Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant indoor food hall celebrating locally sourced ingredients with diverse culinary delights and a lively atmosphere.
"So many great food options all in one place—you can grab everything from fresh desserts to international flavors."
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Little Heart Cafecito
Little Heart Cafecito Stall
Indulge in divine coconut rice pudding with pineapple glaze for a perfect sweet ending.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Foodie's Paradise
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🍜 Flavorful Noodle Bowls
Don't miss the Hangover Noodles at Empty Bowl for a spicy, deep-flavored experience.
🍰 Divine Desserts
The coconut rice pudding from Little Heart Cafecito is a must-try sweet treat.
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.
💰 Pricey Portions
Be aware that food portions can be small and on the pricier side.
🍜 Flavorful Noodle Bowls
Don't miss the Hangover Noodles at Empty Bowl for a spicy, deep-flavored experience.
🍰 Divine Desserts
The coconut rice pudding from Little Heart Cafecito is a must-try sweet treat.
🚶♀️ Explore All Options
Take a walk around to see all the excellent choices before deciding what to eat.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
The Hangover Noodles from Empty Bowl and the coconut rice pudding from Little Heart Cafecito are frequently recommended for their unique flavors.
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
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
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
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 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.
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.
Navigating the Market Experience
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit