Opal
A State Street gem offering globally influenced Californian fare and specialty drinks, perfect for intimate dinners and celebrations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Opal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A State Street gem offering globally influenced Californian fare and specialty drinks, perfect for intimate dinners and celebrations.
"This is the first place I've been too where I feel like our meal was 100% worth the price."
Reserve an Outdoor Table
Secure an outdoor table on State Street for a romantic dining experience. Reservations are recommended.
Weekday Dining Recommended
Visit on weekdays or off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Californian, American
Price
$$$
Phone
(805) 966-9676
Address
1325 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
Website
opalrestaurantandbar.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cozy Ambiance for Special Occasions
Experience an intimate dining atmosphere perfect for romantic dates and celebrations. The cozy vibe is praised by diners.
Steakhouse Quality Meats
Locals rave about Opal having the best steak in town. Filet mignon is frequently highlighted as perfectly cooked.
Globally Influenced Californian Cuisine
Indulge in a diverse menu featuring global influences with Californian flair, from ahi tuna to truffle appetizers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve an Outdoor Table
Secure an outdoor table on State Street for a romantic dining experience. Reservations are recommended.
Weekday Dining Recommended
Visit on weekdays or off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
Try Recommended Dishes
Sample popular items like penne chicken piccata and pesto shrimp pizza for a flavorful meal.
Accommodating Staff
The staff is known for being accommodating and friendly, even without a reservation.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve an Outdoor Table
Secure an outdoor table on State Street for a romantic dining experience. Reservations are recommended.
Weekday Dining Recommended
Visit on weekdays or off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
Try Recommended Dishes
Sample popular items like penne chicken piccata and pesto shrimp pizza for a flavorful meal.
Accommodating Staff
The staff is known for being accommodating and friendly, even without a reservation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Opal is lauded for its impeccable service and cozy, intimate ambiance, making it a go-to for special occasions. While many dishes receive high praise, particularly the steaks and appetizers, some diners have noted inconsistencies in food preparation or slower service during busy periods. Overall, it offers a highly recommended dining experience for those seeking a blend of Californian cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere.
"I really hate going out and spending $100 or more on a special date night only to have the food be awful. This is the first place I've been too where I feel like our meal was 100% worth the price. Everything was delicious! I can't wait to go again."
Gabriela Perdomo
"Everything was great. The service paced the meal to our liking which was great, didn't feel rushed. It was a nice, busy atmosphere without being too loud. All staff was attentive and kept our table clean and well watered. Food was of course great. Perfect place to hit before a show."
Charles Burggraf
"Great experience at Opal. Their staff was very accommodating and got us in without a reservation.
I tried the 3 course set menu they had during grad week. Everything was delicious leading up to the main course. My steak was a little over cooked but overall I would go back again."
Rafael Robles
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it's highly recommended to make reservations, especially if you desire an outdoor table on State Street for a romantic experience.
Opal serves globally influenced Californian fare, with creative dishes ranging from seafood to steaks.
Yes, Opal is known to be accommodating for dietary needs, including gluten and dairy sensitivities.
Locals highly recommend the steaks, coconut shrimp, truffle mushroom appetizer, and dishes like penne chicken piccata.
The restaurant offers a cozy, intimate, and romantic dining atmosphere, ideal for special occasions.
Yes, Opal is frequently chosen for birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations due to its ambiance and food.
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Romantic Restaurants for Valentine's Week
Opal is my go-to restaurant for nearly everything: birthdays, anniversaries, work dinners, celebrations, and entertaining friends from out of town. The food and ambiance are consistently good, I’ve never experienced an “off night,” and the menu has something for everyone. This holiday Opal is offering several prix fixe menu options of varying prices that include pancetta wrapped and wild mushroom stuffed chicken breast, seafood paella, slow roasted short ribs on a chipotle honey adobo sauce, grilled lobster with lemon fettucine, and scallops with sundried cherry cous cous.
Restaurants on State Street
Situated in the heart of ARTS District Santa Barbara, Opal Restaurant and Bar is an ideal spot to grab a bite before catching a show at one of Santa Barbara’s coveted theaters. Serving a variety of eclectic plates, opal offers tantalizing lunch and dinner options, such as black pepper-crusted ahi tuna and homemade basil fettuccine with sautéed tiger shrimp. Whether your taste buds are calling for a crisp Caesar salad or a hearty ribeye, opal restaurant and bar has you covered.
COASTAL CHARM MEETS CULINARY EXCELLENCE: 12 CASUAL CHIC REHEARSAL DINNER SPOTS IN SANTA BARBARA — Gatherings for Good
At opal restaurant and bar, the entire dining room staff is available to take care of each table. The goal is to not only to give you exceptional service, but also to serve you in a manner that is warm and engaging, and properly nuanced to your mood and situation. To that end, we hire people with a heart who genuinely care about giving you the best possible experience.
Best Airbnb in Santa Barbara: 5 Romantic Things Just Minutes Away
We eat out a lot — in fact, we pretty much go out every week while we’re at home in Los Angeles. However, the outdoor dining on State Street in Santa Barbara couldn’t be any more romantic. We recommend reserving one of the outdoor tables at local- favorite Opal.
No Corkage Fee at Santa Barbara's Best Restaurants!
1325 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 805-966-9676 Corkage fee waived on 1 bottle from Jamie Slone Wines A Santa Barbara local’s favorite. Opal restaurant and bar infuses an Eclectic California Cuisine with creative influences from around the World.
Santa Barbara Has a Feast of Valentine’s Day Delights
Opal: This State Street mainstay offers a three-course dinner, but every couple will also get a rose and a $10 voucher for their next visit. The menu features classics like their vegetable Napoleon and “Like Water for Chocolate” Surprise.
Top 11 Gluten-Free Dessert Spots to Delight in Santa Barbara
Stopped by while passing through on a Monday evening mid March 2025 after Grand Prix. Amazing food, catered to gluten allergies and best drinks and dessert I’ve had in months. I hope to return every time I pass through after the races.
Santa Barbara Restaurants | Santa Barbara Hotel Collection
Savor a multicultural twist on California dishes at this popular Santa Barbara restaurant. Enjoy tantalizing cuisine, from chile-crusted filet mignon to homemade pizzas. Location:1325 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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