One of the best parts of any vacation, in our humble opinion, is trying out the food that is special to the region we are visiting, such as Texas barbecue, Mexican food in Arizona, or any of the southern specialties that can be found in our southern states. When visiting New York, the opportunity to sample food of all nationalities makes us salivate, but at the end of the day, it's the food you can taste right here in California that makes us the happiest. Offering a giant selection of international foods, homestyle American comfort foods, and even some of the sweetest treats from the sea, our Santa Barbara restaurants are amongst the best in the nation, and these upcoming food festivals allow you to experience them all!
For over 35 years, Santa Barbara Wine Country has been the place to taste the latest wines and delicious foods prepared by top chefs from all over the world. Prices range from $25 for nondrinkers to $100 for early entry. For an additional $50, you can purchase a Vintner's Visa and taste the goods at 12 different Santa Barbara Wine Country tasting rooms. Offering a bubble room for champagne, cooking demonstrations, and all the wine you can drink, this festival has become an annual tradition for a reason!
If you notice a trend in these festivals, it's probably about the wine; we live in wine country and firmly believe that if you've got it, flaunt it! The Roar and Pour Festival is held at the Santa Barbara Zoo and allows attendants to stroll through the zoo watching the animals at their most lively while sipping wines offered from 30 different wineries and enjoying the creative creations of our local food trucks. Food truck meals are extra, but a VIP ticket can be purchased which offers appetizers to go along with the wine tastings.
Lasting for three hours and leading the way to six shops and restaurants, this walking tour allows you to burn calories as you sample the best our ocean town has to offer. Offering everything from chocolates to pastries and cheeses to Italian dishes, the Taste of Santa Barbara Food Walking Tour costs $85; reservations can be made by calling (805) 295-6867.
