For Dan and Valerie Pampel, the local food scene has always been integral to knowing their community and connecting with small business owners like themselves. So we sat down with co-owner Val to find out some of their favorite picks around town, from Carpinteria to Santa Barbara and everything in between. Of course, not all can be mentioned, so we’ve narrowed it down to a handful. So sit back, relax, and take note of your next date night spot.

Carpinteria

• Food Liasion - This is our favorite go-to lunch spot in Carpinteria. Chef Nirasha has done catering events for us in the past, and she is incredibly talented. This is our spot whenever we need cakes for birthdays, events, or other celebrations. We ordered a chocolate torte with a berry compote for my 40th birthday - it was off the charts!

• Little Doms - For great food that is locally sourced and consistently fresh, Lil Doms tops the list. Not only is the food delicious, but the staff is also always so warm and friendly. The first time we ate here, Dan ordered Sea Urchin and told me it was hands down the freshest and most delicious fish he had ever had. Then, to our surprise, a man right behind us turned around and said, “glad you like it! I caught that this morning!”. (I mean, how incredible is that?!)

• Reyes Market - For Mexican food, we love Reyes Market. The Sopes are my top choice and the only thing I order. Dan is a big fan of both the tacos and Pozole, a hominy-based soup. I would be lying if I didn’t say it is my favorite Mexican place in the county! 

  • Our beach day routine: we’ll preorder, pick it up on the way home and eat sandy/sometimes wet outside on a warm summer night with an ice-cold Pacifico. Our idea of the perfect way to end a beach day.

Los Olivos & Solvang (off the beaten path)

• Section Winery - The ultimate date day/night is going to Section winery - Marco Lechessi is hands down my favorite vintner in SB county. He is incredibly gifted and loves sharing his passion for what he does (which makes it an even more enriching experience). I can’t say enough good things about him and his wine. 

• Bar Le Côte - Usually, after a day at Section, we will go to Bar Le Côte for an amazing meal. It’s seriously off the charts, phenomenal food, and my first pick for when we have family in town. 

  • Fun Fact: We did shades for them and returned shortly after (It’s important for us to support businesses that support us!).

Montecito

• Ca Dario - We love having date night at Ca Dario, specifically the Montecito location. We typically order the Caprese, Spaghetti Con Polpette Della Nonna, and the Pesce Fresco Del Giorno (fresh fish of the day). Absolute bliss! Dan’s mom and dad lived in Southern Italy for a time, so this is truly comfort food for both of us.

• Rori’s - All day. Every day. This is easily our favorite dessert spot. I mean, every flavor is mouthwateringly delicious. I will add that Dan and I were fortunate enough to visit the kitchens once and get a taste of the Toasted Black Sesame that Rori makes exclusively for certain restaurants, and it was the best ice cream I’ve ever had. Here’s to hoping she extends this to our local areas someday soon, so we can all indulge together ;)

Santa Barbara

• Rare Society - We also did the shades and canopies here, so we decided to pop back over for our most recent date night. It’s such an ideal location, blocks away from the beach and around the corner from the Funk Zone. Believe me, when I say my Old Fashioned was the best I’ve ever had, and the steak was cooked to perfection. We’ll definitely be swinging by again soon to explore more of their menu!

• Sama Sama - When working at the showroom in downtown SB, Dan and I sometimes have a quick window for lunch, so we always hurry over to Sama Sama. It’s Asian Fusion and so dang good. We love the Brussels, Bao Bun Fried Chicken, and the Branzino when they have it. Also, I can’t not mention the cocktails, you MUST try one! 

Dan and Val let us know how incredible it is to know many of the business owners from these different restaurants - many of whom they’ve met through their kid’s schooling. They are grateful for the impact they’ve made along the coastlands and hope that you’ll continue to support all local, family-owned businesses in the area! 

It’s been amazing to watch these business owners grow and see their success. They are truly innovators at what they do and give back in more ways to our community than we realize. We are lucky to have them. — Valerie Pampel 

So go ahead, book your next dinner, wear your stretchy pants, and start knocking out this list, so you don’t have to just read about how good these places are, but experience it for yourself!