We just had my daughter's bridal shower at Arnoldi's. I called ahead for an outside table in the shade for 11 people. I love the charm and ambience, I love the overall not uptight vibe. Our waiter made sure we were well taken care of. Everyone had a lovely time. I have tried tiramisu at many places, and theirs is definitely the best I have had. If you're looking for an easy-going atmosphere with charm and authentic delicious food, this is your place! read more

Food was solid Service was even better Location a little awkward But man did they really used all of that space Don't let the first part of the restaurant fool you there is two other rooms both having there own vibe!!!! Must try the outside for that outside villa vibe Then the second room for a nice little cafe feeling Then the bar area for well the bar scene read more

A long time Italian restaurant in Santa Barbara has its local following. However I found it just to be mediocre Italian food which has become over priced. I don't come very often but was shocked how much prices have gone up since last time here. Appetizers $18 to $25 +. Pasta's $27 to $39+ and anything with meat $36 to $55+. Add a couple drinks and you better contact your banker. The food quality does not match the price hike. The food is just okay and some dishes lack flavor, (pretty bland). Only one of our pasta dishes out of six had a great flavor with a little pizzass. We really enjoyed the special caparelli pasta. The sauce had great flavor and a little kick. Now if they could add a little flavor to the rest of the entrees. As far as service: friendly service and quite attentive with a few hiccups. Brought our bread, drinks and in timely manner but we had no table wear, napkins or sharing plates available. They never did bring any spoons even when served a saucy appetizer, or spaghetti. We had to request these items. Four at our table were served their entree but two of us had to finally ask for our entree after waiting quite awhile. Even though they did come and ask if there was anything else when we asked for crushed red peppers and olive oil it took a substantial time to bring them. This always makes the experience less enjoyable. Not sure if I could recommend coming here again. However the ambience is pleasing and they can accommodate large groups, which is nice. A 5 star for environment. Just wish the food was better quality, then the price would be worth it. Also I do need to add 5 stars for the dessert. Our granddaughters chose Arnoldi's version of spumoni dessert and it was a hit. Awesome appearance and plating with a delicious mix of flavors. The chocolate coating was excellent. Highly recommended. read more

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This is a classic Santa Barbara institution. That's been here as long as I remember. Fantastic Italian food portions of epic sizes My only complaint of this restaurant is minus one star for the sometimes questionable service but absolutely wonderful food. Entrées are easily big enough to split between two. read more

Ate here on a holiday weekend and got to sit out on the patio which was lovely. It has a great terrace that's filled with flowers for a great dinner ambiance. I got the monthly special which was a Cavatappi with vodka sauce, onions, garlic, burrata, basil in a skillet and I got it with gluten free penne. While it was a bit on the expensive side, there was so much food I took home at least half of it. My fiance got the gnocchi tricolore which he said was fantastic and a great way to try multiple different sauces. Such a fun experience trying a place off state street! read more

Arnoldi’s Cafe - DD Gnocchi Tricolore - Italian Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Went to the legendary Arnoldi's. Sat outside on the patio...actually the bocce court. Beautiful weather, umbrellas, aperol spritz...it was like being in Italy. Great service and waiter. All the entrees were solid, and prices were reasonable. Loved the venue and hospitality. Highly recommend this place for a family dinner or date night, what an institution! read more

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Thanksgiving at Arnoldi's I felt compelled to be there after so many years. I started with the Chainti wine a side salad and their homemade bread. My entree was Lasagna. From the moment I arrived I was welcomed and remembered as I had called and requested to sit at the Bar. Extremely happy with the service. Arnoldi's has always maintained a special atmosphere with old world atmosphere. Arnoldi's is a Iconic Restaurant homegrown. Thanks the Great Santa Barbara experience. Ronnie S read more

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Really cute environment and nice staff! Good for big parties. There are options for most. We had a large party and they were pretty fast. Chicken was a little dry but overall good experience read more

Arnoldi’s Cafe - Short rib ravioli - Italian Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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My wife and I came here over the weekend to celebrate, and days later we're still talking about it - just not for the reasons we'd hoped. For a bill north of $100, the experience was surprisingly disappointing. The food was bland across the board. The bread was decent, but that's about all I can compliment. I'm a chicken parm fanatic, and this one completely missed the mark. I've had better versions at chain restaurants, which is not something I expected to say about a place positioning itself as fresh, handmade Italian. Then came the spider. A black spider crawled across our table during dinner. We pointed it out to our waiter, who flicked it away and walked off. A minute later it was crawling back toward us, and my wife ended up killing it herself. We laughed because what else are you supposed to do? The restaurant is undeniably pretty and clearly built for photos, but once you start paying attention, the shine wears off. We noticed dust in several areas and bugs around the window seals, which made the spider incident feel less like bad luck and more like part of a larger issue. I don't enjoy leaving negative reviews, especially for a place with so much potential. The atmosphere is beautiful, but atmosphere alone can't carry a restaurant. At this price point, the food should be memorable, the service should be attentive, and cleanliness should never be a question mark. I hope management takes a closer look because the foundation is there. Right now, though, the experience doesn't match the price. read more

Arnoldi’s Cafe - DD Chicken Parmesan - Italian Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Dining at Arnoldi's is such a treat! Beautiful, expansive atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating, friendly and attentive staff, and a convenient valet service. I've always gotten the tricolor Gnocchi in the past, but on my last visit for a friend's birthday I tried the short rib ravioli and it was amazing. Our table's vote for best dish seemed to be the chicken parm. The manager, Jessica, was exceptional--she was friendly, professional, and went above and beyond to check on in on us and make sure we had a great experience. I definitely recommend bringing groups and parties here, as well as coming for date nights or just whenever you want a really killer meal. Delicious food and drinks, great service, and beautiful ambience. Love you Arnoldi's and thank you! read more

Incredible food and great service! We got seats at the bar and had a wonderful time. The bread was also really good. read more

Arnoldi’s Cafe - Milanese Toscana - Italian Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Recently visited Arnoldo's for the first time since living here and it was excellent! Drinks were delicious and our entrees were superb! Thank you! read more

Came in for an early dinner to celebrate quite a few things; Our son's graduation, our anniversary, & new job. We ordered 4 main dishes 2 appetizers 4 drinks total was $215. (not including tip) The service was just ok, one of our plates was wrong, I had to wave down the server for everything... to order, for refills, for water & bread. ( which were never offered) Then the food was just bland. It was missing flavor, from the pork Milanese , chicken piccata, shrimp Alfredo pasta, and mushroom pasta. We enjoy eating out and supporting local businesses, but for the type of service and how unfortunately boringly seasoned the food was we will not be returning. As far as atmosphere, it was ok, the chairs and food tables are uncomfortable. read more

Arnoldi’s Cafe - DD Milanese (1) pork - Italian Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Highly rated Italian restaurant in Santa Barbara. Located in a neighborhood and seems to have been around a while. A little dated but a full bar and a nice sized dining room. Has a big dining area for large parties in back. The entire staff was very nice and we chatted with Our busboy who was a nice young guy. Amani? Said when he was younger kids called him Manny. Very personable. Our waiter was efficient and the hostess were very friendly. The service all and all was great. Thank you for a wonderful meal. read more

Arnoldi’s Cafe - Fried calamari which was a bit chewy but was flavorful. - Italian Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Definitely highly recommend coming here if you want great Italian food plus an amazing setting. The food was amazing! We ordered everything and it was all amazing. My favorite was mine.... . I got the Spaghetti Carbonara. The service here was great as well we were always tended to and kept an eye on. The outdoor patio was absolutely beautiful at night. read more

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I've celebrated many special occasions at Arnoldi's Restaurant over the years, and they never disappoint. The service is consistently exceptional--we were warmly welcomed upon arrival, and every one of my guests was made to feel well cared for throughout the event by our server - Luke. The food is excellent, the portions are generous, and the beautiful patio creates the perfect place for gathering with family and friends. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, retirement, or another special milestone, Arnoldi's is a wonderful choice. read more

this place was fantastic. great food. cool vibes. the services were a bit slower but it was also packed at the time. came out here after graduation. a few blocks outside of downtown santa barbara. the Aracini is a much have. and the rest of the menu is just as good. the pastas are cooked to perfection. from the short rib ravioli to the pomodoro. the prices are high but it's a place worthy of celebrations. read more

Poor customer service. Hour and a half waiting and customer was told to just Gi something else.

I'm a wedding vendor who has been to hundreds of venues. This past weekend I was booked for a wedding at Arnoldi's Café for the first time and I'm so glad I was a part of this special celebration at a special place. There is just something magical about weddings at Arnoldi's Café, it's tucked into the charm of Santa Barbara, every celebration there feels intimate, timeless and full of love. The team was very well organized, I was able to set up very easily and seamless which makes all the difference on a big wedding day. The staff was very helpful, they even offered to help me with all my equipment. It was truly a pleasure working with a well organized and professional team. Big shoutout to Casey, Ruben and waitstaff! The food was fantastic and perfect. They serve the bruschetta's which is my favorite appetizer. I also love the chicken Parmesan and spaghetti. If you' are planning a wedding definitely reach out to the team, I highly recommend them! read more

Arnoldi’s Cafe - I love the beautiful garden in the back. - Italian Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Tucked away on a corner in a neighborhood, it seems to be a fixture and around a long time (or maybe that is the decor vibe). Surprisingly a young man working the valet parking on a Thursday night. The restaurant was quiet at 7pm. We were told to pick our table. Food was fine. We got the bruschetta as an appetizer and the bread was soggy from the tomato, a few minutes in the toaster or oven would have helped. The bread for the table was not crispy, almost moist. Fettuccini Alfredo was one. I opted to forgo the chicken because I couldn't spend over $30 for the meal. Other pastas were fine, the seafood pasta came with a generous amount of seafood. They did accommodate a food preference, removing the pepper from the pasta primavera. We did not get dessert, rather pricy and after the mediocre meal felt it would be better to pass. read more

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Amazing food! We came in with a group and they had something for everyone! The service was great! They steak was cooked perfectly and was so tender. read more

Staff is great--the more I've come here the more familiar faces that know me and always give a warm welcome. That chicken Milanese on the special menu is soooooooo good. And that lavender drink! read more

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was there this pass saturday for the first time after 8 visits in two years to santa barbara and man it was delicious great food and most of all Great service see you very soon read more

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We were lucky enough to have Arnoldi's host our wedding reception last weekend and we can't thank them enough for the amazing experience. From the food (which was so amazing) to the service, we felt so cared about and taken care of by the entire team. All of our guests were raving about how much they enjoyed the entire experience at Arnoldi's. We cannot thank Sara, Casey, Guillermo and the entire team enough, this is a memory that will stay with us forever. We cannot wait to come back and see you guys soon, thank you all so much. Nick + Neil read more

Great food! Tasty drinks! Very good Aperol Spritz. The linguine primavera entree and caprese appetizer were wonderful. The only reason I did not give a four star is the service was slow. However, there was a wedding reception going on, so that may have been the reason. The waiters were very nice and were working as hard as they could. The ambiance was very authentic. Italy on Southern California! read more

Oldest Italian restaurant in Santa Barbara, right in the heart of a neighborhood we walked from State Street. We enjoyed ourselves to the fullest they were packed probably as usual so we sat at the bar great customer service great friendly fun atmosphere. The ambience was old school. The drinks were good and the food was amazing. Definitely will be returning to try more on the menu. Thank you guys. We loved it. read more

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My son had a small reception dinner of 30 people after his wedding. at first glance, the restaurant doesn't look like much but when we were guided to the back for out door seating I was impressed. The food was Amazing out of whole party nobody had anything negative to say. The best part of the night was the Amazing service that Guillermo and the crew provided . I have traveled to alot of places and had dinner at service locations, but I have never had this kinda of service before. My hats off to the service.. Thank you for making it a great night for the family... read more

This was such an unforgettable dining experience. The staff at Arnoldi's is absolutely fabulous. This is by far one of the best meals I have ever eaten. We both had pasta dishes and salad. Every detail was attended to and the desserts were amazing. I honestly haven't stopped thinking about my next visit. read more

Absolutely the best Italian food I've ever had, and Italian is my favorite food. Desi was our server and so attentive and pleasant. We had a couple pasta dishes that were superb. Even dessert was the best ever! Highly recommended! read more

*Support LOCAL* Run don't walk !!! This hidden gem has knocked me out of the park. Ortega Park that is. This Santa Barbara italian spot is unmatched Way better than presto pasta for dam sure. I arrived on a summer Tuesday evening around 6:30pm. Gita helped me get seated right away. Ordered a -white wine (sauv blanc) -a caprese as an antipasti -and a chicken piccata. All of it was so delicious. The atmosphere.. soo vibrant and lively and the menu just has you wanting more. The bocce ball night and the happy hour at 4-5pm are also two cool feats at this local joint. This place is a vibeee!! Shoutout x THANK YOUUU to !!!! hostess Gita for welcoming me Bartender Stone for the stellar service on Bar Server Rosie for your friendly conversation Guillermo for your hospitality Sean for the good vibes Kitchen for the freshh food and speedy wait time Arnoldi's Cafe for existing this long in SB! This was my first time. Felt like home. I'lllll be backk!!! read more

Arnoldi’s Cafe - Italian Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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I went here 15 years ago when I was in college and I've always thought about going back! I was recently in town to go to a show at the Granada and I finally got to bring my mother here! It was absolutely amazing they were so kind and the food was delicious everything was perfect. We sat on the back patio it was beautiful and they had a heaters and everything read more

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Arnoldi's is a cool spot. The restaurant is old school, with New York Italian vibes. The servers are always very nice and the food is excellent. My wife had the linguine with clams and I had the Tuscan chicken, and it was all delicious. The servers were especially friendly and the vibe was fun. Definitely a great spot to get together with friends and/or family. You should check it out! read more

Arnoldi’s Cafe - Love the old school sign. - Italian Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Best Italian in SB. My family and I have been coming here for years to celebrate birthdays. Such a welcoming, beautiful restaurant. Sitting outside is so fun because there is also bocce ball! I usually order the same thing when I go to restaurants, but not here. I'm always excited to try new pasta dishes as they are all so filling and delicious! The desserts are also so tasty and filling. Arnoldi's is an absolute must try! You absolutely get your moneys worth! read more

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The best Italian food I've ever had! 5 of us each had a different dish and all 5 were outstanding! Highly recommend the lasagne, the gnocchis with gorgonzola sauce, the linguine with clams and the bruschetta! Great service too! read more

Food was great, service was not. Possibly best Italian food I have ever had but they got our order wrong twice then missed a dish completely, brought one late, then charged us for a dish we didn't even order. read more

Quaint. Peaceful. Absolutely delicious. I went to Arnoldi's, fully expecting an Americanized Italian restaurant, but then came a lovely restaurant with great customer service, and finally enough light (compared to other Italian restaurants). I would recommend the alfredo, it's cheesy and smooth like butter. (It comes in a large portion). The tenders are actually tender, and was quite crispy and well seasoned, not too salty. Overall, the food serves a large part in the experience, but the atmosphere is another thing to love. The music is nice and quiet, and not loud enough to burst your eardrums. read more

My first time trying Arnoldi's and I'm looking forward to going back. The service was exceptional, the food was delicious and I liked the ambiance. read more

Arnoldi’s Cafe - Eggplant Parmesan - Italian Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Loved the ambiance at this little restaurant. We sat on the lovely patio and enjoyed our meals. I had pasta with clams and my daughter had the tri colored gnocchi. She had the Santa Barbara spritz and said it was tasty. Our waiter was not overly attentive but we still had nice dining experience. Watched several families with young children play bocce ball. read more

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The yumiest pasta !! Service was great, the waiter are so kind! Can't wait to come back

As a SB native, Arnoldi's has always been a special place for my family and I. But their prices have greatly increased, the service has been sub par at best and our last dining experience there, the food fell really short. We then had to deal with the server adding gratuity onto our bill paid with a credit card after I tipped him in cash, which was SUPER unethical. I called the restaurant and the manager refunded the additional tip to me, but between the poor service, sub par food, inflated pricing, and now unethical tip practices by service staff, I'm not sure that Arnoldi's is the place for us anymore. JUST THE WEIRDEST RESPONSE FROM THE OWNER. You're not in Montecito. Your pricing is not inline with other restaurants in SB. You're not even addressing the fact that the server unethically added on gratuity after being tipped in cash. While your portions are overboard the quality does not come across as fresh at all. Thanks for the impersonal response, which just comes across as a way to combat a less than favorable review. read more