NEW LIFE IN AN OLD FAVORITE
Think you know Santa Barbara? Spanish-style buildings, boutiques and restaurants on State Street, the wharf and sandy beaches. Correct on all counts.
Dig beneath all that and you’ll find there is more to this favorite destination: The city is evolving in cool new ways; older properties in unexpected locations are being revitalized and repurposed. The tourist staples are still a treat, but do yourself a favor and get off the beaten track. On a recent quick trip, we found delightful gems in an up-and-coming industrial area.
We stayed at the Castillo Inn at the Beach, a small, classic motel half a block from the oceanfront and a short walk to Stearns Wharf and the foot of State Street. The rooms are well maintained and have nice touches: Italian granite and mosaic vanities, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and refrigerators. Parking is free, and a continental breakfast offers strong coffee, juice and pastries to eat in your room.
If you like barbecue, swing on over to Wildwood Kitchen at the new-ish Mill complex. The restaurant opened in 2015 and filled a need for more ’cue in Santa Bar- bara. The vibe is rustic with exposed brick, reclaimed wood and an open kitchen. We had smoked brisket, house-made bratwurst, grilled carrots, fries and coleslaw.
On the western side of town, Food Network fans may want to hit up Mesa Burger, a casual, lively spot that opened in December. If you’re lucky, co-owner and Iron Chef Cat Cora might be the one who serves you your griddled goatcheese burger and waffle fries.
The Mill is the latest proof of new life in old Santa Barbara. It’s in the heart of an industrial area morphing into a hip design district. Kirsten and Darrell Becker, who own the on-site Becker Studios, restored the 1904 feed mill and added a modern spin. The Mill’s collection of businesses has an artisan flair. Besides Wildwood Kitchen, there is Potek Winery, Third Window Brewing Co. and a boutique design showroom, Millworks. Miles one way from downtown L.A.: 96