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EST. 1978 CARLITOS is located in the heart of the ARTS District of Santa Barbara and features a vibrant mix of contemporary Mexican cuisine, and award-winning margaritas, rooted in Mexican flavors and traditional recipes that celebrate local ingredients. Colorful umbrellas, and bubbly fountain accent the sun filled patio on State Street, voted best sidewalk cafe and patio in Santa Barbara! Carlitos is a festive gathering place for locals and visitors alike! Stop by for sips + bits in lovely Arlington Plaza with plenty of FREE parking!
Classic Mexican eats & margaritas served indoors or on the patio with colorful umbrellas & fountain.
Hours
| Friday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Monday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM–10 PM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 1324 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone: (805) 962-7117
Website: http://www.carlitos.com/
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Reviews
Carrie Rohrbach
Absolutely lovely spot toward the end of State Street, but still in the heart of the action. Carlito’s is tucked off the main road with a gorgeous patio and dining room. The bathrooms are very tiny. Heaping bowls of homemade guacamole and corn tortilla chips were an excellent starter. They made a delicious paloma mocktail and I enjoyed the salmon over chipotle mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. Great food and ambiance!
… moreSandra Suárez Lombardo
Carlitos Café y Cantina is hands down one of the best spots in Santa Barbara! The patio is absolutely beautiful colorful, lively, and right across from the historic Arlington Theatre, making it the perfect place to relax and people-watch. The margaritas are some of the best in town, strong, fresh, and delicious. The food never disappoints either flavorful Mexican classics with great portions. Combine that with friendly service and a vibrant atmosphere, and you’ve got the perfect dining experience. Definitely a must-visit if you’re in Santa Barbara!
… moreVincent Avila
Great atmosphere and seating. The food was good, I enjoyed the raw shrimp, soft tacos, except for the fact the taco fell apart towards the because of how much toppings it had.
… moreJeff S
I first ate at Carlitos over 30 years ago, and I can honestly say it is just as incredible today as it was back then. Very few places can deliver that kind of consistency across decades and Carlitos does it effortlessly.
The Carlitos Combo was absolutely outstanding, packed with flavor, perfectly prepared, and a reminder of why this place has such a loyal following. The chips and salsa were fresh, addictive, and the perfect way to start the meal. The kind you keep reaching for long after you tell yourself you’re done.
What truly completed the experience, though, was the service. Friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, it made the visit feel special rather than routine. It’s no wonder Carlitos has been for 45 years. This is what happens when quality, tradition, and genuine hospitality come together.
… moreThe Carlitos Combo was absolutely outstanding, packed with flavor, perfectly prepared, and a reminder of why this place has such a loyal following. The chips and salsa were fresh, addictive, and the perfect way to start the meal. The kind you keep reaching for long after you tell yourself you’re done.
What truly completed the experience, though, was the service. Friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, it made the visit feel special rather than routine. It’s no wonder Carlitos has been for 45 years. This is what happens when quality, tradition, and genuine hospitality come together.
Matthew Clark
Great food. Large servings. You will go home satisfied, full and with leftovers. Was with a large group and all the servers were very nice and quick with getting us our drinks.
… moreRob & Donna Mellison
The food had so much flavor and the presentation of our plates were beautiful. The salmon was cooked to perfection. Moist and not over cooked or dry. Being anglers ourselves and preparing salmon at home in Seattle this was fantastic. Great job Carlito’s Cantina.
… moreREDESIGN ARCHITECTURAL STUDIOS
A Valentines day to remember…This salmon dish at Carlitos Café y Cantina in Santa Barbara is a vibrant celebration of coastal Mexican flavors.
The centerpiece is a perfectly seared salmon fillet—crisp and golden on the outside while remaining tender and succulent within. It is elevated by a bright mango compote, which brings a refreshing, tropical sweetness that beautifully balances the richness of the fish.
The dish is further enhanced by a side of colorful, seared peppers and vegetables that add a satisfying char and earthy depth to every bite. Whether enjoyed on the sun-drenched patio overlooking State Street or in the lively dining room, this plate is a masterclass in fresh, seasonal ingredients and expert preparation
… moreThe centerpiece is a perfectly seared salmon fillet—crisp and golden on the outside while remaining tender and succulent within. It is elevated by a bright mango compote, which brings a refreshing, tropical sweetness that beautifully balances the richness of the fish.
The dish is further enhanced by a side of colorful, seared peppers and vegetables that add a satisfying char and earthy depth to every bite. Whether enjoyed on the sun-drenched patio overlooking State Street or in the lively dining room, this plate is a masterclass in fresh, seasonal ingredients and expert preparation
Cynthia Bounds
This was a really cute little place to eat. We had just arrived into Santa Barbara looking for lunch. My husband loves Mexican food. Seated outdoors which was nice. Service was quick and the food was hot and delicious. The chips and salsa also came with a little bean salsa type thing that added something special to the regular chips and salsa.
… moreSrđan
Great food and service! Not thing you’d come for, but I really liked the music too 😀
… moreJon Magnani
Fantastic atmosphere, right across from the Arlington. A real treat of outside dining, especially at night. I’ve been going here for decades.
Food is lovely, if not a bit underseasoned for my taste. I have a hunch they’re looking for broader appeal than your authentic, hole-in-the-wall Mexican joint. Still worth a visit if you’ve never been!
… moreFood is lovely, if not a bit underseasoned for my taste. I have a hunch they’re looking for broader appeal than your authentic, hole-in-the-wall Mexican joint. Still worth a visit if you’ve never been!