Les Marchands - Santa Bárbara

Decor is beautiful and hip, but the whole restaurant experience was disappointing. The service was best, although very friendly. While we were waiting, we were asked by waitress if we wanted some bread and butter, which we accepted, but once we got the bill, there was a fee of $8. It would have been good to say this before the time. The steak was cold on arrival and we had to ask three times for steak knives and ketchup before they were delivered. Shrimp and Scallop dish was not tasteful.

Saturday evening and too many wedding parties in the city! drowned! So sad, and not really the restaurants guilt, but a big bite from the event. The service was fast and eager and I felt a tad unwilling, but guess the staff was overwhelmed. Food was good, but not spectacular. Brussels Spirouts were fantastic if you like sweet maple syrup. Over there. Charcuterie Board was nicely ordered and the little one was big enough. Would go back to try the fried chix. Looks fantastic. Portions are big stock events!

The Mgr was very beautiful and knowledgeable. The white wine is small. The Brussel Sprouts were too sweet for a veggie. We'll try again.

First, this place tried for the chef's multi-course food dinner. It was fantastic from service, cocktails, creative food just amazing. Recently my monthly food group took there for what I hoped would be a real treat. Unfortunately, our server seemed preoccupied never to check how our drinks were for starters. I ordered a dirty martini. After the delivery it seemed like the olive juice had been left out. I had to wait at least 5 minutes before I could get their attention while friends felt guilty of enjoying their drinks. When she returned it for the second time, she didn't wait to see if it was okay (it wasn't) and I had to pick up her attention again my ability to relax. It went far longer than the service should be in a beautiful restaurant like this. Most of us ordered salads and pages to share. The Arugula and Pear salads were delicious and huge. Since we had asked many questions about sharing and so, we all felt it would have been helpful to know before time. Our server has never joined us and I made myself feel much less enthusiastic about the experience during the second time.

Inventive dishes that still feel like comfort food. I didn't have a chance to do the wine tasting, so allow time for this when you visit!