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10 Amazing Coffee Shops in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, often known as the American Riviera, is a city teeming with hidden treasures. With its beautiful landscapes, incredible wine, and vibrant culinary scene, it’s a must-visit destination. Among the city’s gastronomic offerings, you’ll find some truly exceptional coffee shops. Here are ten amazing coffee shops you should visit in Santa Barbara:

Also, check out the 20 Best Brunch Spots in Santa Barbara.

1. Handlebar Coffee Roasters

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is an artisanal coffee shop that truly embodies the spirit of the local community. It’s not just a coffee shop, it’s a destination, a gathering place where the city’s lifeblood – its people – come to relax, work, chat, and of course, enjoy some of the finest coffee in town.

Handlebar Coffee Roasters was founded in 2011 by two former professional cyclists, Kim Anderson, and Aaron Olson. Both share a deep love for coffee, a passion they discovered during their cycling careers while touring Europe. After retiring from professional cycling, they set their sights on a new venture: to create a coffee experience that is both superior in quality and ethically sourced.

Handlebar roasts their beans in-house, ensuring a fresh and flavorful cup every time.  The coffee menu is quite diverse, featuring single-origin coffees and expertly crafted blends that rotate based on seasonal availability and freshness.

Read more on; 10 Fascinating Facts about Coffee.

One of the many things that set Handlebar apart is the sense of community you feel the moment you walk in. There’s a genuine warmth and friendliness that resonates within the space. 

Whether you’re a cyclist seeking a post-ride caffeine fix, a busy professional needing a morning pick-me-up, or a student studying for exams, Handlebar Coffee Roasters offers a welcoming space.

Their original location on Canon Perdido Street is minimalist and modern, featuring high ceilings, plenty of natural light, and a stunning coffee bar.  In addition to coffee, Handlebar also offers an array of pastries and light bites, which are just as thoughtfully crafted as their drinks. Their croissants and other baked goods are local favorites, known to pair perfectly with their coffee.

2. Dune Coffee Roasters

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With a keen emphasis on quality and a passion for creating a unique coffee experience, offers an ambiance that’s as inviting as its brews. First opened in 2011 by owners Julia Mayer and Todd Stewart, it quickly made a name for itself as one of the top coffee destinations in the city. 

The cafe takes its coffee very seriously, ensuring that each cup they serve has a distinctly rich and fresh taste. They are committed to sourcing the best single-origin beans and treating them with the utmost care.

Each coffee variety on the menu, from the reliable drip coffee to the expertly pulled espresso shots, is crafted to highlight the unique flavors and nuances of the beans.

In addition to its exceptional coffee offerings, It also boasts an impressive selection of teas and artisanal pastries. Their baked goods, which include croissants, scones, and danishes, are all made in-house daily. Enjoy a flaky almond croissant with a cup of their full-bodied French Press coffee for a delightful morning treat.

The interior is beautifully designed with a modern rustic charm, featuring a mix of wooden accents, pendant lights, and comfortable seating. The space is filled with a gentle buzz—a mix of soft music, the hum of conversation, and the whir of espresso machines—creating an environment that’s perfect for everything from catching up with friends to quietly working on your laptop.

3. Lighthouse Coffee

is a locally owned coffee shop with three locations in Santa Barbara. These are The Mesa, Haley and Chapala Street. Known for its fresh, tasty coffee creations, and relaxing atmosphere, the shop has won the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

Sit the spacious outdoor spaces, or dine in, as you enjoy your coffee. Whether you’re craving some espresso, latte, Americano or Cappuccino, these and more choices are available.

The menu features more than just coffee, with delicious croissants, matcha tea, muffins, toasts, sandwiches and more breakfast & brunch fare. Milk alternatives include oat, almond and soy. Other beverages include juices, smoothies and lemonade. Perfect for breakfast, pastry delights or light lunch.

4. Caje

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With locations in Arlington, Haley and Downtown State streets, is not your ordinary coffee shop. Known for its signature drinks, laid-back vibe, and gorgeous modern interior, this coffeehouse is a sanctuary for coffee lovers and a haven for those seeking a serene spot to unwind, work, or socialize.

Specializing in a range of coffees sourced from various parts of the world, Caje is dedicated to serving high-quality brews. But it’s not just traditional coffees that shine here. Caje also boasts an inventive array of signature drinks, like the acclaimed lavender latte, which perfectly balances floral notes with the rich taste of coffee.

Beyond coffee, Caje offers an extensive menu of smoothies, fresh juices, and delicious açai bowls, providing a healthier, refreshing alternative. For those looking to grab a bite, there’s a selection of pastries and gourmet toasts to enjoy with your drink of choice.

Check out The 15 Best Bakeries in Santa Barbara.

The ambiance of Caje is a significant part of its allure. Boasting an open-concept design, natural light floods the spaces, casting a warm, inviting glow. The minimalistic décor, featuring plenty of wood and greenery, creates an atmosphere that is both trendy and cozy, perfect for any occasion—whether it’s studying, catching up with friends, or just enjoying a quiet moment alone with a good book.

5. Old Town Coffee

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The small, family owned coffee shop is neatly tucked away in downtown Santa Barbara. There is another location in nearby Goleta, and the shop has been serving the two since 2018.

offers freshly roasted coffee, teas, pastries and other breakfast treats. The casual, slow-paced atmosphere makes it a perfect stop for relaxing cup of coffee in the morning.

The menu features a variety of preferences, from the match latte to the cold brew coffee; coarsely ground and steeped in cool water for 18 hours. Their roasts feature single origin Ethiopian beans, Costa Rican and Columbian varieties.

Creative additions such as dark chocolate, honey, toffee, and walnuts are perfectly mixed to create unique flavors. Outdoor seating is available, so you can sit on the patio and take in the views too.

6. Peet’s Coffee

With over 200 locations in California, has become a staple for coffee lovers. Founded in 1966, the establishment has been serving up coffee drinks, teas, pastries and other baked goods with a commitment to quality service.

Located at Five Points Shopping Center in Santa Barbara, Peet’s is a popular coffee joint in the neighborhood and a convenient one too. Featuring a drive-through, indoor and outdoor seating, it offers its customers flexibility.

If you’re in a hurry, you can consider the drive-through as you grab your coffee on the go. Peet’s blends are delicately curated to bring out the best flavors and aroma in your cup. Whether you want Decaf coffee, flavored coffee, dark roast or medium, several varieties are available

7. Santa Barbara Roasting Company

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Established in 1989, , also affectionately known as “RoCo,” is a pioneering presence in Santa Barbara’s coffee scene. RoCo has been serving freshly roasted, top-quality coffees to locals and visitors alike for decades, making it one of the city’s oldest and most revered coffee institutions.

Situated on Motor Way, RoCo’s spacious premises are home to not only a bustling café but also the company’s very own roastery. True to their commitment to freshness, RoCo sources green coffee beans from the best coffee-growing regions around the world and roasts them on-site daily. This process allows RoCo to offer a wide variety of single-origin coffees and blends, each delivering a unique set of flavors and aromas.

The atmosphere at RoCo is casual and relaxed, echoing Santa Barbara’s laid-back vibe. With ample seating, comfortable sofas, and free Wi-Fi, the café is a popular spot for both work and leisure. The décor is warmly rustic, with the roasting equipment visible in the back, giving customers a glimpse into the roasting process.

The café’s menu also features a selection of teas, pastries, sandwiches, and other light bites. Their pastries delivered daily from local bakeries, pair perfectly with the café’s extensive coffee offerings. For non-coffee drinkers, RoCo also offers a variety of specialty drinks, including hot chocolate and chai lattes.

The staff at RoCo are known for their friendly service and their extensive knowledge of coffee. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or a novice, they are more than happy to guide you through their vast selection and help you discover your perfect cup.

8. The Shop Kitchen

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Located in the heart of Santa Barbara, serves as a destination for those seeking exceptional coffee, delicious fare, and a vibrant, inviting atmosphere. It is more than just a café; it’s a casual neighborhood eatery with a strong focus on quality, freshness, and creativity.

The café boasts a versatile menu that extends beyond just beverages. Alongside its rich, expertly brewed coffee, it offers an impressive selection of breakfast and lunch dishes, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back brunch or a midday snack.

Check out the 20 Best Restaurants to Try in Santa Barbara.

Sourcing beans from some of the best roasters, the café delivers a wide array of coffee beverages, from the classic Americano and cappuccino to special concoctions like their popular iced honey lavender latte. Each cup is prepared with care and precision, ensuring a flavorful and balanced coffee experience.

The Shop Kitchen exudes a relaxed, cool vibe that’s very much in line with the Santa Barbara lifestyle. The interior is airy and bright, with plenty of natural light, high ceilings, and charming decor. Outdoor seating is also available, providing a delightful setting to enjoy the sunny California weather.

The Shop Kitchen’s successful blend of excellent coffee, delicious food, and a warm, inviting ambiance makes it stand out in the bustling Santa Barbara café scene.

9. Dart Coffee Co

Tucked away in the city’s vibrant Funk Zone on Yanonali Street, is a popular coffee joint for locals and visitors alike. Erika Carter and David Dart are the owners, dedicated to serving up the fresh, tasty coffee in the neighborhood since 2018.

They offer a variety of drip coffees, organic teas, and pulled-shot specialty drinks. The coffee is roasted on site, and served fresh to your cup. Tasty pastries complement your drink, and these are equally fresh and made on site. The establishment also sells roasted coffee, and offers delivery services locally.

10. Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro

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Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro has three locations on State Street, each serving delicious breakfast treats. It’s a slice of Â鶹APP on the streets of Santa Barbara, and their delectable French-style creations, in addition to the charming ambience, will make you see why.

See more on 15 Best Breakfast Places in Santa Barbara.

While the croissants and other French pastries are the highlight, their menu offers tasty coffee drinks, and artisan teas. The bistro locations are located in Loreto Plaza and Arlington Plaza. Whichever location you pick, the breakfast menu is extensive.

Have your latte with an almond croissant or pain au chocolat. Other options include avocado salmon toast, fried egg sandwich, the brioche French toast, among others.  Alternatively, you can order to go if you’re in a hurry.

Each of these amazing coffee shops has its unique vibe and specialties, but they all share a love for quality coffee. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or a casual drinker, Santa Barbara’s coffee scene is sure to impress.