This is the most expensive restaurant in Santa Barbara (excluding Montecito). The food is delcious, cooked to perfection, but a bit dated in style. The ambience is very quiet and dim. The owner comes by and chats a bit too much at your table, which I felt a little intusive. I imagine this resaturant to be perfect for rich old... More

My girlfriend and I were in Santa Barbara just for one evening on our way back to the UK after 7 days in San Fran and Napa. We have eaten at some fabulous places this trip but in all honesty - non as perfect as Downeys. We had looked on TA and seen the comments so decided to get away... More

Warm and intimate presentation of fabulous taste sensations. This dining is way beyond the usual fare...French-style flare for perfection with west coast creativity for unusual combinations. Very nice wine selections. Prices not bad for such a great experience.

We ate here for a special occasion dinner at the end of April, and I will have to say it's one of the best restaurants I have ever experienced. The appetizer was chilled lobster on angel hair, I had veal and my wife had broiled cod. Dessert was equally excellent. It is certainly not inexpensive but the quality and preparation... More

Great food, lovely presentation, and not a snob in sight. For the quality, the prices were quite reasonable and the bottled water was a bargain. We didn't have the prix fixe dinner because one course was duck and I prefer my ducks alive and swimming but, if you like the courses, it's probably the best deal in town. It wasn't... More

Enjoyed a wonderful meal on a busy night in SB at Downey's. Mussel appetizer was excellent as other reviewers have noted. The Cod entree was amazing and well portioned. The Hallibut was fine but to be honest a touch to dry. The flourless chocolate cake was excellent. Service was great, very attentive and friendly well letting us enjoy a wonderful... More

The sea bass entre with mustard berre blanc sause, roasted potatoes and artichoke hearts was the best fish dish I have ever had and my wife's crab on toast and lonster pasta were excellent. This is just an excellent place to dine.

It's a pleasure to give Downey's a 5 and we can see why it has lasted over 30 years. First, the chef clearly is dedicated to quality, and with a relatively small restaurant, he can keep an eye on the whole operation and a hand on the food. Second, it's a family business and not just 'a job' for the... More

What a great rec from Trip Advisor. The service was impeccable and the ambiance was quiet and carefully contrived. The painting covered walls created the effect of sitting in a museum gallery--the space was quite intimate. Our meal was to die for. Every bite of every course was just superb. We both had the black cod, but the server suggested... More