Santa Barbara

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A Trip to Santa Barbara

6696 Rue de Saint Vallier, Montréal, QC H2S 1M1

Though Restaurant Santa Barbara is not actually named after the city (it is named after Saint Barbara), it still somehow manages to transport visitors to the California coast. On a cold, but bright Winter Sunday, I finally stopped by Santa Barbara to see what all of the fuss was about. I had heard and read only great things about the brunch (and dinner) spot, and had to give it a try.

The vivid turquoise walls were brightened by the sunlight coming through the windows, creating a bright and cheerful space- perfect for Sunday brunching! While you wait you can watch as orders are shipped off to their respective tables. This sounds very pleasant, but really only makes your difficult decision of deciding which dish to order that much more difficult. Prepare to be conflicted.

The small menu comprises only a few well-thought out and balanced choices.We went with two savoury dishes- The Architect and The Criminal (pictured below)- with a side of thickly-cut bacon. Both were colourful and presented beautifully.

The Architect: a slice of sourdough bread layered with kaleslaw and two poached eggs, and served with sliced avocado on the side. The kaleslaw dressing adds a punch of flavour, while the avocado adds creaminess. Overall, The Architect is super fresh and well-constructed (pardon the pun :P).

The Architect

The Criminal: very similar to Shakshouka, but the sauce is made with roasted red pepper & tomatoes, chorizo, and fresh cilantro and it is served with sourdough bread on the side. I loved the addition of chorizo and the baked eggs were cooked to perfection. So good it should be a crime to eat. (SORRY AGAIN!!! No more puns…promise.)