
Loquita in Santa Barbara offers authentic Spanish cuisine, featuring wood-fired paella and tapas, in a vibrant atmosphere complemented by a solid wine selection.
Dinner at Loquita in Santa Barbara was nothing short of an immersive journey through delicious Spanish flavors. After a wonderful glass of wine at Paradise Springs Winery, it was a pleasure for Katharine and I to walk the few feet over for our dinner reservation.
From the moment we arrived, the warm glow of the restaurant and the inviting aromas from the kitchen set the tone for an evening of indulgence.


Settling in, we excitedly browsed the menu.



When the DÁTIL (medjool date, pt, reyes blue, smoked maple) arrived, I was a bit surprised. I didn’t expect such a small olive.
But, I learned to not judge something by it looks – but by its taste. These were small bites that packed a punch.
Next up was the CROQUETA DE JAMÓN (paprika aioli, crispy potato nest).
This was a perfectly crisp bite filled with creamy jamón, sitting in crispy potatoes, balanced by a smoky paprika aioli. Literally, I scooped so much of the potatoes onto my fork – this with the sauce was absolutely delicious.
The JAMÓN TASTING (serrano, ibérico, ibérico de chorizo, pan con tomate) was a beautifully arranged selection of serrano, ibérico, and ibérico de chorizo, accompanied by pan con tomate.
We took turns tasting and picking out our favorite pieces of cured perfection.
This was everything I loved about Spain and Portugal – in Santa Barbara. Each variety of cured bite offered a different depth of flavor, from the nutty richness of the ibérico to the slightly spicy and smoky chorizo.
For wine, we enjoyed a porron of Edetaria Winery’s Rosé of Gamacha from Terra Alta, Catalunya, Spain. This was a crisp and lively wine that was perfect for sipping as we eased into the night.
For something fresh, we ordered the CRUDO (ahi tuna, passionfruit escabeche, parsley aioli, California mandarin).
This was a a bright and beautifully plated dish that – like everything else, was delicious.
The PERA (whipped Spanish goat cheese, sangria poached pear, pistachio salsa verde, navel orange) was – a revelation. The sangria poached pear was outstanding in taste and presentation. The balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy elements made it a standout dish.
But, the showoff of the evening – and our main course – was the MARISCOS (Prince Edward Island mussels, jumbo prawns, grilled bay scallops, black garlic sofrito, shiso, saffron aioli) paella. The richness of the dish was beautifully complemented by the freshness of the seafood, creating a luxurious yet comforting experience.
I also asked for additional grilled bread, which was an absolute must have accompaniment.


Wanting just one more thing, we settled on dessert.
When the TORRIJAS (crispy pan au lait, crème anglaise, berries) arrived, along with my order of LIGHTHOUSE COFFEE (single origin roast – french press coffee), I felt a sense of completion for a day well lived.
The French toast like dish was one of the best deserts I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying. My coffee was perfect for our lingering conversation – and even better when I got a to go cup and enjoyed it on my drive back to Los Angeles.
From the ambiance to the expertly crafted dishes, Loquita delivered a dining experience that felt both transportive and deeply satisfying.
It was the kind of experience is absolutely perfect.
Not just because of what we ordered.
But, because it was the perfect setting for intimate joy filled conversations, happiness and friendship.
Loquita
202 State StreetSanta Barbara, California 93101