About
Los Agaves Restaurant is a local Mexican chain restaurant with several locations, two of which are in Santa Barbara. We'll be focusing on the original location on Milpas Street.
Famed local chef and owner Antonio Valls established the eatery in 2001. With an emphasis on using fresh, high-quality ingredients, the menu features "Traditional. Authentic. Handmade" Mexican-inspired cuisine. Chef Antonio chose the name "Los Agaves" to pay homage to the agave plant, a key element in Mexican culture, cuisine, and tequila production.
The restaurant has evolved from a humble taqueria into a dining hot spot known for exceptional Mexican cuisine, superb customer service, and authentic hospitality. Los Agaves is close to Santa Barbara landmarks like The Funk Zone and Old Mission Santa Barbara, making it your go-to after a day exploring the city.
Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner with family or friends, Los Agaves Restaurant delivers excellent flavor, atmosphere, and service.
Vibe
The restaurant's adobe-style structure with terracotta tiled roof resembles something you'd come across in Mexico. It is as visually pleasing to the eye as the restaurant's dishes are to the palate. Even the logo, with an elegant font for the name beside a blue-green agave plant, is a precursor to the delicious food awaiting inside.
The subtle yet stately design flows into the interior of Los Agaves' flagship restaurant. Sandstone-colored walls, wood beams across the ceiling, and a terracotta-tiled floor enhance the overall atmosphere. The absence of brightly colored walls covered with Latin-inspired artwork in other Mexican restaurants is a breath of fresh air. Instead, unique art pieces adorn key walls in a "less is more" approach to decorating.
The open layout is ideal for an intimate meal or a large gathering, while the cozy patio with lush greenery is ideal for enjoying the beautiful Santa Barbara weather.
Whether you're visiting after a day at Coronado Butterfly Preserve or before a night on the town, Los Agaves Restaurant is a must-visit.
Los Agaves Restaurant: Menu & Drinks
Like the decor and ambiance, the meals at Los Agaves Restaurant are fresh, innovative, and soul-satisfying.
The Especialidades de la Casa are the forefront of options, showcasing Chef Antonio's creativity. A standout is the Chiles Poblano Campestre, featuring a fresh Poblano chile stuffed with chicken or steak, cheese, and chipotle dressing. The ensemble is covered with melted Monterey Jack cheese and served with rice and two homemade tortillas.
The Los Burritos offer creative choices that appeal to various tastes. Of note is the Garden Burrito, a vegetarian's delight with its grilled zucchini, green and red bell peppers, and carrots. Pinto beans and Monterey Jack cheese add to the flavor profile, while the rice, lettuce, sour cream, and pico de gallo make this burrito a hearty meal.
De La Parilla translates from Spanish into "off the grill" and delivers big on flavor. The Camarones Guajillo showcases Mexican U-15 shrimp that are wild-caught by small sailboats drifting with the tide using a highly selective net. The succulent prawns are sautéed in butter, Guajillo Chile, pineapple, and Worcestershire sauce. Rice and a house salad come on the side, making the meal a seafood lover's dream come true!
When you're ready for a margarita to celebrate your day at East Beach, Los Agaves will not disappoint. While they offer plenty of traditional margs, creative options abound, like strawberry, grapefruit, and other variations. And with the opportunity to switch from tequila to mezcal and make them extra large, you'll find endless possibilities. Non-alcoholic options include soft drinks, Mexican sodas, and homemade horchata.
Los Agaves Restaurant offers creative fare, an inviting atmosphere, and tasty cocktails, making it a must-visit on your Santa Barbara trip.
Local Tips
- Los Agaves doesn't accept reservations; plan accordingly.
- The kid's menu makes it family-friendly.
- Order online and dine back at your Casago rental.
- Join their rewards program for discounts and specials.
