4.5
(
59
)
Lilac Montecito serves a 100% gluten-free menu showcasing American, Italian, and European cuisine in a cozy, trendy setting. The restaurant features great coffee, indulgent desserts, and an expertly curated wine list, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Guests can enjoy attentive table service with options for outdoor seating and reservations recommended to secure preferred tables. The inclusive atmosphere welcomes families, solo diners, and guests with dietary needs.
What to Expect:
🥐 Entirely gluten-free menu
🍷 Sommelier-curated wine list and great coffee
🍰 Popular desserts like lava cake and lemon tart
🍳 Breakfast, brunch, lunch, & dinner service
Important Information:
Outdoor seating available
Takeout and dine-in options but no delivery
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🍰 Dessert Highlights: The lava cake and lemon tart consistently impress guests—definitely save room for these treats.
🍷 Wine & Sommelier Expertise: The well-curated wine list includes non-alcoholic options and expert pairing advice available from their sommelier.
🌿 Allergy-Friendly Dining: The fully gluten-free menu makes it a safe haven for celiac diners and those with serious dietary restrictions.
☀️ Patio Seating: The cozy outdoor patio is praised for a tranquil dining experience with beautiful ambiance and soft live music.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 8 AM to 3 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM to 9 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM to 9 PM
Thursday: 1 PM to 8 PM
Friday: 8 AM to 9 PM
Saturday: 8 AM to 9 PM
Sunday: 8 AM to 9 PM
👉 Best For
Gluten-free diners, families, brunch lovers, dinner dates
Lilac Montecito
1209 Coast Village Rd
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93108
Review Sentiment
.svg)
Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Lilac Montecito is widely praised for its superb gluten-free menu that delights both celiac and non-gluten-free diners alike. The elegant atmosphere and friendly, attentive service stand out, with many highlighting signature dishes like cauliflower, salmon, and decadent desserts. Some noted occasional service lapses and high price points, but overall guest satisfaction remains high.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Go For
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Gluten-Free Quiche, Salmon Benedict, Buffalo Cauliflower Starter, Lasagna, Spaghetti, Fettuccine, Tuna Sandwich, Caesar Salad, Lava Cake, Lemon Tart, French Toast, Coffee, Prosecco, Wine List
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit for quieter dining on weekdays before 10 AM or between 2–4 PM; Saturdays 5–7 PM are peak busy; reserve early for brunch and dinner weekends.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating; the venue accommodates diverse accessibility needs with thoughtful facilities.
Reservation Policy
Reservations recommended; arrive on time
Join the Crew
The best of the Catskills, delivered to your inbox every Tuesday. Trusted by over 40,000 locals, weekenders, and wanderers.
Join for Free
Similar
Ospi Montecito
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
🍝 Italian
–
•
Heading
4.4
Trendy Italian kitchen in Santa Barbara serving standout pastas, pizzas, cocktails, and a cozy patio atmosphere.
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants: Montecito
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$$$
🍣 Sushi
–
•
Heading
4.8
Exclusive omakase sushi in Montecito delivering inventive Edomae style courses with interactive service in an intimate, luxe setting.
Apna Indian Kitchen
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
🍛 Indian
–
•
Heading
4.7
Cozy brick-lined eatery serving classic Indian curries and butter chicken with beer, wine, and friendly vibes.
Natural Cafe
$
Goleta
•
$$
🥗 Vegan & Vegetarian
–
•
Heading
4.5
Fresh, local Californian fare with salads, veggie sandwiches, made-to-order smoothies, and a casual, health-focused vibe in Goleta.
Los Arroyos Montecito Mexican Restaurant & Take Out
$
Montecito
•
$$
🌮 Mexican
–
•
Heading
4.4
Mexican comfort food and margaritas served in a casual, vibrant setting with south-of-the-border decor and a local Montecito vibe.
Bath Street Inn
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$$
–
•
Heading
4.7
Victorian B&B with charming rooms, homemade breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening wine & cheese in Santa Barbara’s Oak Park.
Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
$
Goleta
•
$$
🌮 Mexican
–
•
Heading
4.4
Established Mexican eatery with patio, buffet on select days, and a lively bar featuring televised sports and great drink selections.
Rosewood Miramar Beach
4.7
Refined oceanfront hotel with elegant dining, 2 outdoor pools, a spa, and polished rooms with terraces overlooking Miramar Beach.
SOhO Restaurant & Music Club
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$
–
•
Heading
4.5
Nightly live music with drinks and California fare at this intimate club featuring a dance floor and rooftop in Santa Barbara.
Hummus Republic
$
Goleta
•
$$
🥙 Mediterranean
–
•
Heading
4.2
Build-your-own Mediterranean bowls, pitas, and salads with fresh, flavorful ingredients in a casual, trendy Isla Vista spot.
Dublin's Sports Grill
4.0
Casual sports bar with a great beer and cocktail selection, pool tables, and friendly fast service in Isla Vista's lively scene.
Hotel Californian
$
Santa Barbara
•
$$$$
–
•
Heading
4.3
High-end Spanish Colonial Revival hotel with Moroccan-inspired rooms, ocean views, a rooftop pool, spa, and trendy dining in Santa Barbara.
Back to Restaurants
