A Weeklong Celebration at the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience

Dust off your beret and get ready for a week of pure epicurean delight! The Taste of Santa Barbara, presented by the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience, is back, promising a whirlwind adventure for your taste buds from May 13 to 19.

Imagine this: basking in the golden glow of the Santa Barbara sun, sipping on award-winning wines, and indulging in delectable bites – all throughout the county, with the centerpiece event at the historic El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park.

As your Santa Barbara wine communicator, I’m here to be your guide through this culinary extravaganza. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just starting your exploration of Santa Barbara’s bounty, the Taste of Santa Barbara offers something for everyone.

This year’s Taste of Santa Barbara takes inspiration from the legendary Julia Child, a woman who understood the joy of a perfectly cooked meal and a well-paired glass of wine. Prepare to embark on a weeklong odyssey through Santa Barbara’s culinary landscape, with events happening in charming restaurants, wineries, and unique locations across the county. Sample the freshest seafood, explore farm-to-table creations, and of course, delve into the bounty of Santa Barbara’s incredible wineries.

The centerpiece of the weeklong event is undoubtedly the “Taste of Santa Barbara Wines” at El Presidio Park. Mark your calendars for May 18, because this is where the magic happens. Mingle with fellow food and wine enthusiasts as you stroll through the park, sipping on selections from dozens of Santa Barbara’s most celebrated wineries and restaurants. Each sip and bite is a chance to connect with the passionate artisans behind these culinary creations.

Feeling a bit nostalgic? Then join the “Sideways Revisited” panel discussion, a fun trip down memory lane that explores the wineries immortalized in the iconic film. For the adventurous palate, there’s “New Grapes from the Old World,” where you’ll discover exciting grape varietals like Spanish mencía and Rhône Valley clairette blanche taking center stage. And for the pinot noir aficionado, a panel discussion with industry veterans promises to delve into the intricacies of this captivating grape.

No culinary adventure is complete without indulging in the bounty of the region. The Taste of Santa Barbara Wines boasts an impressive lineup of local purveyors, offering everything from succulent smoked carnitas tacos to exquisite shrimp and grits shooters. A portion of the proceeds goes towards the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience’s partnership with The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, ensuring this epicurean legacy continues to inspire future generations.

For a truly immersive experience, don’t miss Lights, Camera, Julia! on Saturday, May 18 at the Metro 4 Theatre. This special event goes behind the scenes of the new television series Julia, following the life and career of the iconic chef. Enjoy exclusive screenings, insightful discussions with the show’s creators and Julia’s grand-nephew, Alex Prud’homme, and a chance to savor popcorn, one of Julia’s favorite snacks!

So, grab your best walking shoes, adventurous spirit, and a healthy appetite. The Taste of Santa Barbara awaits! See you all there, raising a glass (or two) to Santa Barbara’s finest wines and celebrating the art of living well. Santé!  

Get your tickets at https://tasteofsb.ticketsauce.com/e/taste-of-santa-barbara-2/tickets