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Lebanese restaurant in Santa Barbara, California
What should I order at Zaytoon?
What to order
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Hummus
Mentioned multiple times as creamy, perfectly seasoned, fresh, and delicious; several reviews also praised it as part of dips and vegetarian plates.
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Mashawi Combo
Recommended for its variety and especially for the tender, flavorful steak, lamb, and mixed grilled meats that stood out in the reviews.
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Batata Harra
Called a hit and highly recommended by several diners for its flavorful, nicely prepared potatoes.
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4
Watermelon Salad
Praised as part of a perfect meal and described as fresh and enjoyable alongside other popular dishes.
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5
Kebab Trio
Frequently recommended for the tender, well-cooked meats and for being a great sharing dish.
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6
Cheese Sambosik
Recommended for its tasty, smooth texture and as a standout appetizer that people enjoyed ordering again.
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7
Baba Ghannouj
Highlighted as a delicious charbroiled eggplant spread that paired especially well with pita.
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8
Tabbouli
Recommended as part of the vegetarian choice and separately for being fresh and worth ordering.
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9
Labneh
Praised as a great spread, especially when paired with pita or used to make sandwiches.
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10
Beef Kebab
Mentioned as tasty and part of the well-liked grilled meat selections, with reviewers noting it was cooked well and flavorful.
Details
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Friday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 5 to 9 PM |
About Zaytoon
Comfy spot for Lebanese & Middle Eastern fare with an outdoor fire pit & weekly live entertainment.
Amenities
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Fireplace
- Great cocktails
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Frequently asked
What is Zaytoon known for?
Zaytoon is known for Lebanese and Middle Eastern dishes served in an outdoor patio setting with fire pits and string lights. Reviewers repeatedly highlight the hummus, kabobs, and mashawi combo, plus the lively atmosphere that makes it a popular Santa Barbara dinner spot.
What dishes are most recommended at Zaytoon?
Reviewers most often recommend the hummus trio, tabbouli, batata harra, mashawi combo, and mixed kabob plates. Other frequently praised items include grilled beef, chicken and beef kebabs, baba ghannouj, labneh, and the watermelon salad.
What is the atmosphere like at Zaytoon?
The vibe is cozy, romantic, and outdoorsy, with a courtyard, fire pits, and patio seating that many guests describe as beautiful at night. It works well for groups, family-style meals, and date nights, and several reviews mention attentive service without feeling rushed.
Is Zaytoon good value, and what is the price range?
Zaytoon falls in the $30 to $70 range, so it is a mid- to higher-priced meal. Reviewers say the portions are well sized, the food is filling but not heavy, and the quality ingredients and quick service make the price feel worthwhile for a special dinner in Santa Barbara.
Do you need a reservation at Zaytoon?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially for dinner, because reviews mention lines before opening and the restaurant getting very busy with large groups. Guests who booked ahead reported faster seating and a smoother experience, particularly on weekends.
Is parking available at Zaytoon?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Usually somewhat difficult to find a space is available.
Does Zaytoon have vegetarian options?
Yes, Zaytoon offers vegan options.