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Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara on State Street, Loquita offers an authentic taste of Spain with a vibrant menu showcasing farm-fresh Spanish tapas, wood-fired seafood and meats, and seasonal paella. This cozy, upmarket spot perfectly blends traditional flavors with modern culinary artistry, making it a must-visit for foodies and travelers seeking genuine Spanish cuisine in California.
Starters
Begin your culinary journey with a selection of vibrant starters that highlight classic Spanish ingredients and bold flavors. Try the Pan Con Tomate, a delightful combination of rustic bread rubbed with ripe tomato, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves, setting the stage for a memorable meal. Savor the Marinated Olives infused with citrus and rosemary, or indulge in the Serrano, Ibérico, and Ibérico de Chorizo platter paired with Pan Con Tomate for a rich and savory experience. Cheese lovers will appreciate the trio of cow milk, goat milk, and three-month-aged sheep milk cheeses, each offering unique textures and tastes from Spain's famed dairies.
Mains
Loquita's main dishes feature an enticing array of wood-fired seafood and hearty meats, each crafted with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Dive into the Local Yellowtail Crudo, enhanced with aji amarillo, padron pepper aioli, smoked pimenton, and mint for a refreshing yet complex bite. The Grass Fed Beef Carpaccio is a tender highlight drizzled with manzanilla olive oil, pickled mustard seed, and sherry vinegar. Vegetable enthusiasts will enjoy the Crispy Brussels Sprouts with smoked paprika and grilled lemon or the Charred Broccolini accompanied by walnut romesco and manchego. Signature paellas star prominently, with options like the Wild Gulf Jumbo Prawns in brava sauce and garlic brandy, or the Chicken and Chorizo paella bursting with rich flavors. For more indulgent tastes, the Spanish Octopus with black garlic aioli and potato purée, or the 6 oz. Prime Hanger Steak with chermoula verde and spring herbs offer luxurious bites that captivate the palate.
Special Mains
- Australian Lamb with piquillo coulis, mint, fava bean, and tomato salad
- Chorizo, Rocky Free Range Chicken, Gigante Beans, Hen of the Woods mushrooms, Salmorra, Shishito peppers, and lemon aioli
- Duck Leg Confit accompanied by pickled persimmon, maitake mushrooms, pomegranate, and preserved meyer lemon aioli
- A luxurious seafood medley with Grilled Local Squid, Hope Ranch Mussels, Wild Jumbo Gulf Prawns, lobster stock, lemon aioli, and bottarga
Desserts
End on a sweet note with Loquita's decadent desserts that echo traditional Spanish flavors with a modern twist. Delight in the Dulce de Leche, Raspberry Vanilla, and Chocolate creation that balances rich and fruity notes, or savor the Quince Membrillo, a classic Spanish quince paste. For a unique taste, try the Paprika, Dulce de Leche, and Maldon Sea Salt dessert offering a subtle smoky sweetness. Lighter options include the Seasonal Fruit Sorbet and a rotating selection of Ice Creams of the Day, perfect for refreshing the palate.
Drinks and Specials
Complement your meal with Loquita's carefully curated drink menu featuring vibrant craft cocktails, Spanish vermut, refreshing sangrias, and a well-selected range of wines and beers. The cozy ambiance, combined with spacious patio seating and attentive service, makes Loquita Santa Barbara an ideal destination for romantic dinners, lively gatherings, and those craving authentic Spanish flavors with a California twist.
