Gala Restaurant — Restaurant in Santa Barbara

Went to Gala with a group of six, and unfortunately the experience left a lot to be desired. It started off rocky—after being seated, it took about 10 minutes before we could even flag someone down for water.

We ordered three French 75s, but they were apparently out of proper glassware. Instead of informing us, they served the drinks split into two smaller glasses each (which still didn’t add up to the proper volume), and the third drink was clearly only about half the pour. We were charged for four, oddly enough. With our Uber already waiting, we didn’t have time to get it fixed, and frankly, it didn’t feel worth the hassle.

Water refills? Non-existent. The staff didn’t really check in on us after dropping the food. Speaking of which, the food was just okay—steak came out slightly over temp, and the seafood paella was underwhelming, with the rice undercooked and the flavor just kind of flat. The burger and pasta weren't bad, just not really what our expectations for how much they charge.

Not the worst experience I’ve had, but definitely not one I’d recommend, especially at the price point. Gala has potential, but the service and execution...

We are from Napa Valley, my husband is a winemaker, and we were here in SB for a family member’s graduation and our anniversary. We made a reservation here after looking through many reviews and photos. It lived up to our expectations. Staff was AMAZING! Megan and Rico were absolutely outstanding. We spoke at length to Megan about wine and she was so knowledgeable, fun, interesting and kind. Rico always made sure our glasses were full and that our table had what we needed. He also gave a heartwarming talk to the family member’s graduating. It was so sweet and kind. Truly memorable. We’ve dined at so many amazing restaurants because of my husband’s career, including Michelin Star restaurants in almost every country, and the service here matched what we come to expect from Michelin Star Restaurants. Truly outstanding on a particularly busy evening with graduation celebrations happening. Kudos to the waitstaff, the chef, the kitchen staff and the bar for doing such an excellent job this evening. We will be back! Get the Burrata, the fried green tomatoes, the scallops, the duck confit, and any dessert. Their wine list...

There's something to be said about a Spanish chef who can take the humble smash burger to new heights. And this place, with its menu that spans the globe, does just that. The oysters are briny and perfectly shucked, the chimichurri steak is a flavor bomb that makes you question everything you thought you knew about meat. The “surprising” hash browns are crispy and savory, the zucchini flowers light and airy.

And then there's the cocktail list - a collection of inspired creations that would make any mixologist jealous.

It's the kind of place that takes your expectations and turns them upside down, reminding you that the best meals are the ones that leave you a little bit disoriented, a little bit giddy.

The Spanish chef behind it all brings a touch of his roots to everything he does, elevating classic dishes with a bold, inventive flair. This is a restaurant that deserves to be on everyone's radar. Seek it out, and taste for yourself what happens when a Spanish chef takes...