Merci Montecito — Restaurant in Santa Barbara

Merci Montecito used to be one of my favorite spots — especially for their white bean salad, which was not only delicious but also a rare gem for those of us who are plant-based or have food allergies. It paired perfectly with the kale salad (hold the cheese), and was one of the few offerings in town that felt thoughtfully crafted for everyone at the table.

Unfortunately, that staple salad is no longer on the menu. In its place is a haricot vert and chickpea salad — which sounded promising — until I found out the vinaigrette (which is already tossed in and can't be on the side) contains egg. That makes it a no-go for vegans and anyone with egg allergies. Disappointing, but not the end of the world… except it kind of is when there’s little else on the menu that checks those boxes for plant-based protein.

What really soured the experience, though, was the attitude at the register. When I politely asked about vegan or allergy-friendly options, the gentleman seemed annoyed and dismissive. Thankfully, another staff member stepped in and flagged the egg in the dressing — which could’ve been a serious issue for me due to allergies. It's essential to clearly identify ingredients and allergy triggers like egg or dairy — especially when dishes sound plant-based but aren’t fully.

I’ve always believed a good café or restaurant should be welcoming and inclusive — especially in a community like Montecito where people have diverse dietary needs. I used to recommend Merci. Now, with the white bean salad gone, the lack of allergy transparency, and the disappointing customer service, I find myself looking elsewhere — even within the same shopping area (yes, even next door).

The vibe has also shifted — it’s more crowded and less warm than it used to be. Our kale salad today was overdressed and just… not great. So, sadly, my previous glowing reviews need an update. This visit was a 3-star experience at best — more like a 2.5.

I’ll keep checking in, hoping for the return of the white bean salad and, honestly, a little more patience and understanding for long-time customers. Until then,...

Very hostile and rude man at the checkout (it seems others have had the same problem, with the same guy). I came in at a not especially busy time, and there was just one person ahead of me. When my turn came I asked for a cinnamon bun (not heated) and a fruit tart, for takeout. Both were siting right there, barely 2ft from the register, and I figured that he would simply put them in a bag and hand them to me. I paid, stupidly tipped 15%, and then waited. Without saying a word, he went on to serve someone else, disappeared for a bit, came back. I waited longer. There were no other customers at the register, but zero sign of me getting the two items. I realized that the way they do it is that even if you are getting a couple of muffins from the cabinet that require no preparation, they process the order as if you were at a table and had requested scrambled eggs. You go into the order line. So I asked him if someone could just pop the two items in a bag so I could leave. Oh boy, he did not like that! "you know there are others in front of you, also waiting". I said yes, but they are at tables, not standing here, and I am just asking for these two things in a bag! He made a series of sarcastic comments, furiously put two pastries in a bag (one of them not what I ordered) and slammed them down on the counter, telling me I "really needed to be more patient". It took him less than 12 seconds to do that, less time than it took me to pay and give him a tip. Instead he made me wait for no reason at all, in a space that is not large enough to have people waiting. So, in conclusion - they have a broken system (in fairness, not his fault), and an employee who clearly has none of the skills needed to be customer facing. Incidentally, I have been there many times and often noticed his attitude is of someone who would rather be doing...

Updating my review. Coffee has improved. Last visit stopped in with an out of town friend. We both ordered the falafel sandwich and took them to the beach to enjoy. The sandwich was interesting, probably would not order it again. Nothing like the ones I used to make for a food coop back in the late 1970's. The one here at Merci, is an upscale version with small bites of falafel in a half of a pita in an a sauce I couldn't identify, it lacked the satisfaction of deliciousness in eating. For some reason comes with potato chips.

They put effort into the food here. Upscale ideas. Wish the taste and satisfaction matched with the hearty price and presentation. Still there are interesting items on the menu, it's nice to see something different being offered at a coffee shop. ..........

Older review.

Sadly my oat cappuccino was undrinkable. I ordered to go and had to toss it out. 😟 Other times has been very nice.

My pastry was okay, lacked flavor even loaded with blueberries. Expected better for this price and location. Many interesting...