The Good Lion — Restaurant in Santa Barbara

Hands down best cocktails in Santa Barbara, dare I say America, although I have yet to drink all the cocktails in America. This place serves magic in a cup with a twist of whatever flavor you are looking for. Tell the bartenders what flavors you love and they’ll make up a drink for you. But don’t do that, it’s annoying, cause all the drinks on the menu are delicious, even the ones that aren’t. You literally can’t go wrong, unless you don’t want to be right, then I don’t know what to tell you. If you’re looking for a delicious booze forward drink try the Improved Cocktail, it’s bourbon based with a splash of sweetness, like Ron Swanson AFTER he met Dianne and became a stepdad to two princess demons, I mean kids. How is a man like that so good with kids like that? We may never know, but thanks to this place, we don’t need to. Looking for something refreshing with more ice than a KFC sweet tea? The Ninth Ward is a summer delight, chilled to perfection. Also the Kentucky something. Ask for “the book” of cocktails... not just the menu they give you. The book will give you endless possibilities that may leave you flailing in anxiety about more life choices, but lest we forget, unlike the cruelty of life, whatever choice you make here, you...

Mine and my friends' favorite cocktail bar in Santa Barbara

The Good Lion is one of a couple of the highest level of quality and service for cocktail bars in Santa Barbara. In addition, their prices are the same or lower than other cocktail bars, and often lower than cocktails from restaurants. The bartenders are always willing to help guide you through drinks, both on and off menu.

This is great place if you are visiting Santa Barbara and want to plant yourself in downtown or experience some of the best SB has to offer. It is also a great piece of a date night, meet-up with friends, or simply for someone who wants to have the confidence their classic cocktail will be made very well.

Putting 4 stars on the atmosphere only because, during peak times, it can become crowded and hard to find a place to sit due to its smaller size. Aside from that, it's great. Dimly lit with an almost...

I decided to book a last-minute vacation in Santa Barbara and The Good Lion was the very first place I visited, and I am so glad this was the case. What a great way to start this getaway! Matt and Taylor are very friendly and knowledgeable mixologists and if you happen to stumble upon this place while they're working, rest assured you're in good hands. They were quick to answer any and all questions regarding the spirits selection and passionatley explained the business' philosophy regarding the support of small batch distilleries. It's a young and hip atmosphere on a Saturday evening, not too crowded at all-very comfortable. I couldn't recommend the...