Zaytoon — Restaurant in Santa Barbara

I came to Zaytoon tonight to celebrate my 22nd birthday. I was excited to return since I had celebrated my 21st here and enjoyed a few other visits in the past. We had a reservation for 9 people at 7:15 and were seated promptly. The atmosphere was as lively as always, and we started the evening with drinks and appetizers, enjoying the vibe.

When it came time to order entrées, things took a disappointing turn. A member of our party first tried to order the lamb, but the server informed us that they were out. He pivoted to the mahi mahi—also unavailable—before settling on the salmon. Four others in our group also ordered the salmon. Shortly after, the server returned to tell us the restaurant was out of salmon as well.

This was especially upsetting because the salmon is my favorite dish in town and the main reason I chose Zaytoon for my birthday dinner. At that point, the only entrées available were chicken or beef. One guest in our party is pescatarian and was left with no options at all. For a group of nine who reserved a week in advance (with a $25-per-person deposit), it was frustrating that no one informed us ahead of time about such a limited menu. If we had known, we likely would have canceled or chosen another place to celebrate.

What felt especially disappointing was the lack of communication and care from the staff. A simple phone call or heads-up when we were seated could have spared the frustration. Instead, it felt as though securing our deposit was prioritized over creating a welcoming and celebratory experience. As the host and birthday girl, I felt awkward watching my guests settle for meals they didn’t want.

I ended up with the lemon chicken, which was unfortunately underwhelming—dry, underseasoned, and saved only by a bit of sauce (a 6/10 at best). With no gesture of compensation or acknowledgment from the restaurant, the whole evening felt unprofessional and untransparent, which was surprising given Zaytoon’s reputation. I truly want to support a restaurant I’ve enjoyed in the past, but transparency matters. Guests deserve to know what’s available before committing to an experience, especially for a...

Two star review is not for the food. My party enjoyed everything we ordered. Two stars is for these three specific complaints: When we arrived the hostess said our table wasn’t ready and said we could wait in the bar. Totally fine, completely normal request except the bar area has no chairs. Not that the chairs were in use by other customers. No chairs. There were a couple of round tables but that’s it. It seemed very awkward to just stand in this room waiting for a table. The small men’s restroom can only accommodate one person at a time. I waited in line behind one of the restaurant workers. When the door opened a restaurant worker came out and the guy in front of me went in. Completely fine and normal. When my turn came however, I found that the soap dispenser was empty. Not even a dribble or a bubble came out. There’s no way either of the restaurant workers washed their hands. Upon exiting I pointed out my concern to the hostess and she assured me that the employees have a separate sink and hand wash area they have to use before handling any food. Problem is, both workers didn’t go into the service area of the restaurant when they exited the restroom, but out into the customer area. Really, really gross. I asked for a refill of the little teapot they served my tea in, and for an additional tiny jar of honey. I was told that they charge for a second jar of honey. Really? The order for my party was just south of $200.00. They couldn’t bring me a second tiny, single-serve jar of honey? They cost about sixty cents apiece at the first website I found, and I have to imagine that they would be even less expensive from a restaurant supplier. TLDR; cute restaurant, good food, lousy...

Not that this place needs another fabulous review, but I'll send a very well-deserved on their way anyway!

This is such a great spot for a celebratory dinner with friends or family. Parking can be inconvenient, so walk or take a rideshare if you can. Reserve ahead, especially if you have a bigger group or want to sit outside. The courtyard area is totally beautiful and spacious, with pretty fairy lights scattered among the plants and soft music playing in the background, sometimes live and sometimes not. Despite it looking crowded at first glance, the orientation of the fire pit/tables makes it quite spacious and easy to navigate.

I've tried the vodka cocktails, and they're all pretty superb. Not too heavy on syrup, and fresh and bright tasting as well as beautiful. Personal favorite of mine was the watermelon crush. The Lebanese beer they have on the menu is a fun addition to add to the flavors of the food.

The food is phenomenal--I highly recommend going with a few people and sharing the appetizer sampler so that you can try a little of all of them. The individual entrees are huge, enough to either share between two (with appetizers and pita bread, probably), or have ample leftovers for the next day. I really enjoy the kebab combo as well as the vegetarian feast. Garlic sauce is extra, but some dishes come with it. Service is nothing to write home about, but keep in mind that the place is quite busy and it never hurts to put in a reminder if you feel you've been neglected! I find that for the ambiance and quality of the food, you're definitely paying the right price. Love this place and will always stop by for a special occasion in...