••• The word on the street is that a Basque restaurant, possibly called Basque, is coming to the former Trattoria Vittoria space.
••• Congratulations to Silvers Omakase for being added to the Michelin Guide after just six months of operation.
••• Esau’s Cafe in Carpinteria is now serving dinner Thursday through Sunday. —Independent
••• The Black Sheep launches Sunday brunch service today. Here’s the menu:
••• Starting July 21, AMA Sushi at the Rosewood Miramar Beach resort will once again offer à la carte options (as well as the prix-fixe menus).
••• Elsewhere at the resort, Caruso’s is adding an “all-new outdoor semi-private dining space” called Frontemare, according to the auction materials for Lotusland’s big benefit next weekend: “This experience aims to foster a deep connection between our chef and guests, celebrating the ocean’s bounty and the region’s local ingredients through the conviviality of a family dinner. Prepared live along the coastline, we welcome guests to gather around the table for a sustainably driven culinary experience where the flavors of the ocean meet the warmth of family-style dining plus wine pairings to make for the perfect al fresco dining experience.” I hope whoever wrote that gets paid by the word.
••• Augie’s has extended its hours to include Thursday nights.
••• According to the Historic Landmarks Commission’s July 17 consent agenda, El Encanto wants to install a pergola with retractable roof on its dining deck.
••• More on Little Bird Kitchen, now open at the Santa Barbara Public Market. —Noozhawk
••• “California Wine Festival returns to Santa Barbara” next weekend. —Independent
••• Antojitos La Paloma has opened in the former Study Hall space in Isla Vista. —Restaurant Guy
••• I went back to Santa Barbara Hives for the margherita pizza, and it was very good—the crust is flavorful, but dense, and there was abundant sauce (plus extra). I ate the whole thing, minus some pizza bones; next time I’ll try to split it with someone.
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We had dinner at Esau’s Sunday night and it was great. Esau’s is known for large portions and they certainly didn’t disappoint. The food was really tasty.
I’m excited about the Basque restaurant! I love that region of food. I hope they do it family style!
I’ve believed for the longest time that Santa Barbara needs a good Basque restaurant. Look to Benjis and Woolgrowers in Bakersfield for models. Conceptually, it should be a massive hit! Do not exclude garlic chicken or french fries from the menu.