If you’re a fan of charming courtyards, creative cuisine, and slow, sunny mornings, then brunch at Scarlett Begonia in Santa Barbara is an absolute must. Tucked away just off the bustling State Street, this cozy little eatery has quickly become my favorite brunch spot in town—and for good reason.
Santa Barbara is full of beautiful places to eat, but there’s something about Scarlett Begonia that feels extra special. Maybe it’s the intimate courtyard setting, where lush greenery surrounds you as you sip on a lavender latte. Or maybe it’s the ever-changing seasonal menu, full of fresh, locally sourced ingredients that elevate classic brunch dishes into something truly memorable. Whatever it is, this place has my heart—and it might just steal yours too.
How to Get There
Scarlett Begonia is located at 21 W Victoria St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, nestled within a quiet courtyard just off State Street in the heart of downtown. It’s the kind of spot you might miss if you weren’t looking for it, which makes it feel like a well-kept secret—even though it’s wildly popular with locals and visitors alike.
Parking Tip: Free street parking in this area is notoriously tricky, especially on weekends. I’d recommend parking in the lot directly behind the restaurant. It’s convenient and worth the small fee for the ease it offers. Plus, once you’re done brunching, you can wander down State Street to explore boutiques, galleries, and Spanish-style architecture that give downtown Santa Barbara its unique charm.
When to Visit
The best time to brunch here? When the sun is shining, which, in Santa Barbara, is nearly always. This city boasts a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures and clear skies for most of the year—perfect for dining outdoors.
Weekends are popular (especially late mornings), so if you want to avoid a wait, try to arrive a little earlier or make a reservation. Sitting in the courtyard with the morning light filtering through the trees is truly one of the most relaxing ways to start your day.
What’s on the Menu
One of the things that sets Scarlett Begonia apart is its seasonally inspired menu. The offerings change weekly based on what’s fresh and in-season from local farms and purveyors. That means you can come back again and again and always try something new—and delicious.
On my last visit, we started with the biscuit sampler, which included a flaky buttermilk biscuit and a sweet-savory maple bacon version that I still think about. Warm, buttery, and served with house-made jam—it was the kind of dish you secretly want to order a second round of.
Next up was the summer squash scramble, which came loaded with vibrant veggies and creamy goat cheese, all folded into perfectly cooked eggs. It was hearty but fresh, and the flavors were so well balanced.
Whether you’re a fan of sweet brunch dishes or savory ones, there’s always something inventive and satisfying on the menu.
To Get There
Located in downtown Santa Barbara off State Street: 21 W Victoria St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
It’s not easy to find free parking in this area. I recommend parking in the lot behind the restaurant and just paying the fee. You’ll can walk down State Street after if you want to do some shopping among the Spanish style buildings.
When to Go
The best time to visit is on a nice sunny day for brunch. Since Santa Barbara has great weather almost year round, you can most likely get away with this most days.
My Tips for Visiting
- Go on a sunny day so you can enjoy the courtyard vibes to the fullest.
- Don’t skip the biscuits. Seriously. Even if you’re not typically a biscuit person.
- Arrive early or make a reservation—this place fills up fast on weekends.
- Plan time to explore downtown afterward. There are so many cute shops and hidden corners nearby.
Final Thoughts
Brunch at Scarlett Begonia isn’t just about the food (though the food is incredible)—it’s about the full Santa Barbara experience. The sunshine, the local flavors, the courtyard tucked away from the crowds—it all adds up to a morning that feels like a little slice of paradise.
If you’re planning a trip to Santa Barbara, put Scarlett Begonia at the top of your brunch list. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Have a favorite brunch spot in Santa Barbara I should try next? Let me know in the comments!
And if you’re planning your own Santa Barbara getaway, check out my Weekend Guide to Santa Barbara for more local tips.