Hello dear
At Via Maestra 42, authenticity meets Italian charm in the heart of Santa Barbara. Nestled on State Street, this gem boasts a cozy, grandmotherly ambiance that draws you in. The menu showcases exquisite panini, handcrafted cheeses, and fresh pastries that transport you straight to Italy. Highlights include the Emilia Panino, featuring tantalizing mortadella and handmade mozzarella, and the delightful Bombolone Con Nutella for dessert. Diners rave about the freshness and quality of the dishes, paired with warm, attentive service. Via Maestra 42 isn't just a meal; it's an invitation to savor life's simple pleasures in an enchanting setting.
About
If you’re in Santa Barbara and craving authentic Italian cuisine, look no further than Via Maestra 42. Nestled on 3343 State St, this unassuming eatery captures the heart of Italy with its rustic charm and exquisite flavors. With a welcoming ambiance reminiscent of a grandma’s dining room, this restaurant is where culinary tradition meets a cozy setting.
From the moment you step inside, you are embraced in an atmosphere that feels both intimate and inviting. The menus boast an impressive selection of antipasti, insalate, and homemade pasta that will leave your taste buds dancing. Highlights include the Zuppa Del Giorno, a fresh vegetarian stock soup, and the delightful Insalata Verde, featuring organic mixed greens and shaved Grana Padano cheese. Each dish is crafted with fresh ingredients, showcasing the culinary artistry that defines this eatery.
One cannot speak of Via Maestra 42 without mentioning their outstanding pastas. The rave reviews highlight dishes like their incredible ravioli and gluten-free creations that even the most discerning guests rave about. With portions that satisfy, many diners recommend saving room for dessert, as their offerings are vast and delectable—indeed, a true treasure for those with a sweet tooth.
What sets Via Maestra 42 apart is not just the food but the passion of the staff. Reviews consistently praise the attentive and warm service, although a note of caution comes from a few tales of less-than-stellar interactions with certain staff members. Nevertheless, many patrons find the overwhelming quality of dishes often makes these minor hiccups easily forgivable.
In closing, Via Maestra 42 is a gem that stands out in Santa Barbara’s culinary scene. If you’re on a quest for an authentic Italian experience that tantalizes the senses and brings joy to the table, this restaurant is a must-visit. The dedication to quality, taste, and a warm dining experience makes every meal here a memorable one.
“ Their food is amazing. The ambiance outdoors is actually lovely. I had ordered raviolis without reading the menu because I was so hungry and knew what I wanted. I had pretty great service here my first time except for when the waitress who brought my incredible raviolis made an incredibly rude comment as she served my plate. I had remarked, “Oh, I thought these would be with marinara?” They looked amazing, presentation was beautiful, I wasn’t upset I was just surprised. She grabbed the menu, handed it to me and said, “That’s why we gave you a menu, so you can read it.” She said it with the most sarcastic smile on her face, I honestly didn’t even have a response for her. I was so stunned. Then when I had asked for more olive oil she continued with her dramatic act and brought me literally an entire boat of olive oil what. A huge waste for my two pieces of bread... it was such a performance for what? I came to the restaurant in great spirits and very impressed and this waitress totally ruined the whole experience. However, everyone else is incredibly kind and attentive and the food is sooooooo fresh and so good. Way better than Ca’Dario, if you’re trying to decide, the food at Via Maestro 42 is way better quality. ”
“ This very unassuming restaurant on Upper State Street is so authentic Italian, in my opinion. It almost has a grandma’s dining room feel to it, and the food is finger-licking good. Also, the desert list is a mile long and wonderful. They have Italian gelato and some other goods. Love it! ”
“ The food is absolutely delicious and the service is great! The portions are a pretty good size as well, so you might not have space for dessert if you eat the pasta (but it's worth it). ”
“ I love this restaurant. Our company had the holiday party here this year. I got the filet which was cooked perfectly, like everything else on the table. We also had some wonderful Italian wines. Highly recommend! ”
“ Via Maestra 42 is a gem in Santa Barbara! The quality of the food is simply outstanding (especially the desserts!). My partner is gluten free, and the restaurant was able to accommodate quite remarkably. For example, their GF ravioli was delicious. It was the first time we've been to an Italian restaurant that does GF quite well. The service is equally impeccable. During our visit, the staff was warm, attentive, and genuinely passionate about providing an excellent dining experience. This is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates authentic Italian cuisine. Highly, highly recommended! ”
“ First visit to Via Maestra 42 with my wife on Valentines Day for lunch. What a pleasant surprise, as we had recommendations form friends that this was a place to go for great italian food but what we founds was excellence in every catagory. Excellent food, excellent service and a truely excellent atmosphere that charmed and captivated all of my senses. I'll be back!!! ”
“ Even though I only came here for dessert, the food was indescribable. Truly authentic Italian food, flavors were much better than anywhere else I've eaten. I had the chocolate hazelnut Gelato and the tiramisu. First the Gelato tastes like a Ferrero rocher in an ice cream and it had real hazelnut chunks, the tiramisu felt like a fluffy coffee cloud. The staff were super kind and welcoming. Someone else got the pistachio and it tasted like real pistachios and had no added colors lol. The atmosphere felt like italy and I am definitely coming back. It wasn't overpriced and it's all imported from Italy except the seafood. 100/10. Legendary!!! ”
“ This is a fine Italian restaurant nestled here on State street, Santa Barbara. I enjoyed a nice, peaceful breakfast here with my wife. I had the Americano which consisted of, 2 eggs, sausage,bacon, potatoes and toasted bread with delicious fig jam. She had the grilled eggpant with scrambled eggs and thinly sliced ham. Both plates were delicious along with a cup of LaVazza coffee...perfect. This is our second visit here. We will return next time we are in town. What a treasure for the Santa Barbara community. ”