"Getting out of the city for a day can feel like a special occasion in itself. But if this is some extra-special occasion, milk it for all its worth with a trip to Santa Barbara. And when you’re there, your first stop for dinner should be Bibi Ji. This upscale Indian spot has an incredible wine list and a great a la carte menu, but our move is always to get the Chef’s Tasting Menu and wine pairing, which is $50 per person (plus $30 for the wine), and includes a selection from the menu, plus the fantastic thali platter with curries. And - although it doesn’t come with the tasting menu - always order the uni fried rice, which comes in a still-moving sea urchin. It’s salty, fishy, and excellent. Stop by McConnell’s Ice Cream next door to really complete the night." - brett keating
