Dr H
Google
As I was headed down 101 South from Goleta during rush hour no less, I decided that rather than spend 25 minutes sitting in the car moving just inches every few minutes, it was best to get off the freeway and enjoy a leisurely dinner until traffic was flowing again. As a new arrival to the SB area, I opted for the first Mexican restaurant I spotted just off the freeway. The place is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Montecito on Coast Village Road. Parking was easy, hassle free and no meters! I slipped into a parking space right in front of Los Arroyos (1280 Coast Village Hiway). I was immediately greeted and seated at a lovely table (I chose to dine al fresco--it is Santa Barbara where the weather is beautiful, after all!). Camille was quick to get my order and before I could barely get started on the chips, my meal arrived. I ordered salmon enchiladas and while I am a salmon fan I have never tasted anything like what I just had. The sauce was creamy but not sickeningly rich; it was a a red-sauce base but didn't trigger heartburn. The salmon was fresh, cooked just right without being dry and overcooked, and it was topped with thin slices of avocado. In a word, it was otherworldly. Guacamole was equally appealing to the taste buds-- not your everyday, smashed up avocado with some generic Pico di gallo tossed in. Same with the salad--fresh, crispy and served with house Ranch. Los Arroyos takes Mexican food to a whole other level with their secret recipes. (I asked what was in their salsa and, true to chef culture, was politely informed it was proprietary). To top it all off, they have an impressive offering of wine, beer, and mixed drinks--Justin cab never disappoints!
Definitely a 5-star dining experience across the board! I'll be back.