Historic Santa Barbara location
Located in Santa Barbara, CA, Arnoldi's Cafe is an Italian restaurant hosting rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, and other wedding-related events. This elegant venue has been a Santa Barbara staple since 1937, hosting orchestras and dancers while also providing delicious food for locals and visitors alike.
Arnoldi's Cafe can accommodate events of all sizes, from wedding receptions of 175 people to more intimate gatherings of any size. Larger events can be held on the back patio, where ivy and string lights add to the welcoming ambiance. If you're planning a smaller get-together, you can make use of the lake como room or the curtained off trellis.
Groups of 30 and under can have a choice of entree, while bigger parties may enjoy a tasty buffet or a family-style meal. Some of the dishes on offer include linguine al pesto, spaghetti bolognese, lasagna, chicken parmesan, pizza margherita, and more. An extensive wine list is available to accompany your meal, as well as a great selection of beers. To learn more about hosting your special occasion at Arnoldi's Cafe, get in touch with their friendly team today.
Woman-owned Business
Details
Settings
Garden
Historic Venue
Restaurant
Venue Service Offerings
Bar & Drinks
Cakes & Desserts
Other Desserts
Food & Catering
Rentals & Equipment
Service Staff
Wedding Activities
Getting Engaged
Engagement Party
Rehearsals & Parties
After Party
Bachelor Party
Bachelorette Party
Bridal Luncheon
Bridal Shower
Brunch
Couples Shower
Engagement Party
Rehearsal Dinner
Welcome Party
Wedding
After Party
Day After Brunch
Rehearsal Dinner
Any questions?
Reviews
5.0
out of 5.02 reviews
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Ashley R
5.0
7/24/2025
First of all.. this place is the cutest little gem in Santa Barbara… and OMG the food is 10/10! I had a friend recommend this place for my daughter’s wedding reception so I called,...
and Sara, the owner, went above and beyond to help me with literally everything! She helped me stay within a budget, food recommendations, decor,, parking, and even helped us with other stuff we needed to do in the area for the wedding!! It worked out perfect because we hosted beer and wine only but they have an amazing bar inside if guests want to go that route too! The second we walked in, Sara and the staff greeted us and welcomed us in like they’ve known us forever.. by the end of the event the staff felt like family! You should see the adorable patio where we had the event! You don’t have to do too much because it’s already fabulous! Some candles and flowers are all we needed!! If you’re thinking about Arnoldi’s just do it!!! We can’t wait to go back there to eat and visit the staff again!
Any questions?
Kyle D
5.0
10/11/2024
Arnoldi’s is a fantastic restaurant and event venue! It was the perfect setting for our wedding rehearsal dinner and welcome reception. Booking a buyout for the patio and bocce cou...
rts in the back was a breeze, and we loved working with Sara. She was incredibly helpful, answering all of our questions and making sure everything went smoothly.
We were initially concerned when the restaurant temporarily closed after we booked, following the passing of one of the long-time owners. However, Sara took the reins and has been running things seamlessly.
Highlights:
• Ambiance: The location and atmosphere are exceptional. The restaurant is housed in a classic old Santa Barbara building, and the patio feels like an Italian backyard. The bocce courts add a lot of fun to the experience.
• Décor: The updated chairs and decorations are beautiful and fit the space perfectly.
• Food: The food is outstanding—classic Italian cuisine at its best! From the bread and salad to the pasta and sauce, everything was delicious. My personal favorites were the chicken parm and Tuscan chicken. For the reception, we opted for heavy appetizers and desserts, and the cannoli and tiramisu were both incredible.
• Drinks: Sara’s wine suggestions were spot on, and for a fun twist, don’t forget to enjoy a classic Hamm’s after a Negroni.
Finally, the staff was amazing (especially Guillermo!)—attentive, helpful, and on top of everything throughout the evening.
We highly recommend Arnoldi’s! If you can’t host your event here, at the very least, treat yourself to dinner. You won’t be disappointed.
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