Taste of Santa Barbara Soirée

Indulge your senses in an evening of culinary delight at the “Taste of Santa Barbara Soiree,” a celebration of exquisite cuisine and fine wines set in the enchanting ambiance of the historic Casa de la Guerra outdoor courtyard. Enjoy live music against the backdrop of Casa de la Guerra’s historic courtyard, adorned with twinkling lights and fragrant blossoms in the timeless beauty of this cherished Santa Barbara landmark.

Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey inspired by the culinary legacy of Julia Child, as local chefs showcase their creativity and expertise in crafting dishes reminiscent of her iconic recipes next to their own inspiration. From classic French delicacies to innovative twists on traditional favorites, each dish promises to tantalize your taste buds and evoke the spirit of culinary mastery.

Complementing the sumptuous fare is a selection of fine Santa Barbara wines. Organized by wine type you’ll find three unique wine bars featuring choices from sparkling wine to white and rose to red wines. Savor the rich flavors and nuanced aromas of locally-produced wines. 

Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine cuisine, a wine enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable evening of culinary indulgence, the Taste of Santa Barbara Soiree promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the rich culinary heritage and vibrant flavors of this coastal paradise.

Tickets to this exclusive event are limited, so secure your spot today and join us for a special Santa Barbara evening. 

Featured Chefs

Chef Massimo Falsini
Chef Partner Massimo Falsini’s culinary journey began in a small kitchen in a popular Roman neighborhood at the age of 16. In August 2018, Massimo joined Rosewood Hotels and Resorts to open the “one of a kind” Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito, CA under the incredible leadership of Rick J. Caruso. Caruso’s was awarded a one star in The MICHELIN Guide California and a Green Star in 2022.

Chef Sergei Simonov
Chef Sergei Simonov brings ten years of kitchen experience, a passion for food, and a diverse culinary background to Loquita. Sergei began his cooking career working under Chef Jason Paluska of The Lark. In his hometown of Santa Barbara, Chef Sergei is inspired by seasonal California ingredients with a focus on authentic Spanish cuisine. La Loquita was added to the Michelin Guide in 2023.

Chef Justin West
Justin West is the former owner and chef of Julienne & Wildwood Kitchen here in Santa Barbara. I currently own and operate Market Forager, a Direct-to-Consumer Meat & Seafood company that delivers premium proteins throughout the greater 805. West has been working with food for over 30 years after graduating from Le Cordon Blue SF in 2005. 

Chef Alex Bollinger
Alex Bollinger has been appointed as executive chef at El Encanto, where he will assume leadership duties over the hotel’s acclaimed culinary program. Chef Bollinger will bring his culinary philosophy to support operations at El Encanto’s dining venues, including its signature restaurant The Dining Room.

Chef Sandra Adu Zelli
The Chef and Owner of Gipsy Hill Bakery, Sandra Adu Zelli is from London England. She decided to launch Gipsy Hill Bakery to realize a long held dream to be an entrepreneur and share her love of good food with as many people as she can with her locally inspired, created recipes.

Live Music

Spanish Guitar Duo, Calé
Jose Prieto and Victor Torres are a well known Spanish Guitar Duo from Spain, based in Los Angeles, California. They perform as a Guitar Duo and also with their Rumba Flamenco band Calé, playing a wide range of styles, mainly Rumba Flamenco and Latin Music.

Beverages

Cutler’s Artisan Spirits
Cutler’s Artisan Spirits is a small scale Craft Distillery dedicated to producing top quality spirits, using fresh local ingredients. Every spirit produced at Cutler’s Artisan is made with a passion for the craft of distilling spirits. Cutler’s Artisan Spirits will be providing a welcome cocktail inspired by Julia Child.

Santa Barbara Vintners
The Santa Barbara Vintners will provide a selection of Santa Barbara wines to complement the sumptuous fare. Enjoy wines from three unique wine bars from sparkling wine to white and rose to red wines. Savor the rich flavors and nuanced aromas of locally-produced wines. 
In addition to the SB Vintners we will have wine from:

Wines from Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance
Sandhi Wines
Star Lane Vineyard
Rusack Vineyards
Tyler Winery & Lieu Dit Winery
Marbeso Wine
Margerum
Foxen

Attendees must be 21 years of age or older with a valid photo ID to enter this event.

A portion of the proceeds from the Taste of Santa Barbara will contribute to the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience, in collaboration with The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, furthering our shared commitment to culinary excellence and cultural enrichment.

Location: Casa de la Guerra Courtyard
Address: 15 E De La Guerra St, Santa Barbara