After years of reading glowing reviews and seeing their Zagat score of perfection, my wife and I ate at Downey's for our 36th wedding anniversary. The setting was very nice, the service nearly impeccable, but the food was not exceptional. The prosciutto and cantaloup appetizer was good, but not the best I've tasted. We had two different salads for a... More

Zagat gives this restaurant a 28 in food which pretty much says it is as good as it can be on that rating scale, but on the night we were there (4 of us), we were all disappointed in our meal, for various reasons. Two of us ordered the filet mignon, but at $40 there was nothing to warrant it... More

A charming environment made more so by the owners, John & Liz Downey (Liz, most likely, will welcome you or Dan, their long-time maitre de) and their efficient staff. The food is always exceptional and everything created in house. It's pricey but worth it -- a special occasion destination. I suggestsigning up to receive John's personal e-mails that let you... More

We went there on a Tuesday evening, having made our reservation on OpenTable. It was not necessary, as it was not crowded. Ms Downey actually helped serve our table, so that was an added treat! She is an elegant woman, and very friendly. The veal was great, the filet mignon fantastic, the lobster and angel hair salad was a great... More

Very ordinary food comparing to an average bistro in Paris! Sorry! I did like the crab and papaya appetizer. I ordered the duck after the hostess said that it is their signature dish. I was very disappointed! The duck was overcooked, and did not blend with the sauce. I had magret de canard many times in some bistros in Paris... More

Most reviewers say Downeys has delicious food and we agree. Everything was very very good. Nothing amazingly unusual but many interesting, different items that looked and tasted really good and using mostly local produce I believe. Service also was very good -- way way above average. This is an expensive place so you'd expect good food and service -- so... More

This is the most expensive restaurant in Santa Barbara (excluding Montecito). The food is delcious, cooked to perfection, but a bit dated in style. The ambience is very quiet and dim. The owner comes by and chats a bit too much at your table, which I felt a little intusive. I imagine this resaturant to be perfect for rich old... More

My girlfriend and I were in Santa Barbara just for one evening on our way back to the UK after 7 days in San Fran and Napa. We have eaten at some fabulous places this trip but in all honesty - non as perfect as Downeys. We had looked on TA and seen the comments so decided to get away... More

Warm and intimate presentation of fabulous taste sensations. This dining is way beyond the usual fare...French-style flare for perfection with west coast creativity for unusual combinations. Very nice wine selections. Prices not bad for such a great experience.