The Blue Owl is a destination for food and entertainment.

It was originally founded in 2010 as a pop-up food stand to feed the weekend warriors during the late nights in downtown Santa Barbara. With time, it gained popularity and the restaurant got its own location at 5 W. Canon Perdido, where it still stands today, and continues to stay open late until 2 am on the weekends.

The cuisine is crafty and uncommon, combining elements of classic dishes with Asian-inspired ingredients, like Thai Basil or Massaman Curry. The Blue Owl is known best for the customizable Fried Rice Bowl, which got featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives in 2023 for its unique and excellent flavors. The menu further offers multiple sandwiches and a selection of colorful salads, including an abundance of vegan and GF options.

In addition to the cuisine, our community comes to The Blue Owl for live entertainment. In 2021, we built a small stage in the back corner of the restaurant and opened the doors to musicians, comedians, poets, and other talents seeking a space for expression. Although relatively young, our stage has grown a deep love within Santa Barbara as our intimate setting creates a cozy atmosphere to feel into the experience.

The working professionals come for lunch, the high school kids after classes, the music lovers in the nights, and the weekend warriors after dark when everyone else is asleep except the night owls and The Blue Owl.

Enjoy a casual meal and pair it with a local beer while watching a live performance. You might even run into a friend or make a new one!