If you've ever been to the Ferry Building in San Francisco or to Chelsea Market in New York, you're going to love this mini version of a foodie's paradise. Located on the corner of Victoria
and Chapala, there is a New York/San Francisco vibe in this Santa Barbara gourmet market place. Anything and everything your heart desires in the way of gourmet food can be found under one roof. Practically all food and wine is locally sourced
and handcrafted using artisanal ingredients. Walk in and to your right is my new favorite, Rori's Artisinal Creamery. Organic ice cream made from hand-selected ingredients like bananas, and brown sugar or vanilla and malt are at the top of my list. ($3.95
single). This is hands down one of the best cones I have ever tasted, and yes I did get both flavors. Moving on, our next stop was Crazy Good Bread Co. We bought a loaf of handcrafted Country bread ($6), a tin of original shortbread cookies ($7) and a
blueberry muffin (about $2.50). Next I went crazy in Forager's Pantry a true gourmet grocery store. Produce is gorgeous, but it was not produce I was seeking out. It was Rustic Bakery's Cheese Coins ($6.99) in the savory cheese flavor. (all the others have
walnuts, pecans, or pesto) These are impossible to find. Cheese, butter, and flour are perfectly balanced to make these bites of heaven worth the hefty price tag. Aged gruyere, Fiscalini Farms (love) cheddar, and reggiano parmesan make anything taste
good, right? We drooled over the gorgeous offerings at Belcampo Meat Co. The humanely raised meats and poultry are what's being served at my next dinner party. Wine + Beer offers a wine tasting selection from handcrafted wines and beers to wines from
all over the world. Stop in and pick up a bottle or try a flight. If you're like me you can spend an entire afternoon here. Pace yourself my friends. There are many other places here to eat as well. Check out Santa Monica Seafood (yes it's the one from
Santa Monica!), Culture Counter (yummy cheese and salumi), Empty Bowl Gourmet Noodle Bar, Enjoy Cupcakes, Flagstone Pantry (natural food), il Fustino Oils and Vinegars, Green Star Coffee, Juice Well, The Kitchen (a rotating chef's kitchen), and The Pasta
Shoppe. This place is fun with a capital F! Santa Barbara Public Market 38 West Victoria @ Chapala Santa Barbara (805) 770-7702 Hours: Daily 7:00 am- 10:30 p.m.
Recommended:
Rori's, Forager's Pantry, Crazy Good Bread Co.