Scarlett Begonia

Overpriced and underwhelming We had the Eggs Benedict ($26) and the Shrimp and Grits ($26). For the Eggs Benedict, the menu simply says “ask server,” and we were told it could be ordered with smoked salmon. For $26, we expected a generous, well-composed dish with thoughtful garnishes or vegetables. What arrived was a very small biscuit cut in half with a little smoked salmon and a poached egg — no vegetables, no composition, and no value. The only vegetable was a small handful of arugula that was never mentioned, and one of us is allergic to arugula. The server did not ask about food allergies, which was concerning. I requested the hollandaise on the side, which turned out to be a good decision — it was greasy, flavorless, and left a heavy film on the tongue similar to lard or margarine. Hollandaise should be tangy, velvety, and creamy; this was none of those. As I’m writing this review I can still sense the greasy film on my tongue. The side of fruit was poor quality — mostly orange slices, with strawberries and blueberries that were moldy / mushy /not fresh and had to be spit out (see photo). The Shrimp and Grits ($26) came with only four shrimp. Also came with a handful of arugula. We asked for a cup of hot water and were charged $2 without being told in advance. When the charge was questioned, the staff became very argumentative, stating that hot water is listed on the menu and therefore chargeable. If hot water costs $2, that should be clearly disclosed at the time of request — at which point we would reasonably ask whether the water is imported from France. To be fair, the restaurant does have a charming, rustic house atmosphere and generally attentive service. However, the interior was cold and drafty. For the prices being charged, the portions, food quality, and billing practices/unannounced charges were extremely disappointing and difficult to recommend.

I’ve loved Scarlett Begonia since their old location in Victoria Court, so yes, I’m a longtime brunch loyalist. Walk-in friendly, but I’m a reservation kinda gal. Brunch waits are just not my thing. The ambience is a big part of why I keep coming back. It’s cozy, charming, and effortlessly Santa Barbara without trying too hard. They have two patios, one out front and another tucked away in the back. Both are bright and relaxed, perfect for slow mornings and people-watching. Inside feels warm, airy, and comfortable even when it’s full. It works just as well for a casual catch-up as it does for a proper sit-down brunch. I honestly don’t know what the negative reviews are about because I sure haven’t run into that experience here. Not once. Maybe some folks just need to lighten up and order a mimosa. I stick to what I love and I don’t mess around. The lemon ricotta pancakes with fresh blueberry compote, housemade syrup, and a side of bacon are my go-to every single time. Perfectly fluffy, balanced, and consistently delicious. When something works, I keep ordering it. Weekends are busy and if you’ve ever worked brunch service, you already know it’s the worst. Speaking as a former server, patience goes a long way and the staff here handles it well. Bonus points for the pup menu because that’s always a win. Scarlett Begonia remains a solid Santa Barbara brunch staple that I keep coming back to.

We reserved a table for breakfast here for my husband, his parents, myself, and my tiny dog. The hostess was very welcoming and thoughtful. We sat outside and enjoyed the detailed menu - there is one for dogs as well! I ordered quinoa oatmeal and was blown away by the textures and flavors. I had a bite of my husband's vegan breakfast patty and it was quite meaty tasting and delicious. Even my very picky, "meat and potatoes" father in law expressed surprise at his biscuits and gravy, especially noting their unusual yet delicately spiced gravy. Honestly, the menu seemed amazing and I was truly a bit sad that I didn't have the stomach capacity to try every single thing. Sigh! I would call these dishes upgraded classics. When we visit Santa Barbara again, this definitely makes our list for must eats.

My neighbor invited me to have lunch with her for my birthday. She named a few places near us, but I picked I Scarlet Begonia because the food is consistently delicious, well-presented, and always satisfying. My friend ordered the Benedict and I told her that I’ve never seen a Benedict with greens, which is the extra step that Scarlett begonia takes to make their food extraordinary vs. ordinary. The potatoes were well prepared and there was so much food that she had to take half of it home. It was quite beautiful as you see in the picture and very tasty. I’ve eaten here a few times and once I tasted their lemon ricotta pancakes it is my go to Every time. Even though it was 1 o’clock in the afternoon, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to eat these fluffy and moist pancakes that are so light they melt in your mouth! I usually can only eat one pancake, but they were so good I had to eat two, so I indulged. I also ordered the sausage links for the first time and asked for them well done and they came out. Perfect! I needed the extra protein and I already had bacon at home so wanted something different. Those sausages were just delicious and a perfect compliment to the sweet blueberry sauce on the pancakes. Kaylee was our server and she was the most professional, accommodating, friendly, efficient server I’ve ever encountered in Santa Barbara. I asked her if she was a manager because her demeanor and professionalism was outstanding ask for her he won’t be sorry. I was pleasantly surprised when they brought my chocolate cake with strawberries and a candle. I still have some in my refrigerator because I was so full from breakfast. I’m going to save it later during the football game. !

Man do we feel stupid. We moved to Santa Barbara 3 years ago, and hadn’t been to Scarlett Begonia until yesterday. A spectacular experience. The beverages were adorned with shrimp, bacon and amazing, magical flavors. Also started with their dirty fries, topped with avocado and a poached egg. I mean, come on!! Ate every single fry and then licked the bowl. Then came the main courses. Let me describe just one. Biscuits, covered with the best gravy imaginable, then topped with a perfectly fried piece of chicken and a poached egg. Then there was Vivian, our culinary tour guide. An adorable addition to an unforgettable experience. Run, DO NOT WALK, to Scarlett Begonia and hang on tight!! To a food lover, this is the Disneyland of restaurants. The happiest place on earth!!