Benchmark Eatery: A Casual New American Dining Experience in Santa Barbara

What a nice spot. Employee, “Finlay,” was a true gem (and what a cutie! If I was 50 years younger…), able to answer all our questions with a smile! He recommended the fried chicken sandwich, which did not disappoint! Sure hope this fantastic young man is getting paid what he deserves. Our food came out promptly despite having a large group, and staff was very attentive to our needs. So far, Benchmark has been the highlight of my “Bench-March”! Will surely return post haste.

Not sure what you're in the mood for? This place has a little bit of everything! The Crispy Chicken Sandwich and Pozole did NOT disappoint! Plenty of seating available, food came out fast, service was friendly! Huge bar available too! All 5 stars here!

This place was perfect, it was very clean. I love the open patio area. The server at the bar were AMAZING. Their service was impeccable, they were all friendly and attentive. Now the food DELICIOUS we didn't have to wait long. I will highly recommend this eatery!

Had about an hour and a half to kill before a show at the Granada Theater, so my wife and I decided to stop into Benchmark Eatery—and we’re so glad we did! She went with the chips and salsa plus two beef tacos, and those tacos were incredible. The homemade corn tortillas took them to another level—so fresh and flavorful. I ordered the burger sliders and they were cooked to absolute perfection. Juicy, seasoned just right, and super satisfying. We also each got a drink, and let’s just say they don’t skimp on the pours—definitely a bonus in our book.

Very chill and cozy place. The burgers are amazing and filling! Also my partner and I shared a banana sundae which really hits the spot for a dessert. The price is decent and not overpriced. Would definitely come again.

WOW! Let me start with Landon. It’s people like him that make restaurants successful! Attentive, kind and checking on us constantly!!! He kept every area clean and he was non stop. When I say TOP TIER SERVICE from him, I mean TOP TIER!! He made our visit one of the best in California! I can’t give this young man enough credit, thank you Landon for being you man. Next, the food! WOW!! Everything was hot and juicy. Chicken sandwich was juicy and hot, fries were crispy and hot, we ordered the burgers well done and they were STILL juicy and hot. With the food quality and service, this is on my top 5 restaurants in California! I hope to come back soon!! Highly recommended, we’re sooooo glad we chose this spot over the others on the strip. Sorry didn’t get a picture of the burgers but they are big and all of the bread is LEGIT too!!! Gotta give this spot a try!

If we could give a six-sta review for the food, we would! We ordered fish and chips and Caesar salad with chicken. For the price, portion was generous. You ordered by the counter, got a number, and waiter brought the food to your table. The salad was good but the star was the fish and chips. The cod was coated with very thin batter, the thinnest I’ve ever seen. It’s like what you have is only the cod. Which was a great thing. In all other places, the coating was always so thick you wondered if you’re eating fish at all. But here, you didn’t get one piece, you got three big pieces! Other patrons weren’t loud, no music, and service was ok. Highly recommend.

Excellent food with good service, came back after 8 years. 3 minutes walking from public parking. After order didn’t wait more than 8 minutes. Hot and fresh food love it