Letter from the Editor: lessons in food writing and growth

March 21, 2024 by

On the Menu Co-Editor Stephanie Gerson reflects on her time writing for the Nexus and the lessons learned along the way.
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New restaurants, notable closures and food news in and around I.V. 

March 7, 2024 by

Some new and old eateries are closing shop, while others are hosting community events and offering student discounts. 
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Food-focused events and initiatives to celebrate Black History in and around I.V.

February 22, 2024 by

From soul food and live performances to cultural activities and limited-time food fundraisers, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate and uplift Black culture and community in Santa Barbara this m...
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Kimchi fries, wonton soup and more: Alumni-owned Asian fusion restaurant ASIA 101 serves up cozy dishes to keep you warm all winter

January 25, 2024 by

At ASIA 101, Mojo Teahouse’s fried favorites are back along with a limited menu of noodle soups and rice dishes.
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A year of I.V. food news

December 26, 2023 by

Amidst some departures of beloved I.V. establishments, several new restaurants arrived — some alumni-owned, others with preexisting locations in Santa Barbara County — expanding the selection of d...
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A guide to navigating Trader Joe’s fall and winter seasonal specialties

November 16, 2023 by

Whether you’re a dedicated Trader Joe’s customer who finds joy in trying their latest creations or just enjoy the foods traditionally eaten around the holidays, this guide will give you a few idea...
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Fad or flop: Is Crumbl Cookies worth the hype?

November 9, 2023 by and

Does Crumbl Cookies live up to the hype? We didn’t think so.
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Where to find Pan de Muerto in Santa Barbara to celebrate Día de Los Muertos

November 2, 2023 by and

The tradition of eating pan de muerto is not only accompanied by a centuries-long history, but is also an essential part of celebrating Day of the Dead.
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Buena Onda brings a piece of Argentina to Santa Barbara with community events and hand crafted empanadas

October 12, 2023 by

The family-owned business specializes in empanada varieties that stay true to the flavors of Argentina while also acknowledging the California palate.
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Goleta Lemon Festival celebrates its 30th year of lemony eats and activities for all

October 5, 2023 by and

After a day of eating lemony treats, here is what the On the Menu staff deemed worth the try.
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Third annual Burrito Week offers $8 burritos from 21 Santa Barbara County establishments

October 5, 2023 by , and

The Santa Barbara Independent has invited 21 establishments in Santa Barbara in the past two years to participate in their annual Burrito Week, offering special burritos and familiar favorites at a di...
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Nuevos restaurantes, cierres notables y noticias de comida en y alrededor de I.V.

September 29, 2023 by and

Durante los meses del verano, la escena culinaria en el condado de Santa Bárbara ha sido testigo de cambios drásticos – la pérdida del icónico restaurante Pho Bistro, la inauguración del primer...
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Take advantage of California fig season with this fall salad

September 24, 2023 by

Salads have a reputation for being boring and unsatisfying, but this variation, packed with a variety of fresh and cooked ingredients, challenges that assumption.
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New restaurants, notable closures and food news in and around I.V.

August 31, 2023 by

During the summer months, the food scene in Santa Barbara County has witnessed drastic changes — the loss of longtime Isla Vista eatery Pho Bistro, the opening of Isla Vista’s first mini food hall...
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Aperol spritzes fit for a summertime soirée

July 27, 2023 by

This mild, sparkling cocktail with slightly bitter and floral flavor notes is the drink of the summer.
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