On the Menu

March 7, 2024

Loco for Zocalo: Isla Vista’s most underrated dining destination

By Josh Rhodes

It almost goes without saying in Isla Vista that Freebirds is perceived to be the uncontested king of Mexican food, I would like to bring to the forefront another Mexican eatery in I.V. that definitely makes a compelling...

February 29, 2024

Food bank finds: potato medley home fries

By Abigail Monti

In my experience, there are two types of breakfast-eaters in this world: those who opt for savory flavors and those who opt for sweet. (No, I will not be acknowledging those who don’t like breakfast. Your opinion is no...

February 29, 2024

An ode to cottage cheese

By On The Menu Editor, Nina Timofeyeva

Despite its lack of prominent marketing and general tendency to get put on the back shelf, cottage cheese has recently started to gain popularity.

February 22, 2024

Food-focused events and initiatives to celebrate Black History in and around I.V.

By Stephanie Gerson

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 month and all year lo...

February 22, 2024

Happy Vegantine’s! I.V. Community Center’s Vegan Holiday Food Fair 

By Josh Rhodes

What better way for myself and others to treat ourselves to our well-deserved self-love than to get some delicious food from Isla Vista’s Valentine's Day Vegan Food Fair.

February 15, 2024

Indulging in delight: The irresistible offerings of Kin Bakeshop

By Felicia Lo

Located at the Turnpike Shopping Center, Kin Bakeshop crafts mochi donuts, brioche donuts and a special set of drinks inspired by Asian desserts.

February 15, 2024

Bananas today, gone tomorrow?

By Pihu Jain

Layers. Multiple of them can be found in onions, people, paint on walls … too complicated, a lot to reveal, often deceptive once you chip away at them. But you know what is almost exactly what it is within as it is...

February 8, 2024

Lunar New Year Festival 2024: Monterey Park’s Foodie Wonderland

By Valerie Fu

With the Year of the Dragon on the horizon, Lunar New Year festivals are being held all across the country in celebration of the luckiest year in the Chinese zodiac.

February 8, 2024

The best (and worst) I.V. restaurants for first dates

By Abigail Monti

As a senior who has gone on more than a few (good and bad) dates within the confines of downtown Isla Vista, read on for my list of the best (and worst) first date locations. 

February 1, 2024

I Açaí you! Oakberry serves up healthy, flavor-packed Brazilian delights for all

By Josh Rhodes

Tucked away at the edge of Isla Vista’s commercial avenue, Pardall Road, lies the town’s newest hidden gem. The hit chain, Oakberry, originates from Brazil and has stores across the globe. Their December opening offe...

February 1, 2024

Sunshine, tacos and Bruce Lee: A day at Hana Kitchen

By Katelyn Waters

Hana Kitchen's teriyaki mango tacos are an exciting new venture into Asian fusion cuisine.

January 25, 2024

Kimchi fries, wonton soup and more: Alumni-owned Asian fusion restaurant ASIA 101 serves up cozy dishes to keep you warm all winter

By Stephanie Gerson

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

January 25, 2024

Flu vs. Food

By Nina Timofeyeva

With stress levels rising during the start of winter quarter and the weather starting to turn colder, catching a cold may be imminent. Fortunately, we can turn to certain foods to help combat illness and strengthen immun...

January 18, 2024

Kick off winter 2024 with KOZY’s seasonal menu

By Kendra Martinez

KOZY’s winter seasonal menu is the perfect way to ring in winter quarter.

January 18, 2024

Bringing bagels to the desert: Yetz’s Bagels opens shop at Dank Bowl Kitchen

By Abigail Monti

Despite packing mac and cheese-filled bread bowls since 2010, Daniel Dunietz, UCSB alumnus and founder of Dank Bowl Kitchen, is on a mission to bake the best bagels in I.V.

January 12, 2024

A simple yet flavorful strawberry & brussels sprouts chopped salad

By Katelyn Waters

Get ready to toss tradition out the window and join us on a culinary adventure where strawberries and brussels sprouts unite, proving that in the salad universe, odd couples are always the life of the party!