Surprises around the corner in Santa Barbara

Most Santa Barbara visitors cruise into town along the iconic Highway 101, enjoying the waterfront views, the pier and local businesses – then they’re off again.  If you have any interest in living like a local and experiencing the heart of the area, venture away from the popular beach strip. There’s much more fun to be had just a few blocks inland for the intrepid traveler.

The iconic Santa Barbara Farmers Market is a pleasant walk toward the hills on a sunny Saturday morning. Stroll east from the freeway to the arched entry on the corner of Santa Barbara and Cota Streets. You’ll know you’re getting close as smiling shoppers pass by carrying baskets full of produce. If you’re driving, with a bit of patience, street parking is usually available.

Character is the keyword for the experience, from the faces of the vendors – open and sunburnt from harvesting, to wildly costumed musicians busking for your business - and of course the abundant fruit, nut, vegetable and herb bounty of the region – tables and tables of delicacies.

The market is open every Saturday from a bright and early 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The small lot is packed with food items, as opposed to arts and crafts as in many other markets.

If you get hungry for more than raw produce, venture across Santa Barbara Street to the Recipes Café, set in a small bungalow with pink shutters. There isn’t much seating inside, although a table is hidden outside in the back. It takes a bit of diligence to get there – exit down the stairs and along the side of the house to find it.

Their “Australian style” coffee is excellent, as is their freshly brewed ice tea, but cinnamon buns are the most popular item on the menu. These are uniquely crispy on the outside and make a satisfying, mobile breakfast, if there are no tables available. If you’re lucky enough to score seating, dip into the egg dishes or try the Pineapple Coconut pancakes. The café’s bright interior is charming and gift items will entertain you while waiting for your order.

Continue exploring the neighborhood for more unique distractions. Walking south from the cafe on Cota Street are several examples of the region’s architecture, from Santa Fe-inspired adobe to modest craftsman houses set behind picket fences.

You'll soon be across the street from an establishment dedicated to creative crafters, but be warned; it’s impossible to make a quick visit to the Art from Scrap store. Once inside the entry lot lies piles of wood, partially full paint cans, fabric remnants and floor tiles. The store holds nearly overwhelming treasure.  Even if you’re not a craft fan, barrels of odd bits, bolts of fabrics, papers and plastic paraphernalia, are mesmerizing.

The Reuse Shop’s inventory has been collecting over the 20 years since it first opened and has been lovingly organized. Anyone is welcome to browse and the AFS  gallery / classroom area upstairs is well worth a gander. You may witness an art class in progress and the walls hold rotating shows inspired by the collecting business. All proceeds help fund lessons and field trips for over 14,000 children in the Santa Barbara area. So let your inner “craftie” free. You might create one of the most unique and “green” souvenirs of your Santa Barbara trip.

Photo courtesy of author.