Family owned and operated, Carlos Luna opened his first location on Milpas Street on Santa Barbara’s Eastside in 2008. Los Agaves very quickly gained a following, taking the title of “Best Mexican Restaurant” and “Best Salsa” in 2013, 2014 and 2015 from the Santa Barbara News-Press and Santa Barbara Independent, and was also listed at No. 64 on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in 2015 and No. 16 in 2016 for the United States.

Serving generous portions of hearty south-of-the-border favorites by way of California, along with a relaxed, family-friendly vibe, this place deserves every bit of praise lavished upon it. The staff may bring chips immediately to your table, but salsa and drinks are both self-service. Remember to order at the counter and collect a number before taking a seat. Start with the likes of lime-marinated halibut ceviche tostada with cilantro and avocado. Then pick from a variety of sizeable burritos or go for the satisfyingly cheesy and crispy costra taco al pastor, with pineapple, marinated pork, and chipotle—enlivened with pickled onions.
There may be four locations, but this one is the original. The room can get crowded, so takeaway is a popular option.