The Nook Santa Barbara

Delicious food, couples perfect with the local Lama dog beers, was there several times. BUT, the most important thing this time: I made an order and got my first beer. Then my second. About 45 50 minutes later no food, so I asked. The Bondrucker in the kitchen has not printed my order for what reason! The beautiful lady?s problem solution: she refunded me to the full, but still placed the order again! I call that a problem in an advantage. Well done! Food was great (after 10 minutes) and of course I? ll be back?

Got the lama burger. It looked amazing but it was bland. The poblano pepper does nothing but add moisture to this disappointing meal. It seems the Nook burger might be the way to go. But I don?t plan on returning to find out.

Love the vibe here. Really great food, enhanced by a fun, casual atmosphere. Enjoyed the Topa Topa burger, crunch from the fried onion ring added some nice texture, and the brie helped to give it another layer of flavor.

Whether to hold it against them that they serve foie gras? (2/5 green stars) On a recent trip to Lama Dog taproom I ordered some truffle fries from the Nook. They were $7, which is definitely stretching it, pricewise. They were very good though, so on the basis of the fries alone (and service, which was friendly and fast) I?m giving them 4/5 regular stars. I?m also giving The Nook 2/5 ?green stars? for social and environmental impact, based on these reasons: ? They have a couple of vegan specials. ? The rest of the menu is pretty heavy on meat. ? They don?t have any info (on site or online) on sourcing of meat and fish. ? They do mention using organic greens and local berries on one dish. ? I didn?t see it until afterwards that they serve a foie gras burger. Foie gras was banned in 2012 in California because the force-feeding was deemed to be cruel. It was overturned in 2015, based on claims that the CA law violates federal law. It?s currently under appeal. ? The Nook management told me that their foie gras supplier is Hudson Valley. After reading about HV, watching their videos, reading some discussion articles (including vet opinions) I would have to say that there are worse conditions that animals have to endure (in factory farms). But I?m still against the idea of foie gras because it involves force feeding to create a diseased state. Find out more at Green Stars Project dot org.

The Nook, located within Lama Dog and next to Topa Topa, is a convenient spot for consistently tasty food at a reasonable price. The loaded tater tots are scrumptious, the salads are generously portioned and delicious, and the tacos are fantastic. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu!