The culinary scene in Santa Barbara is getting more diverse with the recent opening of Manifattura at State Street.
Located in downtown Santa Barbara, the Italian restaurant is the second venture by the team behind Aperitivo Wine Bar. Manifattura means ‘manufacturing’ and ‘made by hand’ in Italian.
The new, mid-century-style restaurant serves hand-made pasta that is made fresh every day, served along with some “ancient” Italian dishes that have passed down through generations, according to the restaurant’s website.
The menu includes classic Italian dishes, such as ragus, delicate agnolotti, and slow-simmered sauces prepared in time-honored techniques.
The “unapologetically all-Italian” wine list complements the authentic cuisine. The wine has been “sourced from every corner of the country,” to enhance the flavor of the traditional dishes, the website added.
Manifattura’s interiors feature dark wood walls, vintage tiles, and terrazzo tables under moody lighting.
The restaurant’s storefront design was created by AC Vintage Designs. In a social media post, the design team shared that the storefront design treatment and gold leaf design are reminiscent of Firenze, Italy.
Thanking the restaurant owners, Brian Dodero and Andrea Girardello, Aaron Cribbs of AC Vintage Designs wrote that as a “descendant of Italians that lived in Santa Barbara for generations,” he was honored to work on the restaurant design.
Born and raised in Santa Barbara, Dodero began his culinary career in Florence. He later moved to Manhattan and eventually moved back to Santa Barbara. Dodero also serves as the executive chef of Manifattura.
Raised in Milan, Girardello’s hospitality career provided him with more than 20 years of hands-on experience in wine. He has worked at a Michelin-starred restaurant, Relais & Chateaux, and at the Four Seasons Santa Barbara. Girardello is also the sommelier at Manifattura.
Santa Barbara’s Diverse Culinary Offerings
The culinary options in Santa Barbara are becoming more diverse, with several restaurants offering more flavors.
Residents can choose from more than 470 restaurants, ranging from intimate cafes to fine-dining establishments, according to Visit Santa Barbara.
Little Mountain opened in Montecito’s Upper Village earlier this month. Describing itself as a “love letter to the Central California coast,” Little Mountain’s menu celebrates local produce and regional flavors. The wood-fired restaurant has partnered with independent growers and ranchers and is led by Chef Diego Moya.
Fresco Cafe reopened at the Santa Barbara Public Market earlier this month. Some of the items on the menu include sandwiches, quiches, salads, and freshly made, homemade desserts.
Dining and Cooking