The story
At Sushi by Scratch Restaurants: Montecito, the boundaries of Japanese cuisine are gently pushed. Chefs and owners Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee have created a space where tradition meets invention. The Michelin Guide describes it as "no ordinary omakase spot," noting that the nigiri are "supremely finessed" and infused with original touches. A standout example: hamachi coated with a dab of sweet corn pudding and sourdough breadcrumbs, elevated by house-fermented soy sauce. Even the beverage program—cocktails, sake, and beer—reflects this iconoclastic spirit. The sake list is notably curated, adding another layer to the experience.
The setting is intentionally intimate. A small counter seats just ten guests, ensuring a deeply personalized interaction with the chefs. This is not a place for a quick meal; it is an evening of convivial chatter and blissful haze, as the Michelin reviewer observed. The restaurant's dedication to craft and detail makes it a destination for those seeking an elevated Japanese dining experience in Santa Barbara. Located on Coast Village Road in Montecito, it offers a serene escape with easy access and valet parking.
The Michelin Recommended recognition is well-earned—a testament to the Lees' vision of omakase that is both respectful of tradition and unafraid to surprise. Every course arrives with a story, and every bite leaves an impression.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
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