Belmond El Encanto Santa Barbara Debuts a Mediterranean-Inspired Menu

Belmond El Encanto introduced a Mediterranean-inspired menu with a distinctly California twist in April 2025, part of a broader culinary refresh that has continued through leadership changes across the year. The hotel's kitchen has seen real movement recently, and by October 2025 Chef Joel Viehland had taken over as Executive Chef, continuing the momentum the property built through its earlier menu relaunch.

The hotel has also launched a Culinary Series bringing in renowned outside chefs for special evenings, including a visit from Rodrigo Rivera-Río of Koli, a Michelin-starred restaurant, giving Santa Barbara guests access to talent they would otherwise have to travel considerably further to experience. In May 2026, Chris Saputo was appointed General Manager, bringing more than two decades of hospitality experience to oversee the property's next phase.

Set in the Mission Canyon foothills above Santa Barbara, El Encanto has always leaned on its garden setting and ocean views as much as any single restaurant concept, and the recent culinary investment gives the hotel a genuinely stronger case for a dedicated dining visit, not just a stay. The mix of new leadership and outside chef collaborations suggests the kitchen is being treated as a real growth area for the property.

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