Hotel Andalucía brings Iberian charm to Santa Barbara

It reaches only five stories high, but Hotel Andalucía is the tallest hotel in downtown Santa Barbara, where strict building codes have helped maintain a Castilian charm, even in the 21st century.

With its arches, wrought-iron detail, and red-tile roof, the new boutique hotel is worth a splurge on your next visit to the Southern California resort city.

Even if you can’t stay overnight, you can dine at the hotel’s 31 West. Chef Michael Reardon, formerly of Napa’s Tra Vigne, takes advantage of the local bounty to create his American Riviera cuisine, complemented by a wine list heavy on local bottles as well as quite a few from Spain.

INFO: Hotel Andalucía (97 rooms and suites from $325; 31 W. Carrillo St., Santa Barbara; www.andaluciasb.com, 877/468-3515, or 805/884-0300); 31 West ($$$$; breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily; in the hotel; 805/879-9100)

Keep Reading: