Santa Barbara: Film fans can feast on meal deals

Film-fest goers have got to eat too. So during the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, which runs Jan. 27 through Feb. 6, 30 restaurants are concocting dinnertime Film Feast menus to tease palates, fill tummies and send satiated movie buffs on their way to the next darkened theater.

The fixed-price dinners also deliver economy to the pocketbook, with savings up to 40% off regular offerings, the event’s organizers say.

Eateries, from casual hangouts to foodie outposts, will offer “Short,” “Feature” and “Epic” menus of two, three or four courses, a tempting invitation to linger instead of rushing back to one of the hundreds of screenings, premieres, tributes and panels.

Many of the restaurants are on or near the city’s lively State Street, with festival venues just steps away. The hungry attendee will need to do a bit of investigating, however, to determine the location of movie theaters against the online list of participating restaurants.

Two wineries with tasting rooms near downtown will also extend Film Sip specials.

And because movie fans have to sleep, too, the companion Film Sleeps program offers room discounts and throws in extras such as movie passes, dining and spa credits at a handful of hotels, resorts and bed and breakfasts.

The festival announced its movie lineup last week.