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1972 Cliff Drive; (805) 966-5303, http://www.mesacafesb.com. Tab: $5.45 -$14.95. (Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times)
This Santa Barbara institution has been voted “Best Mexican Restaurant” 14 times in local newspaper surveys (Santa Barbara Independent and the News Press). A bonus: You get table service, south-of-the-border ambiance and free chips when you buy a budget meal here. (Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times)
1816 Cliff Drive; (805) 965-5513, http://www.rosecafe2.com. Tab: $4.25-$12.50. (Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times)