A Guide to Montecito’s Upper Village

Nov 5

The enchanting Montecito Upper Village, known for its timeless architecture and exclusive, community-centric atmosphere, is a premier destination for locals and visitors alike. More than just a collection of shops and restaurants, the Upper Village is the historic heart of Montecito, offering a blend of historic charm and modern amenities.

A Deep-Rooted History

While the Upper Village is known today for its quaint shops and gourmet markets, its story is far richer than the blogosphere often suggests. The area's origins as a community hub trace back to the early 20th century. By the 1920s, as Montecito evolved into a haven for affluent Easterners, the Spanish Colonial Revival style began to define the architectural landscape—a look that is still cherished today. In fact, many of the original structures in the Upper Village still carry the hallmarks of early twentieth-century Spanish Colonial Revival design — a style that forever shaped Santa Barbara’s visual identity. We wrote more about how that era came to define Montecito in The Golden Era of Santa Barbara Architecture.

The familiar commercial centers were indeed developed later:

The Montecito Village North shopping center began construction in 1947.
Montecito Village South followed in 1965.
The entire commercial area was finally completed in 1979 under the vision of Charles A. Borgatello.

This staged development created the uniquely charming, small-town ambiance that blends seamlessly with the surrounding luxury properties.

The Upper Village Lifestyle

Today, the Upper Village captures the essence of classic luxury and everyday ease, with its red tile roofs, Mediterranean-style architecture, and inviting shops that still offer the rare convenience of front-door parking. There’s a rhythm to the Upper Village — mornings spent at the café, neighbors greeting each other on porches, the unhurried feel of a place that still values time well spent. It reminds us of the values we explored in The Lost Art of the Porch — how these simple architectural spaces shape the way we connect with one another. It's a place where residents and visitors linger, connecting over coffee, dining, and shopping.

Here, you'll find:

Pierre Lafond Market & Deli: A local favorite since 1964, perfect for gourmet finds, fine wines, and café culture. We love their smoothies!
Montecito Village Grocery: An updated local market that maintains the personal service and charm of a classic neighborhood staple.
Boutique Shopping: An array of unique boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores featuring everything from upscale fashion to home decor. Upstairs at Pierre Lafond is one of our favorites! A drop into the 100-year-old Tecolote book store to say “hi” to Mary and purchase a few coffee table books is a must as well, and one of our favorite Montecito moments.
Fine Dining: Noted restaurants, including the newest addition, Little Mountain, featuring internationally acclaimed Chef Diego Moya, and the RH Firehouse Grill, provide a perfect setting for both casual lunches and special occasions. Word on the street is that a SY Kitchen spinoff is in the works at the former Via Vai location. Stay tuned!
More Casual Dining: Long-standing staples such as Pane e Vino, which has been in business under the same owners since 1988, bookmark this charming corner of town.

Beyond the commercial offerings, the village is a true community focal point. The quiet courtyards and shaded walkways around the Upper Village capture that mix of structure and softness unique to California design — where architecture meets landscape. It’s the same balance we talk about in Santa Barbara Garden Design Principles, where outdoor spaces feel like living rooms open to the breeze.

Events like the annual Montecito Beautification Day and other seasonal festivities bring residents together, fostering a strong sense of local pride. The proximity to the highly-regarded Montecito Union School also adds to its family-friendly appeal.

Homes Near Montecito’s Upper Village

For buyers, proximity to the Upper Village is a significant draw, offering convenience and a vibrant social scene within a serene, prestigious neighborhood. For sellers, highlighting this unique location and its history can enhance a property's value and appeal to a niche market.

Contact us to learn more about available properties and the unique character of the Upper Village community.