Santa Barbara’s dining scene has welcomed a fresh addition with the debut of Gracie, a new all-day eatery from Harbor Club Hospitality co-owners Dudley Michael and Grace Austin. Located along the city’s scenic waterfront, Gracie transforms the former Breakwater at the Harbor space into a lively gathering spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails served against a backdrop of ocean and mountain views. The restaurant marks the duo’s third local venture, joining popular establishments Rodeo Room and The Shop.
The concept behind Gracie blends the ease of casual daytime dining with a refined evening atmosphere. Open daily, the new Santa Barbara restaurant is designed as an inviting space where guests can linger throughout the day, beginning with sunlit patio brunches and evolving into a moody dinner setting complemented by an Art Deco-inspired U-shaped bar.
Executive Chef Richie Maxwell leads the kitchen, crafting an approachable yet elevated menu that highlights local ingredients and coastal influences. Sourcing from nearby farms and trusted suppliers, Maxwell’s dishes reflect both Santa Barbara’s seaside setting and a mix of international inspiration. The restaurant’s menus are built around fresh, seasonal ingredients with an emphasis on creativity and comfort.
Brunch service runs daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring breakfast and lunch offerings alongside specialty coffee drinks made with locally roasted Caje beans. Menu highlights include the Gracie Benedict with mortadella, poached egg, hollandaise, and house-made focaccia, and the French omelet with Boursin cheese, smoked tomato sauce, and house greens. For heartier fare, guests can choose from dishes such as the Bincho Burger, grilled over Japanese Binchotan charcoal and topped with white cheddar and yuzu aioli, or the Crispy Salmon with anise saffron sauce, roasted fennel, and preserved lemon.
Coffee cocktails also play a central role in the brunch menu. Drinks like the This Is Bananas (made with vodka, coffee, banana, Averna, and toasted cornflake cream) or the Carajillo with Licor 43, spiced reposado tequila, Cynar, and orange add a playful twist to traditional brunch beverages…