Reader TZSB tells me that the iconic downtown Santa Barbara bar Mel’s Lounge is getting a significant upgrade. The owners — longtime locals — have spent the past six months overhauling the kitchen and preparing to launch a new food concept called Jalisco Grill, which will operate inside Mel’s.
The plan is to keep the Mel’s name while expanding food service dramatically. Until now, the venue has served a limited menu and allowed customers to bring in take-out from neighboring restaurants. That’s about to change. With a fully renovated kitchen and a new chef, Mel’s will soon offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring dishes inspired by Jalisco-style Mexican cooking, known for hearty beef plates and traditional comfort foods.
“Breakfast at Mel’s” is set to make its return — a throwback for longtime regulars who remember when early-morning service was part of the routine. The owners say they hope to reopen the kitchen for breakfast by the end of this year, though early 2026 is more likely. Unlike many recent downtown additions, the focus will be on affordable, everyday meals, not high-priced brunch fare…