My husband and I were in Santa Barbara to celebrate our 21st anniversary. Holdren's was recommended by several locals we talked to. We arrived at 6:20, no reservations, and were seated immediately at the outside cafe. We started with the crab cake appetizers, served on pilaf. Delicious crab cakes, didn't need the pilaf. My husband ordered the crab stuffed chicken breast. He ate about 4 bites, and couldn't eat the rest. He didn't enjoy the 'odd' taste. I ordered the house salad, good, but a little too much dressing. My entree was crunchy coconut shrimp with mango chutney- delicious and a large portion thankfully, because I ended up sharing with my husband (and he doesn't really like coconut). For dessert, he ordered the double chocolate sin cake - enormous serving, and very tasty. I ordered the caramel apple cobbler with streusel topping. I took one bite and tasted onions, not to mention, it wasn't completely cooked, and the 'struesel' was 'gooey'. I expected more from the food after the rave reviews the locals gave it. The service was just ok. When I mentioned to the waitress that my dessert was still uncooked, she acted like it was putting her out to fix it, so I told her nevermind, and just didn't eat it. Probably wouldn't go there again.
Pros: Great people watching from the outdoor patio
Cons: Food not as good as reputation
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