Santa Barbara: Funk Zone Wine and Sushi Tour

Exploring Santa Barbara’s vibrant Funk Zone with a mix of wine tasting and fresh sushi sounds like a perfect way to spend an afternoon. For just $200 per person, you’ll spend about two hours wandering through this artsy neighborhood, starting at Margerum Wine Company and ending with a stunning sushi dinner at Oku restaurant. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, this tour promises a tasty and immersive peek into local flavors and scenery.

What we really appreciate are the curated wine and taco pairing at Margerum, which showcases California’s best wines alongside inventive bites, and the oceanfront sushi at Oku, where you get to enjoy your meal with sweeping waterfront views. Both stops are culled from expert chefs and vintners, adding trust and depth to your experience.

A possible consideration? At just two hours, it’s a quick tour, so if you’re craving a deep dive into Santa Barbara’s culinary scene or a leisurely exploration, you might want to extend or supplement this experience. It’s best suited for those who want a concise, fun introduction to the Funk Zone’s food and wine scene—perfect for visitors with limited time but a desire for something memorable.

Key Points

• Vibrant Neighborhood: Discover the artistic and lively atmosphere of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone.
• Expert-guided: Guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience both fun and educational.
• Taste the Best: Enjoy curated wine and taco pairings at Margerum Wine Company.
• Ocean Views: Indulge in sushi at Oku restaurant with breathtaking waterfront scenery.
• Flexible & Accessible: 2-hour tour, wheelchair accessible, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Great for Food and Wine Lovers: Ideal for those who appreciate good local wine, fresh sushi, and a lively neighborhood vibe.

The Funk Zone is Santa Barbara’s colorful, artsy district known for its creative spirit and small-batch wineries. During this tour, you get to see this neighborhood’s charm while sampling some of California’s finest wines. The experience begins at Margerum Wine Company, a well-regarded winery known for its carefully curated selections. Here, you’ll dive into a wine and taco pairing, where each sip is complemented by a thoughtfully crafted bite. It’s a smart way to enjoy local flavors and learn about wine pairing, all within a relaxed, friendly setting.

What makes this stop special? We loved the attention to detail in the curated pairing, which isn’t just about drinking wine but understanding how flavors work together. Plus, the guide (whose personality makes the experience lively) shares fun anecdotes about the wines and local history.

Afterward, the tour moves on to Oku restaurant, a waterfront sushi spot renowned for its fresh fish and stunning views. Here, the focus shifts to sushi and wine pairing, a combination that might seem unusual but works beautifully. You’ll savor expertly prepared sushi while gazing out at waves lapping against the pier—an ideal setting to relax and enjoy your meal.

Why do we recommend this stop? The combination of beautiful scenery and high-quality sushi makes for a memorable experience. Plus, the guide’s entertaining stories add depth to the tasting, making it more than just a meal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What To Expect on the Tour

The entire journey covers about 1.5 miles, so it’s manageable even if you’re not a seasoned walker. The tour runs mostly in the afternoon, perfect for a leisurely exploration of the Funk Zone’s art, wine, and culinary offerings.

Your guide keeps the pace lively and informative, sharing insights into Santa Barbara’s history, the Funk Zone’s development, and the local wine scene. Expect a mix of tasting, light walking, and engaging stories—all packed into a two-hour window.

The included dinner at Oku is a highlight, with the sushi curated to pair with local wines, providing a balanced and enriching experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader audience.

The Experience from the Guides

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who make the experience both fun and educational. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was witty and full of interesting facts, which kept us engaged the entire time.” This personable approach encourages questions and interaction, enhancing the overall value.

The tour is designed to be informative but relaxed, so don’t expect a rigid schedule—think of it as a delicious walk through Santa Barbara’s cultural heart, with plenty of tastings to keep you satisfied.

Price and Value

At $200 per person, this tour offers a mix of tasting, scenic views, and local insights that would cost more if you arranged the stops independently. It includes the wine and sushi dinners, so you’re not surprised by extra charges, which helps you plan your budget. Given the quality of the venues and the guided experience, many find this to be a good value, especially for a curated, hassle-free introduction to Santa Barbara’s food scene.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for food and wine enthusiasts who enjoy a lively neighborhood atmosphere. It’s also great for visitors with limited time but wanting a quick yet meaningful taste of Santa Barbara’s culinary and artistic offerings. Couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a fun, guided outing will find this particularly enjoyable.

The Santa Barbara Funk Zone Wine and Sushi Tour offers a well-balanced blend of local flavors, scenic views, and engaging storytelling. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll discover the neighborhood’s artistic vibe while sampling excellent wines and fresh sushi. The tour’s two-hour length makes it accessible for most schedules, and its focus on curated tastings ensures you experience the best of what Santa Barbara has to offer.

If you’re eager to explore Santa Barbara’s vibrant Funk Zone without the hassle of planning each stop yourself, this tour provides a relaxed, informative, and delicious introduction. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate good wine, fresh seafood, and a lively neighborhood ambiance—all with a backdrop of beautiful ocean scenery.

While it might not satisfy someone looking for a lengthy deep dive into the city’s culinary scene, it’s an excellent choice for a quick, memorable, and tasty adventure. Just arrive hungry and ready to enjoy an afternoon of flavorful discovery.

How long is the Santa Barbara Funk Zone Wine and Sushi Tour?
The tour lasts about two hours, covering approximately 1.5 miles of walking, with plenty of time for tasting and stories.

What is included in the tour price?
The wine and taco pairing at Margerum Wine Company and the sushi and wine dinner at Oku are included, making the $200 fee a good value for the guided experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing more visitors to enjoy the experience comfortably.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides speak English, and their engaging manner makes the tour accessible and enjoyable.

Is there a preferred time of day for this tour?
The tour is usually available in the afternoon, perfect for a leisurely exploration after a morning of sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since you’ll be covering about 1.5 miles, and dress according to the weather—Santa Barbara generally enjoys mild, pleasant conditions.

This tour offers a flavorful, scenic, and engaging way to experience Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, especially if you’re after a quick, authentic taste of local wine, food, and seaside charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: