Nestled in the picturesque town of Montecito lies a culinary gem that captures the essence of fine Italian cuisine made with hyper local ingredients. Bettina is a cozy, vibrant and inviting restaurant that’s adored by both Montecitans and visitors. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with the enticing aromas of freshly baked pizza and the joyful chatter of diners indulging in their culinary delights, both indoors and outdoors.
Originally hailing from New York, the owners of Bettina, Brendan Smith and Rachel Greenspan met at the legendary Roberta’s pizzeria in Brooklyn. This talented husband and wife team bring their East Coast culinary influences to California’s Central Coast.
There are an abundance of pizza restaurants in Santa Barbara, but what makes Bettina’s stand apart from other pizzerias is their specially crafted pizza dough recipe. Their dough is naturally leavened, made only with organic flour, and fermented for a minimum of 48 hours. Crafted with care and passion, each pizza is a work of art and features a thin and crispy crust that serves as the perfect canvas for a symphony of flavors. From classic Margherita to innovative combinations, every bite is a burst of culinary bliss.
That said, Bettina is more than just pizza and its menu features an array of thoughtfully crafted small plates, salads, and pastas.
I visited Bettina with a group of friends and we shared the following items:
Bettina’s Anchovy Bread – A tantalizing combination of Cantabrian anchovies, zesty salsa verde, and grated Parmesan, creating a harmonious blend of briny, herbal, and savory flavors that elevate the humble bread to new heights.
Gioia Burrata and Strawberries – This dish showcases the exquisite pairing of creamy burrata cheese and fresh strawberries, enhanced by the tangy sweetness of rhubarb and green garlic mostarda, creating a delightful balance of flavors that’s both indulgent and refreshing.
Milliken Sweet Potatoes with Charred Scallion Dip – It’s a perfect harmony of tender and flavorful roasted sweet potatoes accompanied by a smoky and tangy dip, creating a delectable combination that delights the palate.
‘Nduja Stuffed Dates – This unique spuntini offers a delightful contrast of sweet and spicy flavors. The luscious dates are filled with bold and smoky ‘nduja sausage, complemented by a touch of fragrant vanilla oil.
Snap Pea Pizza – It features mozzarella, tutti frutti peas, mint pesto, Drake’s Farm goat cheese, pecorino, and Aleppo chile. It’s a refreshing and enticing combination that celebrates the essence of seasonal produce.
Meyer Lemon pizza – This unique pizza offers a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory elements that dance on the palate. Toppings include Meyer lemon, mozzarella, house pork sausage, provolone piccante, fennel pollen, pistachio, and red onion.
Malfadine pasta – Its uniquely rippled edges and satisfyingly chewy texture forms the perfect canvas for the classic Cacio e Pepe preparation. The combination of rich and creamy pecorino romano cheese, freshly cracked peppercorns, and al dente Malfadine pasta creates a comforting and indulgent dish that celebrates the simplicity and timeless appeal of Italian cuisine.
Saffron Radiatori – Radiatori pasta offers a delightful combination of a firm yet chewy texture and has nooks and crannies that capture sauces and flavors. The pasta was tossed in a luscious Casitas Valley Pastures pork sausage ragu and topped with grated parmesan. This dish combines the warmth of the ragu with delicate saffron notes creating a rich and comforting pasta experience.
The team at Bettina takes pride in creating a welcoming environment where guests can relax, savor delicious food, and create lasting memories. Beyond its culinary prowess, Bettina also strives to be a pillar of the community. The restaurant supports local organizations and events, fostering a sense of unity and giving back to the community that has embraced it.
With its delightful pizzas, thoughtfully curated menu, and inviting ambiance, Bettina is a must-visit for those seeking a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of both comfort and sophistication.
