RH Takes Montecito

The RH Firehouse Grill blends opulent design and laid-back vibes for an aesthetic dining experience that tastes as good as it looks

A fried chicken sandwich and an upscale design atelier may seem like an odd combination, but RH Montecito, The Gallery at The Old Firehouse proves it’s an excellent pairing. The 9,000-square-foot historic building has had many tenants over the years, but its most recent one is quickly becoming a local favorite and culinary destination for out-of-towners. 

The property includes an interior design studio, a wine bar (which doubles as a coffee car during the day), a garden, and The RH Firehouse Grill. In true Santa Barbara fashion, the restaurant is an indoor-outdoor space, complete with cozy fireplaces, soothing fountains, and stunning views of the mountains. 

RH dining destinations can be found all over: Napa, New York, Chicago, and even in the Cotswolds in England. But the one in Montecito is special—it’s an intimate space decorated with airy earth tones that instantly relax your senses as you step inside. 

On a sunny Saturday morning, we walk through the large arched glass doors of The Old Firehouse and are immediately transported. RH Montecito feels like you’ve entered someone’s ultra-chic home in the Mediterranean. The decor strikes an impressive balance of opulent and cozy. Plush couches and oak tables complement the striking chandeliers and eclectic artwork from around the world. The high ceilings feature wooden beams that stretch the length of the room. Bedroom showrooms flank each side of the entryway, while the same large arched windows cover the opposite side of the Great Room, filled with mountain views.

Past the furniture, we walk over to the barista and wine bar, which has a smooth marble countertop and softly-lit alcoves. We head to our table, and pass through the indoor portion of The RH Firehouse Grill to the outdoor patio area right beside the fireplace. Again, the space balances luxury with a California laid-back feel that’s effortlessly elegant. 

It’s still early enough for weekend brunch, so we try a variety of items from the lunch and brunch menus. I start with a matcha latte that’s delightfully creamy and smooth. In honor of brunching hour, we order the RH Mimosa (made with impossibly fresh orange juice) and the Rosé Spritz (a crisp, refreshing citrus drink). We start with the burrata, which comes served at room temperature so you can easily spread it on the charred bread. It’s accompanied by charred peppers lightly coated in balsamic vinegar for a refreshing yet decadent bite.

Fans of RH restaurants will be pleased to hear The RH Firehouse Grill shares a similar menu with the other properties, including classics like a whole branzino and the fried chicken sandwich. We order the cult-favorite sando, the Chinese chicken salad, and truffle fries to share. The fried chicken sando is easily the favorite of the meal—there are no leftover bites. It would be my top recommendation for any first-timers and is definitely a dish I’d come back for. The chicken is crispy on the outside, yet warm and juicy on the inside. 

The Chinese chicken salad is perfect for those who don’t particularly love salad. It has large chicken chunks and a generous topping of thin wontons. The dressing is light, but leaves behind a slightly spicy aftertaste thanks to the ginger. The fries are topped with truffle, herbs, and cheese (hard to go wrong with that flavor combo).

We end with the Swedish pancakes off the brunch menu. They’re impossibly thin (as described on the menu) yet somehow still fluffy. Topped with butter, powdered sugar, and Vermont maple syrup, they’re the perfect ending to a delicious meal.

While the full brunch menu is only available on weekends, there is a small daily breakfast menu that includes staples like eggs and smashed avocado toast. Lunch and dinner have the same menu, with items such as charcuterie boards, caviar dishes, salads, sandwiches, seafood, and the fan-favorite charred ribeye.

Throughout the intimate space, the atmosphere is peaceful. It never gets too noisy in the restaurant. Top-tier service and elegant platings make this dining experience feel elevated despite the laid-back California vibe. It’s a cool winter morning, but the patio is expertly heated so it feels comfortable. The restaurant offers a rare combination of aesthetics and comfort. It’s the kind of place you’d genuinely enjoy sitting in for a couple of hours (I know I did). Whether you’re meeting a friend for a quick lunch or enjoying a romantic date night, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal with lovely ambiance.