Funk Zone Wine & Food Tour

Funk Zone Wine & Food Tour: A Taste of Santa Barbara’s Artistic Flavors

If you’re looking to explore the vibrant, artsy side of Santa Barbara combined with a serious taste of California’s best wines and local eats, the Funk Zone Wine & Food Tour might just hit the spot. This guided experience promises an engaging afternoon of walking through Santa Barbara’s coolest neighborhood, sampling wines, beers, spirits, and some of the city’s most loved family-owned restaurants.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers a well-rounded taste of the Funk Zone’s eclectic scene—art, wine, food, and locally made spirits—packed into just over four hours. We especially liked the opportunity to visit artisanal wineries like Margerum Winery and enjoy diverse food stops at family-run spots known for sushi, tacos, and fresh local fish. Plus, the inclusion of gift cards to local shops and bars gives you the flexibility to continue exploring after the tour ends.

A potential consideration is the price point—at $245 per person, it’s an investment, but one that’s often justified by the depth and variety of experiences packed in. Perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic, locally driven experiences and aren’t just looking for a quick sip-and-snap tour, but a genuine taste of Santa Barbara’s culinary and vinicultural scene. If you love food, wine, and discovering neighborhoods on foot, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Visits to family-owned restaurants and wineries highlight Santa Barbara’s community spirit.
• Variety of Tastings: Two wine tastings, a beer flight, and a gin/vodka tasting provide a broad spectrum of flavors.
• Walking Tour: 2.5 hours covering about 1.5 miles, ideal for those who enjoy exploring on foot.
• Flexible Spending: Gift cards for local businesses allow you to extend your experience beyond the tour.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides make the history and culture of the Funk Zone come alive.
• Good for Food & Drink Lovers: The combination of wine, spirits, and diverse eateries appeals to those passionate about local food and drink.

An In-Depth Look at the Funk Zone Wine & Food Tour

Starting Point: Margerum Winery Tasting Room

Your journey begins here, at the iconic Margerum Winery, where you’ll be greeted by guides sporting name tags and ready to introduce you to the world of California wines. Expect a flight of their best wines, thoughtfully curated to showcase local excellence. This is more than just a tasting; it’s an introduction to Santa Barbara’s artisanal winemaking scene.

What’s unique about this start? Margerum is known for its quality and sense of place, and the guide’s commentary often reveals insights into the winemaking process and the winery’s history. Several reviewers appreciate the way guides make the experience both educational and fun, noting, “We loved the way the guides shared insider info and made us feel like locals for a day.”

Food Stops: Family-Owned Restaurants

After the initial wine taste, the tour moves into the Funk Zone’s family-owned eateries, which are the heart and soul of the neighborhood. You’ll visit four different restaurants—each with its own character and specialty. These include trendy sushi spots, taco joints, local fish grills, and craft pizza places.

The focus on local family businesses offers a more authentic experience than big chain restaurants, and we loved the chance to enjoy dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. One reviewer remarked, “The food was simply fantastic—fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with love.”

Each stop includes a wine or California wine taste, totaling four more wines during these meals. This setup helps you appreciate how local cuisine and regional wines pair beautifully, and the variety keeps the experience lively and engaging.

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Artisanal Wineries and Spirits

Beyond Margerum Winery, the tour explores more of the Funk Zone’s artisanal wineries and spirits. You’ll enjoy a beer flight and a gin/vodka tasting, diversifying your palate. These tastings emphasize the local craft spirit scene, which has been booming in Santa Barbara.

Many guests appreciate the chance to try spirits from small producers, noting, “It’s refreshing to see how many talented craft distillers are right here in Santa Barbara.” Such tastings add a layer of depth to your understanding of the region’s beverage scene beyond just wine.

The Gift Card Bonus

An added perk of the tour is the inclusion of gift cards for use at 16 local bars, shops, and wineries, with no expiration date. This means you can revisit your favorite spots or explore new ones at your leisure, extending the value of your experience well beyond the 4.5 hours of the tour.

Guests have told us that this flexibility allows them to indulge at their own pace, whether they want to savor a glass of wine at a cozy bar or pick up unique souvenirs in the shops.

Tour Logistics: What to Expect

The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, with a walking distance of about 1.5 miles. The pace is leisurely, allowing ample time for tastings, conversation, and soaking in the neighborhood’s street art and vibe. The group size tends to be moderate, guided by friendly, knowledgeable English-speaking guides who share stories and insights about Santa Barbara’s culture and history.

Starting at the Margerum Wine Tasting Room, you’ll meet your guides, who are easy to spot with their name tags. The tour is wheelchair accessible and typically available in the afternoon, fitting nicely into a relaxed sightseeing schedule.

Price and Value

At $245 per person, the tour might seem a bit steep at first glance. However, when considering the multiple tastings—two wines, a beer flight, spirits, plus food at four restaurants—and the gift cards for future visits, the experience offers solid value for those eager to dive deep into Santa Barbara’s local scene.

Reviewers often point out that the quality of the guides and the authentic nature of the stops justify the cost. It’s an experience that balances education, fun, and the chance to explore a neighborhood rich in culture and flavor.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for food and wine enthusiasts eager to discover authentic local spots. It’s perfect for those who enjoy walking and exploring neighborhoods with a guide who shares stories and insight. It suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, not just a snapshot. If you’re a fan of artisanal wines, craft spirits, and family-owned eateries, this experience will resonate.

Final Thoughts

The Funk Zone Wine & Food Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of Santa Barbara’s most eclectic neighborhood. It’s more than just a tasting—it’s a cultural journey through the city’s vibrant culinary and craft beverage scene. The combination of wine, spirits, diverse local eateries, and the chance to explore on foot creates a lively, intimate atmosphere that appeals to many travelers.

While it isn’t a cheap outing, the depth of tastings and the inclusion of gift cards for future indulgence make it a valuable choice for those who want a genuine, multi-layered experience. It’s especially suited for curious, food-loving travelers who enjoy learning about local culture while tasting the best that Santa Barbara has to offer.

If you’re looking for a way to combine sightseeing with a seriously tasty adventure, this tour checks all the boxes—informative, friendly, and thoughtfully curated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, generally it’s suitable for adults interested in wine, food, and spirits. Keep in mind, minors might not be able to participate in tasting parts, but the walking and exploring can be enjoyed by all.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour features food at family-owned restaurants, so it’s best to check in advance if you have specific dietary needs. Guides are usually happy to provide info about menu options.

How much walking is involved?
Expect about 2.5 hours of walking across roughly 1.5 miles. The pace is relaxed, making it accessible for most people, including those with moderate mobility.

What is included in the price?
You get two wine tastings, a beer flight, gin/vodka tasting, food at four restaurants, and gift cards for local bars and shops.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, which provides flexibility. Just be aware that availability can vary, so booking in advance is recommended.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for everyone interested in exploring the Funk Zone.

What time does the tour usually run?
It’s typically available in the afternoon, giving you time to enjoy a leisurely start to your day or afternoon.

Can I extend my experience with the gift cards?
Absolutely. The gift cards have no expiration date, so you can revisit your favorite spots at your convenience.

What makes the guides stand out?
Guests often mention the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, saying they make the experience both fun and informative.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a foodie, or simply curious about Santa Barbara’s coolest neighborhood, the Funk Zone Wine & Food Tour offers a flavorful taste of local life—an experience worth considering for your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby