A Tale of Two Meals: Breakfast and Dinner at Finch and Fork

Kimpton Canary Hotel, Santa Barbara

Nestled in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara at the elegant Kimpton Canary Hotel, Finch and Fork offers a sophisticated dining experience that seamlessly transitions from casual morning fare to refined evening cuisine. Having had the pleasure of dining here twice in one day, I can confidently say this restaurant delivers on both fronts.

Morning Indulgence: Breakfast Done Right

My morning visit began with their signature avocado toast, elevated far beyond the typical café offering. The perfectly ripe California avocado was artfully spread over thick-cut artisanal bread, finished with a drizzle of quality olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt that made each bite sing. The addition of a side of crispy bacon provided the perfect salty-savory contrast to the creamy avocado – sometimes the classics just work.

My dining companion opted for the two farm fresh eggs sunny side up breakfast, and it was clear that Finch and Fork takes their "farm fresh" promise seriously. The eggs arrived with vibrant orange yolks that broke beautifully across the plate, accompanied by perfectly seasoned breakfast potatoes that had achieved that coveted crispy-outside, fluffy-inside texture. It's the kind of honest, well-executed breakfast that sets the tone for a great day exploring Santa Barbara.

Evening Elegance: A Solo Dining Experience

Returning for dinner, I settled in for a solo meal that proved to be one of the most satisfying dining experiences I've had in recent memory. The restaurant's ambiance shifts beautifully from day to night, with warm lighting creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for both couples and solo diners alike.

I started with their deviled eggs – a playful nod to comfort food that's been given the chef's sophisticated touch. These weren't your grandmother's picnic eggs. The filling was impossibly smooth and creamy, with subtle notes that elevated the humble egg into something memorable. The presentation was elegant, and each bite delivered that nostalgic comfort with a refined twist.

For the main course, I couldn't resist the short rib pappardelle, and I'm so glad I didn't. This dish was nothing short of spectacular. The short rib had been braised to fork-tender perfection, falling apart at the gentlest touch and melding beautifully with the house-made pappardelle. The pasta had that perfect al dente bite, and the rich, wine-forward sauce tied everything together without overwhelming the dish. It's the kind of comfort food that feels both familiar and special.

The Perfect Pairing: Canary Cadillac

No review would be complete without mentioning the Canary Cadillac – the restaurant's signature cocktail that proved to be the ideal dinner companion. This well-balanced drink complemented the richness of the short rib beautifully, with enough complexity to stand on its own while enhancing the flavors of the meal. The bartender's craftsmanship was evident in every sip.

Final Thoughts

Finch and Fork successfully bridges the gap between approachable breakfast spot and sophisticated dinner destination. The quality remains consistent throughout the day, the service is attentive without being intrusive, and the location within the Kimpton Canary makes it a perfect choice whether you're a hotel guest or a local looking for a reliable dining experience.

From the honest pleasure of perfectly executed avocado toast to the indulgent satisfaction of expertly prepared short rib, Finch and Fork delivers on its promise of elevated comfort food in one of Santa Barbara's most charming settings.