Loquita Santa Barbara

ABOUT LOQUITA

Loquita showcases authentic Spanish food including hot and cold tapas, wood-fired grilled seafood and meats, and seasonal paella. The Mediterranean climate and terroir of Santa Barbara County mirror that of Spain, making the translation of locally sourced produce, meats and seafood an ideal match. The wine list is comprised almost entirely of Spanish wines with exceptional local wines that pair well with the cuisine.Loquita’s cocktail list showcases Spanish vermouths, farmers’ market Sangria, hand-crafted cocktails and a rotating selection of Spain’s king of cocktails, the Gin Tonic.

Open Sunday-Thursday 5-9pm | Friday-Saturday 5-10pm

JASMINE SHIMODA, EXECUTIVE CHEF

Jasmine is a Santa Barbara native who recently returned home after many years of cooking around the world. She began her culinary journey in New York City under world-class chefs including Chef Masaharu Morimoto, Chef David Waltuck, and Chef Wesley Genovart. A veteran of New York City’s Happy Ending, and John Dory, she also received an unprecedented 28 points in Zagat during her tenure running Degustation. Back in Los Angeles, Jasmine was the Executive Chef of The Springs in DTLA and co-owner and Chef at Jewel. It is a dream for her to be back in the cradle of this Mediterranean climate exploring the bounty of local ingredients and creating relationships with farmers. Her creativity, experience, and passion are on full display at Loquita.

GERARDO IBARRA, GENERAL MANAGER

Raised in the Santa Ynez Valley, Gerardo grew his hospitality career as a celebrated staff member at the Biltmore, Four Seasons Resort Santa Barbara. Honing his skills in the Food and Beverage department, Gerardo rose to Assistant Manager where he excelled in staff training, analytics, and as a tireless team leader. Gerardo has been with Loquita as a lead server for the last four years where he became adept in Spanish cuisine and wine. Loquita is thrilled to highlight Gerardo’s keen management skills, kind demeanor, and breadth of knowledge.