Tamar

"Tamar is a breezy counter-service Mediterranean spot in the old Tyger Tyger space that makes a particularly juicy, lamb kofta packed with fresh herbs. You can order your lamb patties in a warm pita sandwich or on a plate with their sumac-dusted hummus and a dollop of zhoug that delivers some eyebrow-raising heat—both are good ideas. We also like the big pita croutons that soak up the zippy dressing in the fattoush salad and their not-too-sweet tahini ice cream. A scoop is the perfect way to end a leisurely lunch in the Funk Zone." - Sylvio Martins

"A Middle Eastern specialty is a rare sight for Downtown Santa Barbara: shawarma served with house-made pita bread. Logan Jones, the former chef de cuisine at the Lark, started Tamar as a pop-up before transitioning into a permanent daytime operation for flavorful chicken shawarma tucked into warm bread with a lightly dressed cabbage salad. The delightful and casual room is attached to Dart Coffee Co." - Mona Holmes