Los Altos Mexican Restaurant in Old Town Goleta.
Los Altos Mexican Restaurant's home in Old Town Goleta. Credit: Joshua Molina / Noozhawk photo

Los Altos Mexican Restaurant has arrived in Old Town Goleta.

The restaurant quietly opened two weeks at 5892 Hollister Ave.

It’s the second Los Altos on the South Coast. The original is on Milpas Street in Santa Barbara.

“With daily specials and handmade tortillas, the commitment to traditional cooking by our family-owned and operated restaurant captures the true spirit of Mexico,” the company states on its website. “Our authentic style boasts menudo, barbacoa, tacos, burritos, tortas, sopes and more. From fresh seafood to traditional favorites, stop by for a bite of mouthwatering Mexican food. There’s something tantalizing for everyone.”

The owner, Alberto Gonzalez, is from Jalisco, Mexico.

The location has experienced a flurry of changes. Most recently, it was occupied by Marisco Titas for a few months in 2022. Before that, the space was home to Wingman Rodeo and Gimeal and Natural Cafe restaurants.

The inside of Los Altos Mexican Restaurant.
The inside of Los Altos Mexican Restaurant. Credit: Joshua Molina / Noozhawk photo

The restaurant is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

“Excited to have Los Altos restaurant in Old Town Goleta,” Los Altos told Noozhawk in a statement. “Jalisco, Mexico, is the inspiration behind the taste and feel of Los Altos. Daily specials, handmade tortillas, menudo and pozole served daily. Family-owned and -operated. The staff is very friendly and welcoming. You will find a calm ambiance, bright, beautiful colors all around.”

PR Company Hidden Gems Debuts

Wade Cowper has launched Hidden Gems, a new business that he says is “the next generation of Santa Barbara public relations.”

“Our boutique firm is committed to telling the stories of nonprofits across the Central Coast,” Cowper said in a news release. “Santa Barbara is a special place that requires local insight and a deep community connection. Our experience, knowledge and network can help lead your organization to new heights.”

Cowper, who has a law degree, previously was a political consultant and public relations professional for local and national political campaigns.

Hidden Gems is located at 836 Anacapa St., No. 575 in Santa Barbara.

Transient Occupancy Taxes Down

The City of Santa Barbara collected about $2.6 million in transient occupancy taxes in April, about 4% less than what the city budgeted.

Hotel activity has slowed down the past three months, according to the city, but overall Santa Barbara is 10% over budget for the year, said Kasey Drescher, a communications specialist for the city.

The city has collected $25.3 million so far for the fiscal year.

Star Fades in Paseo Nuevo

Dylan Star is closing its Paseo Nuevo store on Monday.

“HUGE SALE! Last chance to shop our 50% OFF moving sale at Paseo Nuevo. You don’t want to miss this!! Head over to our @dylanstar.paseo store before MAY 29th! 50% off sale,” the women’s clothing shop posted on Instagram.

The shop is at 317 Paseo Nuevo, and its hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“We are humbled and touched by the outpouring of love and support we’ve received on our journey …,” an Instagram post states.

“While we are saddened to be closing our doors there, we hope you’ll continue to visit us and shop at our flagship store in the Funk Zone! Always remember to Dream Big & Shop Small.”

Joshua Molina

Joshua Molina, Noozhawk Staff Writer

Noozhawk staff writer Joshua Molina can be reached at jmolina@noozhawk.com.