Around these parts we say, “Keep LA 100 miles away,” a reference to overdevelopment and traffic. When it comes to the Win~Dow’s smashburger, which originated in Venice, we not only welcome it, but please, shove it in our faces.
The famed Win~Dow Burgers opened Thursday at the corner of Chapala and Ortega streets in Santa Barbara, across the street from Paseo Nuevo. The restaurant got its start in Venice in March 2019 and has expanded to six locations, the latest in Santa Barbara.
“It’s one of the most beautiful places in Southern California,” owner Jeff Goodman said. “We’re typically on the hunt for great communities, iconic buildings, where we think there isn’t a lot of versions of us. It all came together here.”
The restaurant is at the former site of Romanti-Ezer, which still runs a food truck in town. They remodeled, painted, added seating and transformed the area into a bright, vibrant food destination.
The smashburgers come in single and double forms with onions, cheese and sauce in every juicy, flavor-filled bite. Win~Dow Burgers also sells fries, a “Beauty Burger” for vegetarians, a fried chicken sandwich, a grain bowl and a kale salad.
Don’t sleep on the desserts, however. The mint cookies and cream dipped cone delivers a sweet experience, along with shakes, sodas, tea and lemonade.
The classic cheeseburger is also known for its price — $4.35.
Goodman said the idea originated with the concept of providing something that was “inexpensive, chef-driven, and quick and easy.”
He sees it as next-generation fast food.
“The pricing is meant to be like an everyday eat, and we see guests three and four times a week,” Goodman said. “It’s a mini, affordable, full-on restaurant experience.”
He and his business partner, Paul Hibler, founded American Beauty, a steakhouse in Venice, which spun out Win~Dow Burgers as a bit of a restaurant within a restaurant.
Goodman grew up in New Jersey and said “there’s a little bit of New Jersey” in the smashburgers. He has lived in California for the past 20 years. He holds a degree in hotel administration, and he worked at the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore, Morton’s Steakhouse and other well-branded companies.
“We are deliberately attempting to be an egalitarian experience,” he said. “We want people to come give us a try. We have priced it in a way where people can come every day.”
Montecito Bank & Trust Announces Executive Change
Heather Ames is the new executive vice president and chief people officer for Montecito Bank & Trust.
“As banks continue to navigate increasing regulatory complexity, digital transformation, and heightened competition for top talent, HR plays a critical role in shaping culture, managing risk, developing leadership pipelines, and fostering agility through organizational design and change management along with leading engagement initiatives,” said Janet Garufis, CEO and chairman of the bank. “Heather is a shining example of what is possible at Montecito Bank & Trust.”
Ames was previously a senior vice president and director of human resources and organizational learning.
In the new role, Ames will join the MB&T executive team and work alongside Garufis, Bruce Stevens, EVP chief financial officer, Megan Orloff, EVP chief strategy officer, Jeff Pittman EVP director of wealth management, and David Porter, EVP chief credit officer, according to a news release.
In a statement, Ames said, “I feel honored and privileged to work alongside an executive team with such integrity and strong values. I began my journey with Montecito Bank & Trust over 18 years ago and have been fortunate to experience meaningful professional development and career growth opportunities that have led me to this role. I’m proud to be part of an organization that puts its people first.”
Vices & Spices Celebrates 50 Years
One of Santa Barbara’s little treasures is celebrating 50 years.
Vices & Spices has sold 1,097,224 cups of coffee, according to the banner hanging outside its shop at 3558 State St.
There will be free cake and coffee-tasting all day Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Other sales include 20% off mugs and tea, and 10% off all jewelry.
“Join us for free coffee and cake, discounts on store items, and much more! We want to thank you for your continued support and enjoying a special local community for over 50 years,” the company posted on Instagram.
Frenchies Nail Salon Opening in Santa Barbara
A Frenchies nail salon is opening on Upper State Street in Santa Barbara.
“A new kind of nail care, one where CLEAN and healthy is our highest priority,” the company states on Instagram. “We will be located next to @farmer_boy_diner on Upper State Street.”
The company is hiring for an opening this summer.
“Get ready for a new nail care experience,” the company said. “Not only will you enjoy our natural, clean services, you will love our fun, uplifting atmosphere and experience the laughter with our staff. Socialize with other guests, develop that close relationship with your nail specialist and build a community right here in Santa Barbara.”