Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, Rare Society is more than just a restaurant. It’s a dining experience that transports you to a bygone era of glamour and indulgence.
Created by chef and restaurateur Brad Wise of Trust Restaurant Group, this West Coast-based concept pays homage to retro steakhouses, infusing them with modern twists like a wood-fired grill, an on-premise dry-aging program, and a progressive cocktail menu.
On a recent evening, I had the pleasure of sharing this extraordinary experience with my dad, turning a simple dinner into a night of indulgence and connection.
From the moment we walked through the doors at 214 State St., the ambiance captured our attention.
Rare Society evokes the spirit of vintage upscale dining, reminiscent of Rat Pack gatherings or Frank Sinatra’s legendary dinner parties.
It felt like stepping into a vibrant city, all while staying in the comfort of my hometown.
The warm glow of the wood-fired grill, the tantalizing aroma of dry-aged meats, and the upbeat energy of the staff made it clear we were in for a treat.
The menu at Rare Society is a love letter to premium cuts of meat and sustainably sourced seafood, with a focus on family-style dining.
Its signature Associate and Executive Boards are a testament to this ethos. These luxurious Lazy Susan-style platters showcase an ever-changing selection of chef-curated dry-aged steaks and prime cuts, served alongside house-made sauces like bearnaise, horseradish and chef Wise’s signature Santa Maria-style salsa.
Sharing the board with my dad made the meal feel communal and celebratory, as we explored the nuances of each cut.
Our standout dishes of the night included the 16-ounce Cedar River Prime Bullseye Ribeye and the 10-ounce Australian Wagyu Tri-Tip. Each was grilled to perfection over American red oak, boasting a depth of flavor that only comes from expert preparation and premium quality.
The Pickled Fried Onion Rings with TRG Crack Sauce were another highlight — a crunchy, tangy and utterly addictive side dish.
The meal wasn’t complete without dessert, and Rare Society delivered on that front, too. We shared the indulgent Butter Cake with Sour Cream Ice Cream and the playful yet decadent Bananas Foster Cheesecake with ‘Nilla Wafers and Rum.
Both were the perfect way to end the night, balancing rich flavors with just the right touch of sweetness.
What truly elevated the experience was the attentive and friendly staff. Their knowledge of the menu, coupled with a genuine enthusiasm for the food, made us feel like valued guests.
Every detail, from the presentation of the boards to the thoughtful recommendations, added to the evening’s charm.
Rare Society isn’t just a place to eat, it’s a place to savor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a night out, it’s a culinary escape that’s well worth the visit.
For me, the evening was made even more special by sharing it with my dad, creating memories over incredible food and the joy of discovering something new together.
Rare Society is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves a great steak and a touch of old-school glamour.
