The Ultimate Carp Food Guide

By Betsy Peters '27

The trek to Carpinteria seems infinitely worth it when the golden allure of food is promised on the other side. Especially at a school where the on-campus dining options are limited, the importance of alternative food spots becomes all the more valuable. This new school year has brought a plethora of new dining options with the opening of the long-awaited Linden Square in Carpinteria! Now, while these new restaurants are certainly exciting, so many new places can also start to seem pretty daunting to Cate students. So, if you’re in need of a Carp food guide, let me introduce you to a few gems!

Dart Coffee:

Tucked away on the corner of Linden and 8th Street, Dart provides rich coffee and delicious pastries to anybody in need of a quiet study spot. With its aesthetic ambiance and killer music, Violet Monda ‘27 remarks that it is “the perfect place to lock in.” Dart’s matcha and espresso will appease any Cate coffee lover, while also offering baked goods like cake donuts and chocolate chip cookies to satisfy a sweet tooth!

Third Window: 

Third Window in Linden Square is the delicious burger place Carpinteria didn’t know it needed! Third Window’s second location opening is especially relevant to the Cate community as it is owned by the family of one of Cate’s very own, Braedo Parker ‘26. When asked if it is a good place for Cate students, Braedo responded with “Yes. 100%.” Braedo recommends “the OG Smash Burger, the beef tallow fries, and the BLT.” 

Tina’s Pizza:

Another wonderful addition with the opening of Linden Square, Tina’s takes all the best dishes from the much-loved Bettina’s restaurant in Montecito and brings them right to downtown Carp. While it is in a slightly higher price range, Tina’s offers a variety of pizzas, salads, and various appetizers. An ideal spot for lunch or dinner, a trip to Tina’s will never disappoint! Most beloved are their classic Margherita Pizza, Caesar Salad, and (if you’re lucky), a glimpse of Cate alumni Ada Hansen ‘24!  

Dang Burger:

Dang Burger offers an easy-going environment and delicious food that anybody would be lucky to enjoy. Just down the street from Albertson’s, Cate’s shuttle stop, Dang Burger is perfect for a quick bite with friends. The menu’s simplicity further adds to its charm, offering only burgers, fries, and drinks. Any Tuesday trip to Carp can be easily improved with a stop at Dang Burger! 

Going to Carp can be a much-needed break from academics. Food just is such an added bonus! So, the next time you find yourself stressed about an inquiry paper, grab a friend, hop on the next shuttle, and give one of these delightful restaurants a try.