Matt Kettmann, Author at The Santa Barbara Independent

Full Belly Files By Matt Kettmann | Wed Aug 27, 2025 | 12:00pm

Full Belly Files | Memories and Wineries in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Remembering my dad and Xmas trees on the way to Rhys and Testarossa wineries; plus, stories you may have missed.

Food By Matt Kettmann | Fri Aug 22, 2025 | 3:50pm

Meet the new head of the kitchen inside Santa Barbara’s Kimpton Canary Hotel.

Drink By Matt Kettmann | Thu Aug 21, 2025 | 4:01pm

The Rhône-focused winery & vineyard is hitting peak stride after nearly 20 years in the Santa Ynez Valley

Full Belly Files By Matt Kettmann | Wed Aug 20, 2025 | 12:00pm

Here are the top culinary treats, outdoor adventures, and other travel insights from my recent trip to the Big Island and Maui.

Full Belly Files By Matt Kettmann | Fri Aug 15, 2025 | 4:58pm

My visit to La Tequila in Buellton reveals why some places get more coverage than others; plus, stories you may have missed.

Cover Story By Matt Kettmann | Wed Aug 06, 2025 | 9:00pm

Meet your neighbors who are leading the Golden State’s expanding agave industry.

About Us By Richelle Boyd & Matt Kettmann | Wed Aug 06, 2025 | 8:16am

Among his other Independent duties over the years, our senior writer and Full Belly Files columnist Matt Kettmann started covering

Food By Matt Kettmann | Tue Aug 05, 2025 | 11:56am

Kyle Eckert’s Riviera Mushrooms turns healthy fungi into tasty treats on Santa Barbara’s Westside.

Drink By Matt Kettmann | Tue Aug 05, 2025 | 10:19am

Marko and Sarah Suput craft vodka, brandy, liqueur, and more in the Sta. Rita Hills.

Food By Matt Kettmann | Wed Jul 30, 2025 | 4:23pm

Raul Alarcon, the longtime bartender at Toma in Santa Barbara, is now running a Mexican restaurant in Buellton.