Low Pigeon - Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara can be quite the drive, with no indication on their webiste or socials that we wouldn 't get to experience what Low Pigeon had to offer. Once we got there, we were met with a sign highlighting that they have recently been acquired by Lighthouse Coffee and are assured that, the same friendly faces will welcome you every day, to serve our amazingly delicious blends, but unfortunately that was not the case. The barista notified us that the espresso machine was not working and that they would be operating with a menu of not hot drinks of any kind, just cold brew and/or matcha lattes. You would think for a coffee establishment, there would be a backup or some plan to alert returning and new customers beforehand, but luckily there are nearby cafes worth taking a stroll to and checking out instead!

We drove all the way here with the expectation that we would get to experience what Low Pigeon ultimately offers-a concise, robust menu with the no frills addition of milk substitutes competing coffee shops nearby implement. Upon arrival into the cafe, customers are met with a sign highlighting that they have recently been acquired by Lighthouse Coffee and are assured that, the same friendly faces will welcome you every day, to serve our amazingly delicious blends, but such was not the case when we walked inside. The barista notified us that the espresso machine was not working and that they would be operating with a minimal menu-cold brew and/or matcha latte. You would hope there would be a backup plan when a situation like this would happen, so thankfully there are nearby cafes worth taking a stroll to and checking out!

Stumbled upon this place while I was in the area because I was in dire need of coffee. Needless to say, this place has DEFINITELY passed my expectations. I ordered an iced honey latte with oat milk and it was sooo good! The sweetness of the honey doesn't overpower the coffee taste and the oat milk adds a touch of nuttiness. Bonus: they don't charge extra for milk alternatives which is amazing for those who are lactose intolerant! Their menu is very small but I personally don't think that it's a bad thing bc they focus more on quality of the coffee. The atmosphere is great for those who just want to chat grab coffee with a friend or to study on a nice sunny day! The only thing is that parking can be limited bc their lot is small, but you can always find street parking. Overall, I will definitely be coming back soon :

Low Pigeon was recently acquired by Lighthouse Coffee, another local coffee shop in the area. The name remains unchanged, and the menu was the same when I visited last week. Maybe they are keeping the brands separate, or maybe they will eventually make it match their other locations. It remains to be seen. So with their fate unknown, I'll keep this one short and sweet and do a simple pros and cons list. Outdoor patio: decor is a bit sparse and minimalistic, and seating is few. But it's a nice area to relax, get some work done, and chat. It's decently shaded, the vegetation is nice, not much more to ask for. Convenience: Off street parking is available. But street parking isn't too much of a hassle if the lot is full. No extra charge for oat milk: Handlebar? 50¢. Dune? 75¢. Caje? $1.25! Zero, zip, zilch, nada when it comes to upcharging for milk substitutes. Honey Latte: Deliciously creamy and sweet. Recommended with oat milk to give it a more nuttier taste. Limited menu: Can also be a positive attribute I guess. Drink options are slim, which makes it easier to decide what to get. But I wish they had food.

Their lattes are to die for! I always go for the matcha latte and recently I visited their cute store with my sister who ordered their honey latte and I was amazed of how amazing that tasted! You can't go wrong with this place!