OPENING NIGHT
A fabulous and fun night celebrating the opening of RH Montecito, The Gallery at The Old FIrehouse
By Maddy Sims
Photography Steve Lucero
If its opening party is any indication of the success of RH Montecito, The Gallery at The Old Firehouse, it’s safe to say it’s the neighborhood’s next hotspot. Built in 1931, the historic building designed by award-winning architect Alexander Bertrand Harmer, served as the regional firehouse for over 50 years. But now RH Chairman and CEO Gary Friedman has reimagined the space as a dining destination celebrating design.
And reimagined it is. The Mediterranean Revival-style façade is illuminated with lanterns, softly spreading light onto the building’s steps. Through massive arched glass doors, I see geometric chandeliers, plush sofas, and a sea of guests. The expansive Great Room is full of people—all dressed in chic, sophisticated winter attire—chatting closely while a DJ plays ambient electronic music. I’m early, and the party is already in full swing. I pick up a glass of champagne and head inside.
It’s cold outside, but inside, the space is warm. Glowing golden light illuminates the entire party, thanks to the stunning light fixtures and fireplace candles. As I walk through the room, I’m transported to an opulent Mediterranean-inspired lounge. Stone sculptures, arched doorways, and exposed oak beams complement the elegant furniture. Rare art, antiques, and artifacts are scattered throughout the space. Here, a quick trip to Montecito feels like a quick trip abroad.
I walk past the first table—a bellini station by Cipriani New York—and continue through the crowd of fabulous guests (and do a double take, noticing A-list celebrities casually chatting and taking pictures right next to me). I reach the Wine & Barista Bar, which features softly-lit alcoves behind for a breathtaking background. Servers assemble Petrossian caviar and crème fraîche on blinis while bartenders serve up Ruinart champagne. There’s no shortage of beverage options at this swanky soirée: A few steps away, there’s a martini station. One room over, there’s a Patron margarita bar.
In addition to the three craft beverage stations and the Wine Bar, servers expertly circle around with trays of wine and champagne. The service at this party is noticeably superb. There’s no shortage of food, either. Gourmet amuse-bouches, prepared by Annie Campbell, are passed around the party. There are elegant light bites (like the Caesar salad cup) and more substantial items (such as the mini lobster roll). I enjoy several appetizers, grab a margarita (for research, of course), and tour the rest of the rooms.
The space features gorgeous furniture displays, in alignment with the brand’s other restaurants. Bedrooms flank both sides of the Great Room, with luxe bedding and quiet, calming color schemes. Towards the back lies a living room display, complete with a cushioned couch and an utterly-chic, oversized coffee book. Even in these side rooms, groups of guests are congregating. As the space continues to fill up, the excitement around this opening becomes increasingly obvious.
I weave through the crowd, heading towards the dining area: The Firehouse Grill. In true Santa Barbara nature, it’s an indoors-outdoors concept. The massive glass and iron doors open up to the outdoor space featuring a cozy fireplace, limestone fountains, and olive trees. The tables are full, as guests gleefully cheers their drinks and share plates of delicious-looking food.
There are several RH restaurants all over the world, yet the enthusiasm around this particular property makes it feel uniquely special. Given the sheer number of people in the space expressing their excitement, it’s hard not to feel excited myself. Just when I think the night couldn’t get any more special, I see the Montecito Firefighters entering. (The entire event benefited The Montecito Firefighters’ Charitable Foundation, a nonprofit providing assistance to members of our firefighting family and community.)
As I exit the party, I pass a stream of people heading in. With that, there’s no doubt about it: I rate the party a smashing success. It’s a splashy, fabulous introduction to the Montecito dining scene. Everything, from the craft cocktail stations to the delectable light bites, was memorable. I take one last look at the bustling party through those incredible arched doors, and I know RH Montecito will be full like this for a long time to come.
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