An interview with General Manager Sharon Kovar
The Concierge Edit: September 2025
This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Rare Society, the modern steakhouse that has become a standout in Santa Barbara’s culinary landscape. Inspired by the glitz and glamour of the 1920s, Rare Society blends elevated steakhouse classics with a sleek, West Coast edge.
Fresh off celebrating their 3-year anniversary in July, the Santa Barbara location continues to bring locals and visitors together for indulgent meals, craft cocktails, and warm hospitality.
To get an insider’s take, I sat down with Sharon Kovar, the General Manager and a dear friend whose world-spanning hospitality career includes managing the Michelin-starred Spruce in San Francisco. Sharon’s passion for exceptional service and deep love of this city make her the perfect guide to what makes Rare Society so special.
Harrison: I have to dive straight in to tell you that I am such a big fan of yours—hearing your stories of cross-country commuting on the Gap corporate jet, running races across Africa, taking your daughters to school during an assignment in Kuwait, and casually managing Michelin-level service. How have those life experiences shaped the way you lead your team here at Rare Society?
Sharon: I absolutely believe in Servant Leadership—supporting my team, understanding the humans behind every position, and taking the time to teach steps of service. Staff that feel supported, informed, and confident create the best guest experiences.
I also love the concept of “collect the dots to connect the dots.” When a team member extrapolates key details from a table—dietary needs, anniversaries, preferences—and not only acts in the moment but notes it for the future, that’s the magic that turns a first-time guest into a regular.
After the spectacle of Spruce, what brought you back to Santa Barbara, and what excites you most about the dining scene here?
The community. I love this town—the locals, the industry scene and how we take care of each other to be our best taking care of our guests. And even more now than ever, the variety of amazing food. I don’t keep a thing in my fridge because there are so many options of better-than-I’ll-ever-make-at-home food, for the cravings of any mood!
Santa Barbara has its fair share of steakhouses—Lucky’s, Holdren’s, Tee Off, Jill’s Place, Chuck’s of Hawaii… What makes Rare Society stand apart?
Aesthetically, we’re a modern take on retro—elegant and sultry, not Mad Men traditional. And as for the steaks, we cook with fire—literally—over red oak in true Santa Maria style for smoky perfection.
For someone visiting Rare Society for the first time, what are the must-try highlights? And for those who love a secret menu item… anything you can share?
The obvious and best choice to start the meal, is with the Parker House Rolls. Add the bacon starter, baked blue crab dip, then go crazy with either of the seafood towers, and of course, one of the Boards.
Our true “secret menu” is an experience: The Rare Experience. It’s only by request—just ask your server. We’ll ask about your preferences, and then curate a multi-course, custom dinner with pairings from the kitchen and the bar. Those are really fun nights for everyone!
The Boards are iconic. Be honest—do you prefer The Associate or The Executive?
Honestly, the Associate Board for the Wagyu. The Executive Board features more dry-aged meats that are incredible, but I can’t pass up Wagyu.
What are some insider tips to best experience the phenomenon that has become Oyster Monday?
Mentally prepare yourself. It’s best with 1–4 people, and plan to get in line at least an hour early. We open at 4pm, but oysters—$1 each—often sell out in the first hour. I’m talking upwards of a thousand oysters are slurped in that first hour. But get a drink, enjoy the happy hour menu, even stay for dinner!
Since you brought up cocktails... Tell me about the speciality Old Fashioned.
The Rare Old Fashioned is truly special. It’s dry-aged beef-washed bourbon (done in house), with rosemary oleo and bitters, over a big cube, garnished with a decadent stack of Luxardo cherry, bacon wrapped tallow and a rosemary sprig scorched table side. Definitely a showstopper.
Your career must come with some amazing food moments. What’s your most memorable meal, anywhere in the world?
I grew up in the Bay Area, so maybe I’m biased, but I have to go with French Laundry. The service, the attention to detail, the flavors and the creativity! Definitely a memorable and inspirational experience. And dying to see what Thomas Keller does at Coral Casino!
Rare Society is closed on Tuesdays—where do you love to eat on your night off?
Barbareño is always my go-to neighborhood spot. I have been branching out lately, revisiting oldies and still goodies (like Lucky’s) and surprisingly I’ve never been to Jill’s Place so that’s next on my list.
Last question, and the question every Santa Barbara local wants to know: Can I bring my dog?
This is where I have to play the friend card and call you out for knowing the answer to this, as if you and Rabbit (readers, this is Harrison’s dog’s name and if you meet her you’ll understand) aren’t regular fixtures. But yes, we love and welcome dogs on our outdoor patio as well as the front of the main bar area. Maybe I should talk to Chef about a Doggie Board Dinner…
Rabbit will absolutely support and taste test!
Until then, take a mouth-watering look through the menus, and let me know when I can make a reservation for your next visit. Sharon will likely be there, and if you mention The Concierge Edit or Harrison Lifestyle Concierge, she will definitely surprise you with a little something special.
Explore the Menus
**Editor's Note: We didn’t even touch on dessert, but trust me—the butter cake paired with an espresso martini is the right move.
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