'Sam' and 'Bo'

Over the years many myths and rumors abound about the NAME "SAMBO'S" -
its origin seemingly subject to many ideas as to how the restaurant got its name.

The fact is - SAM was a real person and BO was a real person.

Sam is Sam Battistone and Bo is Newell Bohnett,
known affectionately to his friends, family and associates as "Bo".

Despite all the other stories - this is really how SAMBO'S got its name.

'The Story of Little Black Sambo' by Helen Bannerman was an afterthought.
The SAMBO'S RESTAURANT already was established before the children's story
was discovered and used as part of a marketing promotion.



Certificate circa 1974



Certificate circa 1962

Sam actually had another restaurant on State St. in Santa Barbara called "Sammy's"
when the original (and present) property location (216 W. Cabrillo Blvd) became available.

The ORIGINAL Sambo's Restaurant - We are at 216 W. Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara   805.965.3269