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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Authentic seafood spots in Santa Barbara

There is a specific comfort in eating fresh seafood prepared exactly the way it is meant to be served.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 1
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 2
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 3
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Large, airy dining space offers both indoor and dog-friendly outdoor patio with heating. Warm, welcoming atmosphere features Punjabi music that energizes the setting. Clean, spacious environment complements authentic Indian cuisine known for standout dishes like butter chicken and korma.

Offers authentic Indian cuisine with delicious, quality dishes and warm, attentive service.

Shrimp here stands out with large size and perfect cooking. The shrimp tandoori offers strong flavor and is cooked just right.

People are saying

"The food recommendations from Joban were excellent."

"Joban's service made me feel right at home."

"Joban's recommendations for Seafood were amazing."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available daily from 11am to 3pm.

2

Expect a casual dining atmosphere with no strict dress code.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

02
Sazón Latino & Catering image 1
Family restaurant

Large patio with picnic tables and indoor seating creates a cozy atmosphere with friendly service. Outdoor area features a DJ and salsa bar offering unique salsas for taco customization. Neighborhood spot attracts a diverse crowd and maintains an authentic, comfortable vibe.

Rich, flavorful dishes like mole enchiladas and goat birria showcase genuine Mexican flavors. Staples such as adobada burritos, shrimp cocktails, and pasole offer a truly authentic taste experience.

Fish and Shrimp Ceviche stands out with fresh, vibrant flavors. Other seafood options include shrimp cocktails and dishes featuring authentic adobada and pasole preparations.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is great for enjoying flavorful food and fantastic salsas."

"The mole enchiladas and goat birria were rich, flavorful, and authentic."

"You have to try the fish and shrimp ceviche; it's awesomely delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough on the weekends.

2

The restaurant attracts people of all ages.

3

You can customize tacos with salsa from their salsa bar.

03
Casa Comal Cocina Tradicional Mexicana image 1

Small restaurant with an open kitchen and authentic Mexican decor creates a chill atmosphere. Outdoor seating is pleasant but limited to a few groups. Tacos and margaritas stand out as flavorful highlights.

Mexican food here has an authentic feel that recalls traditional home cooking. The guacamole stands out as very authentic and flavorful.

Fish tacos stand out with a notable Baja style and consistent quality. Shrimp empanadas impress with their large size and rich flavor, making them a memorable choice.

People are saying

"The octopus taco is the best I've ever had."

"The food here is so authentic, it reminded me of tacos in Mexico City."

"The fish tacos here are outstanding."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos, making it a popular event.

2

Street parking is available near the restaurant, but can be limited.

3

Menu items may be unavailable during lunch hours, so check ahead.

04
Yoichi's image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, minimally decorated space offers a quiet, intimate atmosphere with jazzy Studio Ghibli music setting a unique tone. Guests experience fresh, high-quality sushi and thoughtful kaiseki courses that highlight authentic Japanese flavors. Reservations are essential due to the table-side, personalized service in this cozy setting.

Eight course meals showcase authentic Japanese flavors with dishes carefully adjusted to cultural traditions. Kaiseki style offers a high quality gourmet experience that stays true to its roots.

Seafood here is flown in from Japan, offering tender and creamy shrimp and fish. The fish is consistently fresh and of high quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The fine dining here shows incredible care in each artistic and tasty dish."

"The authentic Japanese food here is deeply flavorful and made with serious care."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is required due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Yoichi's is open only Thursday to Sunday.

3

The dining experience is a unique kaiseki style with multiple courses.

05
Meet Up Chinese Cuisine 遇见音乐餐厅 image 1

Robot servers deliver food in a setting with retro '80s decor and a feminine interior. The atmosphere feels warm and inviting, suitable for dates or dinners with friends, though noise can carry off tile walls. Round tables with lazy Susans facilitate sharing dishes.

Sichuan dishes offer authentic flavors with a moderately rich, salty profile and generous portions. The menu features authentic Chinese dishes that taste very close to traditional recipes.

Spicy Fish in Chili Oil and Steamed Whole Sea Bass stand out with bold flavors and fresh preparation. Shrimp dishes and grilled fish also offer solid options for seafood lovers.

People are saying

"The authentic Sichuan flavors here are bold and beautifully balanced."

"The robots serving Chinese food were a blast to watch."

"I thought the Chinese food here was the best I had ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available daily from 11am to 3pm.

2

Parking is plentiful and free for restaurant patrons.

3

Expect higher prices for authentic dishes compared to Americanized options.

06
Palapa Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic casual atmosphere and outdoor seating that feels like dining in Cancún. The vibe is family friendly and friendly, with a mix of local regulars and visitors. The space combines intimate indoor areas and a lively patio near the road.

Mexican food tastes authentic and comes with fresh salsa at the table. The atmosphere feels casual and genuine.

Shrimp ceviche and shrimp a la diabla stand out with bold flavors. Fish tacos, seafood enchiladas, and shrimp cocktails offer solid variety and freshness.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and delicious."

"The seafood enchiladas and breaded shrimp were very good."

"I loved the delicious, authentic Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm on weekdays with great deals on drinks.

2

The restaurant offers a wide variety of menu options to cater to different tastes.

3

Palapa Restaurant has a pet-friendly patio area for dining with pets.

07
Super Cucas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vintage carniceria style blends with covered outdoor seating that includes heated areas and views of hills. The atmosphere feels authentic and comfortable, drawing a crowded, local crowd with a strong reputation for phenomenal burritos and a dedicated vegan menu.

Food serves authentic Mexican cuisine with large burritos and veggie options. The restaurant feels comfortable and genuine with consistently great flavors.

Shrimp quesadilla stands out with its great flavor and is a popular choice. The menu also features a healthy shrimp burrito and a shrimp and carnitas dish served over rice and beans.

People are saying

"I thought the burritos here were the best I've ever had."

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and authentic."

"I thought the shrimp quesadilla was especially delicious."

Good to know

1

Super Cucas has a dedicated vegan menu, including vegan cheese and vegan chorizo.

2

Parking is limited, so expect a packed lot during peak hours.

3

Super Cucas is popular among locals and often crowded.

08
Taqueria La Unica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers lively, festive atmosphere with bright colors and traditional music. Seating includes cozy outdoor areas with a fireplace and heat lamps. A large, fresh salsa bar adds to the vibrant dining experience.

Mexican food here offers authentic street tacos and a huge selection of dishes made with fresh, quality ingredients. The flavors are delicious and true to tradition.

Fish tacos come in several varieties like shrimp, Carne Asada, and smoked marlin, all praised for their flavor. The surf n turf bone marrow combines roasted bone marrow with steak and shrimp. The fish soup is rich and salty, packed with tender seafood including octopus.

People are saying

"The salsa bar here is fresh and offers a great range of heat and flavor."

"I found the food here to be very authentic and delicious."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2.95 tacos, making it a popular choice.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers during weekdays.

3

The restaurant is very clean, even during busy hours.

09
Maiz Picante Taqueria image 1
Taco restaurant

Small, clean space with a modern, simple design echoes trendy Mexican taquerias. Loud, hype music sets an energetic vibe while the dining area feels tight and warm. Known for authentic tacos, vegan options, and notable margaritas, it offers a focused, no-frills experience.

Tacos and burritos here have a genuine Mexican flavor that stands out. The food tastes authentic and stays true to traditional recipes.

Shrimp tacos stand out with pastor shrimp and grilled shrimp options. Other notable dishes include birria and carnitas tacos, alongside potato, chicken, and sirloin varieties.

People are saying

"These tacos are seriously delicious and flavorful."

"The shrimp tacos here are fantastic and perfectly marinated."

"I tasted the best authentic tacos I ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available behind the building via Alamar.

2

The restaurant is open late for takeout but not for dine-in after 9 PM.

3

The menu includes great vegan and vegetarian options.

10
ShangHai Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers authentic dishes with generous portions and a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere. Loyal locals frequent the place, enjoying vegetarian options and specialties like orange chicken and twice-cooked pork. The owner’s personality adds warmth, making it stand out for genuine flavors and value.

Food features authentic Sichuan flavors with dishes like mapo tofu served boiling in a clay pot. The menu focuses on fresh, traditional Chinese recipes that stand out for their genuine taste.

Schezuan shrimp stands out with bold flavors, paired well with orange chicken and chow mein in a tasty trio. Pickled fish tastes average and lacks much pickled cabbage.

People are saying

"I loved the vegetarian menu; the flavors were incredible."

"I found the Chinese food here to be so authentic and delicious."

"The pickled fish seafood here had a texture like mustard greens."

Good to know

1

The lunch special menu offers great value for money.

2

There are many vegetarian options available, including vegan dishes.

3

Authentic dishes are recommended for the best experience.

11
Your Place Restaurant image 1
Thai restaurant

Small building with traditional Thai decor creates a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with dim lighting and no loud music. The place draws those seeking authentic Thai food, especially known for Tom Kah soup and well-executed noodle dishes.

Fresh ingredients create authentic Thai flavors here. The menu stays true to traditional recipes, offering a genuine taste experience.

Garlic shrimp with almonds stands out with its rich sauce and crunchy nuts. Steamed basil garlic fish offers a fresh, aromatic flavor, and seafood soup pot adds a hearty touch to the menu.

People are saying

"The seafood soup pot and garlic shrimp were outstanding."

"The curry here is so flavorful and authentic."

"I found the most authentic Thai food with delicious, fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy dinner hours.

2

Prices for main dishes range from $10 to $25, depending on the selection.

3

The large Tom Kha soup serves multiple people and is a popular choice.

12
Augie's of Santa Barbara image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open air patio overlooks a busy street with palm tree roof feature and beautiful bar. Atmosphere blends upscale fun with a local vibe, energized by music that evokes Mexico. Known for an exceptional tequila selection and handcrafted cocktails, it attracts those seeking a lively yet classy setting.

Unique, authentic Mexican food and atmosphere stand out here. The cuisine and drinks are delicious and well presented.

Fresh fish shines in the ceviche and fish tacos. Shrimp comes out perfectly cooked in dishes like the baja shrimp tacos and enchiladas.

People are saying

"Hector was the best server for our Mexican food."

"The seafood here is super good and fresh."

"The food here is authentic, delicious, and well presented."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

3

The restaurant opens at 11:00 AM daily, but check for holiday hours.

13
Kyoto Japanese Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Authentic Japanese decor includes tatami rooms that offer a traditional dining experience with floor seating. Atmosphere varies from quiet and charming in private rooms to loud and lively when groups gather, especially college-age parties. Comfortable armchair-style seating in hallways contrasts with the more intimate tatami areas.

Authentic Japanese decor includes tatami rooms and private spaces that create a genuine atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of authentic sushi and traditional dishes that reflect true Japanese flavors.

Freshness varies, with tuna and yellowtail standing out while some fish feels chewy and not fresh. Shrimp tempura and Hawaiian roll offer solid options, but imitation crab appears in the sunomono.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, especially the tuna and yellowtail."

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the tuna and yellowtail."

"I found the Japanese food here to be really authentic."

Good to know

1

There is ample parking available in the free lot.

2

Expect shorter wait times than previously reported during busy hours.

3

An 18% gratuity is automatically added for parties of 8 or more.

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