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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 727 Opinions
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01
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Small, intimate sushi counter with handcrafted Japanese dinnerware and artisanal finishes creates an elegant, modern atmosphere. Warm, approachable vibe with thoughtful personal touches and carefully curated sake pairings enhances the dining experience.

An authentic vibe fills the space with genuine passion. The team shares personable stories about their food and lives, creating a refined sushi experience.

Every piece of fish comes from the finest purveyors and shows high quality. Unique combinations and rare fish create an experience beyond just eating, with stories and history shared by the chef adding depth.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the fish and rice, is outstanding."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

The menu changes daily, reflecting seasonal ingredients and chef creativity.

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Omakase experience is traditional and focuses on the chef's selection.

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

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh, the best I've ever had."

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.

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

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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

"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.

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Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

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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 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.

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The restaurant attracts people of all ages.

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You can customize tacos with salsa from their salsa bar.

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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 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.

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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

"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.

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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.

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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 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.

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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."

"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.

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

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Outdoor patio and backyard seating create a cozy, charming atmosphere with a chill vibe. Handmade tortillas and a salsa bar highlight authentic Mexican flavors. The menu offers generous portions with a wide variety including meat, seafood, and greens.

Authentic tacos come with a salsa bar that adds fresh flavor. Tortillas are made traditionally using a wood board and roller early each morning. Everything feels cleaner and more genuine here.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh flavors and a loyal following. Daily specials include fresh fish ceviche and weekend oysters that arrive a couple of days old.

People are saying

"These authentic burritos are so heavy and tightly wrapped."

"I drove 40 miles for the fish tacos; they're the best in the game."

Good to know

1

Tortas cost $7 on Thursdays.

2

Daily specials include oysters on weekends.

3

Happy hour offers exceptional values on select items.

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Dining room features aged 1970s decor with cluttered entrance and paper tableware. Atmosphere is cheerful and lively, filled mostly with college students. Food includes authentic Chinese dishes with standout items like Kung Pao and Mu Shu Chicken.

Mapo tofu and twice-cooked pork have very authentic flavors. Some entrees include random flavors and are less authentic.

Kung pao shrimp and Shrimp with Lobster sauce stand out among the seafood options. The seafood noodles also deliver solid flavor beyond expectations.

People are saying

"The food here is really authentic Chinese."

Good to know

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The restaurant is located in a strip mall with plenty of free onsite parking.

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The menu offers a generous variety of items, especially during lunch specials.

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Portion sizes are reasonable, with three people able to share four dishes.

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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

"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.

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Santa Barbara, California

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