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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Barbara

Cool seafood spots

Made for those who gravitate toward the most interesting spots and expect their seafood to match the vibe.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
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Updated May 2026
01
Dusk Bar image 1
Dusk Bar image 2
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Small, modern bar with an open, airy design that shifts to an intimate, moody vibe at night. Live music on Tuesdays creates a relaxed, low-pressure atmosphere for conversation and drinks. The space feels inviting and packed, with no screens and a focus on expertly mixed cocktails and fresh seafood.

Oysters stand out with fresh Laguna Bay varieties and a perfectly fresh taste. Happy hour offers BOGO oysters that pair well with mezcal cocktails and shrimp aguachile.

The space features a cool concept and design that stands out. It creates a very cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are masters and make great drinks."

"I love the wide variety of artisanal tequilas and mezcals they offer."

"The cocktails here are creative and really delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers BOGO oysters, providing good value on select days.

2

Live music occurs every Tuesday evening at Dusk Bar.

3

Expect a 5-minute wait during peak hours on Fridays around 6pm.

02
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.

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.

Robots serve the food, adding a cool tech vibe. A waterfall also stands out as a unique feature.

People are saying

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

"The robots serving the food are pretty cool."

"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.

03
Rincon Brewery image 1

Large, open space with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating including two spacious patios surrounded by gardens and trees. Atmosphere stays laid-back and chill despite nearby foot traffic, with respectful guests and a cool vibe. Tables feature board games and ping pong, adding a playful touch for all ages.

Fish and chips stand out with a crispy texture and solid flavor. Blackened shrimp tacos offer a spicy, bold taste. Shrimp appears in multiple dishes, showing a focus on seafood variety.

A cool vibe defines the atmosphere here. The spot feels really cool and laid-back.

People are saying

"They have a large selection of tasty beers."

"I loved the fish and chips; they were really nice."

"The beer here is phenomenal, especially with the beach vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks.

2

Limited parking is available near the brewery; consider street parking.

3

Rincon Brewery offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

04
Rare Society image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse offers a beautifully decorated interior with a dog-friendly outdoor patio that brings lively energy. The atmosphere is loud and vibrant, not suited for quiet or intimate dining. Guests enjoy excellent steak and bourbon selections alongside creative cocktails.

Oysters stand out with their perfect freshness and quality. The seafood tower offers a 5-star selection including Ahi Tuna and other fish, paired well with mushrooms and New York steak.

Mirrors and lights at the tables and bar create a cool atmosphere. The interior decoration adds to the cool ambience throughout the space.

People are saying

"The steak here was cooked very well and tasted buttery."

"I loved the oysters; they were some of the best I've ever had."

"The filet mignon and wagyu cuts were amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Oysters are $1 each on Mondays, a great deal for seafood lovers.

05
La Cantina Bar & Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with indoor/outdoor seating and multiple TVs showing football creates a lively, sports-friendly atmosphere. The space combines heated patios and a cool bar vibe, attracting families and sports fans alike. Fresh, welcoming environment features beautiful decor and a casual, local cantina feel.

Fresh seafood features in dishes like Aguachiles with shrimp, cucumber, and lime, and seafood enchiladas topped with creamy chipotle sauce. Steak and shrimp fajitas also highlight the seafood options.

The space has a cool bar vibe that sets a relaxed mood. Overall, the atmosphere feels consistently cool and inviting.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are beautiful and taste amazing."

"The seafood enchiladas la Paz were packed with fresh seafood."

"I found the vibe here to be cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is daily from 3:00-5:30 pm with a special menu.

2

The restaurant offers gluten-free options, but check with staff for preparation.

3

Parking is available in the Vons shopping center lot.

06
Stearns Wharf image 1
Historical landmark

Pier offers breathtaking ocean and mountain views with a peaceful, historic atmosphere. Visitors enjoy fishing off the dock and exploring hands-on marine exhibits popular with children. The area features casual dining and souvenir shops that complement the relaxing vibe.

Fishing off the pier offers chances to catch species like thresher shark. Fresh seafood restaurants serve fish and chips with oceanfront views and the sound of waves.

Views from the pier offer cool waterfront scenes and a chance to cool down by the ocean. Several cool restaurants line the pier, making it a pleasant spot to hang out.

People are saying

"The panoramic views of the mountains meeting the Pacific are breathtaking."

"I enjoyed the fresh seafood with stunning ocean views."

"I thought the pier was a cool place to visit with great views."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 90 minutes at Stearns Wharf.

2

There are various shops and restaurants with ocean views on the wharf.

3

Visitors can walk to Stearns Wharf from nearby hotels.

07
Brass Bear Uptown image 1

Brewpub offers mountain views from both indoor and outdoor patio seating, creating a laid-back, warm atmosphere. A dedicated family zone with a play area keeps children entertained while adults enjoy crafted cocktails and local beers. The space balances casual dining with scenic relaxation, making it suitable for both brunch and private events.

Buffets include shrimp and chicken thighs that appeal to both kids and adults. Menu offers fish and chips alongside other common dishes like burgers and salads. Portion sizes for seafood can be small, such as a few frozen shrimp in some meals.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing; Emily helped bring my vision to life."

"The outdoor patio has a cool mountain view."

"I loved the casual patio and mountain views."

Good to know

1

Brass Bear Uptown is suitable for hosting private events and weddings.

2

They only offer valet parking, and street parking is limited.

3

Happy hour runs at specific times, which can be confusing.

08
Broad Street Oyster Company image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers an open space with shared bar areas and a dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere feels casual and chill, with a mix of tropical styles and a self-service setup. Fresh oysters and lobster rolls stand out among the seafood specialties.

Fish and chips come with a single, crispy, well-cooked piece of fish and light, fresh fries. Jumbo shrimp are huge, fresh, and nicely battered, while oysters stay clean, fresh, and reasonably priced.

Great decor and cleanliness set a cool vibe. The atmosphere feels funky and relaxed, with employees who add to the chill mood.

People are saying

"The lobster roll here is so fresh and tasty."

"The seafood here, especially the lobster rolls, had a generous amount of fresh, tender lobster."

"The fish and chips here are the bomb, so crispy and tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay over $20 for cafeteria-style food items.

2

A lobster roll costs $35, with sides priced separately.

3

The restaurant has a casual self-service setup.

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