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Best of Santa Barbara

Fish dinner spots

You are looking for a dinner spot that prioritizes high-quality fish.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Yoichi's image 1
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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.

Course dinners replace à la carte options, offering a private dining feel. Portions fill you up and include detailed explanations, making the experience informative and satisfying.

Selection includes shrimp and fish flown in from Japan offering a tender and creamy texture. Fish consistently arrives fresh, standing out among local options.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The dinner spots here have meticulous preparation and delightful flavors."

"The fish here is really fresh."

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.

02
Silvers Omakase image 1
Restaurant

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.

Dinner features freshest omakase style sushi with a focus on perfectly crafted courses. The experience feels unforgettable and well worth the money.

Fish comes from the finest purveyors and shows highest quality in every piece. Unique combinations and rare varieties pair with sushi rice to deliver beautiful Umami and Dashi flavor. Chef Lennon and his team share stories that add depth to the experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is expertly crafted and presented with meticulous attention to detail."

"The Dinner Spots here feature expertly crafted food and outstanding rice."

"The fish here is so high quality and prepared with such care."

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.

3

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

03
Edomasa Sushi Bar & Restaurant image 1

Small Japanese-style restaurant offers a calm, authentic vibe with a no-frills atmosphere that feels comfortable and homey. It attracts diners looking for generous sushi portions at affordable prices, with a menu reflecting genuine Japanese ownership and influence.

Dinner specials offer great value with generous portions and fresh sushi. The spot suits both date nights and group dinners.

Fish here is very fresh and melts in your mouth. The sushi features a perfect rice-to-fish ratio and offers a dazzling variety including local uni and many kinds on the love boat.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"I'd eat at this sushi spot again; it's my favorite."

"The fish here is so fresh, it melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Edomasa is open late until 10:30 PM.

2

The restaurant is family-owned and emphasizes quality service.

3

Edomasa offers a variety of sushi and Japanese dishes.

04
The Palace Grill image 1
Cajun restaurant

Space channels New Orleans style with unique decor and communal sing-alongs led by staff and veteran artists. Atmosphere stays fun and lively without being loud, blending classic warmth with engaging entertainment. Regulars enjoy authentic Cajun vibes that create a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

Dinner here offers a reliable reservation system with last-minute availability and a consistently amazing dining experience that draws repeat visits over many years.

Blackened Red Fish stands out as a special entree, prepared with care and full of flavor. The fish dishes here feel unique and well crafted, especially the Louisiana redfish which tastes delicious.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious and wonderfully layered."

"You have to try the bread pudding with the best bourbon sauce."

"I ordered the redfish and it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times.

2

The restaurant features a sing-along of 'What a Wonderful World' once or twice a night.

3

All diners are invited to join in the sing-along during the performance.

05
Alma Fonda Fina image 1
Restaurant

Bright, intimate space with fun decor and patio dining options creates a lively atmosphere. Loud energy fills both inside and outside areas, welcoming diners and dogs alike. Focus on high-quality Mexican cuisine with thoughtful ingredient choices sets it apart from typical offerings.

Dinner offers an incredible variety with many options across the menu. Making a reservation ahead of time is common due to its popularity for evening meals.

Baja-style fish tacos stand out with fresh, vibrant flavors. Fresh ceviche includes tropical fruit, adding a unique twist to the seafood offerings.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is incredible, especially the tacos."

"I thought this was something special, a truly magical dinner spot."

"I felt magic was happening in the kitchen with the fish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to ensure a table.

2

The menu is limited but features high-quality, fresh ingredients.

3

Expect a unique twist on traditional Mexican dishes, not typical tacos or burritos.

06
Harry's Plaza Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Spacious American restaurant with old-school steakhouse vibe and red leather booths creates a retro speakeasy atmosphere. Energy stays lively with a classic full bar serving strong martinis and cocktails. Crowd leans toward retirees and families enjoying a traditional, comfortable setting.

Offers a satisfying dinner experience suitable for family meals or private dates. Serves consistently good food and drinks, making it a reliable spot for evening dining.

Fish and chips come in large portions and have a warm, musty flavor. Salmon dishes feature very tender fish paired with risotto.

People are saying

"It's got this cool, old-school vibe with classic red booths."

"I celebrated Christmas dinner here and it was the very best."

"I loved the fish and chips here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups.

2

The all-you-can-eat deal is available for under a dollar.

3

The cafe has a private back room suitable for large gatherings.

07
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 1

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.

Dinner offers great value, especially the Dinner for Two combo priced at $60. Meals feature flavorful Indian tandoori dishes that make for a satisfying evening meal.

Tandoori fish stands out with its superb softness and rich flavor. It pairs well with dishes like paneer raisin bread and lamb biryani.

People are saying

"The food recommendations from Joban were excellent."

"Our server Joban was so nice and attentive."

"Joban's attentive service made our fish dinner feel like royal treatment."

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.

08
The Brewhouse image 1
American restaurant

Industrial decor sets a casual, come-as-you-are vibe with outdoor patios and distinct seating areas. Friendly energy fills the space, welcoming families and locals alike, often accompanied by live local music. The spot stands out for being dog friendly with a special menu for furry companions.

Dinner here features good food that draws repeat visits. It suits special occasions like weddings and anniversaries without requiring minimums.

Fish dishes include fish and chips with generous portions and pistachio-crusted salmon cooked to perfection. Fish tacos also stand out as a great option among the pub-style meals.

People are saying

"The beer here is great and flavorful."

"The food here is amazing; I'd return for dinner."

"The fish and chips here are delicious and a great value."

Good to know

1

The Brewhouse is dog-friendly and offers a special menu for pets.

2

Free parking is available in the rear of The Brewhouse.

3

Happy hour includes a cheeseburger and a beer for $14.

09
Bar Lou image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant offers a romantic, cozy atmosphere with a quiet, mellow vibe and classy metropolitan decor. A lovely outdoor patio adds to the intimate setting. Music complements the warm and convivial mood throughout.

Outdoor patio offers a relaxed setting for dinner. Cocktails and dinner feature delicious flavors and a dry dinner option exists. Reservations are honored with timely seating in the dining room.

Local fish dishes stand out with the Provencal style offering a spicy kick. Specials include a frisée and asparagus salad paired with fresh fish, alongside oysters that complement the menu.

People are saying

"The French food here is stunning and flavorful."

"The dinner here is unbelievable, especially the pasta with uni."

"The fish Provençal was excellent and spicy."

Good to know

1

Bar Lou closes at 3pm and reopens at 5pm.

2

Happy Hour is available on Fridays with special pricing.

3

The menu features a limited selection but is well curated.

10
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.

The spot offers a friendly atmosphere ideal for dinners with friends. It suits celebrations well and serves both lunch and dinner options.

Grilled fish and boiled fish come out perfectly cooked. Spicy options like Spicy Fish in Chili Oil and Spicy Crispy Fish stand out. Fish soup and sole fish also feature well on the menu.

People are saying

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

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

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

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.

11
O NIGIRI & SUSHI image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with cozy vibes and intimate seating including a sushi bar facing the street. Warm, family-oriented atmosphere feels inviting and casual. Known for fresh, beautifully presented sushi and a menu with diverse Japanese options.

Dinners feature fresh sushi with a beautiful presentation. The meals consistently impress with delicious flavors.

Fresh fish stands out with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and clear taste. Cooked fish rolls offer variety for those avoiding raw options, while the rice quality supports the overall sushi experience.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and tastes amazing."

"The fish here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious for dinner spots."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has been open for over 20 years.

2

The menu offers a wide variety of sushi options.

3

The original owner has returned to manage the restaurant.

12
Moby Dick Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers gorgeous marina views and ample indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is laid-back and family-friendly, with outdoor areas shaded and comfortable. Music and a small TV add to the casual vibe, making it suitable for both casual meals and romantic dates.

Dinner features light, crispy Alaskan Cod fish and chips and a Cioppino option. Staff contribute to a great dining experience with views available during early dinners.

Freshness stands out with Alaskan Cod used in fish and chips that stay crispy through dinner. Fish tacos come off the grill steaming hot and whole fish dishes are served with fair portions at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The sunset view from the restaurant was amazing."

"I thought the fish and chips were good."

"The dinner spots here have amazing sunset views."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from 3 pm to 5 pm with affordable appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers 90 minutes of free parking for diners.

3

Outdoor seating is not accessible during lunch hours.

13
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.

Early dinner here offers a relaxed vibe with solid options that satisfy. The spot works well for families and those looking for a casual late lunch or early dinner experience.

Fish dishes feature steamed basil garlic fish with a memorable sauce and garlic fried fish. Seafood appears in a soup pot that stands out alongside other dishes.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here are just alright, nothing special."

"I found this place to be the best Thai restaurant in town."

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.

14
Sushi Teri - Santa Barbara Japanese Restaurant image 1

Small sushi restaurant offers a casual, relaxed atmosphere with comfortable outdoor patio seating featuring space heaters. The vibe is intimate and pleasant, attracting locals seeking fresh, high-quality sushi at reasonable prices.

Ordering online works well for a quick dinner on the go. Waitstaff recommend the Sushi Samples Dinner as a solid main course choice. The spot suits first dates and family dinners.

Fresh fish stands out with good quality and clear freshness. Miso soup tastes like a fish broth, which may surprise some.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fish here is so fresh, it's the best."

"The dinner spots here are amazing, just like in Japan."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and mostly on the street, which can be challenging.

2

Expect minimal wait times, especially on weekdays.

3

Prices are reasonable, especially for the quality of sushi offered.

15
Eureka! image 1
American restaurant

Corner location with plenty of outdoor patio seating creates a spacious, inviting environment. Atmosphere balances cool bar vibe and youthful energy without overwhelming noise, allowing easy conversation. Offers wide whisky selection and strong cocktails, attracting smaller groups seeking a relaxed late-night spot.

Dinner here takes over an hour and a half even without appetizers. The spot offers a nice location for a walk after eating and covers all essentials for a solid dinner.

Fish dishes include fish and chips with truffle fries and seared ahi salad. Portions vary, with some like the fish tacos and salmon salad being small, while the fish is generally cooked correctly but can be mediocre.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious burgers."

"The service at these dinner spots was speedy and excellent."

"The fish and chips here are delicious and came out hot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food and drink specials, making it a great time to visit.

2

Eureka! is dog friendly, allowing pets on the outdoor patio.

3

Parking is available at the public lot next to the restaurant.

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