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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Barbara

Fish

Made for those who prioritize fresh fish as the primary focus of their meal.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Silvers Omakase image 1
Silvers Omakase image 2
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Restaurant

Small sushi counter offers handcrafted dinnerware and an elegant atmosphere. Fish from top purveyors delivers rare varieties with rich Umami and Dashi flavors. Thoughtful sake pairings and chef stories create a warm, personal vibe.

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 sake here is served in a beautiful, intimate setting."

"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.

02
Happy Cat Eats image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor seating offers stunning beach views and a casual vibe with games like corn hole. Fish dishes shine with fresh flaky fish in options like crispy fish and chips and sushi sando. Loud music adds energy near the pier, making it lively yet relaxed.

Fish dishes feature fresh and flaky fish with no strong fishy taste. Options include crispy fish and chips, fish tacos, and a sushi sando with crispy rice bread and seaweed salad.

People are saying

"I loved the outdoor seating right across from the beach."

"You have to try the breakfast burrito with mac and cheese."

"The fish and chips were so tasty and crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and there is usually no wait.

2

The restaurant has outdoor seating and a kid’s menu.

3

Parking is limited, but a parking deck is two blocks away.

03
Santa Barbara Sportfishing Charters image 1

Spacious boat offers plenty of deck room and a relaxed vibe with gorgeous views and dolphin sightings. Captain Tony leads to secret fishing spots with 9-10 species caught, including a sizable blue lingcod. Recipe tips add to the fun for all skill levels.

Trips yield lots of fish with 9-10 different species caught. Captain Tony finds spots quickly and offers recipe suggestions. A sizable blue lingcod stands out among the catch.

People are saying

"Captain Tony knows exactly where to find the fish."

"Captain Tony made the day so relaxed and enjoyable for everyone."

"It's so Kid Friendly; Tony made sure the kids had fun and learned."

Good to know

1

Captain Tony is knowledgeable about local fishing spots and the coastline.

2

The trip includes opportunities to catch various types of fish, including rockfish and halibut.

3

Expect a fair pricing structure for the quality of the fishing experience.

04
Alma Fonda Fina image 1
Restaurant

Bright, intimate space buzzes with lively atmosphere and patio dining. Baja-style fish tacos offer fresh, vibrant flavors while ceviche surprises with tropical fruit twist. High-quality Mexican dishes shine with thoughtful ingredients in a dog-friendly setting.

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.

05
Bar Lou image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant shines with Provencal fish dishes and fresh oysters. Cozy, romantic vibe with classy metropolitan decor and a quiet, mellow atmosphere. Enjoy the lovely outdoor patio and music that enhances the warm, convivial mood.

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.

06
The Brewhouse image 1
American restaurant

Industrial decor creates a casual vibe with outdoor patios perfect for families and locals. Fish dishes shine with pistachio-crusted salmon and hearty fish and chips. Dog friendly with a special menu, plus live local music adds to the friendly energy.

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 outdoor space here is really nice, especially the patio."

"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.

07
Yoichi's image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with intimate atmosphere and jazzy Studio Ghibli music creates a unique vibe. Fresh shrimp and fish flown from Japan offer tender, creamy texture. Personalized kaiseki courses highlight authentic Japanese flavors with thoughtful service.

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

"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.

08
Edomasa Sushi Bar & Restaurant image 1

Small Japanese-style spot serves fresh fish that melts in your mouth with a perfect rice-to-fish ratio. Enjoy generous sushi portions at affordable prices in a calm, authentic vibe that feels homey and comfortable.

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 decided this would be my new favorite sushi spot."

"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.

09
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center image 1

Small aquarium offers interactive touch tanks with sharks and sea stars, perfect for fish lovers. Educational programs teach about local sea life, making it great for learning. Waterfront views from the pier add a beautiful setting to the intimate experience.

Many interactive stations let kids touch fish and sea urchins. Tanks hold a variety of fish, manta rays, and snails, though some tanks look dirty and fish appear unhealthy.

People are saying

"It's really Kid Friendly with lots of interactive exhibits."

"This local spot has great displays of local sea life."

"You can touch fish and other sea creatures like sharks and stingrays."

Good to know

1

Admission is $14 for adults, but only $3 with WIC or SNAP benefits.

2

The Sea Center features interactive exhibits and touch tanks for hands-on learning.

3

Children aged 3 to 5 will enjoy the numerous touch pools available.

10
The Palace Grill image 1
Cajun restaurant

Space channels New Orleans style with unique decor and lively communal sing-alongs. Blackened Red Fish shines as a special entree full of flavor. Authentic Cajun vibes create a one-of-a-kind dining experience that blends warmth with engaging entertainment.

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."

"The Bread Pudding is incredible and worth the wait."

"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.

11
Meet Up Chinese Cuisine 遇见音乐餐厅 image 1

Robot servers serve perfectly cooked grilled and boiled fish in a warm, retro '80s setting with feminine decor. Spicy dishes like Spicy Fish in Chili Oil shine alongside fish soup. Round tables with lazy Susans make sharing easy in this inviting spot.

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."

"You've got to try the fish with dry chili oil, it's amazing."

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.

12
Casa Comal Cocina Tradicional Mexicana image 1

Small spot with authentic Mexican decor and an open kitchen offers a chill vibe. Baja style fish tacos shine alongside tasty shrimp empanadas. Outdoor seating is cozy but limited, perfect for enjoying flavorful margaritas.

Fish tacos stand out with a Baja style that many find outstanding. Shrimp empanadas also appear alongside the fish options, though availability can vary.

People are saying

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

"This Mexican food is so authentic, it reminds me of home."

"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.

13
Santa Barbara Fish Market image 1

Fresh local fish like tuna and halibut shine in dishes such as fish and chips. Outdoor patio offers a beautiful ocean view to enjoy meals. Lively atmosphere with early hours and quick sell-outs shows high demand and invites visitors.

Fish here is consistently fresh and local, including varieties like tuna, halibut, and rock fish. The quality stands out, especially in dishes like fish and chips, which are notably good.

People are saying

"I found the seafood here to be super fresh, tasting like it was still from the sea."

"You can enjoy the fresh catch on the patio seating."

"The fish here is so fresh and high quality."

Good to know

1

Sea urchin availability depends on stock, so call to confirm before visiting.

2

Certain products are only available early in the morning.

3

They offer to-go food such as seared fish and poke.

14
Stardust Sportfishing image 1
Fishing charter

Boat offers a clean environment with music that lifts the mood. Crew ensures monster fish catches, focusing on rock fish spots. Trips run long but end with a cooler full of fish. Food is pricey, but the Mega Mouth burger is a must-try.

The crew works hard to keep everyone catching fish, putting the boat on the rock fish honeypot repeatedly. Every trip ends with a cooler full of fish and everyone catching more than 10 monster fish.

People are saying

"The crew's helpfulness preparing our seafood catch was over the top."

"The crew's super helpful with fishing, especially for beginners."

"The crew's expertise in untangling lines was world-class."

Good to know

1

The half day trip only goes out once a week on Wednesdays.

2

Expect the half day trip to last from 9am to 3pm, but it often runs late.

3

The full day trip is advertised from 7am to 5pm, but plan for up to 12 hours.

15
Your Place Restaurant image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy spot with traditional Thai decor offers authentic dishes like Tom Kah soup and standout steamed basil garlic fish. Dim lighting sets a relaxed mood. Noodle dishes and seafood soups also impress.

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 curry here is so flavorful and authentic."

"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.

16
Harry's Plaza Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Spacious spot with a retro vibe and red leather booths offers large, warm-flavored fish and chips and tender salmon with risotto. Classic full bar serves strong martinis. Crowd favors retirees and families in a lively, comfortable setting.

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 loved the all-you-can-eat deal for under a dollar."

"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.

17
La Playa Azul Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio shines with fairy lights and heaters, creating a cozy vibe. Fish tacos boast perfectly grilled halibut with fresh cabbage and sauces. Generous portions and premium margaritas complete the lively, local crowd atmosphere.

Fish dishes feature large pieces of perfectly grilled halibut in tacos with fresh cabbage and flavorful sauces. The menu offers an impressive variety including fish, chicken, beef, and veggie options.

People are saying

"I found the happy hour food to be well worth the money."

"The outdoor seating is beautiful, comfortable, and fun."

"The fish tacos are delicious and perfectly grilled."

Good to know

1

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

2

Street parking is available, but it can be limited during busy times.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller purchases.

18
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara image 1

Spacious rooms open to a serene garden with a koi fish pond and turtles. Guests enjoy a heated pool and spa in a quiet, tropical setting. Kids love feeding the fish and ducks, making it a peaceful spot for family fun.

A koi fish pond sits near the pool and hot tub area, alongside turtles and ducks. Kids can feed the fish and other pond animals with food available on site.

People are saying

"The breakfast staff here is really great."

"It's a quiet place with zero disturbances."

"You can feed the koi fish and ducks in the lagoon."

Good to know

1

Continental breakfast is served starting at 6:30 am with various options.

2

Parking costs an additional $50 per stay.

3

The hotel is conveniently located right off the freeway.

19
Taqueria La Unica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with Smoked Marlin Tacos and a rich fish soup featuring tender octopus. Bright colors and traditional music create a festive atmosphere. Cozy outdoor seating with a fireplace and heat lamps adds to the charm, while a large, fresh salsa bar livens up the meal.

Fish tacos stand out with options like Smoked Marlin Tacos praised by fans. The fish soup offers a rich, salty broth with tender octopus, but some fish dishes lack seasoning and do not come with lemon.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor seating is amazing with a warm fireplace."

"The charred, smoky fish tacos are 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.

20
Stearns Wharf image 1
Historical landmark

Pier offers breathtaking ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere with historic charm. Fishing off the dock is popular, with catches like thresher shark spotted. Casual dining serves fish and chips and clam chowder, perfect after exploring hands-on marine exhibits.

Fishing happens right off the pier, with catches like a thresher shark spotted. Food options include fish and chips and fresh fish sold nearby, alongside clam chowder and beer.

People are saying

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

"You'll find fun activities like strolling, shopping, and eating with great ocean views."

"The fish and chips here are pretty good."

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.

21
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 1

Large, airy space offers dog-friendly patio and warm Punjabi music. Tandoori fish is superb softness with rich flavor. Authentic Indian dishes like butter chicken and korma shine in a clean, welcoming setting.

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."

"I found the Butter Chicken to be fantastic and well made."

"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.

22
Pier Santa Barbara image 1
Tourist attraction

Long wooden pier offers stunning ocean views and calm vibes. Fishing is easy with gear rentals and no license needed. Fresh fish and chips make a perfect meal after catching fish. Paddleboarding and kayaking add fun to the peaceful scene.

Fishing happens right off the pier with gear rentals and no license needed. Fresh fish and chips serve as a tasty reward after a few hours of fishing.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great view; it was amazing."

"I found lots of fun things to do and relax here."

"I enjoyed my fish and chips with a breathtaking ocean view."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 90 minutes at Pier Santa Barbara.

2

Live music events occur regularly at the pier, especially on weekends.

3

Happy hour specials are available at various restaurants on the pier.

23
Dargan's image 1
Irish pub

Brick walls and authentic Irish decor create a lively, warm vibe. Huge portions of fish and chips and tasty fish bites satisfy seafood lovers. Multiple TVs show sports, making it a friendly, noisy spot during games.

Fish and chips come in huge portions and taste excellent. Fish bites also appear on the menu alongside hearty stews and bar fare.

People are saying

"This pub serves delicious, authentic Irish food and hearty stews."

"It's a low-pressure place to just have fun and chill."

"The fish and chips here are excellent and come in huge portions."

Good to know

1

Karaoke takes place on Thursday nights starting at 10pm.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with drink and appetizer specials.

3

The pub offers traditional Irish music and dancing on Thursday evenings.

24
Eureka! image 1
American restaurant

Corner spot offers plenty of outdoor seating and a wide whisky selection for relaxed nights. Fish dishes like fish and chips with truffle fries are cooked well but portions vary. Atmosphere blends cool bar vibe with easy conversation and youthful energy.

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."

"JP's charm and expert drink suggestions made the bar feel like a celebration."

"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.

25
Sushi Go Go image 1
Sushi restaurant

Outdoor seating offers harbor views and a chill vibe for watching people. Sushi shines with fresh fish and real wasabi, delivering top-notch seafood. Small space with limited seating keeps it cozy and focused on quality.

Fresh fish stands out with every dish. Nigiri features perfect portions of fish and rice, delivering tasty and high-quality flavors consistently.

People are saying

"I found the sushi here to be really fresh and tasty."

"I loved the great harbor view right by the water."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating, so expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The menu does not list prices, so be prepared for potentially high costs.

3

Sashimi prices are reasonable compared to other sushi places.

26
Little Alex's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean spot offers fish tacos with great flavor and a happy hour deal. Enjoy a heated dog-friendly patio or watch sports on large TVs inside. Casual vibe pairs well with draft beer and fresh, local Mexican dishes.

Fish tacos stand out with good flavor and come in a happy hour deal. They pair well with a draft beer.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here tastes so fresh, especially the tacos."

"The patio is quiet and relaxing, perfect for lunch."

"I enjoyed the tasty fish tacos."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day from 3-6pm with good food and drink options.

2

There is plenty of free parking available at the new location.

3

The new location offers both indoor and outdoor seating for guests.

27
O NIGIRI & SUSHI image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy space with intimate seating creates a warm, family vibe. Fresh fish offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture that shines in every dish. Diverse Japanese menu and beautiful sushi presentation make it a casual yet special spot.

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."

"It's a cozy vibe with authentic, local decor."

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.

28
Rincon Brewery image 1

Large, open space offers spacious patios and board games for fun. Atmosphere stays laid-back and chill with respectful guests. Fish and chips vary, some are crispy and enjoyable, others oily.

Fish and chips appear frequently on the menu with mixed results. Some servings are crispy and enjoyable, while others come overly oily and hard to eat.

People are saying

"They have a large selection of tasty beers."

"The patio is a great outdoor space on a warm day."

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

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.

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