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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Santa Barbara

Seafood lunch spots

Made for those who view a midday meal as an opportunity to prioritize fresh seafood.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Alma Fonda Fina image 1
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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.

Food impresses enough to return for lunch. Many make it a weekly lunch and dinner spot.

Freshness stands out with high quality seafood and vibrant flavors. Baja-style fish tacos and fresh ceviche with tropical fruit highlight the seafood offerings.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is so fresh and the flavors are elevated."

"I found the food here excellent and made it my weekly lunch spot."

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.

02
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.

Lunch offers a thali special with salad, butter chicken, rice, and naan, providing a great variety. Prices stay incredible for sampling many dishes, and service can be special and attentive.

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."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was great, especially from Joban."

"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.

03
California Pasta Sandwich & Salads image 1

Outdoor seating dominates the space, offering a cozy patio with tables in a small alley near the embankment. The atmosphere feels quiet and inviting, suitable for relaxed meals or a first date. Music plays softly, enhancing the pleasant environment without overwhelming conversation.

Quick service and consistently excellent food make it a solid choice for lunch. Menu items are absolutely delicious, fitting well for office breaks or a shopping trip stop.

Shrimp dishes stand out with the Santa Barbara Spicy Shrimp and Cajun Shrimp Pasta being favorites. Seafood pasta options often include a mix of shrimp, clams, and Mahi Mahi, sometimes served with pesto sauce for added flavor.

People are saying

"The pasta here is amazing, fresh, and perfectly balanced."

"The seafood pasta here is amazing and flavorful."

"This lunch spot has delicious pasta and sandwiches."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms inside the establishment.

2

The nearest restroom is a two-minute walk above Panda Express.

3

The restaurant is open in the evening, unlike most other places.

04
Petit Valentien image 1
French restaurant

Small French bistro offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating with a quiet, intimate atmosphere that feels like dining in a European town. The place hosts a friendly, informal vibe ideal for social dinners or date nights. Weekends bring a unique twist with Ethiopian cuisine, adding variety to the experience.

Lunch features a special deal priced at $18. The offer provides a great value for midday meals.

Fish arrives with crispy skin and perfect cooking. Shrimp dishes include a butter sauce that pairs well with dinner rolls and a shrimp and leek starter that stands out.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, fresh, and perfectly seasoned."

"This Ethiopian Lunch Spot is incredibly good."

"The seafood here is perfectly cooked and wonderfully light."

Good to know

1

Making reservations is recommended before visiting.

2

Lunch offers a great deal at $18.

3

The menu changes every 2 weeks, so check for new items.

05
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.

A popular choice for a post-workout lunch, it serves well for casual family meals too. The spot offers a reliable and straightforward lunch experience with a variety of options.

Fresh fish stands out with its bright flavor and quality. Shrimp tempura offers crispy batter and tender shrimp, while shrimp chow mein features great noodles and juicy shrimp.

People are saying

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

"The fresh seafood, especially the shrimp tempura, was the best I ever had."

"The sushi here is always fresh and delicious."

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.

06
RH Firehouse Grill at RH Montecito image 1

Restaurant blends luxurious furniture with a serene backdrop of rolling hills creating a calming, relaxing atmosphere. Guests find the space gorgeous and inviting, with an outdoor patio offering wonderful views. The vibe suits those seeking a peaceful dining experience in an elegant setting.

Lunch offers a pleasant ambiance with beautiful surroundings. Meals come with tasty flavors suited for casual or business settings.

Shrimp dishes stand out with options like the grilled shrimp salad and a Shrimp Starter featuring six grilled shrimp with sauce. Appetizers often pair shrimp with vegetables or artichokes for a tasty combo.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the shrimp, is delicious and a favorite."

"The Brunch food was as lovely as the breathtaking setting."

"This Lunch Spot has delicious food that's all good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand since the restaurant just opened.

2

Valet parking is available, but consider street parking at nearby shopping centers.

3

A 4% service charge is added to all bills, noted in fine print on the menu.

07
Little Alex's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with ample outdoor seating and a heated dog-friendly patio offers a casual, relaxed atmosphere away from busy streets. Indoor area features a small bar and large TVs showing sports, creating a lively vibe that can get loud. Frequented for fresh, local Mexican food with standout dishes like fish tacos and specialty meats.

Outdoor patio offers a delicious lunch experience. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it draws repeat visits for midday meals.

Fish tacos stand out with happy hour specials and pair well with a draft beer. They offer a tasty, flavorful option that avoids blandness often found in similar dishes.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the tasty fish tacos."

"I thought the lunch spot here was delicious."

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.

08
Dargan's image 1
Irish pub

Brick-walled interior with authentic Irish decor creates a warm, lively atmosphere. Multiple seating areas include a bar with pool tables and a quieter dining section, separated by a sliding door. Frequented by friendly patrons, the place fills with noise during sports events shown on numerous TVs, offering traditional Irish drinks and meals.

Lunch offers a quiet atmosphere with few patrons during late hours. Staff aim to serve quickly, fitting meals into a 30-minute break window.

Fish and chips come in huge portions and taste excellent. The popcorn shrimp is hot and delicious, fitting well with the authentic Irish and British seafood offerings.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has fresh and tasty food."

"I loved the fish and chips, it's authentic Irish pub food."

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.

09
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.

Lunch specials come with beef and broccoli, a spring roll, and a choice of fried or steamed rice. The menu offers affordable and filling options that stand out for quality and value.

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."

"This lunch spot's food is amazing, especially the rice."

"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.

10
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.

Lunch offers a variety of hearty options like Meatloaf Special, spaghetti with meatballs, and Cobb salad. The spot also serves Martini lunches alongside satisfying soups and garlic bread.

Fish and chips come in large portions with a tender texture. Seafood pasta and salmon with risotto offer varied options beyond fried dishes.

People are saying

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

"I had a great lunch here; everything was delicious."

"I loved the fish and chips; the portions were large."

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.

11
Happy Cat Eats image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor seating with stunning beach views and sun umbrellas creates a casual, friendly atmosphere. The space is small but not crowded, featuring games like corn hole and a sand pit for entertainment. Music plays loudly, adding energy to the otherwise relaxed vibe near the pier.

Interesting breakfast and lunch options include a fish and chips dish that can be shared.

Fish dishes feature fresh, flaky fish with a crispy texture. Options include fish and chips, fish tacos, and fish sandwiches served with sides like guacamole.

People are saying

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

"The fish and chips here are so tasty and crispy."

"I tried the breakfast burritos; they never tasted greasy."

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.

12
Pier Santa Barbara image 1
Tourist attraction

Long wooden pier offers stunning ocean and mountain views with a calm, relaxed atmosphere. Activities include fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, alongside fresh seafood dining and art displays. The place draws a steady flow of people enjoying both peaceful scenery and active waterfront recreation.

Several restaurants offer lunch options with choices for appetizers to share. An upstairs patio provides a nice spot to enjoy lunch with a view.

Fresh seafood lines the pier with large oysters, fish tacos, and fish and chips standing out. Restaurants serve clams and other dishes that highlight the freshness of the catch.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot has beautiful scenery and ocean views."

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.

13
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.

A nice little spot for lunch with a casual vibe. It hosts group meals like graduation lunches comfortably.

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."

"This Lunch Spot's food is amazing, fresh, and wonderfully flavored."

"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.

14
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.

Lunch features a great special menu with options like the pork mushu lunch priced at $11.95. Seating includes access to the lunch, take-out, and dinner menus.

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."

"This lunch spot has fantastic dan dan noodles and fresh ingredients."

"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.

15
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.

Lunch features Brass burgers and churros for dessert. The spot suits casual gatherings like graduation lunches.

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."

"I loved the casual patio and mountain views."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot were so attentive and kind."

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.

16
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.

Lunch offers a vibrant menu with bold flavors. The spot creates a lively atmosphere that invites repeat visits.

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."

"The Lunch Spot staff at the counter are so friendly and helpful."

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.

17
Sushi Go Go image 1
Sushi restaurant

Outdoor seating overlooks harbor views with boats and mountains, creating a chill atmosphere ideal for watching people. The space is small and modest, with limited seating and no indoor tables. Sushi is known for its freshness and quality, often praised for real wasabi and top-notch seafood.

Sushi lunch specials offer decent quality but main entrees stand out with better ingredients. Seating on a Saturday lunch is manageable without much hassle.

Fresh fish stands out with consistently high quality and perfect portions. Seafood dishes come with quick service and maintain a delicious taste throughout.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is so fresh, I was surprised with the quality."

"The sushi 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.

18
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.

Lunch offers excellent dishes that invite repeat visits. Tables are available quickly even for a late lunch, making it easy to enjoy a good meal without waiting.

Oysters stand out as fresh and fantastic, especially at the oyster bar where local mussels and tuna tartar also shine. The whole fish and lobster pasta feature abundant seafood with flavorful, perfectly cooked lobster.

People are saying

"The sunset view from the restaurant was amazing."

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the oysters."

"This lunch spot has amazing views of the water."

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.

19
The Anchor Rose image 1
Restaurant

Harbor views dominate the setting with outdoor patios and a balcony overlooking boats and paddle boards. Music often plays live, creating a loud atmosphere that can clash with the otherwise joyful vibe. Indoor and patio seating offer options for enjoying the scenic waterfront.

Lunch offers a good selection from the regular menu, with entrees suitable for happy hour, lunch, or dinner. Service by Billy adds to a pleasant, casual experience.

Fresh fish stands out, especially the Mahi Mahi and raw oysters from Vancouver. Appetizers feature large shrimp and perfectly cooked calamari, while clam chowder comes in a highly rated bread bowl.

People are saying

"The steak and scallops at these dinner spots were cooked to perfection."

"I had the seafood pasta; it was amazing and unexpected."

"Billy made the lunch experience an absolute pleasure."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily with discounted drinks and food.

2

Reservations are not required and no upfront fees are needed for group bookings.

3

The restaurant is dog friendly, allowing pets in certain areas.

20
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.

Lunch service runs with just a waiter and manager on Saturdays, which makes it slow. Plans exist to return for both lunch and dinner.

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.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are beautiful and taste amazing."

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

"The service at this Lunch Spot was friendly and good."

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.

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