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Guide to Santa Barbara

Mexican food spots with outdoor seating

Made for those who believe authentic Mexican food is best enjoyed in an outdoor setting.

Based on 887 Opinions
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01
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Colorful, cozy Mexican restaurant with outdoor seating under air-plants and succulents creates a relaxed vibe. Atmosphere feels like a sunny Cantina and Grotto, lively yet comfortable. Popular for traditional family recipes and dog-friendly environment.

Street tacos offer a great deal with carnitas and pollo standing out for flavor. Enchiladas and huevos rancheros rank among the best, paired well with spicy margaritas and flavorful salsas served with care.

Outdoor seating offers a nice open-air space that suits lunch well. Tables accommodate dogs, and the area includes COVID-era seating that remains in use.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here is great, and the service is always friendly."

"I loved dining outside in the really nice outdoor space."

Good to know

1

Rose Cafe retains outdoor seating options from COVID.

2

Seating can be cramped when it's busy.

3

During lunch time, there is usually no waiting.

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Outdoor patio offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere with fairy lights and heaters that soften street noise. The space fills with great energy from a mostly local crowd, creating a lively yet friendly vibe. Premium margaritas and generous portions complement the comfortable Mexican setting.

Authentic Mexican food shines with exceptional crab tostadas and excellent shrimp tacos. The premium margaritas stand out alongside great burritos and tortas.

A beautiful patio offers a welcoming and comfortable spot for outdoor dining. The space works well for Happy Hour with drinks like margaritas and a fun atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mexican Food tacos to be excellent."

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.

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Outdoor courtyard offers beautiful patio with propane heaters and romantic lighting, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. A large bar complements the modern, elegant design. Margaritas and cocktail flights stand out as popular drink choices.

Mole stands out as a perfectly made, on-site specialty. Tacos with salmon and cauliflower offer impressive, delicious flavors. Drinks include refreshing Margaritas that pair well with grilled octopus and other dishes.

Beautiful patio offers a romantic and secluded atmosphere. Propane heaters keep the outdoor space comfortable, while string lights add charm at night.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is so romantic with its fireplace and lights."

"The Mexican food here is served in a beautiful, charming outdoor courtyard."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges $10 for bottled water and $10 for tostadas.

2

Expect an additional $15 charge on your card without explanation.

3

The menu offers vegetarian options and local vegetables.

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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.

Salsas come in a variety with a standout salsa Verde. Dishes include quesobirria tacos with rich jus, mole enchiladas, goat birria, and a large Tlayuda made for two but often finished solo.

A large patio with picnic tables offers plenty of space for outdoor seating. A DJ plays on the patio, adding to the quaint atmosphere while people chat and relax.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor seating is great for enjoying flavorful food and fantastic salsas."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough on the weekends.

2

The restaurant attracts people of all ages.

3

You can customize tacos with salsa from their salsa bar.

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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.

Mexican dishes feature authentic flavors with highlights like chicken poblano mole enchiladas. Drinks include amazing margaritas and chips with salsa.

Open air patio offers direct views onto State Street for people watching. Seating feels comfortable with a cool vibe and plants in front create a nice setup.

People are saying

"Hector was the best server for our Mexican food."

"The outdoor seating has a cool vibe with direct views onto State Street."

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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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.

Asada tacos stand out as a must-try with authentic, flavorful taste. The mole and red sauce chicken enchiladas offer rich, memorable flavors. Fresh ceviche, guacamole, and salsas complement the menu well.

Heated patios offer comfortable outdoor seating with a nice indoor/outdoor vibe. Covered patios and beautiful decor create a pleasant ambiance for dining with pets or friends.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here is great, and the staff are super friendly."

"The outdoor seating is nice, especially with dogs."

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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Mexican restaurant with authentic casual atmosphere and outdoor seating that feels like dining in Cancรบn. 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.

Breakfast burritos stand out with their authentic Mexican flavors and come with chips and salsa that are among the best in town. The flan offers a creamy, delicious finish to the meal.

Outdoor dining offers a patio area that feels just like Mexico. The space is pet-friendly and provides a nice atmosphere for eating outside.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious, especially the carnitas and fish."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm on weekdays with great deals on drinks.

2

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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Outdoor seating defines the small, casual space with humble surroundings. The atmosphere reflects cultural roots through simple, authentic Mexican vibes. Large, flavorful burritos and a notable salsa bar attract those seeking authentic Mexican food and generous portions.

Mexican food here is authentic and affordable with large, flavorful burritos and tacos. The salsa bar offers a variety of options including mild green salsa, hot red salsa, and pico de gallo with a strong cilantro taste.

Outdoor seating consists of a small dining area located entirely outside. The space feels cool and is the only option for dining here.

People are saying

"I tried some of the best tasting Mexican food tacos I've had."

"The food at this Outdoor Seating was superb and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a little tight sometimes.

2

The restaurant has limited seating and is more of a takeout place.

3

The total cost for three burritos is about $50.

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