Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Santa Barbara

Tacos with outdoor seating

Tacos are meant to be eaten outside where the air is fresh and the mess doesn't matter.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Mulligan's Cafe & Bar image 1
Mulligan's Cafe & Bar image 2
Mulligan's Cafe & Bar image 3
View all

Bar and grill with patio seating overlooking a golf course offers a no frills atmosphere with an old school style vibe. The space feels comfortable and homey, attracting locals and golfers who enjoy relaxing with food and drinks. Outdoor tables come with blankets, enhancing the experience during cooler times.

Fish tacos come with mango chutney. Hard shell carnitas tacos stand out. Taco night happens on Mondays.

Attractive patio seating offers sweeping views of the golf course and skyline. Blankets are provided for comfort at the outside tables.

People are saying

"The Taco here feels like family, with such caring service."

"The outdoor seating has a great view of the golf course."

"I found the food at these dinner spots to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served all day at Mulligan's Cafe & Bar.

2

They offer a special dinner for two for $45, including main course, side, salad, and pie.

3

Thursday features an all-you-can-eat ribs special.

02
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.

Tacos feature cabbage, sauce, and sliced jalapenos that stand out. Options like Gokuchan Bao Tacos and gochujang tacos offer bold, unique flavors. Fish and carnitas tacos come highly recommended and deliver excellent taste.

All seating is outdoors with sun umbrellas and a mild breeze. The patio offers a nice view across from the beach and includes kid-friendly menu options.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the carnitas tacos here to be extremely delicious."

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
Sazón Latino & Catering image 1
Family restaurant

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.

Tacos come with homemade tortillas and fillings like adobada, cabeza, asada, and carnitas. Weekend-only quesobirria tacos feature a rich jus, and a salsa bar lets you customize flavors.

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

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

"The mole enchiladas with spicy peanut sauce were rich and flavorful."

"The quesabirria tacos were rich with a wonderful jus."

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.

04
Augie's of Santa Barbara image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Tacos come with a variety of fillings like rib eye steak, octopus, and baja shrimp. The fish tacos stay fresh and the queso fundido with chorizo adds a flavorful touch.

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 fish tacos here are so fresh and flavorful."

"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.

05
La Playa Azul Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Shrimp and fish tacos stand out with fresh cabbage and perfectly grilled fish. Tacos come with complimentary chips and salsa, though tortillas are not made in house.

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

"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 grilled perfectly."

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.

06
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.

Fish tacos stand out as a favorite, especially during happy hour. Both hard shell beef and chicken tacos offer solid, tasty options. The rajas taco delivers a distinct flavor that evokes a Cabo vibe.

Plenty of covered outdoor seating and a heated patio make it comfortable to sit outside year-round. The dog-friendly patio offers space for larger groups without facing busy streets.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the fish tacos, they were the best dish."

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.

07
Rose Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

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 come in a great deal with options like carnitas and pollo. Salsas served alongside are incredibly flavorful and enhance the tacos.

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 food here is delicious and fresh."

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

"The street tacos are a great deal."

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.

08
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.

Tacos feature tender, flavorful meats and perfectly grilled onions with unique flavors that stand out. The vampiro taco and all fish tacos offer distinct tastes, paired well with fresh craft beer for a solid meal value.

Front streetside seating features a fireplace that pumps serious heat and sets a cozy vibe. Large healthy plants surround the area, and a barstool spot by the fire adds to the ambiance.

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."

"I thought the tacos here were absolutely delicious."

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.

09
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.

Pescado Tacos come wrapped in warm, pillowy corn tortillas with a zesty cilantro lime Tajin aioli. Asada tacos stand out for their flavor, and Aguacate tacos serve as a solid vegetarian option.

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 cocktails here are beautiful and taste amazing."

"The chicken tacos here are delicious and packed with chicken."

"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.

10
Casa Comal Cocina Tradicional Mexicana image 1

Small restaurant with an open kitchen and authentic Mexican decor creates a chill atmosphere. Outdoor seating is pleasant but limited to a few groups. Tacos and margaritas stand out as flavorful highlights.

Birria tacos and Baja fish taco stand out with rich flavors. Soft carnitas tacos and campechana tacos offer excellent variety and freshness.

Outside seating offers a pleasant dining area but fits no more than three groups comfortably due to its size.

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 tacos here are really tasty, especially the campechano."

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.

11
El Sitio Restaurant - Salinas image 1

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.

Tacos come in huge portions with generous amounts of meat. Options like lengua and al pastor stand out for flavor, though some meats lack taste. Pricing runs around $4.00 each.

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."

"I tried some of the best tasting tacos I've had in a long time."

"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.

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.

Fish tacos come steaming hot off the grill with a delicious flavor. Waitstaff often recommend them as a standout option among the taco choices.

Outdoor seating offers plenty of space with more seats than nearby spots. Tables sit on a patio with pleasant views of the marina and ocean. Some areas provide shade and a comfortable atmosphere.

People are saying

"The sunset view from the restaurant was amazing."

"The outdoor seating has a lovely view."

"The fish tacos are delicious and steaming hot."

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
Palapa Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

Tacos come crispy and huge, with a crunchy fish option that stands out. Some tacos are hard and lack flavor, but many are tasty and satisfying.

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."

"The tacos here are huge and super tasty."

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.

14
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 tacos come fresh and flavorful with filling portions. Baja Shrimp Tacos stand out, paired with delicious chips on the side.

A dog-friendly patio sits in the back, offering a large dining space with a counter bar. Outdoor seating works well for enjoying dishes like a lobster roll on a sunny day.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed my lobster roll on a sunny day with outdoor seating."

"The fish tacos were fresh and flavorful."

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.

Discover more

Santa Barbara, California

Area guide
Loading Map...