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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Santa Barbara

Seafood spots

Seafood that tastes like it came from the water today instead of being masked by heavy sauces and deep fryers.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Santa Barbara Sportfishing Charters image 1
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Spacious boat offers comfortable fishing with plenty of room and a relaxed vibe. Captain Tony leads to secret fishing spots rich in rockfish and lingcod. Enjoy gorgeous views and frequent sightings of dolphins and seabirds on every trip.

Trips yield over 45 rock fish and up to 10 different species. Captain Tony guides fishing spots and equipment use, helping catch big, cool fish like a sizable blue lingcod.

People are saying

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

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

"Tony knew exactly where to find the seafood for us."

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.

02
Silvers Omakase image 1
Restaurant

Small sushi counter offers handcrafted dinnerware and a warm vibe. Fish is from top purveyors with rare varieties and unique combos. Chef shares stories, making dining both elegant and personal.

Every piece of fish comes from the finest purveyors and shows high quality. Unique combinations and rare fish create an experience beyond just eating, with stories and history shared by the chef adding depth.

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 seafood here, especially the fish and rice, is outstanding."

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
Alma Fonda Fina image 1
Restaurant

Bright, intimate space buzzes with lively atmosphere and patio dining. High-quality Mexican dishes shine with fresh seafood like Baja-style fish tacos and ceviche. Loud energy welcomes diners and dogs, making it a fun spot for all.

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."

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

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

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.

04
Dom’s Taverna Santa Barbara image 1

Open kitchen fuels a vibrant atmosphere with a polished, casual design. Fresh raw oysters and simple, well-prepared seafood like clams and halibut showcase California's best. A full bar adds to the warm, inviting setting.

Fresh raw oysters stand out with exceptional quality. The seafood menu features thoughtfully curated selections like clams and halibut, prepared simply and well to highlight California's produce.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, exciting, and genuinely good."

"You have to try the caviar cheesecake; it's a dream."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can fill up quickly.

2

Happy hour features a limited menu and runs from 5-7pm.

3

Expect the restaurant to get busy around 7pm, especially on weekends.

05
Yoichi's image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate space with jazzy Studio Ghibli music creates a unique vibe. Guests enjoy fresh, high-quality seafood flown in from Japan, including tender shrimp and fish. Personalized, table-side service makes every visit special.

Seafood here is flown in from Japan, offering tender and creamy shrimp and fish. The fish is consistently fresh and of high quality.

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 seafood here is incredibly fresh, the best I've ever had."

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.

06
Bar Lou image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant shines with Provencal seafood and fresh oysters. Cozy, romantic vibe with intimate outdoor patio enhances dining. Classy decor and mellow music create a warm atmosphere perfect for quiet evenings.

Local fish dishes stand out with the Provencal style offering a spicy kick. Fresh oysters and a frisée and asparagus salad complement the seafood options well.

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.

07
Petit Valentien image 1
French restaurant

Small French bistro offers a cozy atmosphere with intimate indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood shines with crispy fish skin and a standout shrimp and leek starter. Weekends bring a unique Ethiopian twist, perfect for social dinners or date nights.

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.

08
Casa Comal Cocina Tradicional Mexicana image 1

Small spot with authentic Mexican decor and an open kitchen offers a chill vibe. Fish tacos bring Baja style and solid flavor. Large, rich shrimp empanadas make seafood choices memorable. Outdoor seating is limited but pleasant.

Fish tacos stand out with a notable Baja style and consistent quality. Shrimp empanadas impress with their large size and rich flavor, making them a memorable choice.

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.

09
Mulligan's Cafe & Bar image 1

Bar and grill offers a homey vibe with patio seating overlooking a golf course. Fish tacos with mango chutney stand out among classic dishes like meatloaf. Outdoor tables with blankets keep guests cozy during cooler times.

Fish dishes include fish and chips and fish tacos with mango chutney. The seafood options come alongside other meals like meatloaf and burgers.

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 had fish tacos with mango chutney."

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.

10
California Pasta Sandwich & Salads image 1

Cozy patio with outdoor seating creates a quiet, inviting vibe perfect for relaxed meals or dates. Soft music adds to the pleasant atmosphere. Seafood shines with Santa Barbara Spicy Shrimp and flavorful pasta featuring shrimp, clams, and Mahi Mahi.

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."

"I loved the salmon Caesar salad with its amazing dressing."

"The seafood pasta here is amazing and flavorful."

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.

11
Drift Santa Barbara image 1

Hotel offers fresh oysters paired with craft cocktails at the oyster bar. Guests enjoy loud live music from the on-site bar until early morning. Located downtown, it provides easy access to local attractions and complimentary bike rentals for city exploration.

Fresh oysters stand out with unique pairings at the oyster bar. Evening visits highlight craft cocktails alongside local oysters at the bar Dusk.

People are saying

"This Hotel's location on State Street is perfect for walking to the beach and restaurants."

"The attached cafe and bar made the stay feel like a European holiday."

"The seafood here is amazing, making every meal feel special."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a partnership with Buttonwood Vineyard, offering a buy-one-get-one-free wine tasting.

2

The hotel is located within walking distance to the beach and downtown attractions.

3

Expect noise from weddings and events that may last until 1:00am.

12
The Palace Grill image 1
Cajun restaurant

Space channels New Orleans style with unique decor and lively communal sing-alongs. Seafood shines with generous portions and a standout Louisiana redfish. Authentic Cajun vibes create a one-of-a-kind dining experience that stays fun without being loud.

Seafood dishes come in generous portions and highlight the fish's quality. The redfish from Louisiana stands out as a delicious specialty.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the seafood, especially the redfish and oysters, to be 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.

13
Happy Cat Eats image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor seating offers stunning beach views and a casual vibe with games like corn hole. Fresh fish dishes shine with crispy texture in tacos and sandwiches. Loud music adds energy near the pier, making it a lively spot for food and fun.

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."

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

"The fish and chips here are 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.

14
Stardust Sportfishing image 1
Fishing charter

Boat trips offer a clean environment with music that lifts the mood. Anglers enjoy monster fish catches, often exceeding ten per person thanks to the skipper's skill. Food is pricey but the Mega Mouth burger is a must-try highlight.

The boat consistently puts anglers on monster fish with everyone catching more than 10. The skipper finds the rock fish honeypot, allowing the group to reach their limits quickly and keeps them on fish all day.

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
Santa Barbara Fish Market image 1

Seafood market shines with fresh local fish and sweet sea urchin. Outdoor patio offers a beautiful ocean view that enhances the lively atmosphere. Early hours and quick sell-outs show its high demand and inviting vibe.

Freshness stands out with local fish and sweet sea urchin that lacks any fishy smell. Oysters and fish and chips show consistent quality at fair prices.

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."

"You have to try the uni here; it's so fresh it's still moving."

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.

16
The Brewhouse image 1
American restaurant

Industrial decor creates a casual vibe with outdoor patios and distinct seating. Large portions of fish and chips offer great value, while the pistachio-crusted salmon shines. Friendly energy welcomes families and dogs, with a special menu for furry friends.

Fish and chips come in large portions and offer good value. Pistachio-crusted salmon stands out as a well-cooked crusted fish. Fish tacos also appear as a solid option.

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.

17
Sushi Teri - Santa Barbara Japanese Restaurant image 1

Small sushi spot offers a casual atmosphere with cozy outdoor seating and heaters. Fresh fish shines with bright flavor and quality. Shrimp tempura delivers crispy batter, while shrimp chow mein has juicy shrimp and great noodles.

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 outdoor seating is comfortable and nice."

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.

18
Dusk Bar image 1

Small, modern bar offers fresh Laguna Bay oysters and expertly mixed cocktails. Live music on Tuesdays creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for conversation. Happy hour features BOGO oysters paired with mezcal drinks, making it a great spot for seafood lovers and casual nights out.

Oysters stand out with fresh Laguna Bay varieties and a perfectly fresh taste. Happy hour offers BOGO oysters that pair well with mezcal cocktails and shrimp aguachile.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are masters and make great drinks."

"I love the wide variety of artisanal tequilas and mezcals they offer."

"The oysters here were pretty much perfect."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers BOGO oysters, providing good value on select days.

2

Live music occurs every Tuesday evening at Dusk Bar.

3

Expect a 5-minute wait during peak hours on Fridays around 6pm.

19
Taqueria El Buen Gusto & Best Menudo image 1

Rustic Mexican spot serves house-made tortillas and classic dishes like carnitas with generous portions. Seafood options such as fish tacos are available but lack bold flavors. Staff is bilingual, and prices stay reasonable in a basic, slightly outdated setting.

Fish tacos, guacamole, and taquitos appear on the menu but lack a distinctive taste. Seafood options exist but do not stand out in flavor.

People are saying

"The salsa here is amazing, especially the pico de gallo."

"I love their Mexican food, especially the burritos packed full of meat."

"I love that the menudo is available on the weekends."

Good to know

1

Menudo is available on weekends only.

2

The restaurant is located in a small shopping center with limited parking.

3

Prices are on the higher side for a casual eatery.

20
Palapa Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic casual atmosphere with family-friendly vibes and lively outdoor seating. Seafood lovers will find bold shrimp ceviche and fresh fish tacos that stand out. The mix of intimate indoor spaces and a vibrant patio creates a perfect spot for locals and visitors alike.

Shrimp ceviche and shrimp a la diabla stand out with bold flavors. Fish tacos, seafood enchiladas, and shrimp cocktails offer solid variety and freshness.

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 seafood enchiladas and breaded shrimp were very good."

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.

21
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 1

Large, airy space with a dog-friendly patio and heating creates a warm vibe. Punjabi music adds energy while enjoying authentic Indian cuisine like butter chicken and korma. Shrimp tandoori shines with bold flavor and perfect cooking.

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."

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

"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.

22
La Playa Azul Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio shines with fairy lights and heaters, creating a cozy vibe. Fresh shrimp dishes like tacos and burritos stand out. Enjoy premium margaritas and generous portions in a lively, local crowd setting.

Shrimp dishes stand out with fresh shrimp featured in burritos, tacos, and fajitas. Fish tacos and seafood enchiladas offer perfectly grilled fish and flavorful seasonings.

People are saying

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

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

"The seafood tacos here are delicious and perfectly seasoned."

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.

23
Sazón Latino & Catering image 1
Family restaurant

Large patio with picnic tables and indoor seating offers a cozy vibe and friendly service. Fresh Fish and Shrimp Ceviche delivers vibrant seafood flavors. Outdoor DJ and salsa bar add fun and unique taco options, attracting a diverse, authentic crowd.

Fish and Shrimp Ceviche stands out with fresh, vibrant flavors. Other seafood options include shrimp cocktails and dishes featuring authentic adobada and pasole preparations.

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."

"You have to try the fish and shrimp ceviche; it's awesomely delicious."

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.

24
Edomasa Sushi Bar & Restaurant image 1

Small Japanese-style spot serves fresh fish with perfect rice balance and generous sushi portions. Menu features local uni and oysters alongside octopus sunomo salad. Atmosphere is calm and homey, reflecting authentic Japanese ownership and affordable prices.

Fresh fish melts in the mouth with a perfect rice-to-fish ratio in sushi. The love boat offers a dazzling variety, including local uni, oysters, shrimp, and octopus sunomo salad.

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."

"It's a great late night spot, open past 10:30 PM."

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.

25
RH Firehouse Grill at RH Montecito image 1

Restaurant offers a serene backdrop with rolling hills and luxurious furniture for a calming vibe. Shrimp dishes shine, especially the grilled shrimp salad and flavorful starters. Outdoor patio provides wonderful views enhancing the peaceful dining experience.

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."

"The outdoor seating has a beautiful view and lovely decor."

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.

26
Super Cucas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vintage carniceria style meets heated outdoor seating with hill views. Burritos shine, especially the shrimp quesadilla and vegan options. Locals love the authentic atmosphere and shrimp and carnitas over rice.

Shrimp quesadilla stands out with its great flavor and is a popular choice. The menu also features a healthy shrimp burrito and a shrimp and carnitas dish served over rice and beans.

People are saying

"I thought the burritos here were the best I've ever had."

"They have a dedicated vegan menu with great options like vegan chorizo."

"I thought the shrimp quesadilla was especially delicious."

Good to know

1

Super Cucas has a dedicated vegan menu, including vegan cheese and vegan chorizo.

2

Parking is limited, so expect a packed lot during peak hours.

3

Super Cucas is popular among locals and often crowded.

27
Dargan's image 1
Irish pub

Brick walls and authentic Irish decor create a lively vibe. Huge portions of fish and chips and hot popcorn shrimp highlight the seafood menu. Friendly crowd enjoys sports on many TVs, making it a warm, social spot with a quieter dining area.

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."

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

"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.

28
Meet Up Chinese Cuisine 遇见音乐餐厅 image 1

Robot servers bring food in a warm, retro '80s setting with feminine decor. Bold seafood like Spicy Fish in Chili Oil and Steamed Whole Sea Bass shine here. Round tables with lazy Susans make sharing easy and fun.

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."

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

"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.

29
Taqueria La Unica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with a lively atmosphere and fresh salsa bar. Seafood lovers enjoy flavorful fish tacos and a rich, salty fish soup packed with octopus. Cozy outdoor seating with a fireplace adds warmth to the festive vibe.

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."

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

"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.

30
Your Place Restaurant image 1
Thai restaurant

Small building with traditional Thai decor offers a cozy, relaxed vibe. Known for Tom Kah soup and noodle dishes, it draws fans of authentic Thai food. Seafood lovers enjoy garlic shrimp with almonds and steamed basil garlic fish for fresh, rich flavors.

Garlic shrimp with almonds stands out with its rich sauce and crunchy nuts. Steamed basil garlic fish offers a fresh, aromatic flavor, and seafood soup pot adds a hearty touch to the menu.

People are saying

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

"The curry here is so flavorful and authentic."

"I found the most authentic Thai food with delicious, fresh ingredients."

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.

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