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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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01
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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 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.

02
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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 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.

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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 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.

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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 frisรฉe and asparagus salad complement the seafood options well.

People are saying

"The fish Provenรงal 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.

05
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Car-free streets host a large farmers market with fresh local produce and seasonal seafood year-round. Talented buskers provide live music, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for people watching. Market's compact layout makes exploring diverse vendors easy and enjoyable.

Good to know

1

Parking can be limited during market hours.

2

Some sellers are cash-only, but there's a booth for cash or tokens.

3

The market features a wide selection of organic produce, seafood, and baked goods.

06
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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 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.

07
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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."

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.

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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

"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
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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

"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.

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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."

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.

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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."

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.

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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 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.

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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

"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.

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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 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.

15
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Spacious American spot with a retro speakeasy vibe and red leather booths offers large, tender fish and chips and varied seafood like salmon with risotto. Classic full bar serves strong martinis, drawing retirees and families to a lively, comfortable setting.

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

"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.

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

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.

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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

"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 kidโ€™s menu.

3

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

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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

"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.

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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 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.

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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

"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.

21
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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

"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
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Pier offers breathtaking ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere with historic charm. Fishing here targets thresher shark, while fresh seafood restaurants serve fish and chips by the waves. Hands-on marine exhibits add fun for kids.

Fishing off the pier offers chances to catch species like thresher shark. Fresh seafood restaurants serve fish and chips with oceanfront views and the sound of waves.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the fresh seafood with stunning ocean views."

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.

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Dining room shows 1970s decor with a lively, cheerful vibe full of college students. Seafood shines with Kung Pao shrimp and Shrimp with Lobster sauce standing out. Authentic Chinese dishes like Mu Shu Chicken complete the menu.

Kung pao shrimp and Shrimp with Lobster sauce stand out among the seafood options. The seafood noodles also deliver solid flavor beyond expectations.

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located in a strip mall with plenty of free onsite parking.

2

The menu offers a generous variety of items, especially during lunch specials.

3

Portion sizes are reasonable, with three people able to share four dishes.

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Outdoor seating offers harbor views and a chill vibe perfect for watching people. Sushi features fresh fish with real wasabi and top-notch seafood. Service is quick, keeping dishes tasty and portions just right.

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

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

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.

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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."

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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Outdoor seating with heat lamps and multiple TVs creates a lively sports bar vibe. Fish and shrimp tacos bring spicy seafood flavors, while colorful decor and a live DJ add to the fun atmosphere. Large, flavorful tacos and reasonable prices make it great for casual dining and game watching.

Fish tacos and shrimp tacos feature prominently with some spice in the fish version. Taco plates often include grilled fish and Carne asada steak options.

People are saying

"The shrimp and fish tacos here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 8pm with great drink deals.

2

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $5 each.

3

Karaoke night is every Wednesday starting at 10pm.

27
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Dark interior and dim lighting create an elegant yet noisy vibe. Juicy, perfectly cooked steaks shine alongside shrimp and scallops with natural flavor. Outdoor seating feels uninviting, but the lively indoor bar adds energy.

Seafood includes shrimp with natural flavor despite being overcooked and unseasoned. Fish specials and scallops also stand out alongside steak options.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the steak and seafood here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait to be seated during peak hours.

3

Parking is available for free off State Street and behind the building.

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Open air patio with a palm tree roof sets a lively scene. Enjoy fresh fish ceviche and baja shrimp tacos that highlight seafood. Sip on exceptional tequila while soaking in music that brings a classy yet local vibe.

Fresh fish shines in the ceviche and fish tacos. Shrimp comes out perfectly cooked in dishes like the baja shrimp tacos and enchiladas.

People are saying

"The seafood here is super good and fresh."

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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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 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.

30
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Mexican spot offers fresh seafood like shrimp aguachiles and creamy chipotle enchiladas. Indoor and heated outdoor seating with multiple TVs creates a lively, sports-friendly atmosphere. Families enjoy the casual local cantina vibe and beautiful decor.

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 seafood enchiladas la Paz were packed with fresh seafood."

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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