Apna Indian Kitchen offers authentic Indian classics like butter chicken and fragrant curries in a cozy, brick-lined space.
Guests enjoy friendly table service, beer and wine options, and outdoor seating in Santa Barbara’s vibrant Lower State neighborhood. Reservations accepted to ensure your spot.
What to Expect:
🍛 Traditional Indian dishes with vegan and gluten-free options
🍺 Beer and wine selection complementing rich flavors
☕ Complimentary chai tea and fast, attentive service
🌿 Casual, cozy atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating
Important Information:
Booking Requirements: Reservations recommended but not mandatory
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, seating, and restrooms
Parking: Free street parking and paid lots nearby
A top choice for flavorful Indian food lovers in Santa Barbara.
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
☕ Complimentary Chai: Guests love the free masala chai served with their meal—don't miss this signature treat.
🌶️ Spice Levels: While overall spicy, the kitchen does not customize beyond mild, medium, or spicy; plan accordingly for heat tolerance.
🪑 Cozy Outdoor Seating: Enjoy calm vibes and quick service in the charming patio area, ideal for mild Santa Barbara evenings.
🚗 Parking Tips: Parking can be tricky; free street options exist, but bring quarters for the nearby paid lots and watch for State Street closures.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Apna Indian Kitchen earns high praise for authentic Indian flavors, especially its butter chicken and garlic cheese naan. Reviewers highlight the attentive and friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and vegan-friendly options. Some note limited menu customization on spice levels, but this rarely dampens the overwhelmingly positive experience.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Go For
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Butter Chicken, Chicken Tikka Masala, Malai Kofta, Garlic Naan, Cheese Naan, Curry Fries, Vindaloo, Samosa, Vegan Dishes, Chai Tea
Accessibility
Fully wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, restroom, and parking lot. Staff attentive to guests' accessibility needs.
