ASIA 101 serves Asian fusion fare focusing on flavorful small plates like popcorn chicken and pho, prized for student budgets. Casual setting with dine-in, takeout, and delivery options make it a local favorite near UCSB.
What to Expect:
🍲 Flavorful Asian fusion dishes with popular popcorn chicken
🍜 Signature pho and rice bowls
🎒 Budget-friendly menu perfect for college students
🚗 Dine-in, takeout, and delivery available
Important Information:
Casual atmosphere ideal for solo dining or groups
Wheelchair accessible entrance and seating, restroom not accessible
Limited parking; street parking and paid UCSB lots nearby
Busy around lunch and dinner; ordering ahead for takeout is advised.
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
🍗 Must Try Popcorn Chicken: Regulars highly recommend the crispy popcorn chicken, a consistently popular item.
🍜 Pho Opinions Vary: While many enjoy the pho, some find it less authentic; try other noodle options for variety.
🎒 Student Budget Friendly: Affordable pricing makes this a go-to for UCSB students and locals alike.
🕰️ Peak Times Awareness: Lunch and dinner see the most traffic; ordering ahead or arriving early helps avoid waits.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
ASIA 101 receives praise for tasty Asian fusion dishes like popcorn chicken and pho at modest prices ideal for students. The casual, welcoming atmosphere and friendly service appeal broadly though some critics cite inconsistent pho flavor and occasional sogginess. Overall, it’s a beloved spot with mostly glowing reviews, especially for value and signature dishes.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
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What You'll Find
Popcorn Chicken, Pho, Rice Bowls, Kimchi Fries, Wintermelon Tea, Takoyaki, Creamy Tom Yum Noodle Soup, Tofu Banh Mi, Fried Rice (Coming Soon)
