Backyard Bowls serves all-natural, organic acai bowls and smoothies focused on healthy, sustainably sourced ingredients in Santa Barbara.
Expect a casual setting with counter service, outdoor seating, and a variety of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options emphasizing freshness and quality in every bowl.
What to Expect:
🍇 Organic acai and superfood bowls
🥤 Fresh smoothies with add-on options
🌱 Vegan and vegetarian friendly
🌞 Outdoor seating and casual atmosphere
Important Information:
Parking: Free ample parking available in La Cumbre Plaza lot
Service: Counter-service with dine-in, takeout, and delivery options
Booking: No reservations accepted
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, and seating; restroom not wheelchair accessible
The eatery is ideal for a nutritious breakfast or lunch, offering eco-conscious and nourishing menu choices.
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
🍇 Try the Power Bowl: Regulars rave about this hearty bowl as a filling, energizing breakfast or lunch choice.
🛍️ Easy Parking at La Cumbre Plaza: Plenty of free parking makes visiting convenient, especially compared to busy downtown spots.
📞 Call Ahead on Weekends: To avoid wait times, especially on busy weekend mornings, ordering ahead or using delivery apps is recommended.
🌿 Customizable Bowls: Staff are willing to substitute ingredients, making it easy to tailor bowls to dietary needs or preferences.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Backyard Bowls receives high praise for fresh, creamy acai bowls and smoothies with many guests highlighting great flavor and quality ingredients. The casual vibe and friendly staff earn positive remarks, though some note slow service during busy times and occasional noise from blenders. Limited seating and higher prices are mentioned, but majority feel the healthful offerings justify it.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
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What You'll Find
Acai Bowls, Smoothies, Avocado Toast, Power Bowl, Berry Bowl, Island Bowl, Dragon Bowl, Coffee, Vegan Options, Vegetarian Options, Organic Dishes
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, and seating available. However, restrooms are not wheelchair accessible.
