Brass Bear Uptown in Santa Barbara offers a relaxing brewpub experience with indoor and outdoor seating, a family-friendly play area, and a strong focus on craft beers and cocktails. Guests enjoy the laid-back vibe, scenic mountain views, and an accommodating staff, with food offerings ranging from classic burgers to elevated bar snacks.
Events are welcome, with a private dining room and excellent catering service for group celebrations; reservations are recommended especially for large groups. Happy hours run early evening weekdays, and the venue is praised for its attentive service despite some reports of slow kitchen times and occasional food quality inconsistencies.
What's Included:
🍺 Extensive local and craft beer selection
🍹 Cocktails and hard liquor available
🍔 Casual dining with burgers, fries, and salads
🧸 Family-friendly play area with babysitter service
🌄 Outdoor patio with mountain views
🎉 Event and wedding reception hosting
Important Information:
Reservations recommended for larger groups and events
Happy hour available on weekdays, closed weekends
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
🍻 Happy Hour Timing: Weekday happy hours run mostly from 12 PM to 5 PM; closed weekends, so plan early visits to catch deals.
🧸 Family Friendly Zone: The play area includes a babysitter service, making it a favorite for parents but expect occasional noise from kids.
🎉 Event Planning Perks: The private dining room with bar access is ideal for weddings and large group events; Emily is the standout event coordinator.
🚗 Parking Ease: Plenty of free parking lot spaces and street parking usually available, easing arrival stress for larger groups.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Brass Bear Uptown is widely praised for its excellent atmosphere, strong beer selection, and family-friendly environment. Guests consistently applaud the attentive and accommodating staff, especially for event planning and private dining. Views and outdoor seating add to its charm. Some reviews note slow service and uneven food quality; a few mention frustration with service in the kids area and billing issues. Overall, it’s a go-to spot for casual gatherings and celebrations.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating are available to accommodate guests with disabilities.
