CAYA Restaurant offers a relaxed hotel dining experience with a focus on Californian-inspired small plates, entrees, and finely crafted cocktails. Guests enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating by the pool, live music, and a welcoming, casual atmosphere.
Reservations are recommended especially for brunch and dinner to ensure seating and a smooth service experience.
What to Expect:
🥂 Curated craft cocktails and local beers
🍽️ Californian-inspired small plates and entrees
🔥 Cozy poolside and indoor dining options
🎶 Live music enhancing the ambiance
Important Information:
Reservations recommended for brunch and dinner
Located inside The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta hotel
Outdoor seating and fireplace available
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
🍸 Stellar Craft Cocktails: The bar's mixologists, like Seneca and Martin, receive high marks for creative, perfectly balanced cocktails.
☀️ Poolside Dining Vibes: Outdoor seating near the pool is a favorite for casual drinks and meals, especially in nice weather.
🎶 Live Music Evenings: Frequent live guitar performances add to the relaxed, trendy atmosphere—plan for dinner around these nights.
⏰ Brunch Reservations: Brunch gets busy quickly, and reservations are advised to avoid wait times and ensure a spot.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
CAYA Restaurant is praised for its lively atmosphere, quality cocktails, and locally sourced flavorful dishes, especially the fish tacos and short rib mac & cheese. Service inconsistencies and occasional delays are common complaints, as are some quality concerns like underseasoning and slow food delivery.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
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What You'll Find
Small Plates, Californian-inspired Entrees, Artisan Cocktails, Craft Beers, Wine List, Brunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Happy Hour Food and Drinks, Vegetarian Options, Healthy Options, Coffee, Comfort Food
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restrooms, and seating ensure comfort for all guests.
