Chad's Cafe offers a nostalgic seaside diner experience specializing in all-day breakfast with popular items like chicken-fried steak and chocolate chip pancakes, complemented by bright oceanfront patio seating. Guests enjoy fast service, cozy retro charm, and a lively atmosphere enhanced by locally sourced ingredients and a thoughtful selection of cocktails including mimosas and Bloody Marys.
What to Expect:
🍳 Breakfast served all day
🌊 Ocean views from outdoor patio
🥞 Signature chocolate chip pancakes
🧁 Complimentary warm mini muffins
Important Information:
Reservations: Walk-ins only; weekends may have waits
Parking: Free street and lot parking but can be difficult to find
Family Friendly with kid menus and high chairs available
Wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating
Visit for a classic American breakfast with charming vibes and beach views in Santa Barbara's West Beach neighborhood.
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
☀️ Early Morning Happy Hour: Arrive between 6:30 and 8:30 AM to enjoy early happy hour specials and avoid the brunch rush.
🌊 Opt for Patio Seating: The outdoor patio offers stunning West Beach and harbor views, enhancing the overall dining experience.
🧁 Don’t Miss the Mini Muffins: Complimentary warm mini muffins served with meals are a favorite and perfect for sharing.
🎃 Seasonal Specials: Visit in October to try festive offerings like Pumpkin Pancakes and enjoy seasonal decor and vibes.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Chad’s Cafe is beloved for its classic breakfast fare, warm service, and unbeatable ocean views; guests frequently praise the mini muffins and friendly staff. Some note occasional loudness and a few service inconsistencies, but most agree the nostalgic vibe and quality food make it a stellar spot for breakfast in Santa Barbara.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
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What You'll Find
Chicken-Fried Steak, Chocolate Chip Pancakes, Mini Muffins, Omelettes, Huevos Rancheros, Corned Beef Hash, Bloody Mary, Mimosa Flight, Belgian Waffles, Home Fries
