Deja Vu cafe

Open

Closed

$

$$

๐Ÿ” American

โ€ข

Isla Vista

โ€ข

casual-dining

3.9
Casual, trendy American cafe known for fast service and tasty, affordable late-night eats in Isla Vista.

$

$$

โ€ข

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โ€ข

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๐Ÿ“

Deja Vu cafe

Isla Vista

$

Deja Vu cafe serves tasty, affordable burgers and tenders with fast service in a casual, late-night setting. Visit for a top Isla Vista experience.

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About
3.9
(
123
)

Deja Vu cafe offers classic American fare with a lively late-night vibe, perfect for college crowds and solo diners. Guests enjoy quick service, generous portions, and standout items like the Gaucho Burger and chicken tenders in a casual, trendy atmosphere.

What to Expect:

    ๐Ÿ” Iconic Gaucho Burger and juicy chicken tenders
    โฐ Fast service, especially late nights
    ๐ŸŒ™ Open late for night owls and partygoers
    ๐Ÿ• Dog-friendly outdoor seating

Important Information:

    Parking can be difficult, with free street parking available
    Drive-thru and delivery options offered via multiple platforms
    Popular with college students, families, and groups

Haley's Pick ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ

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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 Barellaโ€™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.

Itโ€™s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isnโ€™t just a meal, itโ€™s a moment worth lining up for.

โ€“ Haley @milehighandhungry
๐Ÿ”Š
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๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐ŸŒ™ Late-Night Hotspot: The cafe thrives well past midnight, catering to night owls and party crowds with steady business until 2:30 AM on weekends.

๐Ÿ” Try the Gaucho Burger: Highly recommended by regulars, this burger is a signature item with bacon and avocado additions.

๐Ÿš— Parking Challenges: Free street parking is available but often difficult to find, so plan extra time when visiting.

๐Ÿ• Dog-Friendly Outdoors: Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area, enhancing the casual vibe for pet owners.

โฐ Hours

Monday: 11:00 AMโ€“1:30 AM

Tuesday: 11:00 AMโ€“1:30 AM

Wednesday: 11:00 AMโ€“1:30 AM

Thursday: 11:00 AMโ€“2:30 AM

Friday: 10:00 AMโ€“2:30 AM

Saturday: 10:00 AMโ€“2:30 AM

Sunday: 11:00 AMโ€“1:30 AM

๐Ÿ‘‰ Best For

Late night dining, college students, casual groups, families

Deja Vu cafe

966 Embarcadero del Mar
,
Isla Vista
,
CA
93117

Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Deja Vu cafe is celebrated for its flavorful, hearty burgers and tenders, quick service, and round-the-clock availability, making it a favorite for late-night dining. While food quality and value receive praise, some customers report inconsistent service and occasional rude staff, which may affect the experience.

Last updated on

January 9th, 2026

From The preserve

Standout Dishes

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The Selection

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Anglerโ€™s Offerings

What You'll Find

Gaucho Burger, Chicken Tenders, Fries, Mozzarella Sticks, Burritos

๐Ÿ“† Best Times to Visit

Visit for lunch or late night after 10 PM; expect peak crowds around 6-8 PM and very busy late Friday and Saturday nights.
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