El Paseo Restaurant

Open

Closed

$

$$

🌮 Mexican

Santa Barbara

casual-dining

4.3
Bustling spot serving classic Mexican fare with handmade tortillas and tableside guacamole in a lively, trendy atmosphere.

$

$$

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casual-dining

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El Paseo Restaurant

Santa Barbara

$

Classic Mexican dining with handmade tortillas, tableside guacamole, and a lively historic patio—perfect for brunch, dinner, and events.

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About
4.3
(
489
)

El Paseo Restaurant offers authentic Mexican dishes highlighted by handmade tortillas and freshly made guacamole prepared tableside.

The restaurant features a vibrant, historic courtyard setting with excellent cocktails and a great beer selection. Reservations are recommended for brunch and dinner, making it a popular spot for group dinners, weddings, and casual nights out.

What to Expect:

    🌮 Classic Mexican cuisine
    🥑 Tableside handmade guacamole
    🍹 Strong, highly-rated cocktails and great beer selection
    💃 Lively, cozy courtyard atmosphere

Important Information:

    Reservations recommended for brunch and dinner
    Outdoor seating available
    Wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, parking, and seating
    Good for groups, solo dining, and special events like weddings

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
🔊
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📍 Local Insights

🌮 Taco Tuesday Is a Must: The all-you-can-eat taco buffet is a favorite and draws big crowds; arrive early to secure a spot.

🍹 Strong Cocktails and Happy Hour: Enjoy half-price margaritas and excellent cocktails, praised for their quality and strength.

🎉 Ideal Event Venue: Popular for weddings and large receptions with accommodating staff and spacious setup.

🕓 Brunch and Dinner Reservations Recommended: Booking ahead avoids wait times, especially for weekend brunch and dinner service.

⏰ Hours

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM

Wednesday: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM

Thursday: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM

Friday: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM

Saturday: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM

Sunday: 10:30 AM–8:00 PM

👉 Best For

Dinner, brunch, group events, weddings, casual dining

El Paseo Restaurant

813 Anacapa St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101

Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
El Paseo Restaurant is lauded for its authentic Mexican flavors, lively historic patio, and standout cocktails. Guests rave about tableside guacamole and the popular taco Tuesday buffet. Some reviewers note inconsistencies in lunch service and occasional food quality issues, but most praise the friendly service and welcoming atmosphere, particularly for special events and group dining.

Last updated on

January 9th, 2026

From The preserve

Standout Dishes

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The Selection

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Course Stats

Angler’s Offerings

What You'll Find

Handmade Tortillas, Guacamole, Ribeye Plate, Pork Belly Crunch, Mixed Mushroom Crostini, All You Can Eat Tacos, Margaritas, Mimosas, Tacos, Mexican Buffet

📆 Best Times to Visit

Visit on Taco Tuesday for the all-you-can-eat buffet; book brunch or dinner on weekends to avoid waits. Evenings see lively crowds.
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