Empty Bowl Gourmet Noodle Bar offers contemporary Thai noodle dishes served quickly in an industrial marketplace setting within the Santa Barbara Public Market.
Guests enjoy bold flavors with standout dishes like Hangover Noodles and Khao Soi, plus a beer and wine selection; reservations are not accepted and seating is limited.
What to Expect:
🍜 Authentic Thai noodle varieties including Pad Thai and Drunken Noodles
🍺 Beer and wine options complementing the menu
⚡ Fast, friendly service in a casual, trendy space
🏙️ Located in the bustling Santa Barbara Public Market
Important Information:
Bookings: Walk-ins only; no reservations
Parking: Mix of free street parking and paid lots; can be challenging during peak times
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with dedicated seating
Child friendly: Offers a kids' menu and family-friendly environment
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
🍜 Must-Try Dishes: The Hangover Noodles and Khao Soi are frequently recommended as signature favorites by locals and regulars.
🕑 Best Time to Visit: Midday weekdays see lighter crowds; avoid peak Friday evenings for faster seating and service.
🚗 Parking Tips: Use free street parking during lunch hours and explore paid lots as backup since parking can be tough around dinner time.
🍽️ Seating Style: Seating is limited, mostly communal or bar-style; plan for takeout or enjoy your meal in the vibrant public market area.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Empty Bowl garners praise for authentic Thai noodles with bold spices and generous portions, served promptly in a lively public market setting. Diners appreciate menu variety and accommodating staff, though some note occasional slow service, limited seating, and inconsistent service attention during busy hours.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Go For
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Hangover Noodles, Drunken Noodles, Pad Thai, Pad See Ew, Khao Soi, Tom Yum Noodle Soup, Pancit, Thai Beef Salad, Spring Rolls, Dumplings, Egg Rolls, Wings, Thai Tea, Curry Noodles
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restroom, and seating ensure easy access for all guests.
