4.6
(
115
)
Gala Restaurant offers a vibrant Spanish tapas dining experience in Santa Barbara's Lower State neighborhood. Known for its handcrafted cocktails, extensive wine list, and fresh, flavorful small plates including favorites like steak, zucchini flowers, and burrata.
With a cozy yet trendy atmosphere, accessible indoor and outdoor seating, and attentive service, reservations are recommended, especially for dinner and group events.
What to Expect:
🍸 Craft cocktails and curated wine list
🍽️ Spanish-inspired tapas and small plates
🌿 Vegetarian-friendly menu options
🌞 Outdoor patio and lively atmosphere
Important Information:
Reservations required, especially for larger groups or weekend dinners
Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms
Free street parking and paid parking lots nearby
Accepts credit/debit cards and NFC mobile payments
Perfect for special occasions, intimate dinners, or group celebrations.
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
🍸 Cocktail Craftsmanship: The bar crafts intricate cocktails with fresh, local ingredients—ask the bartenders for seasonal specialties.
🌿 Vegetarian Friendly: The mushroom risotto and burrata are highly recommended vegetarian dishes with large selections available.
🎶 Live Music & Patio Vibes: The outdoor patio often features live music, enhancing the trendy and cozy dining atmosphere.
🕒 Dining Reservations: Dinner reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekends and large groups to ensure your preferred seating.
⏰ 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: Closed
👉 Best For
Dinner, group celebrations, cocktail lovers, tapas enthusiasts
Gala Restaurant
705 Anacapa St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Gala Restaurant is celebrated for its exceptional service, vibrant atmosphere, and creative tapas with many raving about the cocktails and standout dishes like burrata and fried green tomatoes. Some reviews mention occasional service slowdowns during busy times, but overall, guests expect a memorable dining experience with consistently fresh, flavorful food.
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
Fried Green Tomatoes, Steak, Burrata, Oysters, Duck Confit, Crudo, Zucchini Flowers, Tapas, Cheesecake, Spanish Jamon, Mushroom Risotto, Seared Scallops, Tempura Zucchini Flowers, Cornbread Skillet, Paella
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit Tuesday to Saturday from 4 to 6 PM for quieter dining; weekends book early to secure patio seating; ideal for evening dinners and group events.
Accessibility
The restaurant offers a wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, restrooms, and accessible parking. The space is designed to accommodate guests with mobility needs comfortably.
Reservation Policy
Reservations required, especially for groups and weekend dinners
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✅ Cancellation Policy
No explicit cancellation policy stated; reservations recommended in advance
