Galanga Thai Restaurant offers classic Thai fare focusing on fresh, balanced flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in downtown Santa Barbara. Guests enjoy specialties like Panang Curry, Pad See Ew, and Thai Tea with fast service and outdoor seating.
What to Expect:
๐ Extensive Thai menu with authentic dishes
๐น Signature Thai iced tea & refreshing beverages
๐ฟ Cozy, casual vibe with friendly staff
๐ Outdoor seating on lively State Street
Important Information:
Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restroom
Reservations not required but recommended for large groups
Paid and free street parking nearby with 90-minute free zone
Accepts credit, debit, and NFC mobile payments
Highly recommended for both lunch and dinner with vegetarian and vegan options available.

Haley's Pick ๐ฝ๏ธ
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place sheโs obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, itโs 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 Barellaโs 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.
Itโs barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isnโt just a meal, itโs a moment worth lining up for.
โ Haley @milehighandhungry
๐ Local Insights
๐ถ๏ธ Control the Spice: Dishes like Pad See Ew and Panang Curry are flavorful with a perfect kick, but visitors who prefer milder flavors should ask for spice adjustments.
๐น Must-Try Drinks: The Thai iced tea is a guest favoriteโrefreshing and strong with authentic flavor, perfect for pairing with spicy food.
๐ชด Outdoor Seating Charm: Dining al fresco on State Street is ideal for people-watching and enjoying Santa Barbaraโs pleasant weather.
๐ Parking Tips: Nearby parking includes street spots with 90-minute free parking; allow extra time to find a spot during busy lunch and dinner hours.
Review Sentiment
.svg)
Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Galanga Thai Restaurant is praised for authentic, flavorful Thai dishes such as Panang Curry and Pad See Ew, alongside friendly and attentive service. The outdoor seating and cozy atmosphere receive positive mentions. Some reviewers noted sweetness in certain dishes and occasional slow service. A few negative reviews cited issues with order accuracy and underwhelming flavor depth, but these are outweighed by frequent high ratings and customer loyalty.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Go For
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Anglerโs Offerings
What You'll Find
Panang Curry, Pad See Ew, Thai Iced Tea, Pad Thai, Chicken Satay, Pineapple Fried Rice, Crab Fried Rice, Garlic Pepper Chicken, Mango Sticky Rice, Tom Yum Soup, Yellow Curry, Fried Wontons, Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms provide comfortable access for guests. The venue does not feature an assistive hearing loop.