Happy Cat Eats serves fresh, inventive American dishes with a laid-back beachside atmosphere. Guests enjoy quick service, diverse menu highlights like carnitas fries and cinnamon rolls, and ample outdoor seating along Santa Barbara’s waterfront.
What to Expect:
🌮 Creative tacos including carnitas and sushi variations
🥓 Popular breakfast burrito with unique mac and cheese
🥤 Specialty coffee and iced drinks
🍰 Signature cinnamon rolls
Important Information:
Service Style: Order at the counter with food brought to your table
Atmosphere: Casual and cozy with outdoor patio seating
Payments: Credit, debit, and NFC mobile payments accepted
Pet Policy: Dogs allowed in outdoor spaces
Great for casual dining with friends, groups, and families right by the beach.
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 Specials: Carnitas fries and the mac and cheese breakfast burrito are fan favorites that keep locals coming back.
☕ Coffee Culture: The iced coffee and lychee mint lemonade are standout drinks paired perfectly with morning meals.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Patio: Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area, making it a great stop for pet owners.
🚗 Parking Tips: Parking can be tricky; street spots and a nearby paid garage are available within a short walk.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Happy Cat Eats garners praise for fresh, inventive dishes like carnitas fries and breakfast burritos, plus a friendly vibe and prime beachside location. Guests love the cinnamon rolls and swift outdoor service. Some mention occasional slower service but agree the quality and atmosphere make it worthwhile.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
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The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Carnitas Fries, Breakfast Burrito with Mac and Cheese, Cinnamon Rolls, Fish and Chips, Sushi Sandwich, Wagyu Cheeseburger, Breakfast Bowls, Coffee and Iced Coffee, Bloody Mary, Lychee Mint Lemonade
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, and seating available. Ground level outdoor seating ensures ease of access for all guests.
