Joe's Cafe offers a vibrant dining experience blending traditional American dishes with contemporary flair, specializing in steak, seafood, and local specialties since 1928.
The welcoming bar serves strong drinks, including martinis and Bloody Marys, alongside fast service and a cozy, historic atmosphere with outdoor seating.
What to Expect:
🥩 Classic steak and seafood entrees
🍳 Popular breakfast and brunch offerings
🍸 Strong cocktails and great beer selection
☕ Excellent coffee and dessert options
Important Information:
Reservations recommended for dinner; accepts credit and mobile payments
Accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
Outdoor dog-friendly seating available
Ideal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a lively yet cozy vibe in downtown Santa Barbara.
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
☀️ Early Breakfast Buzz: Weekends get busy early; arrive at opening for the best seat and prompt service.
🍸 Happy Hour Highlights: The cafe’s happy hour is popular—try cocktails and quick bites for a great value.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Patio: Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, making it a favorite for pet owners strolling State Street.
📞 Call Ahead for Dinner: Dinner reservations are recommended to avoid wait times during peak evening hours.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Joe's Cafe enjoys high praise for its hearty American classics, especially breakfast staples and drinks like martinis and Bloody Marys. Guests appreciate the friendly service and historic cozy ambiance. Some reviewers note a few inconsistencies in food quality and pricing, but most value the lively atmosphere and excellent drink selection.
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
Steak, Seafood, Breakfast classics, French dip, Tri tip, Martini, Bloody Mary, Pecan Pie, Blueberry Pie, Cuban sandwich, Coffee, American comfort food
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restrooms, and seating ensure comfort for guests with mobility needs. Tables for wheelchair users available on request.
