4.1
(
68
)
La Cantina Bar & Restaurant delivers flavorful Mexican classics and creative cocktails under the guidance of Chef Adriell Colli in Santa Barbara.
With a vibrant bar scene, ample outdoor seating, and a focus on accommodating groups and solo diners, guests enjoy attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere suitable for family dining and game watching.
What to Expect:
🌮 Diverse taco and enchilada options, including Quesabirria and mole dishes
🍹 Signature margaritas and inventive cocktails crafted by skilled bartenders
🏟️ Multiple TVs throughout for watching sports
🌿 Vegetarian-friendly menu items and gluten-free options available
Important Information:
Reservations accepted but not required; ideal for lunch and dinner
Outdoor seating and seating for groups available
Ample free parking in shared shopping plaza lot
Welcomes pets in outdoor areas
Plan a visit during happy hour (3–5:30 PM daily) to enjoy great deals on food and drinks.
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
🍸 Best Margaritas: Ask for bartenders Melissa or Taylor for some of the best margaritas in Santa Barbara, including spicy passion fruit and the La Monarca mezcal mix.
🌮 Hidden Menu Items: Vegetarian favorites like fried avocado tacos are available upon request—ask the server for off-menu dishes.
⏰ Happy Hour Advantage: Visit daily from 3 PM to 5:30 PM for discounted drinks and food, a great time to try multiple small plates and cocktails.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Patio: Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners to enjoy a meal.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM
Tuesday: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
Saturday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
Sunday: 11:30 AM–8:00 PM
👉 Best For
Groups, sports fans, margarita lovers, families
La Cantina Bar & Restaurant
199 S Turnpike Rd #105
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93111
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
La Cantina is praised for its delicious food, flavorful cocktails, and friendly staff in a casual yet trendy setting. Customers appreciate the variety in the menu and strong margaritas, along with the lively bar atmosphere and multiple TVs for games. Some reviews mention occasional slow service and management attitude issues, but the overall sentiment is positive with many repeat visitors and local regulars.
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
Quesabirria, Mole con Pollo, Enchiladas La Paz, Aguachiles, Fajitas, Guacamole, Sopes Con Pollo, Shrimp Dishes, Molcajete, Cheesecake-style Pan de Elote, Margarita Varieties, Passion Fruit Margarita, Watermelon Margarita, Cucumber Margarita, Mango Margarita
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit for happy hour daily 3–5:30 PM for specials; Fridays and weekends from noon to early evening are busiest; early weekday lunches are quieter.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating; spacious indoor and outdoor areas accommodate mobility needs.
Reservation Policy
Reservations accepted but not required
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