La Playa Azul Cafe

Open

Closed

$

$$

๐ŸŒฎ Mexican

โ€ข

Santa Barbara

โ€ข

casual-dining

4.5
Mexican seafood dishes and potent margaritas in a sleek spot with white walls and palm fronds for a coastal vibe.

$

$$

โ€ข

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โ€ข

casual-dining

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๐Ÿ“

La Playa Azul Cafe

Santa Barbara

$

Fresh Mexican seafood served with potent margaritas in a crisp, palm-frond decor. Book for lunch or dinner in Santa Barbara.

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About
4.5
(
538
)

La Playa Azul Cafe offers vibrant Mexican seafood entrees served in a crisp, stylish setting accented with white walls and palm fronds.

This casual spot features notable margaritas and a lively patio, ideal for lunch or dinner with quick service and a friendly atmosphere.

What to Expect:

    ๐Ÿฆ Fresh Mexican seafood specialties
    ๐Ÿน Potent and creative margaritas
    ๐ŸŒด Bright interior with tropical decor
    โ˜€๏ธ Inviting outdoor patio seating

Important Information:

    Reservations recommended for dinner
    Happy hour daily 3 PMโ€“6 PM
    Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, restroom, and parking
    Accepts credit/debit cards and NFC payments

Enjoy a lively dining experience blending fresh flavors with a vibrant, comfortable environment.

Haley's Pick ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ

You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place sheโ€™s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, itโ€™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 Barellaโ€™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.

Itโ€™s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isnโ€™t just a meal, itโ€™s a moment worth lining up for.

โ€“ Haley @milehighandhungry
๐Ÿ”Š
๐Ÿ”Š
๐Ÿ”Š

๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐Ÿน Signature Margaritas: The hibiscus flower margarita is a local favorite and well worth trying for cocktail lovers.

๐ŸŒž Patio Seating Advantage: The bright, palm-frond-adorned outdoor patio is ideal for happy hour or casual dining with friends.

๐Ÿฅ˜ Must-Try Dishes: Seafood lovers should not miss the crab tostada and shrimp tacos, often highlighted by regulars.

๐Ÿ•’ Happy Hour Tips: Daily happy hour from 3 PM to 6 PM offers great drinks and food deals, perfect for late afternoons.

โฐ Hours

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: 11 AM to 8 PM

Wednesday: 11 AM to 8 PM

Thursday: 11 AM to 8 PM

Friday: 11 AM to 9 PM

Saturday: 11 AM to 9 PM

Sunday: 11 AM to 8 PM

๐Ÿ‘‰ Best For

Seafood lovers, casual dining, happy hour, families

La Playa Azul Cafe

914 Santa Barbara St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101

Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
La Playa Azul Cafe is celebrated for its fresh Mexican seafood and excellent margaritas, particularly the hibiscus variety. Guests appreciate the vibrant patio, quick and friendly service, and family-friendly vibe. While most reviews praise the generous portions and lively atmosphere, a few note occasional order mistakes and a lively noise level during peak hours.

Last updated on

January 9th, 2026

From The preserve

Standout Dishes

Go For

The Selection

Accommodations

Course Stats

Anglerโ€™s Offerings

What You'll Find

Shrimp Tacos, Crab Tostada, Fish Tacos, Seafood Enchiladas, Hibiscus Margarita, Habanero Margarita, Vegetarian Options, Chips and Salsa, Quick Bites, Small Plates

๐Ÿ“† Best Times to Visit

Visit Tueโ€“Thu early afternoon to avoid crowds; happy hour 3โ€“6 PM is best for drinks; weekends see peak dinner crowds after 5 PM.
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