Little Alex's serves up well-crafted Mexican staples with flair, featuring popular dishes like fish tacos, burritos, and chimichangas in a spacious, modern setting. Guests enjoy a friendly, attentive team, a heated outdoor patio, and an extensive beer and wine selection perfect for casual dining or solo visits.
What to Expect:
🌮 Authentic Mexican classics like fish tacos & chimichangas
🍺 Large beer selection and wine offerings
🌞 Heated outdoor patio seating, dog-friendly
🏃♂️ Fast, friendly counter ordering service
Important Information:
Reservations not required
Credit and debit cards accepted
Ample free parking in lot & street
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 Salsas: The Baja roasted salsa offers a mild sweet-savory kick, while the red hot sauce delivers a quick, intense heat that fades fast.
🍺 Happy Hour Value: Enjoy $5 beers and select food specials during 3–6 PM and a summer late-night happy hour from 8–9 PM.
🪑 Heated Patio Seating: The cozy, heated outdoor patio is dog-friendly, perfect for year-round dining in Santa Barbara's mild climate.
☀️ Breakfast All Day: Breakfast is served throughout the day, giving guests flexibility to enjoy Mexican morning favorites anytime.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Little Alex's is celebrated for fresh, flavorful Mexican dishes, especially fish tacos and homemade salsas. Guests praise the friendly staff, quiet and comfortable patio, and generous portions. While most reviews rave about quality and service, a few mention inconsistency in side dishes and occasional microwave-reheated food.
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
Fish Tacos, Pork Chimichanga, Burrito Grande, Chicken Flautas, Shredded Chicken Nachos, Pollo Asada Soft Tacos, Chilaquiles Con Huevos Rancheros, Carnitas, Chips and Salsa, Ceviche, Chicken Fajitas, Blood Orange Soda, Churro Fries
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, and seating ensure ease for all guests. The venue is responsive to accessibility needs for a comfortable visit.
