M Special Brewing Company in Goleta crafts a variety of excellent beers with a vibe that is both lively and welcoming. The brewery features an impressively long, hand-crafted wooden bar and a sizable patio where local bands often play, creating a pleasant ambiance for both seated and standing guests.
Visitors can expect friendly service, a rotating selection of IPAs, lagers, and specialty brews, along with on-site food trucks offering diverse bites. The large free parking lot and wheelchair accessible facilities make visits easy, with no strict dress code or cover charge typically required.
What's Included:
🍺 Diverse craft beer selection on tap
🎶 Live music and bands regularly
🌮 On-site food trucks featuring local cuisine
🪑 Spacious bar and patio seating
Important Information:
Age Policy: 21+ to purchase alcohol
Parking: Free lot available
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
Contact: (805) 968-6500 | http://mspecialbrewco.com/
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 Lager: Try the flagship Sabado Tarde, a smooth tangerine ale with no bitter aftertaste that's a local favorite.
🎶 Live Music Nights: Weekends often feature live bands outside on the patio, boosting the lively vibe.
🌮 Food Trucks: Popular local taco and burger trucks park onsite; check schedule as availability varies.
🅿️ Ample Parking: Free parking lot allows easy access even during busy afternoon hours.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
M Special Brewing is celebrated for its outstanding beer quality, welcoming atmosphere, and friendly staff. The long wooden bar and regular live music add charm. Positive feedback highlights the excellent beer flights and enjoyable patio setting. A few reviews note occasional service distractions and variability in food truck availability, but overall sentiment is highly favorable.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
Accessibility
Fully wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, seating, and restrooms ensure inclusive visits for all guests.
