Mesa Burger delivers a relaxed burger experience in Santa Barbara’s Mesa Village with fast counter service and a focus on quality smash burgers and sides.
The trendy yet cozy spot features indoor and outdoor seating, a great beer and wine selection, and delicious fries and onion rings. Guests enjoy quick service without reservations and family-friendly amenities.
What to Expect:
🍔 Juicy smash burgers with gourmet options including build-your-own
🍟 Crispy French fries and onion rings
🍺 Strong beer selection plus wine offerings
🏖️ Casual vibe with indoor & outdoor seating
Important Information:
Counter service only, no table service
Accepts major credit and debit cards, plus mobile payments
Family-friendly with kids' menu and high chairs
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
Popular for lunch and dinner, no reservations accepted.
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
🍔 Build-Your-Own Option: Ask about the unadvertised custom burger builds for tailored flavors.
🍠 Sweet Potato Fries Stand Out: The sweet potato fries are famously crispy and a must-try side.
🌿 Vegetarian Friendly: The veggie burger is highly regarded and can be customized like any burger.
🕒 Closing Time Notice: The restaurant closes promptly, and late arrivals may be turned away before closing.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Mesa Burger is praised for its juicy, flavorful smash burgers and crispy fries in a casual, trendy setting. Reviewers highlight excellent service and a welcoming vibe. Some note occasional cleanliness issues and consider it pricey, but most find the quality justifies the price.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
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What You'll Find
Smash Burgers, Build-your-own Burgers, French Fries, Onion Rings, Sweet Potato Fries, Beer Selection, Wine
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restrooms, and seating ensure comfortable access for guests with mobility needs.
