Moby Dick Restaurant delivers fresh seafood, burgers, and classic American dishes in a cozy, casual setting on the Santa Barbara Waterfront. Guests enjoy large windows with sweeping ocean views alongside fast, accommodating service and a robust bar program offering beer, wine, and cocktails.
Reservations are accepted and recommended especially for brunch weekends, and the venue is equipped with outdoor seating and wheelchair accessibility, making it great for families and solo diners alike.
What to Expect:
🦪 Fresh seafood and classic clam chowder
🍔 Burgers and comfort food staples
🍹 Extensive beer, cocktail, and wine selections
🌊 Stunning waterfront views with indoor and outdoor seating
Important Information:
Reservations encouraged, especially for brunch and busy periods
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, and restrooms
Family-friendly with kids' menu and high chairs available
Paid parking available, generally ample nearby
A popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Moby Dick combines classic flavors with a genuine Santa Barbara coastal vibe.
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
🌅 Morning Brunch Views: For the best ocean experience, book a weekend brunch to enjoy bright views and less crowd before 2 PM.
🍻 Happy Hour Hotspot: Daily happy hour features great beer and cocktail selections, ideal for casual afternoons.
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Perks: Kids' menu and high chairs make it perfect for families; outdoor patio seating adds comfort for groups.
🚗 Parking Tips: Ample paid parking nearby with some free street options; arrive early on weekends for easier spots.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Moby Dick Restaurant is praised for its unbeatable ocean views, fresh seafood, and attentive service. Many guests highlight the clam chowder, oysters, and friendly staff as major positives. Some reviews mention inconsistent food quality and service issues, but the overall sentiment remains highly favorable with repeat visits and family-friendly appeal.
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
Clam Chowder, Fresh Oysters, Lobster Plate, Fish and Chips, Crab Louie Salad, Burgers, Lobster Mac and Cheese, Fried Shrimp, Tuna Tartare, Chocolate Flourless Cake, Bloody Mary, Sourdough Bread
Accessibility
The restaurant offers wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, and restrooms. The dining area is spacious enough for comfortable wheelchair movement while the pier floor has rough wooden planks to navigate.
