On The Alley offers a casual dining experience right on Santa Barbara Harbor, specializing in fresh seafood, including fish & chips and tacos. Guests enjoy quick service and open-air seating with ocean views in a laid-back atmosphere.
What to Expect:
🐟 Fresh seafood classics like Fish & Chips and Clam Chowder
🌮 Flavorful fish and shrimp tacos on sturdy corn tortillas
☕ Great coffee and quick bites for breakfast and lunch
🌊 Relaxed outdoor picnic-style seating overlooking the harbor
Important Information:
Outdoor seating with picnic tables
No reservations accepted; expect wait times during peak hours
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
Best visited in the mornings and early afternoons to enjoy the freshest catches and scenic waterfront views.
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
🐟 Harbor Side Seating: Picnic tables outside offer relaxed views of the Santa Barbara Harbor, perfect for casual meals.
🌮 Tacos Are a Must-Try: The fish and shrimp tacos served on thick corn tortillas get consistent praise for flavor and portion size.
☀️ Best Time to Visit: Early mornings and weekdays before noon are less crowded and ideal for breakfast or lunch.
☕ Coffee & Quick Bites: Great spot for a fast breakfast or coffee; locals rave about the breakfast burritos with fresh ingredients.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
On The Alley is celebrated for its fresh seafood, especially fish & chips and fish tacos, alongside a friendly, efficient staff and scenic harbor views. Guests appreciate the casual vibe and outdoor seating but note occasional wait times with no reservation option. Some mention minor inconsistencies with food like bland coffee or substitution of fish types.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
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What You'll Find
Fish & Chips, Clam Chowder, Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, Breakfast Burritos, Calamari, Crab Cake, Pulled Pork, French Fries, Tater Tots, Coffee, Beer, Cocktails, Wine
Accessibility
On The Alley provides wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restrooms, and seating to accommodate guests with disabilities.
