Rudy's Mexican Restaurant offers generous portions of classic Mexican dishes like burritos and chimichangas in a casual, cozy atmosphere with fast counter service. Guests enjoy a local specialty salsa bar, outdoor seating, and family-friendly accommodations, including wheelchair accessibility.
What to Expect:
🌯 Large burritos and chimichangas
🌶️ Salsa bar with varied homemade salsas
☀️ Outdoor patio seating available
🍳 Popular breakfast items especially huevos rancheros
Important Information:
Service style: Counter-service, no table service
Parking: Free lot and street parking usually available
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible parking and seating
Reservations: Not typically required
Expect a vibrant, authentic Mexican dining experience close to the beach in Santa Barbara's West Beach neighborhood.
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
🌯 Burrito Fans Rejoice: The massive burritos are a standout— great value and perfect for sharing or taking home.
🌶️ Salsa Bar Highlights: Don't miss the popular salsa bar with multiple homemade salsa options, a favorite feature among regulars.
☀️ Outdoor Seating Perk: Especially pleasant for dining on sunny Santa Barbara days; dog-friendly patio seating is available.
⏰ Best Times to Visit: Mid-morning to early afternoon from Tuesday to Thursday offers less crowd, ideal for a quick bite with minimal wait.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Rudy's Mexican Restaurant is praised for its authentic flavors, generous portions, and fast friendly service. Guests love the homemade salsas and breakfast offerings like huevos rancheros. The casual and lively atmosphere with outdoor seating appeals to families and tourists. Some reviews mention occasional crowd noise and a small restroom, and a few note less favorable experiences with staff attitude.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
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What You'll Find
Burritos, Quesadillas, Chimichangas, Huevos Rancheros, Mole, Taquitos, Enchiladas, Salsa Bar, Breakfast Burrito, Tacos, Chile Relleno, Horchata, Mexican Salads
