Sama Sama Kitchen

Open

Closed

$

$$

🍚 Asian Fusion

•

Santa Barbara

•

casual-dining

4.4
Cool farm-to-fork spot serving Southeast Asian small plates with a charming courtyard lit by string lights.

$

$$

•

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casual-dining

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Sama Sama Kitchen

Santa Barbara

$

Experience bold Southeast Asian flavors with signature wings, small plates, and creative cocktails in a trendy courtyard setting in Santa Barbara.

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About
4.4
(
430
)

Sama Sama Kitchen offers a farm-to-fork dining experience focused on Southeast Asian flavors presented as shareable small plates. Guests enjoy a lively atmosphere framed by a courtyard strung with lights, paired with a great cocktail and wine program.

The service is attentive and professional; dinner reservations are recommended due to the popular demand and cozy space.

What to Expect:

    🍗 Signature and Vietnamese chicken wings
    🍜 Braised pork noodles and nasi goreng
    🥗 Unique Southeast Asian salads and small plates
    🍹 Creative cocktails and strong beer selection

Important Information:

    Reservations recommended for dinner; walk-ins accepted but may face wait
    Outdoor and indoor seating available
    Pet friendly with dog bowls provided
    Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating

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
🔊
🔊
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📍 Local Insights

🌶️ Spice Level Warning: The dishes pack real heat—ask your server about spice levels if sensitive.

🍗 Must-Try Wings: The signature tamarind and Vietnamese wings are standout dishes beloved by locals.

🍽️ Share Plates Style: Food is designed for sharing; plan 2-3 dishes per person for a full meal.

🏡 Cozy Courtyard: The outdoor seating area is magical at night with string lights, perfect for warm evenings.

⏰ Hours

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–8:30 PM

Wednesday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–8:30 PM

Thursday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–8:30 PM

Friday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–9:30 PM

Saturday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–9:30 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–8:30 PM

👉 Best For

Groups, casual dinners, Southeast Asian cuisine lovers
No items found.

Sama Sama Kitchen

1208 State St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101

Open in Google Maps

Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Sama Sama Kitchen delights guests with bold Southeast Asian flavors, especially their signature and Vietnamese wings. The vibrant atmosphere and attentive service receive high praise, alongside creative cocktails and a solid wine list. Some diners note occasional over-seasoning and pricing concerns, but most agree the quality and experience make it worthwhile.

Last updated on

January 9th, 2026

From The preserve

Standout Dishes

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The Selection

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Course Stats

Angler’s Offerings

What You'll Find

Signature Wings, Vietnamese Chicken Wings, Braised Pork Noodles, Nasi Goreng, Duck Salad, Brussels Sprouts, Pork Ribs, Rice Salad, Tamarind Wings, Gado Gado, Black Cod in Banana Leaves, Hot Chicken Bao, Crispy Fried Rice, Chicken Satay

📆 Best Times to Visit

Visit for lunch or early dinner to avoid crowds; weekends peak at 7–8 PM especially; reservations recommended for dinner times.
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