ShangHai Restaurant

Open

Closed

$

$$

๐Ÿฅก Chinese

โ€ข

Santa Barbara

โ€ข

casual-dining

4.5
Low-key sit-down Chinese cuisine with a full vegetarian menu, cozy vibe, friendly service, and local favorites in Santa Barbara.

$

$$

โ€ข

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โ€ข

casual-dining

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๐Ÿ“

ShangHai Restaurant

Santa Barbara

$

Cozy spot in Santa Barbara offering authentic Sichuan flavors, vegetarian-friendly menu, and friendly service. Book your table or order takeout today.

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About
4.5
(
240
)

ShangHai Restaurant offers authentic Chinese dishes featuring a full vegetarian menu and highlights from Sichuan and Chongqing flavors. Expect friendly, attentive service, a casual atmosphere, and a variety of dining options including takeout and delivery.

What to Expect:

    ๐Ÿœ Authentic Sichuan and Chongqing flavors
    ๐Ÿฅข Vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes
    ๐Ÿš Lunch specials and classic Chinese comfort food
    ๐Ÿต Great tea selection

Important Information:

    Reservations accepted; casual attire
    Parking available with free street and lot options
    Credit and debit cards accepted

A local favorite known for generous portions, reasonable prices, and warm hospitality.

Haley's Pick ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ

You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place sheโ€™s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, itโ€™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 Barellaโ€™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.

Itโ€™s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isnโ€™t just a meal, itโ€™s a moment worth lining up for.

โ€“ Haley @milehighandhungry
๐Ÿ”Š
๐Ÿ”Š
๐Ÿ”Š

๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐Ÿœ Authentic Spicy Noodles: Try the braised beef and Chongqing-style noodles, known for their genuine heat and rich flavor.

๐Ÿฅข Vegetarian Delights: The vegetarian menu is extensive and clearly labeled; ask the owner for personalized recommendations.

๐Ÿš— Parking Pointers: Ample free parking is available, but Saturday lunch can get busy; arriving early is advised.

๐Ÿต Tea Selection: Donโ€™t miss the great tea options to complement your meal, enhancing the authentic dining experience.

โฐ Hours

Monday: 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday: 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Thursday: 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Friday: 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Saturday: 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Sunday: 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM

๐Ÿ‘‰ Best For

Vegetarian diners, families, casual meals, Chinese cuisine lovers

ShangHai Restaurant

830 N Milpas St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93103

Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
ShangHai Restaurant is highly praised for authentic Chinese food with bold Sichuan flavors, generous portions, and exceptional vegetarian options. Reviewers consistently highlight the warm, attentive service by owner Dani and the cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Minor critiques on style preferences appear rare, making it a beloved local gem.

Last updated on

January 9th, 2026

From The preserve

Standout Dishes

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The Selection

Accommodations

Course Stats

Anglerโ€™s Offerings

What You'll Find

Dan Dan Noodles, Braised Beef Noodles, Hot and Sour Soup, Kung Pao Chicken, Orange Chicken, Lemon Chicken, Pork Bao, Steamed Vegetable Bao, Maoxuewang, Szechuan Spicy Poached Beef, Mapo Tofu, Crispy Bao, Egg Rolls, Wonton Soup

๐Ÿ“† Best Times to Visit

Visit weekday lunch between 11:30 AMโ€“2 PM for lighter crowds; Thursday evenings peak around 6โ€“8 PM; Sundays are quieter until evening.
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