Taqueria La Unica delivers authentic Mexican street food with fresh ingredients, including standout items like birria tacos and al pastor.
Guests enjoy casual vibes, a salsa bar, quick service, and expansive outdoor seating options without the need for reservations.
What to Expect:
🌮 Fresh, traditional tacos and Mexican specialties
🔥 Popular al pastor and birria dishes
🌶️ Extensive, flavorful salsa bar
🪴 Comfortable casual atmosphere with outdoor seating and fireplace
Important Information:
Service Style: Counter service with takeout and delivery available
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, and seating
Reservations: Not accepted
Perfect for casual dining, solo visits, or groups seeking flavorful, authentic Mexican cuisine in Santa Barbara.
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
🌮 Off-Menu Veggie Options: The cashier cheerfully guides guests to off-menu vegetarian tacos like the veggie pastor mushroom taco.
🔥 Outdoor Fire Pit Seating: Choose the front streetside patio for cozy warmth and lively ambiance, perfect for cooler evenings.
🕒 Quick Service Ideal for Lunch: The restaurant excels at swift takeaway and lunch dining, great for busy days or solo visits.
🌶️ Salsa Bar Highlights: The salsa bar offers a balanced mix of flavorful options that aren’t overly spicy but pack a punch, beloved by regulars.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Taqueria La Unica is celebrated for its authentic Mexican flavors, generous portions, and excellent service in a laid-back setting. Diners consistently praise the al pastor and birria tacos, as well as the lively salsa bar and accommodating staff. While some regard it as slightly pricey, the food quality and atmosphere justify the cost, with only rare mentions of order mix-ups swiftly resolved.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
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What You'll Find
Al Pastor Tacos, Birria Tacos, Burritos, Torta, Gringa, Vegetarian Tacos, Salsa Bar, Jarritos Drinks
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, and seating provide ease for guests with mobility needs. Restrooms available onsite.
