4.7
(
923
)
The Palace Grill delivers a spirited Cajun-Creole dining experience with standout dishes like blackened salmon, jambalaya, and signature cornbread muffins. Guests enjoy attentive service, live music with sing-alongs, and a lively yet cozy atmosphere perfect for casual dinners or special occasions.
What to Expect:
🔥 Classic Cajun-Creole specialties
🍸 Unique cocktails including jalapeño martinis
🎶 Live music and sing-along sessions
🍰 Must-try bread pudding soufflé
Important Information:
Reservations recommended for dinner
Outdoor seating available
Accessible for wheelchairs
Paid and free street parking nearby
Book early on weekends to ensure a table and enjoy festive Cajun hospitality 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
🎶 Dinner Sing-Alongs: Arrive at dinner for the special moment when staff and guests sing classic tunes together, enhancing the lively atmosphere.
🧁 Signature Muffins: Don’t miss the complimentary mini muffins served in various unique flavors like jalapeño and rosemary.
🍽️ Bread Pudding Prep: Plan ahead to pre-order the bread pudding soufflé, as it takes around 30-45 minutes to prepare.
🍸 Try the Cocktails: The Jalapeño Martini and other craft cocktails are highly recommended to complement your meal.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
👉 Best For
Casual dining, groups, live music lovers, special occasions
The Palace Grill
8 E Cota St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Patrons consistently praise the exceptional quality of the Cajun-Creole cuisine, especially the jambalaya, blackened salmon, and bread pudding soufflé. The upbeat atmosphere with live music and sing-alongs earns high marks. Some note occasional slow service and higher prices, but the vibrant experience and flavorful food justify it for most.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Go For
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Gumbo Ya-Ya, Crawfish Pasta Lafitte, Blackened Salmon, Louisiana Bread Pudding Soufflé, Filet Mignon, Jambalaya, Crawfish Popcorn, Cornbread Muffins, Plantation Fried Chicken Salad, Cajun Popcorn, Softshell Crab, Bananas Fosters
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit weekdays after 5 PM for quieter dinners; weekends get busy by 6 PM, so reserve early. Try visiting Thursdays for lunch and live music.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restrooms, and seating provide inclusive access for guests with mobility needs.
Reservation Policy
Dinner reservations recommended; usually a wait during peak hours
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✅ Cancellation Policy
No explicit cancellation policy stated; reservations advised on weekends
