The Steward, Santa Barbara, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, features spacious suite-only accommodations with elegant, modern decor. Guests enjoy tranquil grounds, an inviting outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and an on-site restaurant offering seasonal meals in a historic, Southern charm-inspired setting.
While the location edges a freeway, careful room selection ensures quiet stays; service excellence is highlighted by attentive staff, though some recent reviews mention ongoing challenges with AC noise and staffing.
What's Included:
🏊♂️ Outdoor heated pool and hot tub
🏋️♂️ 24/7 Fitness center
🍽️ On-site restaurant with seasonal menus
Important Information:
Self parking at $32 per nightFree Wi-Fi throughout the propertyAdvanced bookings recommended due to staffing constraintsNoise concerns reported; request rooms away from freeway and AC units
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
🏡 Request Pool-Side Suites: Suites near the pool are quieter and farther from the freeway, offering better views and less traffic noise.
❄️ AC Noise Troubles: Many rooms have noisy or portable AC units; ask for a room with a fully functioning central system to avoid disturbance.
🍽️ Restaurant Staffing: Plan dining earlier or book ahead as the on-site restaurant can have slow service due to limited staff during peak times.
🚗 Parking Cost Clarity: Self parking costs $32 per night; confirm charges at check-in to avoid billing confusion.
Review Sentiment
.svg)
Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
The Steward impresses guests with its spacious suites, beautiful grounds, and attentive staff. Many praise the cozy ambiance and on-site amenities like the pool and restaurant. However, consistent complaints about loud and problematic air conditioning, noise from the nearby freeway, and occasional staffing shortages, particularly in housekeeping and restaurant service, temper overall impressions. While loyal guests appreciate the tranquility and service, others have faced frustrating experiences with room comfort and customer support.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
Accessibility
The hotel is wheelchair accessible with accessible rooms available; the pool and common areas accommodate guests with mobility needs. Some areas may have stairs, so notify staff for specific access requests.
