Wabi Sabi Santa Barbara delivers fresh, high-quality sushi bowls and rolls in a casual, fast-paced atmosphere inside the Santa Barbara Public Market.
Guests can expect fast service, generous portions, and offerings such as teriyaki bowls, tempura, and fresh sashimi, with options for takeout and dine-in.
What to Expect:
🍣 Fresh sushi bowls and rolls
🍤 Tempura and teriyaki specialties
🍷 Selection of beer and wine
🚪 Casual, fast service at a market stall
Important Information:
Service Options: Takeout, Dine-in
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restroom, and seating
Payments: Credit, debit, and NFC mobile payments accepted
Good for solo dining and families
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
🍣 Freshness Matters: Regulars rave about the salmon poke and the freshness of the fish, which truly sets some dishes apart.
🥢 Casual Market Vibe: Expect plastic plates and a fast-paced experience typical of market stalls, not a traditional sushi bar.
⏱️ Fast Service: The place is known for quick meals, perfect for lunch or a speedy dinner at the Public Market.
🍽️ Portion Watch: Portions can be small relative to price, so ordering a couple of items is recommended for a full meal.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Wabi Sabi receives praise for fresh fish, tasty bowls, and friendly service, while criticism centers on inconsistent sushi quality, small portions, and occasional rude staff. The casual market stall setting and higher prices for portion size also divide opinion.
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
Salmon Poke Bowl, Tuna Bowl, Teriyaki Chicken Bowl, Tempura, Sushi Rolls, Miso Soup, Small Plates, Wine, Beer
Accessibility
Features wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating, ensuring an accessible visit for guests with mobility needs.
