4.3
(
163
)
Blackbird, inside the Hotel Californian, presents an eclectic selection of seasonal New American cuisine coupled with craft cocktails. Guests can enjoy a trendy yet romantic setting with attentive service and a noteworthy bar program offering great beers, wines, and creative drinks.
What to Expect:
🍽 Eclectic seasonal New American dishes
🍸 Creative cocktails and extensive wine list
🏨 Located within the Hotel Californian
🌿 Outdoor seating and elegant indoor ambiance
Important Information:
Reservations recommended and accepted
Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, parking, and restrooms
Valet and free parking garage available
Pet friendly patio seating
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
🌿 Patio Perks: Outdoor seating welcomes pets and offers a charming spot for those who enjoy dining alfresco.
🍸 Cocktail Creativity: Bartenders craft custom drinks beyond the menu—ask for specials like the lychee matcha mocktail.
🍽 Specials Days: Different days feature unique specials, including $2 oysters—perfect for food lovers watching their budget.
🚗 Parking Tips: Valet and free garage parking help ease the challenge of street parking near the hotel.
⏰ Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Saturday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
👉 Best For
Dinner, cocktail lovers, romantic outings, groups
Blackbird
36 State St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Blackbird impresses with its stylish ambiance, standout New American dishes, and creative cocktails. Guests frequently praise the attentive staff and vibrant atmosphere. While most reviews highlight exceptional food and drink quality, some mention inconsistency in kitchen and bar service during busy times, and a few find the pricing steep relative to portion sizes.
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
Oysters, Scallops, Steak, Brussel Sprouts, Wagyu Burger, Beef Tartar, Risotto, Quail, Lamb, Chocolate Cake, Espresso Martini, Lychee Matcha Mocktail
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit Tues–Sat starting at 5 PM to enjoy dinner with decreasing crowd after 8 PM; reservations recommended for weekends.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, restrooms, and parking available. The venue is inclusive with accommodations for mobility needs.
Reservation Policy
Reservations recommended; accepts walk-ins with possible wait
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✅ Cancellation Policy
No fee if cancelled 24 hours in advance; follow reservation platform policies
