4.3
(
1288
)
Bluewater Grill offers a relaxed seafood dining experience featuring fresh catches, sushi, and local specialties in Santa Barbara. Guests appreciate the nautically themed decor, extensive wine list, rooftop seating, and friendly service, with reservations recommended.
What to Expect:
🐟 Extensive fresh seafood menu including oysters and paella
🍹 Great cocktails and well-curated wine and beer selections
🌊 Ocean views with cozy fireplaces and rooftop seating
🐾 Dog-friendly bar area and outdoor seating available
Important Information:
Reservation recommended, especially for dinner and brunch
Wheelchair accessible throughout
Valet and street parking available; some parking difficulty noted
Kids welcome with menu and high chairs provided
Book early during busy weekend evenings or for special events to ensure 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
🐾 Dog-Friendly Bar: Bring your dog to the bar area for a relaxed hangout after beach days, loved by locals.
🥂 Happy Hour Perks: Enjoy discounted oysters and cocktails on weekday happy hours from 4 to 6 PM.
🌅 Rooftop Views: Request rooftop seating for exceptional harbor and ocean vistas paired with your meal.
🍽️ Vegan Specials: Try the vegan paella and cheesecake from special vegan events that have garnered rave reviews.
⏰ Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM
Wednesday: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM
Thursday: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
👉 Best For
Seafood lovers, families, dog owners, casual dining groups
Bluewater Grill
15 E Cabrillo Blvd
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Bluewater Grill is celebrated for fresh seafood, standout dishes like paella and lobster rolls, and attentive friendly service in a casual, ocean-view setting. Some guests note occasional inconsistencies and parking challenges, with a few reporting issues with seasoning or certain dishes. Overall, the lively atmosphere and variety make it a popular Santa Barbara spot.
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, Lobster Roll, Paella, Clam Chowder, Crab Cakes, Fish Tacos, Scallops, Swordfish, Vegan Paella, Seafood Louie Salad, Striped Bass, Halibut, Cocktails, Wine List, Happy Hour Drinks and Food
📆 Best Times to Visit
Weekday evenings 4–6 PM for happy hour deals and quieter dining. Weekends popular 6–8 PM; reserve early for rooftop seating and brunch on weekends.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, parking lot, and restrooms ensure ease of access for all guests.
Reservation Policy
Reservations preferred; brunch and dinner reservations recommended
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✅ Cancellation Policy
No fee if cancelled 24 hours in advance; charges may apply for no-shows
