4.1
(
531
)
China Pavilion is a casual Chinese restaurant in Santa Barbara known for authentic dishes and an extensive weekend dim sum menu made fresh in-house. Expect friendly, attentive service with generous portions, a strong tea selection, and a family-friendly atmosphere suitable for groups and solo dining.
What to Expect:
🍜 Wide variety of authentic Chinese dishes
🥢 Fresh dim sum available Saturdays and Sundays
🍵 Great selection of teas including oolong
🍽️ Family-friendly and group seating with private dining option
Important Information:
Reservations accepted and recommended for peak times
Accessible with wheelchair ramps and facilities
Multiple payment options including credit cards and mobile NFC
Delivery, takeout, curbside pickup, and dine-in available
Perfect spot for lunch or dinner with reliable service and authentic flavors in downtown 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
🍵 Tea Enthusiasts Delight: The restaurant offers a notable selection of teas including oolong, enhancing the authentic dining experience.
🥢 Dim Sum Weekend Specialty: Dim sum is freshly made and served only on weekends from 11 AM to 3 PM; it’s popular and occasionally sells out early.
🅿️ Parking Tips: Plenty of paid and free street parking is available nearby, including a public parking lot with 70 minutes free time, easing access to the downtown location.
👪 Family Friendly & Group Ready: Spacious seating with large tables and private dining rooms make it comfortable for family dinners and celebrations.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Thursday: Closed
Friday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 5:00 PM–9:30 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–9:30 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
👉 Best For
Families, groups, dim sum lovers, solo diners
China Pavilion
1202 Chapala St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
China Pavilion is praised for its authentic Chinese dishes and fresh weekend dim sum with attentive, friendly service and generous portions. Positive reviews highlight flavorful meals, great tea options, and a welcoming atmosphere suitable for families and groups. Some negative feedback cites inconsistent dim sum availability, occasional slow service, and cleanliness issues; however, these are less frequent amid many satisfied guests.
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
Dim Sum, Steamed Dumplings, Mongolian Beef, Kung Pao Chicken, Salt and Pepper Spareribs, Pork Buns, Fried Rice, Chow Mein, Vegetarian Options, Small Plates, Tea Selection, Chinese Broccoli with Oyster Sauce, Mapo Tofu, Xiaolong Bao, Ants in a Tree, Three Cup Chicken, Black Pepper Beef, Lotus Leaf Sticky Rice
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit weekends from 11 AM to 3 PM for fresh dim sum; weekdays lunch from noon to 2 PM is moderate; dinner peaks around 5 to 7 PM, reserve ahead weekends.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating ensure ease of access for guests with mobility needs.
Reservation Policy
Reservations accepted and recommended for weekends and peak times
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