4.3
(
594
)
Chuck's of Hawaii offers a long-standing tiki-themed dining experience with a focus on steaks and fresh seafood complemented by a famed salad bar and full wine list.
The cozy yet lively atmosphere blends casual dining with excellent service, equipped with indoor and outdoor seating, and a bar that serves classic cocktails and beers. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner, making it a popular local destination.
What to Expect:
🥩 Classic and teriyaki ribeye steaks
🦞 Fresh seafood including halibut and scallops
🥗 Extensive self-serve salad bar
🍹 Signature tiki cocktails and Mai Tais
Important Information:
Reservations recommended for dinner
Outdoor seating available but lacks ambience
Complimentary bread and salad bar included with meals
Free parking lot with easy access
A destination for both locals and tourists seeking hearty steaks and nostalgic tiki vibes in 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
🥩 Steak Bites Are a Must-Try: Regulars rave about the teriyaki steak bites as a quick bar snack or meal highlight.
🥗 Salad Bar Stands Out: The extensive, fresh salad bar is often cited as the best in Santa Barbara and worth visiting for alone.
🍹 Happy Hour Before Dinner: Happy hour runs 5–6 PM most weekdays, offering great cocktail deals and drinks to start the night.
🚗 Parking Tips: Free parking is available behind the building; turning onto La Cumbre and first right off Hollister leads conveniently to the lot.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 5 AM to 9:30 PM
Tuesday: 5 AM to 9:30 PM
Wednesday: 5 AM to 9:30 PM
Thursday: 5 AM to 9:30 PM
Friday: 5 AM to 10 PM
Saturday: 5 AM to 10 PM
Sunday: 5 AM to 9:30 PM
👉 Best For
Dinner, casual groups, steak lovers, local favorites
Chuck's of Hawaii
3888 State St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93105
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Chuck's of Hawaii is praised for its hearty steaks, fresh seafood, and standout salad bar, with many enjoying its tiki-themed atmosphere and friendly staff. The bar program and Mai Tai cocktails receive mixed reviews; some find the steaks perfectly cooked while others report dryness or seasoning issues. Outdoor seating is often criticized for lack of atmosphere. Service quality varies, with occasional reports of inattentive or rude staff. Despite some negatives, it remains a popular local spot with a loyal following.
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
Teriyaki Ribeye, Steak Bites, Halibut, Scallops, Salad Bar, Mai Tai, Baked Idaho Potato, Sriracha Sauce, Homemade Cheesecake, Surf and Turf, Pork Chop T-Bone Cut, Swordfish
📆 Best Times to Visit
Late afternoons at 5–6 PM for happy hour avoid peak dinner crowds; Wednesdays to Fridays 6–8 PM are busiest; outdoor seating best on cooler evenings.
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating available. Gradual incline from parking lot to restaurant; approach from rear as front has steps.
Reservation Policy
Dinner reservations recommended; accepts reservations
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✅ Cancellation Policy
No cancellation fee specified
