4.5
(
30
)
Dom’s Taverna Santa Barbara serves authentic Basque cuisine with a focus on fresh local seafood, Josper grill flavors, and creative plating.
The lively dining room features open kitchen views and an expert bar program offering cocktails and Basque wines, with reservations recommended to secure a table.
What to Expect:
🐟 Fresh seafood and Basque specialties
🍹 Innovative cocktails and curated wines
🔥 Josper grill and small plates perfect for sharing
💺 Bar seating alongside attentive and knowledgeable staff
Important Information:
Reservations recommended for dinner and busy times
Free street parking and nearby paid lots available
Casual yet sophisticated vibe suitable for dates or groups
Menu prices typically range $30–50 per person
The Basque cheesecake and surf and turf tartare are standout dishes beloved by guests.
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
🍹 Bar Seating Advantage: Bar seats offer a chance to interact with the knowledgeable staff and catch the kitchen’s action.
🥂 Must-Try Dessert: The Basque cheesecake is frequently recommended as the perfect sweet finish, especially the winter truffle version.
🚗 Parking Tips: Plenty of free street parking nearby, but paid lots and garages are also available and usually plenty.
📅 Reservation Strategy: Booking ahead is advised, especially on weekends and for larger groups, as this popular spot fills quickly.
⏰ Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 5:00 PM–12:00 AM
Wednesday: 12:00 PM–12:00 AM
Thursday: 12:00 PM–12:00 AM
Friday: 12:00 PM–12:00 AM
Saturday: 12:00 PM–12:00 AM
Sunday: 12:00 PM–8:00 PM
👉 Best For
Seafood lovers, date nights, groups, Basque cuisine enthusiasts
Dom’s Taverna Santa Barbara
30 E Victoria St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Dom’s Taverna is well-praised for its authentic Basque flavors, fresh seafood, and creative cocktails. Guests highlight attentive and friendly service, with lively bar seating. Some note small portion sizes ideal for sharing and recommend reservations due to popularity. A few reviews mention inconsistent early service and pricing concerns, but overall, the restaurant is celebrated as a standout in Santa Barbara’s dining scene.
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
Squid Ink Crab Fried Rice, Hongos with Roe, Basque Cheesecake, Churrasco Wagyu Sandwich, Surf and Turf Tartare, Jamón, Crudo, Tomat, Lobster Rice, Chicken Croquetas
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit Tuesday to Thursday early evening for quieter dining; weekends after 7 PM are peak busy; winter features seasonal truffle cheesecake special.
Accessibility
Can enter from the front with step-free access; interior layout allows easy navigation with some space to move between tables. Standard accessible restrooms available.
Reservation Policy
Reservations recommended, especially weekends and large groups
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✅ Cancellation Policy
No fee if cancelled at least 24 hours in advance; contact restaurant for specifics
