4.5
(
879
)
Garrett's Old Fashioned Restaurant in Santa Barbara offers a snug 1950s diner experience featuring generous portions of classic American breakfast and lunch staples such as fluffy buttermilk pancakes, savory omelettes, and old-fashioned burgers.
The diner excels in attentive, fast service complemented by a warm family-friendly ambiance with outdoor seating and accessibility features, making it perfect for solo diners and groups alike.
What to Expect:
🥞 Classic American breakfast and lunch fare
☕ Excellent coffee and thick milkshakes
👨👩👧 Family-friendly, casual 1950s diner atmosphere
🚪 Wheelchair accessible with outdoor seating options
Important Information:
Reservations not accepted; walk-ins only
Prices range approximately $10–20 per person
Parking available but can be challenging at times
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
☀️ Peak Breakfast Hours: Arrive before 10 AM on weekends to avoid long waits during their busiest period.
🍴 Must-Try Pancakes: Blueberry and buttermilk pancakes are highly recommended by locals and reviewers alike.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Outdoor Seating: Guests with pets often choose outdoor seating to enjoy the meal with their furry friends.
💺 Classic Diner Experience: Enjoy the 1950s-style booths and sit-down bar for a genuine retro vibe that welcomes solo diners, families, and groups.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 8 AM to 2 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM to 2 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM to 2 PM
Thursday: 8 AM to 2 PM
Friday: 8 AM to 2 PM
Saturday: 7:30 AM to 2 PM
Sunday: 7:30 AM to 2 PM
👉 Best For
Breakfast lovers, families, solo diners, casual lunch
Garrett's Old Fashioned Restaurant
2001 State St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93105
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Garrett's lives up to its nostalgic diner reputation with delicious, hearty breakfast and lunch classics like pancakes and burgers, praised for generous portions and fast, friendly service. The welcoming retro atmosphere and excellent coffee consistently delight guests. Pricing is seen as reasonable, though some note occasional parking challenges and mixed feedback on food quality and interior condition.
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
Buttermilk Pancakes, Blueberry Pancakes, Eggs Benedict, Meat Lover's Omelette, Country-Fried Steak, Old Fashioned Bacon Avocado Cheese Burger, Reuben Sandwich, Philly Steak Sandwich, Coffee, Thick Milkshakes, Home Fries, Biscuits and Gravy
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit early mornings before 10 AM to avoid crowds, especially weekends. Late mornings see peak occupancy. Outdoor seating is perfect for diners with pets.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restroom, and seating make Garrett's comfortable for guests with mobility needs. Interior space can be tight but overall accessible.
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