
4.6
(
852
)
Harry's Plaza Cafe offers a relaxed dining experience with old-time charm, serving up hearty American comfort food and robust cocktails. With ample parking, attentive service, and a cozy atmosphere, it's a favored spot for locals and visitors alike.
What to Expect:
๐ Classic American staples like prime rib and French dip
๐ธ Renowned strong cocktails and a great wine list
๐ป Friendly bar with local specialty drinks
๐ฅ Cozy booths and private dining options for groups
Important Information:
Reservations recommended for brunch and dinner
Free and ample parking available
Outdoor patio seating and wheelchair accessibility
Accepts credit, debit, and NFC mobile payments

Haley's Pick ๐ฝ๏ธ
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place sheโs obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, itโs 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 Barellaโs 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.
Itโs barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isnโt just a meal, itโs a moment worth lining up for.
โ Haley @milehighandhungry
๐ Local Insights
๐ฝ Must-Try Dishes: The steak bites, prime rib, and French dip are standout favorites among regulars.
๐ธ Cocktail Generosity: Drinks are notably strong and poured liberally, making it popular for cocktail lovers.
๐ฐ Best Reservation Times: Reservations are advised for brunch and dinner, especially on weekends and busy evenings.
๐ Ample Parking: Free parking and street parking are plentiful, easing access to this busy spot.
โฐ Hours
Monday: 11:00 AMโ11:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AMโ11:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AMโ11:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AMโ9:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AMโ12:00 AM
Saturday: 8:00 AMโ12:00 AM
Sunday: 8:00 AMโ9:00 PM
๐ Best For
Casual dining, families, large groups, comfort food lovers

Harry's Plaza Cafe
3313 State St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93105
Review Sentiment
.svg)
Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Harry's Plaza Cafe is praised for its nostalgic atmosphere, generous portions of American comfort food, and outstanding service. Guests consistently enjoy the strong cocktails and friendly vibe. Some have noted occasional service lapses and inconsistencies in food quality, but overall, it's a beloved local institution.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Go For
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Anglerโs Offerings
What You'll Find
Prime Rib, French Dip Sandwich, Steak Bites, Burnt Ends, Jambalaya, Meatloaf, Fish and Chips, Cheeseburger Sliders, Turkey Dip, Lasagna, Apple Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream, Strong cocktails, Martini, Bloody Mary, Happy Hour Food and Drinks, Coffee
๐ Best Times to Visit
Visit weekdays between 11 AM and 1 PM or after 8 PM to avoid peak crowds; weekends get busiest Saturday afternoons and Friday nights. Reservations recommended for brunch and dinner.
Accessibility
Harry's Plaza Cafe offers wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating, ensuring comfortable access for all guests.
โReservation Policy
Reservations recommended for brunch and dinner

Join the Crew
The best of the Catskills, delivered to your inbox every Tuesday. Trusted by over 40,000 locals, weekenders, and wanderers.
Join for Free



Similar
A Slice of Woodstock's
$
Santa Barbara
โข
$$
๐ Pizza
โ
โข
Heading

3.8
Casual pizza spot with fast service and vegetarian options; outdoor seating and a lively college vibe.


Petra Cafe
$
Santa Barbara
โข
$$
๐ฅ Mediterranean
โ
โข
Heading

4.3
Cozy, trendy Middle Eastern spot with authentic vegan options, lively hookah lounge, and savory Mediterranean dishes in Santa Barbara.


ASIA 101
$
Isla Vista
โข
$$
๐ Asian Fusion
โ
โข
Heading

4.5
Asian fusion spot with student-friendly prices offers popcorn chicken, pho, rice bowls, and casual vibes in Isla Vista.


The Harbor Restaurant
$
Santa Barbara
โข
$$
๐ฆ Seafood
โ
โข
Heading

4
American seafood specialties like clam chowder & lobster sandwiches served amid ocean views at Santa Barbara's waterfront.


Shalhoob's Magnolia
$
Santa Barbara
โข
$$
๐ BBQ
โ
โข
Heading

3.6
Casual spot with open-air seating known for tri-tip sandwiches, street corn, and solid beer selection in Santa Barbara.


Cajun Kitchen Cafe
$
Goleta
โข
$$
๐ณ Breakfast
โ
โข
Heading

4.6
New Orleans-style mini-chain serving cornbread & spicy classics in a bustling, casual go-to spot for breakfast and lunch.


El Encanto, Santa Barbara
$
Santa Barbara
โข
$$$$
โ
โข
Heading

4.6
Luxe Santa Barbara hotel with elegant rooms, infinity pool, boutique spa, and upscale California Coastal restaurant.


FB Isla Vista
$
Isla Vista
โข
$$
๐ฎ Mexican
โ
โข
Heading

4.6
Counter-serve burrito chain with a natural-foods focus; offers build-your-own burritos, tacos, salads in a casual, college-friendly vibe.


Petit Valentien
$
Santa Barbara
โข
$$$
๐ฅ French
โ
โข
Heading

4.6
Cozy French bistro with a patio serving fresh French and Ethiopian dishes, salads, stews, and a praised wine list.


Corazon Cocina
$
Santa Barbara
โข
$$
๐ฎ Mexican
โ
โข
Heading

4.5
Mexican counter at Santa Barbara Public Market delivering bold tacos, ceviches, and quesadillas with quick service and vibrant atmosphere.


Fonda Smash-Burgers & Pancake House
$
Santa Barbara
โข
$$
๐ฎ Mexican
โ
โข
Heading

4.1
Cozy, casual Mexican spot known for all-day breakfast, smash-style burgers, and live mariachi music with a courtyard view.


The Meltdown
$
Santa Barbara
โข
$$
๐ American
โ
โข
Heading

5
Casual sandwich shop known for melt sandwiches with perfectly melted meat and quality fries, offering takeout and no-contact delivery.



Back to Restaurants