4.3
(
116
)
Located atop the Hilton Garden Inn in Goleta, Roof Top Bistro & Bar offers a trendy, upscale rooftop atmosphere ideal for lunch, dinner, or happy hour with live music and a fireplace.
Guests enjoy a diverse menu featuring small plates, happy hour specials, and expertly crafted cocktails along with attentive service and outdoor seating enhanced by heaters.
What to Expect:
🔥 Fireplace and rooftop seating
🍹 Extensive cocktail and wine list
🎶 Live music and vibrant atmosphere
🍽️ Small plates and late-night food options
Important Information:
Reservations required; group check splitting limited with automated 23% gratuity for groups
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
Free parking lot and street parking usually ample
Plan ahead for busy evenings and be mindful of volume levels near live bands.
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
🌅 Sunset Seating: Arrive early to snag rooftop seats for panoramic sunset views over Santa Barbara orchards.
🍸 Cocktail Variety: Don't miss their specialty margaritas and numerous creative cocktails that impress guests.
🔥 Fireplaces & Heaters: Outdoor heaters and cozy fireplaces ensure comfort on cooler evenings atop the rooftop.
🎶 Live Music Tips: Music is lively and enjoyable but can get very loud; for quieter dining, request seating away from the band area.
⏰ Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
👉 Best For
Happy hour, live music lovers, groups, romantic evenings
Roof Top Bistro & Bar
6878 Hollister Ave
,
Goleta
,
CA
93117
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Roof Top Bistro & Bar is praised for its stunning rooftop views, enjoyable live music, and extensive cocktail offerings. Service is generally friendly and attentive, with many noting the kindness of key staff like Tyler. However, several guests mention the loud music volume impacting conversation and express frustration over automatic 23% gratuity on group bills and limited ability to split checks. Food quality gets mixed reviews, with some highlights on appetizers and drinks but occasional critiques on main dishes.
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
Charcuterie Plate, Chicken Caesar Salad, Mary's Organic Chicken Wings, Carne Asada Tacos on Corn Tortillas, Gaucho Angus Burger and Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, Atlantic Salmon, Margherita Flatbread, Vegetarian Tacos on Corn Tortillas, Garlic-Herb New York Steak, New York Cheesecake with Strawberries
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit Friday evening through Sunday for live music and rooftop views; come early to secure seating and avoid peak happy hour crowds.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating ensure an inclusive experience for guests with mobility needs.
Reservation Policy
Reservations required; group orders with mandatory 23% gratuity and no split checks policy for groups larger than 6
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✅ Cancellation Policy
None
