4.3
(
277
)
Rudy's Restaurant Upper State offers classic Mexican favorites like burritos and quesadillas in a laid-back, no-frills setting. Guests enjoy speedy, friendly service, large portions, and a variety of fresh salsas that brighten the authentic flavors.
What to Expect:
🌯 Generous burrito and taco portions
🌶️ Fresh salsa bar with multiple options
👥 Friendly, attentive staff offering table service despite casual setup
🍽️ Dine-in, takeout, delivery, and outdoor seating available
Important Information:
Restroom access restricted for customers
Parking available but can be hard to find
No reservations; walk-ins only
Credit, debit, and mobile payments accepted
Plan to visit early or mid-afternoon to avoid peak rush; prepare for a basic atmosphere and a hearty meal.
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
🌮 Taco Size Matters: One taco is often filling; order accordingly to avoid waste.
🌶️ Salsa Bar Delight: Multiple fresh salsa options elevate the meals; don't miss trying several.
⏰ Arrive Before Closing: Staff sometimes close early, so plan to visit well before 9 PM closing time.
🚗 Parking Challenges: Free parking available but somewhat difficult to find; consider weekday mid-afternoon visits for easier parking.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 8 AM to 9 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM to 9 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM to 9 PM
Thursday: 8 AM to 9 PM
Friday: 8 AM to 9 PM
Saturday: 8 AM to 9 PM
Sunday: 8 AM to 9 PM
👉 Best For
Casual meals, families, solo dining, large portions lovers
Rudy's Restaurant Upper State
3613 State St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93105
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Rudy's is praised for large, flavorful portions, especially burritos and tacos, and the attentive, friendly staff. The fresh salsas are a highlight. Some customers note occasional service inconsistencies, early closing times, and no restroom access as downsides.
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
Beef Taco, Burritos (Bean, Cheese, Steak, Wet Mole), Taquitos, Crispy Tacos, Fish Tacos, Torta, Molé Burritos, Salsa Bar, Quesadilla with Steak Carne Asada, Chicken Tacos, Potato Taquitos, Classico Burrito, Loco Burrito
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit mid-morning or mid-afternoon to avoid busy lunch and dinner peaks. Evening rush peaks around 5–7 PM; no reservations, so early arrival helps.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, and seating. No information on accessible restrooms; restroom access is restricted for customers.
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