4.5
(
1138
)
Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch offers fast counter-service BBQ specializing in mesquite-grilled chicken and tri-tip burritos and plates.
The informal, cozy spot features quick and friendly service with a salsa bar to customize flavors, accommodating dine-in, takeout, and delivery options.
What to Expect:
🔥 Mesquite-grilled chicken and tri-tip specialties
🌯 Large burritos and combo plates with beans, rice, and tortillas
🍺 Beer and alcohol served
🌟 Fast, friendly service and casual atmosphere
Important Information:
Dine-in and outdoor seating available
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
Free parking and street parking usually available
Does not accept reservations
Best known for robust flavors and generous portions, ideal for lunch or dinner in Santa Barbara.
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
🌯 Burrito Sharing: Burritos come large—many prefer sharing one to avoid leftovers.
🔥 Salsa Heat Levels: Regular salsa is spicy; hot salsa is notably hotter—try small first.
🚗 Parking Ease: Free parking lot and ample street parking, though weekends can be busier.
🍺 Beverage Options: Beer and alcohol are available to complement the smoky BBQ flavors.
⏰ Hours
Monday: 10:30 AM–10:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:30 AM–10:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:30 AM–10:00 PM
Thursday: Closed
Friday: 10:30 AM–10:00 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM–10:00 PM
Sunday: 10:30 AM–10:00 PM
👉 Best For
Lunch, casual dinner, family dining, solo diners, BBQ lovers
Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch
2618 De La Vina St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93105
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch is celebrated for its juicy, flavorful grilled chicken and tri-tip, generous portions, and fast, friendly service. Customers praise the casual vibe, value, and salsa bar customization. Some critique focus on tri-tip dryness or inconsistent side dishes, and a few mention occasional customer service issues, but overwhelmingly the BBQ and burritos are highly rated.
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
Mesquite-Grilled Chicken, Tri-Tip, Tri-Tip Burrito, Combo Plate, Beans and Rice, Tortillas, Salsa Bar, Horchata, Beer, Alcohol
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit weekdays at lunch or early evening to avoid peak crowds; Thursdays are closed. Larger groups best served outside peak hours.
Accessibility
Provides wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating to ensure inclusive dining for all guests.
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✅ Cancellation Policy
None
