Santa Barbara Cider Company specializes in a diverse range of delicious ciders featuring creative fruit flavors beyond the typical apple. Guests enjoy a casual, cozy outdoor atmosphere with ample seating, friendly knowledgeable staff, and regular food trucks adding to the experience.
Typical nights offer cider flights, bar games, and a relaxed vibe perfect for groups and cider enthusiasts. The venue opens Thu–Sun with no cover, wheelchair accessible facilities, and pet-friendly outdoor areas. Parking can be tricky, so early arrival is recommended.
What's Included:
🍏 Extensive cider flights with unique and classic flavors
🎲 Bar games for casual fun
🍽️ Food trucks on-site for dining
🐕 Dog-friendly outdoor seating
Important Information:
Open Thu–Sun; Closed Mon–Wed
21+ generally accepted, casual dress code
Wheelchair accessible entrance, restrooms, parking
Free street and parking lot options; limited parking on weekends
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
🕵️♂️ Find the Entrance: Avoid Google Maps' directions; park at Goleta Paint Store then head to the back entrance on Rutherford Street.
🐕 Bring Fido: The outdoor seating area is dog-friendly, making it perfect for pet owners.
🎲 Thursday Trivia: Trivia nights on Thursdays are popular; bring a jacket or blanket for chillier evenings outdoors.
🚗 Parking Tips: Limited parking on weekends; Sundays offer free daytime parking a street over for unlimited time.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Santa Barbara Cider Company receives rave reviews for its creative, flavorful ciders and welcoming outdoor setting. Guests consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff and appreciate the unique fruit selections. Some note minor challenges with parking and confusing directions, but overall the vibe and quality make it a beloved local gem.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, and restrooms. Gender-neutral restrooms available. Ask staff for assistance if needed.
