Test Pilot delivers a fun and trendy tiki bar experience featuring expertly crafted rum-forward cocktails that avoid cloying sweetness. Guests enjoy a moody, clean atmosphere with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating options; the bartenders are praised for their creativity and attentiveness.
The bar offers a lively yet easygoing environment, better suited for relaxed gatherings than wild club nights. Walk-ins are accepted, and customers should bring valid photo ID as military IDs may not be accepted.
What's Included:
🍹 Exotic handcrafted cocktails
🎋 Tiki-style décor and vibes
🪑 Indoor bar and outdoor seating
🍺 Selection of beer and wine
♿ Wheelchair accessible entrance and restroom
🚗 Free street parking nearby
Important Information:
Age Policy: 21+ with valid photo ID; military IDs not accepted
Reservations: Accepted but walk-ins welcome
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
🕒 Peak Hours: Saturdays from 3 PM to 6 PM see the highest crowd; weekdays after 4 PM remain comfortable.
🍸 Bartender Favorites: Ask for the signature 'Cap'n Mal' or the 'Millennial Falcon' for unique house specialties.
🅿️ Parking Tip: Free street parking is available but can be challenging to find, so plan accordingly.
🌴 Outdoor Seating: The outdoor patio is ideal for groups and enjoying Santa Barbara weather year-round.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Guests overwhelmingly praise Test Pilot for its creative and well-balanced tiki cocktails, cozy atmosphere, and great service from knowledgeable bartenders. The exotic drinks and kitschy presentation make it a local favorite. A minority of reviews report occasionally rude staff and disappointment with certain cocktails, but positives dominate.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
