4.6
(
600
)
The Blue Owl offers a laid-back fusion experience with Asian-inspired sandwiches and local wines in Santa Barbara's downtown. Guests enjoy fast service, a cozy yet trendy atmosphere, and a vibrant open mic scene on Wednesdays, making it a distinctive local spot.
What to Expect:
🥪 Asian-inspired sandwiches and fusion dishes
🍷 Local wines and happy hour offerings
🎶 Weekly open mic featuring music and comedy
🕒 Late-night hours on weekends
Important Information:
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restroom, and seating
Outdoor seating and Wi-Fi available
Walk-ins only; no reservations accepted
Parking is free street parking but can be difficult to find
Come for healthy, creative eats and enjoy live entertainment in a welcoming space.
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
🎤 Midweek Open Mic: Wednesdays from 6 PM to 8 PM feature music, comedy, and storytelling in a cozy setting.
🍚 Fried Rice Fan Favorite: The fried rice bowls are highly recommended and a must-try staple here.
🌱 Vegan & Vegetarian Haven: Large, clearly labeled vegetarian and vegan selections popular among health-conscious diners.
🚗 Parking Tips: Free street parking is available but can be tough to find; arriving early on weekends helps secure a spot.
⏰ Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM–1:00 AM
Saturday: 11:00 AM–1:00 AM
Sunday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
👉 Best For
Casual dining, late night bites, vegan and vegetarian options, live music lovers
The Blue Owl
5 W Canon Perdido St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
The Blue Owl is praised for its fresh, flavorful Asian-inspired sandwiches and great vegetarian and vegan options. Patrons appreciate the cozy ambiance, friendly staff, and lively music scene. Some sporadic critiques mention occasional food inconsistencies and difficulty finding parking, but overall it's celebrated as a must-visit late-night spot in Santa Barbara.
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
Pork Bahn Mi, Thai Basil Cheeseburger, Fried Rice Bowls, Banh Mi Sandwiches, Burritos, Vegetarian Options, Vegan Options, Organic Dishes, Small Plates, Comfort Food, Happy Hour Food and Drinks, Local Wines, Coffee
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit for lunch or early evening to avoid weekend peak crowds, especially Saturday early afternoon; Wednesday open mic offers lively midweek entertainment.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating available, ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests.
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