4.2
(
564
)
The Drunken Crab Santa Barbara delivers a fun, casual seafood boil experience featuring Louisiana-style spices and fresh shellfish. Guests enjoy a modern-rustic atmosphere with outdoor patio seating and a robust craft beer and cocktail selection.
Service includes attentive staff, family-style buckets, and a welcoming vibe that suits groups, families, and solo diners alike.
What to Expect:
🦀 Spiced Louisiana-style seafood boils
🍺 Extensive craft draft beer selection
🍹 Signature craft cocktails
🌿 Casual, trendy modern-rustic atmosphere with patio seating
Important Information:
Reservations accepted but not required
Mandatory 15-17% gratuity and service charge applied; check menu details
Wheelchair accessible entrance, restrooms, parking, and seating
Parking is paid and can be somewhat difficult to find
Expect lively crowds especially on weekends; best to arrive early or on weekdays for quieter dining.
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
🦀 Shareable Seafood Buckets: Dining family-style with the boil bags poured onto the table is the signature experience and highly recommended among regulars.
🍺 Great Beer & Cocktail Pairings: Be sure to try their rotating craft beer drafts and well-crafted cocktails that complement the spicy seafood well.
🚗 Parking Tips: Nearby paid lots are best; street parking is difficult, especially during peak weekends. Plan your trip accordingly.
⏰ Timing Matters: Weekday late afternoons have lighter crowds; weekends and early evenings get crowded and service slows down.
⏰ Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 3:30 PM–9:30 PM
Wednesday: 3:30 PM–9:30 PM
Thursday: 3:30 PM–9:30 PM
Friday: 3:30 PM–9:30 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM–9:30 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM–9:30 PM
👉 Best For
Groups, families, casual dining, seafood lovers
The Drunken Crab Santa Barbara
416 State St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
The Drunken Crab is praised for its flavorful Louisiana-style seafood boils and lively atmosphere with attentive staff. Many love the crab legs and craft beer selection. However, guests often mention high prices, mandatory gratuities (15-17%) paired with requests for additional tips, and inconsistent service quality as concerns. Some reviewers report early unexpected closures and slow service during busy times.
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
Louisiana-Style Crab Boil, King Crab Legs, Shrimp, Crawfish, Cajun Fries, Chicken Tenders, Chicken Wings, Belgian Beer, Craft Draft Beer, Signature Cocktails
📆 Best Times to Visit
For best experience, visit weekdays late afternoon or early evening to avoid crowds; arrive early on weekends; expect lively atmosphere and busy service.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, restrooms, parking, and seating are available, ensuring comfortable access for guests with mobility needs.
Reservation Policy
Reservations accepted but not required
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✅ Cancellation Policy
None
