4.6
(
1484
)
Zaytoon presents a cozy, upscale atmosphere with authentic Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine centered around fresh, flavorful dishes and vibrant outdoor seating featuring a fire pit.
Guests can enjoy attentive table service, an extensive wine and cocktail list, and regular live entertainment, with reservations recommended to secure seating in this popular Santa Barbara Laguna neighborhood venue.
What to Expect:
🔥 Outdoor fire pit and patio seating
🍢 Signature kebabs and mezze platters
🍷 Wide-ranging wine, beer, and cocktail selections
🎶 Weekly live entertainment and belly dancing shows
Important Information:
Reservations recommended, especially for large parties and weekends
Offers halal, vegan, vegetarian, and healthy menu options
Street and paid parking available, but somewhat challenging to find
Wheelchair accessible seating; no accessible parking lot
Ideal for both casual dinners and special celebrations, delivering an inviting Mediterranean escape in the heart of 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
🔥 Fire Pit Seating: Book early to snag tables around the outdoor fire pits, perfect for group gatherings and cozy nights.
🎶 Entertainment Highlights: Weekly live entertainment and belly dancing add a festive vibe especially on weekends.
🥗 Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly: The venue offers a clearly labeled vegetarian menu and multiple vegan options, well-liked by plant-based diners.
🚗 Parking Tips: Free street parking is available but can be difficult; arrive early or consider paid lots nearby to avoid hassles.
⏰ Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Saturday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Sunday: 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
👉 Best For
Casual dinners, groups, outdoor seating lovers, Mediterranean cuisine fans
Zaytoon
209 E Canon Perdido St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93101
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Zaytoon is praised for its cozy ambiance, flavorful Lebanese dishes, and vibrant outdoor patio with fire pits and live entertainment. Guests consistently highlight excellent service and fresh, well-seasoned food. Some mention pricing on smaller portions as high and occasional shortages of key dishes. A few reviews note disappointment with menu communication and seasoning balance.
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
Mashawi Combo, Kebabs, Hummus Trio, Cheese Sambousek, Baba Ghanouj, Batata Harra, Watermelon Salad, Pistachio Spread, Baklava, Lemon Chicken, Halloumi Cheese, Tabbouli, Fattoush, Vegetarian Feast, Small Plates, Vegan Options
📆 Best Times to Visit
Visit early weeknights at 5 PM for quieter experience; weekends 7–8 PM are peak times with lively entertainment; book ahead for groups.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible seating is provided, but the parking lot is not wheelchair accessible. Guests should plan accordingly.
Reservation Policy
Dinner reservations recommended, accepts reservations
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✅ Cancellation Policy
None
