It's always so disappointing to eat at a touristy restaurant to experience less than stellar food. We came to Santa Barbara from Simi Valley for a couple of days. I believe restaurants like this don't realize how many people come for the day or two from other close-by communities. A successful tourist restaurant caters to the locals not the tourists. It was not very busy on the afternoon we were there and it did not take me long to see all the problems around me. 3 tables sent food back and the poor waitress was forever apologizing to her customers. I've been a waitress so I know the stress of being on the frontlines and dealing with a unattentive kitchen. First mistake I made was ordering the oysters; they charged $24.95 for 6 oysters. They were all different sizes, not that great and one was not even an oyster. I had to ask for a replacement. This was the first restaurant we ate at while we were in Santa Barbara and after seeing other menus in town, these oysters were by far the most expensive!! We also decided to share some chicken wings which were very well done, dry, with only drummettes, no flats. The waitress was great, the location is lovely but I would stick with the drink menu and eat somewhere else.
The mussels were overcooked and bitter, the fish n chips was made in old cooking oil!The service was nice and the clam chowder was great!
Had crab cakes and swordfish.Crab cakes was sparse on meat And seasoning. The topping was good.Swordfish was huge and really good.The broccolini was cooked excellently.Handmaid lemonade was fantastic.New menu, new ownership and management.......which seemed unprepared and left the staff a bit Scrambling for menu and supplies.
What can I say? I have not been to The Harbor Restaurant in quite a few years.. Still an excellent restaurant for breakfast. Fantastic atmosphere, view of the ocean and a wonderful staff. I do hope to go back sometime soon.
Try the signature Stearns wharf bloody Mary or bottomless mimosas, as you enjoy the views of the harbor and dine. Best food on the wharf with good service and presentation.
We got a great indoor table, just before the 5:00 rush, and enjoyed the views of the SUP parade, and then popped out for the tree lighting. As locals, we'd never done the Parade of Lights, and I'm so glad we did! Longboards was the perfect choice to start a very fun evening on the wharf.
We were seven people and fit snugly into one of the booths with a beautiful view of the water. The service was friendly and accommodating - especially with the three kids (all under 11 years old). Food was good. Parking was easy.
Great location on pier. Amazing views. Food is delicious and comes in generous portions. Yes they have beer and delicious cocktails too. Don't forget to save some room for desert. Yumm!
The food was great and I really enjoyed the views. We had the fish and chips and cheeseburger. The portions were pretty big. Our server was very friendly and service was fast. We were there on a Saturday at noon and we were able to get a table right away. Next time, I'll come for dinner and see what kind of fresh seafood they've got on the menu.
This restaurant is located on Stearn's Wharf at the harbor, which is pretty touristy, but it still manages to deliver good food and good service at a reasonable price. It is the first restaurant on the pier. Weather permitting, get a table on the second floor outdoor patio, which provides a great view of the beaches and harbor.