Ross Mantsurov
Lovely place to go for a quick seafood meal right on Santa Barbara Harbor. The clam chowder was one of the best I’ve ever had! The fried calamari was a bit fishy but definitely fresh. They also use some of the same dishes from the popular restaurant Brophy Bros right next door. They are definitely a faster, casual eatery, perfect if you haven’t made a reservation anywhere else!
… moreD Frolov
On The Alley is a fantastic casual seafood spot tucked away on Harbor Drive that perfectly captures the Santa Barbara waterfront vibe! We stopped in after a morning walk along the harbor and couldn’t have been happier. The fish and chips were incredibly fresh with perfectly seasoned white fish, crunchy chips, and just the right amount of zesty sauce. Their clam chowder is hearty without being too heavy – perfect for those slightly cooler harbor mornings.
Prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes, especially considering the prime waterfront location. The staff was friendly and efficient, and everything came out fresh and hot.
The locals suggested to try the locally brewed 805 beer: we really enjoyed our time there.
… moreLauren Balenciaga
I came up to Santa Barbara from the SFV for a little day trip a few weeks ago; Exhausted and hungry I really needed to find a place to eat. A local recommended this place and told me to get the chicken club wrap. When I walked in I was immediately (and enthusiastically) greeted by a very well spoken and respectful young man named “Jagger”. Jagger was very personable and we initiated in a great conversation, he also told me to get the chicken club wrap which was amazing to hear. The service provided by Jagger further contributed to the amazing atmosphere in this restaurant. Everything exceeded my already high expectations, and if I’m ever in the area again I’ll be sure to eat here and say hi to Jagger! Thank you On The Alley for an amazingly unforgettable experience.
… moreMarilynn G
WeI had the King Tide burrito with bacon and cheese added. It was so good and so was there green salsa.
… moreAndrew Brown
Every harbor has their counter service restaurant, but On The Alley is the cream of the crop. Starting with the warm and friendly service up front, through to the fresh, airy and delicious food, and finishing with a picnic table in the sun overlook the going’s on of the harbor – it is a picturesque experience.
We ordered their Baja taco, grilled shrimp taco, and calamari and were very pleased with every bite. The tacos are served on thick, chewy, and sturdy corn tortillas – built for the challenge of holding together the delicious ingredients. The calamari was lightly friend and seasoned to perfection. If the line at Brophy Bro’s is too long and you don’t mind a step in the casual direction, just grab the same food and sit at a picnic table at On the Alley!
… moreJ C
The tacos are great!
I like that the seafood is fresh and you are able to just relax outside with the breeze. The servers bring out the food and are more than happy to get any extra condiments for you.
If you are looking for good food and just a place to relax on the harbor, I recommend this spot!
… moreVivian Anne
I online ordered two breakfast burritos (meat, eggs, cheese, potatoes) and showed up at the pick up time to learn that our food had not been started. The staff apologized and said they would work on our order. We ended up waiting about 10-15 min for our food. Our burritos were mislabeled – the one labeled “bacon” had chorizo while the unlabeled burrito had bacon in it. Although the burritos were very fresh, I was disappointed with the burrito. I specifically wanted to try the breakfast burritos from On the Alley because you could put tater tots in them. However, both burritos had a lot of egg in them and very little tater tots. When we encountered the tots, they were not very crispy. Overall, I was not happy with my experience at On the Alley.
… moreVincent Tang
Seafood and burger spot where there’s only outdoor seating. Order, grab a number, and food will be brought out. Self-service water and condiments.
My favorite was the “Fish and Chips”. The fish was tender and the fries were seasoned just right. You can add more salt as needed.
The only caveat is to remember there is only outdoor seating. Consider this spot if that’s a non-issue.
… moreTim Lawton
I have enjoyed fish and chips here in the past. Todays fish as tasty and was really good.
All I had to do was remove the coating that was dripping with grease!
Brophy Brothers are New England seafood guys!
The fish and chips we were served were disgusting.
You guys are better than this.
Good fish, ruined!
… moreAnna
If you had asked me if I liked fish and chips before tonight, my answer would have been a non committal shrug. But these fish and chips were absolutely the best. Those combined with the clam chowder and the fish taco made for an absolutely delicious meal.
… more