East Beach Tacos is just beyond the hustle and bustle of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone. This charming taco stand offers a laid-back, quintessential Southern California beach vibe, with an inviting outdoor patio that’s perfect for soaking up the sunshine. It’s the kind of place where flip-flops and salty hair are welcome, and the scent of freshly grilled tacos fills the air.
To Get There
This restaurant is near Santa Barbara Funk Zone. One of the best ways to experience this spot is by hopping on a bike and cruising along the scenic coast before stopping in for a bite. Whether you’re a local looking for a casual lunch or a visitor seeking a delicious, budget-friendly meal, East Beach Tacos delivers with its flavorful creations and relaxed atmosphere. If you’re craving tacos that pack a punch without breaking the bank, this spot is a must-visit on a sunny SoCal afternoon.
When To Go
The best time to visit East Beach Tacos is for lunch on a summer day where you can hang out on the patio and soak in the sunshine. The great thing about coastal Southern California though is there are many days outside of summer months when it will still be incredibly sun-shiny.
On the Menu
East Beach Tacos in Santa Barbara offers a diverse and innovative menu that caters to a variety of tastes. Their selection of tacos includes both classic favorites and unique creations, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Here are some of their notable offerings:
Classic Tacos:
- Carne Asada: Marinated steak topped with cabbage, pico de gallo, guacamole, and queso fresco, served on a flour tortilla.
- Batter Up: Battered cod accompanied by cabbage, pico de gallo, and East Beach aioli, all wrapped in a flour tortilla.
Specialty Tacos:
- Ahi Poke: Raw ahi tuna combined with napa cabbage, marinated red onion, chili flakes, sesame seeds, and wasabi aioli, all nestled in a crispy wonton shell.
- Spicy Crispy Shrimp: Tempura shrimp layered with curly endive, pico de gallo, chipotle aioli, and lime vinaigrette, served on a corn tortilla.
- Gangnam Style: Korean-style marinated steak paired with cabbage, cilantro, pickled daikon, carrot, cucumber, spicy chili vinegar, and East Beach aioli, all on a corn tortilla.
- The Banh Mi: Pulled pork topped with shredded cabbage, cilantro, pickled daikon, carrot, cucumber, spicy chili vinegar, and hoisin aioli, served on a corn tortilla.
Other Offerings:
In addition to tacos, East Beach Tacos provides a variety of sides and specials:
- Salads: Options like the Traditional Caesar and Seared Ahi Tuna Salad.
- Sides: Homemade chips with pico de gallo or guacamole, coleslaw, French fries, and tater tots.
- Specials: Dishes such as Fish & Chips, The Beach Ball (a seasoned rice ball filled with spicy tuna), and Taquitos.
With such a wide array of choices, East Beach Tacos ensures a satisfying experience for all Mexican food enthusiasts.
East Beach Tacos is the perfect blend of casual beach vibes and seriously delicious food. Whether you’re refueling after a bike ride along the coast, taking a break from exploring Santa Barbara, or just craving some of the best tacos in town, this little gem delivers on all fronts. The fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and laid-back outdoor setting make it a must-visit for taco lovers and beachgoers alike.
So next time you’re in Santa Barbara, skip the touristy spots and head a little off the beaten path to experience this local favorite. Grab a trio of tacos, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy the simple pleasure of good food in a great setting. Trust me—you won’t regret it!
Do you know any other great restaurants in Santa Barbara we should try? Please leave them in the comments below.