Established in 1979 as a buying station for local lobster and abalone, the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company has evolved into the area expert when it comes to local crustaceans, shrimp, and other seafood options. The result of a fishing and trapping expedition turned craft restaurant, the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company is a Santa Barbara staple that serves some of the best seafood in the area. Whether you are looking for quality shrimp or a great grilled fish, this is one of the best seafood restaurants in Santa Barbara, CA to grab a meal.
The Food
The Santa Barbara Shellfish Company specializes in all things seafood, but some of their best dishes are crab oriented. The Dungeness crab Louise and the Season Bisque are perfect displays of how to do crab right. They offer a subtle butteryness that you just can get with other types of seafood. You also cannot go wrong with their take on the New England Clam Chowder. You can get this soup staple with bacon or even served out of a bread bowl.
The entrees are also to die for. Their steamed options are new takes on classic approaches and really release all the flavor out of the seafood. The steamed mussels or clams come in a delectable white wine sauce that is so delicate and compliments the shellfish perfectly. Also, the Alaskan King Crab is never a bad option, and they serve it with fresh coleslaw and battered onion rings.
If you are feeling a little more adventurous, we also recommend the lobster tacos. They are definitely a new take on seafood, but they are amazing. They take fresh lobster and saute it with tomatoes, shallots, garlic, and basil and then serve it on warm corn tortillas with a creamy salsa and avocado on the side. The lobster melts together with the avocado to create a wonderful medley that is extremely buttery.
The Staff
The staff at the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company is very well versed in all thing seafood. They know their stuff and can help you order anything. They will pick out a few of their favorites and get you to fall in love with the food they bring out. Make sure you talk to these amazing people about the specials because the change daily and seasonally. You will not regret a trip to Santa Barbara Shellfish Company!
For more information on this wonderful restaurant, or some of the other seafood restaurants in Santa Barbara, CA contact one of our vacation specialists today! If you're ready for a unique and relaxing vacation, make sure to check out Santa Ynez vacation rentals!