
Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch
A Santa Barbara institution for over 20 years, serving authentic mesquite-grilled chicken and tri-tip with a flavorful salsa bar.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Santa Barbara institution for over 20 years, serving authentic mesquite-grilled chicken and tri-tip with a flavorful salsa bar.
"The chicken is probably the most delicious, moist chicken I’ve ever had at a restaurant!"
Try the Combo Burrito/Bowl
For a hearty meal, the combo burrito or burrito bowl is a highly recommended and satisfying choice.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
To avoid crowds, especially during lunchtime, consider visiting during less busy times.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
BBQ
Price
Mid-range
Phone
(805) 569-1872
Address
2618 De La Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA
Website
sbchickenranch.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mesquite-Grilled Chicken & Tri-Tip
Savor perfectly grilled chicken and tri-tip, cooked over mesquite charcoal for an authentic smoky flavor.

Generous Portions & Value
Enjoy large, satisfying portions of flavorful BBQ chicken and tri-tip at great prices, making it a local favorite.

Flavorful Salsa Bar
Experiment with a variety of unique and flavorful salsas, including green chili and jalapeño options.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Try the Combo Burrito/Bowl
For a hearty meal, the combo burrito or burrito bowl is a highly recommended and satisfying choice.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
To avoid crowds, especially during lunchtime, consider visiting during less busy times.
Explore Local Bars
Consider visiting nearby bars like Yellow Belly for craft beers before or after your meal.
Customize Your Burrito Bowl
Create your own masterpiece by adding salsa bar items like pico de gallo and marinated onions to your bowl.
Tips
from all over the internet
Try the Combo Burrito/Bowl
For a hearty meal, the combo burrito or burrito bowl is a highly recommended and satisfying choice.
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
To avoid crowds, especially during lunchtime, consider visiting during less busy times.
Explore Local Bars
Consider visiting nearby bars like Yellow Belly for craft beers before or after your meal.
Customize Your Burrito Bowl
Create your own masterpiece by adding salsa bar items like pico de gallo and marinated onions to your bowl.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch is a beloved local staple, consistently praised for its delicious mesquite-grilled chicken and tri-tip, generous portions, and excellent value. Diners appreciate the flavorful salsa bar and friendly service, though some mention it can get busy during peak hours. It's a go-to spot for a satisfying and authentic BBQ experience.
"If I were gay and I had a lover, and I could never forget her, this would be that girl. I eat here about twice a week & it has been my favorite, can’t tell you how long but, forever. The trip tip and chicken is always consistent. I love to get the burrito because you get the best of every thing.
I moved away and gosh thought about her like crazy."
Christina Federighi
"Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch is a great place to grab some delicious food! The chicken is always flavorful and cooked just right. The service is quick, so you won’t be waiting long. There’s plenty of parking, which is a big plus. Plus, they offer a great selection of sauces to go with your meal. I’ll definitely be adding this spot to my favorite places in Santa Barbara on the map.
If you enjoy discovering great spots like this, you can check out more on my YouTube channel @dim_daniels.
Highly recommend this place for anyone craving tasty food and fast service!"
Dim Daniel
"The Chicken Ranch: A Santa Barbara Staple with Unrivaled Flavor 🍗🔥
For as long as I can remember, The Chicken Ranch has been serving up some of the most flavorful, mouthwatering chicken I’ve ever had. I still remember my godmother taking me here as a kid, and even back then, I was blown away by the bold, orange-colored chicken that packed a flavor punch like no other. To this day, it remains one of my all-time favorites, and yes I’ll admit I’m biased but only because it’s just that good.
A Chicken Lover’s Paradise 🐓🌿
While the menu has plenty of great options, the chicken is the undeniable star. It’s tender, perfectly seasoned, and cooked to juicy, smoky perfection. Pair it with their full salsa bar and a solid selection of cervezas, and you’ve got a meal that hits all the right notes.
Speaking of salsas, I like to mix things up literally. I take their rice and beans, add some roasted salsa and fresh pico de gallo, and create my own little masterpiece: Pico De Arroz. It’s a simple mix, but it adds another layer of flavor that makes every bite even better.
Rustic, Cozy & Unapologetically Chicken-Themed 🏡🐔
Walking into The Chicken Ranch, you immediately get barnyard cantina vibes. The rustic wood, the cozy, laid-back feel, and the adorable chicken tchotchkes scattered throughout the restaurant make it feel warm, welcoming, and just a little bit quirky in the best way possible.
A Must-Stop Every Time I’m in Santa Barbara 🌊
No trip to Santa Barbara is complete without stopping in for a plate of that legendary chicken. It’s one of those places that sticks with you through childhood memories and into adulthood because the food is just that good.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Five stars for nostalgia, flavor, and the best chicken around. 🔥🍗"
Anthony Elisarraras
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The mesquite-grilled chicken and tri-tip are the signature dishes, available as plates, in burritos, or bowls. The combo plate featuring both is also highly recommended.
Yes, they offer 'Party Packs' designed for families and groups, providing generous portions of chicken and tri-tip with sides.
The chicken is cooked over actual mesquite charcoal, giving it a distinct smoky flavor and tender texture.
While the focus is on BBQ meats, sides like rice, beans, and salsa may be suitable for vegetarians. It's best to inquire about specific options.
Yes, the salsa bar allows for customization of your meal with various salsas and toppings. You can also create a unique 'Pico de Arroz' by mixing rice with salsa and pico de gallo.
The restaurant offers outdoor dining ambiance, which is appreciated by many customers.
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Best of Santa Barbara® 2024 Eating
The Hardey family has worked to make Jeannine’s a part of the fabric of Santa Barbara for over 30 years and will continue to be a place where you can enjoy one-of-a-kind pastries and nutritious food every day,” said Alison Hardey. “We’ve won awards for lifetime achievement, been called the ‘comfort clubhouse’ in positive reviews, and been named one of the best breakfast and lunch spots in town. We are committed to earning your support and look forward to serving you for many years to come.
Santa Barbara Restaurants | 20 Best in 2025
The cheeky name is just one of the fun aspects of Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch, a hub for mesquite-smoked barbecue prepared in the best Southwestern tradition. This is the Santa Barbara restaurant to mosey on into if a dish of meat and three sides is your idea of dining heaven.
Santa Barbara Value Restaurants: 10Best Bargain Restaurant Reviews
The Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch has been serving Mexican-style mesquite BBQ chicken and tri-tip to hungry area patrons for over 20 years. Try one or both with a side of tortillas, rice and chips. They cook over actual fire (there's no hidden gas grill or frier in the back).
Santa Barbara Restaurants
Various LocationsThe Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch has been serving up the best Mesquite Bar-B-Q’d chicken and tri-tip for over 25 years, in both our Santa Barbara and Goleta restaurants. We cook with only real Mesquite charcoal imported from Mexico. No gas grill, no frying.
Santa Barbara Restaurants Guide
Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch is by far our favorite Mexican take-out. A family run business located at 2618 De La Vina Street in Santa Barbara,(805) 569 - 1872. My favorite is the chicken and tri-tip burrito.
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