Love this place! Great fast casual, great happy hour from 4-6 and the best view of the harbor and SB coast! We got the sushi sandwich, cauliflower tacos and HH margarita and everything was great! read more

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We were strolling Cabrillo on a Sunday morning and wanted to find a nice spot to grab breakfast. Happy Cat Eats is perfectly situated with views of the water and offers lots of outdoor seating. I opted for their avocado toast and it was delicious! I added an egg on top and paired it with a blueberry matcha latte and am still thinking about that drink! Delicious. My husband ordered the breakfast sandwich, which comes on a brioche bun and he loved it! There were dogs with their owners enjoying the outdoor patio. Staff at the counter were really friendly and our order came up pretty quick! Plus, this place was reasonably priced considering their location. read more

Happy Cat Eats - Avocado toast + egg - Burgers Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Awesome little beach side shop with great fast casual food. My favorites are the crispy chicken wings, the burrito with Mac and cheese, and the wagyu truffle Gouda burger! But you honestly can't go wrong. Fast service too. It's nice to be able to relax by the ocean and watch the waves while you're enjoying your burger! read more

Located on Cabrillo at the waterfront fusion delicious food to eat with a view. You order at the window and they bring it to your table. I got the crispy Gochujang bao tacos that had a ton of flavor and were filling. Enough to share. The crispy tempura chicken salad had a generous amount of chicken that topped the salad and had interesting flavor combinations of flavor. Will be going back to try other items on the menu. They serve breakfast burritos all day. read more

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Absolutely loving this new addition to the Santa Barbara Waterfront. Right there on the edge of the Santa Barbara Funk Zone, on Cabrillo Blvd and across the street from Stearns Wharf, and the Skaters Point Skate Park. A nice way to start the morning since they offer a full breakfast menu with specialty coffee drinks (Handlebar Coffee), and fresh pastries (amazing Cinnamon Roll). Their lunch menu starts at noon and has a full array of all things delicious. Our first visit included their tempura onion rings, and the Sushi Sando. Second visit we had their meaty hamburger and truffle fries with Carnitas Tacos. And there is still so much to try on their Specialties Menu. Service was quick, and our order-takers Kat, Brian and Jack have been pretty consistant with some wonderful food suggestions and friendly service. On one of the rainy days we took our food to go and enjoyed it all in one of the nearby tasting rooms. And then on one of the sunny days we enjoyed dining there on their nice patio. Sun shining and this Asian Inspired menu, it was another delicious day in paradise. read more

Happy Cat Eats - Excited to have more food and coffee options here on the Waterfront. - Burgers Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Came here to grab something quick for my daughter, the concept is so cute and the burger was delicious. I also got the fries as well. Love the outdoor self seating that was right next to the beach. Would happily come back if I was in the area. read more

Happy Cat Eats - Burgers Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Stopped here for lunch on our way to Cambria, burgers were delicious! Also ordered fries and onion rings that were very tasty as well. Next trip up the coast I definitely will swing by. Enjoyed the coastal view as well. read more

Happy Cat Eats - 2 Wagyu Burgers and fries & zucchini - Burgers Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Super easy and fun spot that we stopped at twice! Breakfast was yummy and easy, and a later happy hour drop in for truffle fries was worth it. Got a cute shirt for our cat loving girl and it was a hit! Service was friendly and fast :) read more

This was such a fresh food experience during our road trip passing through Santa Barbara. Found this restaurant on yelp thanks to the reviews. We had the fish and chicken tacos! Omg they were delicious and crunchy. Very quick and friendly service. We enjoyed sitting outside on the beautiful day. read more

Happy Cat Eats - Fish tacos- the fish was cooked to perfection and sauce on top was delicious! - Burgers Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

I came here at 11:45am with a friend and was bummed to find out lunch doesn't start until noon. You walk up and order at the counter then the staff bring out your food. I ordered a breakfast sandwich with bacon that was very good. I loved the brioche bun but thought the bacon was a bit thick and undercooked (although that's my personal opinion. I'm sure others would love it). My iced vanilla oat latte was fine. Not anything mind blowing but good enough. I appreciated the large umbrellas to block the sun as it was a hot day. I really wish they had a water station so i didn't have to walk back to the counter every time i wanted water. Side note, they provide small, reusable cups which i appreciated but i guzzle water during meals so this was a bit inconvenient. read more

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I'm going to say something potentially controversial, but I don't think the breakfast burrito needs Mac & cheese. I really wanted to like it, but it was just too heavy, and the type of cheese for the Mac was so overpowering (sort of Velveeta, nacho cheese) and I literally couldn't taste anything else. Maybe if they did more of like a cheese-pull type Mac with cheddar/mozzarella/gruyere it would meld better. The whole concept was disjointed, it just doesn't come together in the end. I honestly think the burrito without the Mac&cheese would taste better. I liked the pork belly! I want to give them credit for trying. The breakfast burrito is all I ordered, and will try something else on the menu next time. read more

Outdoor seating only. Great location near Santa Barbara beach. Food is absolutely amazing. Good food and good views and good vibes. Tourists/ locals were super friendly! Came around lunch time and ordered: truffle mushroom smoked Gouda wagyu burger Fish and chips Earl grey matcha Loved all the items and the matcha was definately so so delicious! The earl grey flavor and matcha were so surprisingly balanced. The burger was very umami, with a a blast of flavor between the grilled mushrooms, smoked melted Gouda cheese, and the tender/ juicy wagyu. Wagyu can sometimes become very oily when eating but somehow the burger's taste profile was balanced. The fish and chips were obviously very good as well. Did not find the food to be too salty or heavy. read more

We were not sure what to expect when we stopped here, but one thing is for sure... You'll have an ocean front view when dining here. There is only outside seating so this is best visited when the weather allows. We ordered burgers and their al pastor tacos. They were quite good. I added on lettuce and tomatoes to build up the burger (those are extra). Throwing in fries and a drink (soft drinks are only in cans) and you're getting a good meal. Plus the tacos were quite good. We'll have to try some of their creative options. All in all you're getting a good meal and a good view. What's not to love. Give them a try, you'll be happy you did. read more

Very casual place with outdoor seating with fantastic view. Terrific fries and onion rings. The burger was very mediocre and bland. Service was fine as you order from a window then wait for your food. I love burgers but won't be back for one from here. read more

Happy Cat Eats - Burger - Burgers Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

fish tacos are a 4 in flavor, a mess to eat. had to ask for a fork, and they did have Cole slaw and lico de gallo served with them:-). the Chinese chicken salad had very little dressing. when I kindly asked for a small side of dressing, I got a sideways look, and they said they "had to ask".... there are stands selling trinkets with a boom box belting out low quality bass. I won't be back. read more

Amazing lunch spot in beautiful Santa Barbara right across the beach. We were looking for a casual and decent place to eat and weren't disappointed. We ordered the gochujang chicken bao tacos and tempura chicken salad, along with a side of fries and lychee mint lemonade. Everything was freshly prepared and delicious, using quality ingredients. Service was very friendly and efficient. Our server came over a few times to ask if we needed anything and to pick up empty dishes. Too bad I don't live nearby or else I would certainly be a regular! read more

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Wasn't impressed by the Wagyu burger. Pretty basic and the Mac and cheese tasted like it was a single cheese without seasoning. Was hoping for better for lunch. Hope they're better for pastries read more

Great new outdoor spot with ocean beach view to grab a bite to eat or have an aperitif refreshment; or just a lemonade or cold beer refresher. We ordered the fish and chips and a beer to share. Service was friendly and prompt. The beer was tasty, cold and the fish and chips were delicious done just right. Fresh, crisp and tasty. Great spacious outdoor seating. However they lost a star for their design of the order window. It is very tiny and the order ipad takes up most of the open order window; consequently it is hard to see and hear the person taking order and vice versa, we had to bend down and repeat our order a couple time while also asking her to repeat her question. Would recommend changing this asap for a more pleasant experience. read more

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My first review of 2025 goes to Happy Cat Eats. This place is well deserving of 5 stars after my experience here. The location is prime! Giving views of our beautiful beach, Stearns Wharf, and Cabrillo Blvd. The outdoor seating allows you to soak up the rays and take in the views. On my visit, I ordered the crispy gochujang chicken bao tacos and Parmesan truffle fries. Not only was the presentation of the bao tacos on point, but the combination of textures going on was a nice surprise. The bao buns were pillowy soft, while the Asian slaw and crispy chicken gave it a nice crunchy texture. I really enjoyed the fried jalapeños too! The flavor profile was delicious in every bite. I also ordered a side of Parmesan truffle fries. They were fried to a golden crispy perfection topped with Parmesan. They tasted like fries elevated to a gourmet status! This restaurant is a walk-up and order service. It's very convenient when you're wanting something more casual that serves street foods. I'm looking forward to coming back soon to explore more of the delicious food choices on the menu. read more

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Smash burger was super good, but I think they forgot to smash it. Loaded carnitas fries was not bad, the fries seemed stale or way overdone. Overall I would def go back for the burger despite the questionable smash. Service was good and love the vibe/location. read more

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I came here for the first time with a friend this morning. The view of the pier and ocean is just lovely - it was a beautiful day already! There is only outside seating, but the shade of many umbrellas does a very good job at keeping the sun away. I ordered a cinnamon roll, house lemonade, and a breakfast burrito with bacon. The lemonade and cinnamon roll came out first and both were delicious! Probably one of the best cinnamon rolls I've ever had! The icing was amazing, the inside of the roll was fluffy and perfectly warm, and I just couldn't stop eating it even when my burrito came out! The burrito has Mac and Cheese in it, which is a bit different and I was skeptical, but upon taking my first bite I realized it was the perfect balance for everything else inside - SO good! However, I did realize that there wasn't bacon in my burrito, but I think it was pork belly instead? Whatever it was, it was also SO GOOD, so I didn't ask them to change it out. I was very happy with it! The waitstaff were so kind and checked on us multiple times (so I did have several opportunities to say the burrito was slightly wrong, but it truly was yummy and I wanted to eat it!). Later in the day, my friend realized she dropped her earbud out of her pocket and we went looking for it. We stopped by the restaurant to check and the staff were so attentive, even while it was busy for them. They helped us look, and I believe the owner came out to specifically help us and took our information down in case it did show up. She was extremely kind and we were so grateful. Overall this was a wonderful experience - and the kindness of the staff made it even better :) read more

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Really disappointing experience. My friend ordered a burger, and after waiting, we found out it had been delivered to another table. We showed the receipt and explained that we never received the food, but instead of fixing the mistake, they made him purchase a second burger. Mistakes happen, but making a customer pay twice for food they never received is unacceptable!?!? It felt shady, unfair, and honestly really disappointing. Customer service should have made this right immediately. read more

I had to come back again! This food is delicious! They have a variety of foods so it made me curious if it was a jack of all trades situation. But WOWZA! I'm blown away. It's insanely good. The fish n chips, smash burger, CA borrito, Seafood sando, cinnamon roll and flan latte. AMAZING!!!! Even with the long line they service was smooth. I really love the scenic view of the beach too. Nothing like great food with a great view. read more

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Ordered a smash burger got regular patties that were not smashed that taste like Jack in the box and overpriced small portion overcooked fries really had high hopes for them oh well now I know read more

Happy Cat Eats - This was suppose to be a smashed burger - Burgers Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Great Asian fusion street food place. Happy Cats Eats is situated right across the beach and next to the FisHouse restaurant. A sister location of Oku restaurant, they serve various Asian fusion street food. Our group got the gochujang fish bao tacos, smash burger, and sushi sando. The smash burger was delicious and balanced well with the caramelized onions. The sushi sando was delightfully tasty with crispy rice as the buns. If you like crispy rice, they do it very well. The bao tacos were the group favorite with creamy and spicy flavors balanced by the acid of the slaw atop a grilled yet still fluffy bao bun. The staff is very friendly and attentive. Definitely worth stopping and enjoying read more

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We grabbed a late lunch at Happy Cat Eats last week and it was delicious! I had the sushi sando and my husband had the crispy chicken tempura sandwich. We both loved our meals and it was so nice sitting outside. This spot is super casual and great for an easy meal. It isn't the cheapest option, but the food is great. I wish the sandwiches came with some kind of side, but they are pretty large on their own. We brought our dog and it was nice having lunch and drinking some beer and wine. Would recommend! read more

I have NOTHING but great things to say about this place. LOCATION. UNIQUE MENU. EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. VALUE. VALUE. VALUE! Sitting on Santa Barbara's waterfront this gem has a varied menu showcasing "made from scratch" favorites like fish and chips (using Haddock), Shushi Sando (with Ahi), one of the best Smash Burgers I've encountered and a Cinnamon Roll you can't miss (unless they've sold out). Everything is made from scratch and priced well below it's contemporaries. It is a MUST visit when in Santa Barbara. Parking can be a challenge but there is a public lot 1 block N that gives you 75 minutes free parking and then $2.50 each additional hour. Easily accessible by bike or on foot. Popular with locals and visitors. read more

If you're looking for that perfect casual-by-the-beach meal, this spot delivers big time. Located literally across the street from the ocean, it's the kind of place where you order at the counter, grab a seat, and instantly feel like you're on vacation, even if you're just stopping by for lunch-huge lunch menu. They also sell canned wines, which I honestly loved, perfect for sipping while looking out at the water. It's low-key, unfussy, and exactly the vibe you want near the beach. Service is quick, staff is friendly, and the view alone is enough to keep me coming back. read more

Earl Grey Matcha with Earl Grey Cream is not bad. Better than expected. I didn't really taste the earl grey part or it wasn't as prevalent or pronounced, but a good choice/decently good drink nonetheless. DRINKS: Earl Grey Matcha with Earl Grey Cream 4.25/5 Michelada 3.5/5 read more

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Enjoyed the beach scenery and the cool breeze in their outdoor patio as we enjoyed the flavorful tacos and spiked lemonade. The service was nice and helpful to your eatery needs. read more

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I've been waiting for them to open and it was well worth the wait!! This is a sidekick to Oku, and the food is equally fresh ingredients and great attention to detail and flavor. The sushi Sando is a must try. It's like a crispy rice, sushi, crab yummy goodness eaten like a sandwich. The fish and chips were perfect also. A mild white fish that was firm and flaky done with tempura. The fish was hot. The crisp was perfect and the tartar sauce was one of the best. Now, let's talk cinnamon rolls. No reasons makes it an automatic five star in my book!! it was not too sweet, just the right amount of cinnamon to sweet ratio. Plus it felt light. I did not eat the whole thing, but I could see how somebody might. read more

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Husband tried sushi sandwich, the kids had the sliders and hot dog and I had the Passilla sandwich. Prices were incredibly reasonable, location is right on the corner, a 3-5 minute walk from the public parking. Service didn't wow me but as we left, one waiter made sure to say goodbye:) outside eating and you can ask for the umbrellas to be lifted;) it was quiet on a Thursday at 1230. I thought the food was unique and fresh, and I liked that the kids hamburgers were two small, manageable sliders that actually looked really yummy to me! Didn't like my sandwich but probably my fault for not having the aioli on it read more

Happy Cat Eats - Sliders and hot dog - Burgers Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

I went to this restaurant because of a TikTok I saw the food looked really good in appetizing. I love the atmosphere as it was across from the harbor in Santa Barbara, but unfortunately, the food had a lot to be desired. I ordered a smash burger because of the TikTok video and was so disappointed the fact that through the cheap generic American cheese that they use overpowered the hamburger patties, which I could not taste my wife ordered fish tacos, and there was so much batter and no fish or I should say very little fish again if you want to sit there and look at the ocean it's a great place great views, but would not recommend eating here read more

The lychee mint lemonade was really good. The mint was more subtle, which I liked. The parfait with agave was suuuuper good. The agave made all the difference. Would order both again read more

Smash burgers, truffle fries, carnitas tacos and sliders were all excellent! Service and food selection were also excellent. Outside seating only fyi. Will return next chance we get. Family Friendly Too! read more

We were invited to the soft opening of Happy Cat Eats, which is next door to Oku and shares the same owner. The items we tried were delicious! I had the Sushi Sando which has a crispy rice bun and filled with fresh ahi tuna, kani, kama, wake, Asian slaw, spicy mayo and cilantro aioli. Super tasty! My friends had the Crispy Portobello Mushroom Tempura salad and Brioche Tempura fish sandwich. They loved their meals! There is beer, sake and wine on the menu but you can order cocktails from Oku and get them brought over. You place your order at the counter. The staff is super attentive.The patio is inviting, with great views of Cabrillo Blvd and palm trees, a fire pit and a corn hole game. Can't wait to visit again and try more things from the extensive menu. Lots of things to try from burgers and tacos to salads and sides! read more

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We were shopping around Santa Barbara for late lunch place we came across Happy Cats Eats. Not your typical fast food but more suited to street eats. I had the Tex Mex Dog I brought my eat on! A Smash Burger, a Tempura Fish Sandwich w a side of Chili and Tempura Chicken Salad.. we had great meals! BTW This was the best Chili Dog I ever had! They do sell adult beverages as well as an assortment of soft drinks! The rating is for a sidewalk eatery and street food! Great Staff and very professional! Great Job! read more

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To start off this place has a great view. It's outdoor eating which we love. My husband had the smash burger, he wasn't a fan of it but I think it was mainly due to the cheese. He said he couldn't taste the burger through the cheese and it tasted sweet. The onion rings and the dipping sauce were delicious. The tacos were okay but the fish pieces were very thin so it was hidden in the batter. I think if it was thicker pieces of fish and they used the sauce they give with the onion rings the fish tacos would have been tasty. The staff were pleasant but we didn't interact with them much other than ordering. read more

Happy Cat Eats - Smash Burger, Fish Tacos, Onion Rings - Burgers Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Loved this brunch spot! It's right by the coast with a beautiful, scenic view, and there were live musicians playing across the street which made the vibe even better. The food was good and came out quickly, and the service was warm and attentive. They were kind enough to allow my cat in her carrier for the outdoor seating area, which I really appreciated. The waitress did fumble my coffee order, but it was a minor hiccup and everything else more than made up for it. Overall, a lovely, relaxed brunch experience read more

Happy Cat Eats - Cinnamon Brioche French toast - Burgers Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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I'm a burrito connoisseur and happy cats pork belly burrito was just out of this world good. It's pork belly and mac and cheese. It was destined for greatness before I even tried it but the flavor was just absolutely perfect. I was visiting from Hawaii and was drawn to the name and the beach front seating and everything was just perfect. It's a takeout and seat yourself spot and it checked every box read more

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