Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    The Harbor Restaurant

    3.9 (163 reviews)
    Closed 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

    The Harbor Restaurant Photos

    THE HARBOR RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Intimate
    Romantic
    Upscale
    Happy hour specials

    Recommended Reviews - The Harbor Restaurant

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Inside
    Assunta L.

    Seafood restaurant by the sea/ harbor. Very pretty at sunset. Inside is chic. We got a window table and have amazing view of the ocean. Service is attentive and friendly. We enjoyed all the dishes including beet salad, crab louie salad, and halibut/ salmon dish, Cioppino. The salad portion here is relatively small compared to other restaurants. We made reservation in advance. It should be ok without if you don't need to sit by the window. I always recommend a reservation though so the restaurant knows to expect you and arrange properly.

    View from my table
    Peter M.

    If you are into seafood and in Santa Barbara, you have to visit Stearns Wharf. For me, the sea breeze, calm horizon, the captivating ocean vistas and restaurants, are irresistible. On this trip, I decided on, The Harbor Restaurant, which I was told had been recently renovated (with new owners) and a revamped menu. The inside dining space is tastefully decorated with lots of light and beige dining chairs. The water and sail boat views from seating by the large windows, is nothing short or relaxing and magnetic. The staff is polite, inviting and attentive. As it transpired, this was the day of the week where they had their lobster specials. For $59.95 (usual price $88.99) you could have a whole one and a half pound Maine lobster (poached then seared), with mashed potatoes, broccolini, drawn butter and bearnaise sauce. That looked like a good bargain to me. The plate came out beautifully presented and was mostly occupied by the plump lobster that was cut in half. There was ample meat in the dish (including the claws and knuckles, which were partially cracked) with the crustacean skillfully prepared to retain succulence, texture and meat tenderness. Dipping in the butter and/or bearnaise sauce enhanced the dining experience. The mashed potatoes deserve commendation, they were soft, silky and flavorful. This lobster dish can easily give serious competition, to any of its counterpart establishments, anywhere in this vicinity. The Harbor Restaurant is now also open for breakfast. Needless to say, I will be coming here soon, to try more of their attractive breakfast and lunch menu items, or once again, it will be difficult to ignore.....that fantastic poached and seared, lobster special entree.

    braised short ribs
    Buddy B.

    I was staying in Santa Barbara for a couple of months and had the opportunity to have dinner at the Harbor Restaurant. Usually, I shy away from restaurants on piers or oceanfront, because they tend to be very touristy and more about the location than the food. I'm so happy to be wrong about the Harbor Restaurant. It was absolutely fantastic! The service was friendly, relaxed, and professional. One of my favorite things we had was a halibut ceviche appetizer. Absolutely a must try; bursting with flavor, beautiful and fantastic. We had a New York's steak cooked perfectly, that came with unfortunately amazing au gratin potatoes, which I stole most of and loved every bite, and I had the braised short ribs, which were divine. They also have a very nice wine list both by the glass and especially by the bottle. The bartender is also excellent as we had a couple of lovely martinis. We topped off the meal with dessert with an amazing chocolate cake that was rich and not too sweet, as well as a wonderful key lime pie. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I came back two other times during my trip. Once for lunch where I had an absolutely fabulous Harbor Burger and beer, also, may I say cook perfectly not overdone. And then the last time I came back, was for a happy hour where I had, a couple of sauv blancs as well as the halibut ceviche again and the crispy rice with hamachi-delicous!

    hamachi crispy rice
    Meya B.

    Such a nice place to enjoy the ocean and happy hour. The pineapple mojito was amazing! It took me back to being in the Maldives. Really great service here, Mitch makes excellent drinks! Highly recommend this spot for monday happy hour from 2-closing. The view is unmatched.

    Brioche French toast
    Mekhala B.

    Got the Brioche French Toast and devoured it within 5 minutes! Host/server was super kind and helpful with recommendations and great about checking in on me. The only negative I would say was that there were a lot of flies in the lobby and one kept flying around the window I was sitting at. I didn't get the sense that the restaurant was unclean in any way, so if they could be more attentive to those flies, I'd give 5 stars!

    Mari I.

    Another beautiful visit at The Harbor Restaurant. This time we were able to get a table near the ocean view and the view was stunning. I had to stick with my go to of their seafood pasta because the squid ink pasta is one of my favorite dishes. I noticed some changes this time I was in and the menu had upgraded from paper menus to more durable elegant menus. I also noticed they had upgraded their plates and they look stunning. I am loving these amazing changes and as always dinner had a great execution thanks to the amazing and talented chef!

    Chilled seafood tower
    Paula T.

    Wow, the Harbor Restaurant underwent a beautiful makeover! When I walked in, I was happily surprised. It finally has such a modern, clean feel to it. I'm finally happy to see a beautiful restaurant on the pier; it was much needed. We went all in on the chilled seafood tower and it was worth every penny. The quality of seafood is chef's kiss. The broccolini was perfectly cooked with a nice garlic spread. My favorite was the service. Most of the staff were from Stelle Mare's, so it was nice to see familiar faces! Now I have a reason to visit the pier more!

    OYSTERS ROCKEFELLER
    Mark F.

    The Harbor Restaurant received more than a paint job to elevate your dining experience. Tuesday night brought our party in for the newly launched "Locals' Live Maine Lobster Specials". For $59.95 you get a 1 1/2Ib freshly cooked , live Maine lobster with béarnaise sauce, mashed potatoes, and broccoli; or Surf and Turf with half of the lobster and a 4oz NY strip. The entire table ordered the special in one for or another and I opted for the béarnaise on the side. I'd prefer drawn butter but did try it. The lobster was perfect and come on, mashed potatoes!?! Yum! A great presentation and delicious food. But wait. There's more. Before the lobsters swam in we feasted on the Oyster Rockefeller $18, Shrimp Cocktail $18, Harbor Crispy Rice with 1/2 Salmon and 1/2 Hamachi $27, and bread with rosemary butter, dried tomato tapenade, chimichurri $9. All paired nicely with the Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay. I did start off with a glass of the Pascal Jolivet Sancerre which I highly recommend. The space is beautifully redone in a way that fits Santa Barbara's refined yet beachy attitude. There is now a lounge area near the bar to relax hat high tops, sofas and low back chairs to snack on Happy Hour treats or listen to live music on Wednesdays The service was great and the food delicious. We used to come for the view now we'll enjoy the food too. A special thank you to Kyle behind the bar and Roth running the floor. We had a great night.

    Tina T.

    I visited this seafood restaurant with some of my friends during my bachelorette and if I could put zero stars for this restaurant I would. It was probably the worst experience I had as far as establishments in Santa Barbara. Upon arrival there was initially no one at the front so we had to wait grab someone's attention then they guided us to our table. Our waiter did not even make eye contact with us when taking our order and skipped me while coming back to me at the end although it was my bachelorette. Every other restaurant in Santa Barbara made our experience so special with exception of this restaurant. Service was also very slow. We had to wait an hour for our food to arrive. The food quality was also just sub par and not amazing. I believe I even got sick after eating at this restaurant. Although the restaurant is beautifully designed with view of the harbor unfortunately the food quality and service is suffering. To make matters worse days after visiting this restaurant after checking my account I noticed the restaurant had charged me more than what I had signed and agreed to pay which had to be disputed with my credit card company as thankfully I had a screenshot of my receipt. I unfortunately would not recommend this restaurant and would ask you to avoid this restaurant as Santa Barbara has many other restaurants with great food as well as service. Updated note: The response from management is extremely disappointing as this was an honest feedback from myself and my friends. We did not make another reservation after that visit as that was our last night in Santa Barbara. My credit card was charged a different amount as the amount signed on the receipt did not match and I had to dispute that with my credit card company. If desired I can send you screenshots. Instead of bashing an honest feedback maybe try to train staff at the restaurant to provide better service to guests visiting your restaurant.

    Scallops and ceviche
    Erika V.

    Absolutely amazing experience. Top tier waitstaff, food and ambiance. They have a skilled guitar player playing relaxing music and the view of the ocean is spectacular. I can't wait to be back. Shout out to Ulysses!

    Lobby
    Bao N.

    Had a great Lunch here. With a great view of the ocean and Pier. The service was attentive and friendly.

    Seafood pasta. DELICIOUS!
    Cristina S.

    The service, food, view, and ambience were wonderful! The restaurant has amazing ocean views. We'll definitely come back!

    Window seat for dinner with my sweetie
    Larry P.

    The food is a 10+!! The sauces are amazing with each of our dishes! The view can't be beat! Our server was also great! Very good food as it was prepared excellent!

    A view

    See all

    23 days ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    26 days ago

    Ambiance amazing!!! Staff attentive!!! Clam Chowder FIRE Passing through Santa Barbara with my boyfriend and will definitely be back!

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    4 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 days ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    19 days ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Matt S.
    189
    11
    2

    3 days ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mark F.
    1066
    1102
    7527

    8 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    25 days ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Bao N.
    76
    93
    91

    3 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Larry P.
    2186
    665
    6466

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 8
    Thanks 2
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0
    Photo of M E.
    3
    42
    199

    4 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Vivian C.
    12
    424
    56

    15 days ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 18
    Thanks 3
    Love this 17
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jen F.
    84
    28
    163

    5 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Jason C.
    33
    66
    103

    6 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    5 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Hal H.
    0
    24
    1

    2 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 3
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of John T.

    John T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 5

    The Harbor Restaurant Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - The Harbor Restaurant

    Menú Price range?

    20-30 bucks for dinner average with some exceptions but if you get a view....

    Is the patio dog friendly for dinner?

    Yes, we welcome dogs on the deck at Longboard's Grill (upstairs).

    View All 4 Questions

    The Society: State & Mason - The Society signage with outdoor patio

    The Society: State & Mason

    4.5(92 reviews)
    0.3 mi
    $$$

    I feel like it's always an impromptu visit each time we're here. Obviously whenever we're in Santa…read moreBarbara then it's a must. Casey took care of us this visit which was great. It was toward the end of the day. A little tasting before dinner never hurts anyone. Plus it was nice to share the experience with some friends that haven't been before. Perfect day to sit outside with the heatwave. Also nice to start with a little bubbly. Their wine selections from Sonoma and Napa as well the coast were all amazing. We did the sunset sip which their wine offering was great. All their white, red as well as rose and bubbles were great. Rich bold and full of notes. The place is perfect as it located right in the heart of town. Just minutes from the pier and part of the hotel. So people watching is great. They also serve food which comes from the restaurant next door. A snack with your tasting or a pairing. Each visit has always been great. A nice relaxing and mellow tasting experience. The choices of wine are always excellent. Plus it's nice to taste other wines from the sister wineries versus wine just from one. Casey, took good care of us this time.

    We had a lovely tasting here today. Wines were great but the service was even better. Logan served…read moreus today and not only was she knowledgeable about the wine but was super friendly and engaging. Do yourself a favor stop in for a glass of wine. You won't be disappointed. Oh and order a charcuterie board. It comes Goat Tree a couple of doors up. One of the best boards we've ever ordered at a winery. Tasting room has inside outside seating. Inside has some comfy chairs. Really nice place to enjoy some wine.

    Photos
    The Society: State & Mason
    The Society: State & Mason - Bubbly rose

    Bubbly rose

    The Society: State & Mason

    See all

    Margerum Wine - Every beautiful day here in the Funk Zone is perfect with Sauvignon Blanc.

    Margerum Wine

    4.3(240 reviews)
    0.3 mi
    $$

    This really is the perfect place for both wine AND food…read more So far we've been in a couple times sitting in the bar area and also out on their comfy patio space. Our servers Alex and Kayla were exceptional at both suggesting some delicious lunch items, and also giving a rundown on their different wine tastings. They gave us some helpful information on the assorted varietals and vintages as well. We went in specifically for their M5 and Riviera Rose, but discovered their extensive selection of other varietals and vintages. Came away with some new favorites: Sauvignon Blanc, Trois Blondes (a delicious white blend), Viognier, Mourvedre, and Estate Syrah. Perfect that they open at noon for lunch. We paired our wines with their Santa Barbara Smokehouse Salmon, Smoked Duck and Arugula Salad, Chicken Pesto Sandwich, and Sausage Mushroom & Carmelized Onion Pizza. Still so much on their menu to enjoy.

    I'm giving this place 3 stars because of the efforts of one server to keep things afloat outside…read more When we arrived, another large party had just left outside and she immediately cleaned one of their tables so we could sit. It was chilly so she tried to light the heat lamp at my request but both that one and the replacement did not work. The replacement actually had the propane disconnected so I assume someone knew that tank needed to be changed out but didn't do it. The other tables from the large party were full of wine glasses and a half eaten pizza. Those sat there for over an hour, and we watched several groups of people come but leave without being seated because no server was available yo seat them and the only open table hadn't been cleared. When it was finally cleared, one guest at a near by table commented that the pizza shouldn't go to waste. The girl who cleared the table initially carried it inside but came right back out with it and served it to that guest whose kid ate it. I'm all for not wasting food and if the guest had gotten up and grabbed the pizza himself, that would be one thing... but to serve old food that had been sitting out for a long time to a guest is a no no for a business. We otherwise enjoyed most of the wines in our tasting flight. Would've given 5 stars if service had been more timely, tables cleared and old food not served up.

    Photos
    Margerum Wine - Glass of Mourvèdre on a Thursday. Perfect.

    Glass of Mourvèdre on a Thursday. Perfect.

    Margerum Wine - Deliciously comfortable tasting room and Staff.

    Deliciously comfortable tasting room and Staff.

    Margerum Wine - Thank you Chef David for the perfect pairing.

    See all

    Thank you Chef David for the perfect pairing.

    The Funk Zone - Funk Zone Records at 123 Santa Barbara St. The best record store in Santa Barbara

    The Funk Zone

    4.1(52 reviews)
    0.3 mi
    $$

    So much to love about these 10 blocks of Shopping, Wine, Beer, Coffee, Restaurants, Art, Museums…read moreand Culture, Hotels, and more Shopping. And all nestled nicely between Highway 101 and Cabrillo Blvd, and between Garden Street and State Street. Can't even start with what my favorite spots are, I find a new one each time I visit. Usually plenty of street parking on the weekdays, and on the weekends definitely need to use one of the assorted public parkling lots in the area. You'll also find Live DJ's, Karaoke, Trivia Nights, Live Music, Bingo, Happy/Hoppy Hours . . . and sometimes dancing in the streets.

    This is a truly funky place to explore. There's an eclectic mix of restaurants, unique shops,…read morewineries, breweries, coffee, antiques, and more. Parking is challenging on the weekends. We've been there when it's busy and it can be festive-- pop ups in old vintage rv's or outside beer halls can appear; bands playing in several spots, etc. Experiences can be hit or miss. We visited a winery called Area 51 which sounded fun, but the wines were just okay. But Pali Wine had very good wines, a relaxing patio, and cool live music. The stores vary from very pricey threads to affordable knick knacks; succulents to vintage records to original artwork. Many spaces occupy previously owned old businesses that give it a nostalgic feeling. A few top name wineries have spaces here (i.e. Fess Parker). Definitely worth checking out in looking for a unique time in Santa Barbara.

    Photos
    The Funk Zone
    The Funk Zone
    The Funk Zone

    See all

    Orgullo Wine - Wine tasting | 2022 Chardonnay

    Orgullo Wine

    4.3(292 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$

    Formerly Area 5.1, now under new ownership and fully owning its glow-up…read more Orgullo Wine is Latino-owned, community-rooted, and brings a lively, welcoming energy to the Funk Zone. The aesthetic is intentional and well done. Mexican icons on the walls, thoughtful decor throughout, and fresh flower centerpieces that quietly say someone here actually cares. It feels curated, not forced. I've seen a review floating around claiming Angel is rude, which hasn't matched my experience at all. Every interaction I've had has been professional and friendly. This feels more like a busy Friday night where people were camping without ordering wine and didn't love being reminded that a wine bar is, indeed, for drinking wine. Wine + service * Tasting flights are $25 and well curated * They occasionally offer two-for-one wine flights * Small-batch wines produced in the Santa Ynez Valley by Esfuerzo Wines * Standout favorites include the Coyote Rojo Bordeaux-style blend & the Sauvignon Blanc is crisp, refreshing, and easy to love * Marissa, one of the tasting associates, is consistently hospitable and attentive and makes the experience feel effortless Vibe and events * Fridays feature Lotería with a DJ from 6-10pm * Lively without being chaotic * A solid mix of locals, regulars, and people actually there for the wine If you're looking for good wine, a fun atmosphere, and a Funk Zone spot that blends culture with care, Orgullo Wine is doing it right. Order wine, enjoy the space, and let the night unfold.

    This spot was so cute and a fun outdoor patio to hangout in and enjoy the wines. We did a wine…read moretasting and our server was very kind and knowledgeable about what she was giving us! They don't have food but they allow you to order from the pizza truck next door and it is hand delivered to you! This area had so many different wine shops to pick from and I'm glad this was the one that caught our eye!

    Photos
    Orgullo Wine - 2022 Chardonnay

    2022 Chardonnay

    Orgullo Wine - 2022 Sauvignon Blanc

    2022 Sauvignon Blanc

    Orgullo Wine - Chardonnay

    See all

    Chardonnay

    The Harbor Restaurant - seafood - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...