Validation Ale

4.6 (201 reviews)

ModerateBreweries, Pubs, Pizza

Closed • 11:30 am - 10:00 pm

Updated 3 months ago

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Validation Ale - Truffle fries. $9 - Breweries Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Validation Ale - Interior (12/07/23). @ValidationAle #SantaBarbara #Brewery #CraftBeer #Beer - Breweries Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Validation Ale - Smash burger with 2 Wagyu patties infused with diced bacon, onion, jalapeño. Brioche bun, cheese, BBQ & chipotle-aioli sauces. - Breweries Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Validation Ale - Lovin' life in the Funk Zone with my favorite Honey Blonde. - Breweries Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Validation Ale Popular Dishes

Smash Burger

15 Photos15 Reviews

Lobster Roll

4 Photos8 Reviews

Fried Chicken Sandwich

8 Photos7 Reviews

Validation Ale menu photos

Menu photo 1 Validation Ale Santa Barbara, CA

Menu photo 2 Validation Ale Santa Barbara, CA

Menu photo 3 Validation Ale Santa Barbara, CA

Menu photo 4 Validation Ale Santa Barbara, CA

Menu photo 5 Validation Ale Santa Barbara, CA

Menu photo 6 Validation Ale Santa Barbara, CA

Menu photo 7 Validation Ale Santa Barbara, CA

Menu photo 8 Validation Ale Santa Barbara, CA

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VALIDATION ALE ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?

Inside

93 Photos

Outside

24 Photos

Good for kids

Dogs allowed

Outdoor seating

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My customary Goat Tree Latte and a Sptrizer

Ronnie S.

Hello my fellow Yelp Elites. I ventured into the Funk Zone. After a visited the Fess Parker wine tasting room. I had Validation Ale SmashBurger Tacos on my mind. As I posted up at the bar I spotted Nico sitting and enjoying his meal break. We chatted about my options for food and drinks. Eliana arrived and took my order. I ordered the SmashBurger Tacos and a Spritzer. About that time Sam checked on me to make sure I was being taken care of. About that time Nico resumed his position behind the Bar. I've visited Validation Ale several times and the Customer service has always been excellent. Today was a step ahead in Service. These three ambassadors took such Great care of me and everyone else on a busy Saturday afternoon. Thanks Eliana, Nico and Sam for a great experience. Thanks Validation Ale for everything you do for our Community. I appreciate you I will return. Ronnie S

Kristin M.

meandering around the funk zone and we stopped by in here. super nice and airy ambience with a small lawn/patio in the front. these fries were really good actually and i swear the ketchup had like, barbecue seasoning it was something i'd never had before but i was very happy with. my drink was also great! i asked one of the bartenders for his opinions and he was not in the wrong. bathrooms were also very clean and futuristic

Alex R.

Lots of interesting beers to choose from. There were also a few cocktails. I had a Pineapple Mai Tai that was really refreshing. My husband had the Hibiscus Margarita. We also ordered some truffle fries which were decent. There's a lot of seating here and also corn hole outside. Kid-friendly.

Angela R.

I love coming here whenever I'm in the area. This place is full of energy and always a good time! Whether you're coming here solo or with a group, it's a place that's always poppin. They have a great outdoor area with cornhole to keep you or the kids entertained. They also have live bands Tuesday & Thursday, as well as bingo night, trivia and pop-up markets. I'm not a huge beer drinker, but the ones I've had here are always good. You can ask for a sample too, which is great when you're not familiar with beer types. They also offer gluten-free beer, local wine, seltzer, ciders, kombucha and now cocktails! I tried the Passion Fruit Spritz, made with vodka, Lillet Rosè, and PF. It was very refreshing and enjoyable. Premium spirits are also available. The food here is always delicious! I've had the burger, totchos (tater tot nachos), truffalo cauliflower, fries, and recently the Gochujang fried chicken sandwich. I don't have a big appetite, but I could have easily eaten two of the chicken sandwiches! I hope they keep this one on the menu.

Melissa L.

Shoutout to Angela R. and Jara S. For turning me on to this spot. I've watched these friends post about this spot and share how great they are, so I was eager to try them out. Validation ale is the cool place to be. It was definitely one of the busiest spots we stopped in at the funk zone. Indoor and outdoor seating, this spot is impressively massive. I love how on the outdoor space they have games and make it a very social setting. We opted for inside but near their patio chairs for some people watching and hangs. As busy as it was, I appreciated that they had both registers open and we didn't wait at all. They were on top of service here and it was great how quickly the drinks and food were done. Staff here are friendly and on top of it. While they are known for their ale, I appreciated that they had a cool cocktail menu for an ale house. Extra kudos points to them. For my cocktail I went with the blueberry bramble. I'd say it was a 4 out of 5. I appreciated the presentation, color, and taste. Again, just happy for those who are bar hoping I could keep up with my cocktails here opposed to having to go with a beer. The real stunner was the chicken karaage appetizer my friend and I spilt. Honestly, a really nice surprise! I didn't expect their chicken to rival other more authentic Asian restaurants. Dark meat chicken it was juicy and the batter was light and flavorful. Served with ranch which I wasn't expecting but they have good ranch so it was a win. Really a solid appetizer and I would highly recommend splitting this with your table mates. 5/5 for an app. Validation ale was a good time and there is so much more for me to try here that I'll definitely be back soon.

Erica G.

Stopped in with my amiga and I were visiting from Ventura County. Located at the Funk Zone and busy busy when we got there. Great vibes! Staff was super nice and gave of tastes of different drinks until we decide what we wanted. I got the hibiscus kombucha, it was good! My friend had a marg and it was strong. She is not much of a drinker , so for her , it was too strong. We didn't taste any of their food but it looked good.

Emily H.

Sweetest service and staff ever! My husband loved the German Amber while I enjoyed the Rose. Great atmosphere. We didn't eat but the menu looked awesome

Jorge H.

Our visit: Disorganized when it came to bringing our food out. Server took our order number before our full order came out. I had to go talk to the cashier to explain that we were still waiting on another order. The beer was alright, it tasted watered down. I'll definitely come back for the food. (3 stars for food)

Michael H.

The beer selection here is great, the thing they do with the validated versus the vying beer is super cool. The best part about this place, which I didn't discover until after I had already had a beer, is that they have a chilled Sangiovese on top right now, they might be the only place within 100 miles of here to have a Sangiovese on tap. Staff is friendly, service is good, at least once a month there's typically a single night here on Tuesdays, that's the company called June Dating, if that's something you're interested in check them out. It does feel very "Corporate Mixer" though. haven't tried the food here, but I have tried the food at their annex location on de la vina, and it did not disappoint, I'm sure quality is similar here.

Joanna F.

It was great stuff! Loved the smash burger and karaage nuggies the best. Drinks weren't too sweet (maybe a little strong at times but hey who's complaining) I also had the honey brew which I thought was unique and delicious.

Greg W.

Incredible spot in the funk zone. Maybe it was the magic of being home for the holidays but I really enjoyed this spot. The open patio concept allows for a child-friendly yet adult-fun experience. Mobile ordering is a plus, although it was down when I went. I suspect it was due to the approaching NYE reservation. Regardless of the hiccup there I was able to order quickly at the bar and everything came out piping hot within minutes. Sandwich was excellent, the locality of tri-tip but the invention of making it Philly style. Chips on the side were nice.

Jilly B.

Open air outside area to play games very busy great drinks great easy food love the atmosphere. You order at the counter and find a table or open space great place to hang out with friends and have conversation. It's right in the middle of the funk zone.

Ashley T.

If zero stars were an option, that would accurately reflect our experience. A group of friends and I cycled to Santa Barbara and chose Validation Ale for brunch and a beer. This was our second visit -- and it will absolutely be our last. During our first visit, the staff were so preoccupied setting up an outdoor television that they couldn't be bothered to acknowledge us. Not even a simple "We'll be right with you." In hindsight, that should have been our signal not to return. Today's visit was worse. Shortly after we were seated, the owner arrived. Rather than greeting customers or ensuring the experience was positive, he took issue with where our bicycles were placed outside. Instead of approaching us directly, he sent a very polite employee to relay his demand that we move our bikes from the outdoor standing area to the sidewalk -- completely out of view from our table and vulnerable to theft. Anyone with even a basic understanding of cycling culture knows that bicycles are significant investments. Many cost thousands of dollars and represent both financial and personal commitment. Expecting customers to move them out of sight -- particularly when the outdoor bar area was entirely empty at that early hour -- demonstrates a complete lack of awareness and consideration. Had the owner approached us respectfully and asked us to consolidate the bikes neatly in one area, we would have gladly complied. It wasn't the request itself; it was the arrogance, the absence of courtesy, and the unwillingness to engage with customers directly. Leadership requires accountability. Sending an employee to handle an avoidable confrontation reflects poorly on management and undermines the staff. Speaking of staff -- the employee who approached us was gracious and professional. She deserves better representation from ownership. If the owner treats his employees with the same dismissiveness he shows customers, turnover would not be surprising. Six returning customers will not be back -- and we will certainly share this experience with fellow cyclists. Customer service is not complicated: communicate directly, show respect, and treat patrons like valued guests rather than inconveniences. And while you're reassessing your approach to hospitality, you may also want to fix the wobbly table.

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James F.

4 years ago

Great new spot! Staff was super friendly, no wait for good food and good beer. So happy to have this place finally open. Will be back soon to see how they evolve. hoping for good things to come! read more

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Brian D.

Evolving is what we do! The kitchen has been super impressive…

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Ivan M.

4 years ago

Cool looking hotspot but the beers are mediocre. Style-wise 5 start and all the beautiful people gather there but don't realize that the beers and overabundance of IPAs are mediocre at best. Topa Topa and Rincon down the street have much better beers and Figueroa Mtn whose beers are okay has live music but if you're a brainless socialite you won't notice or care that the beer is just so-so. Wow, even the bathroom area looks cool. It's so hip it hurts. read more

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Brian D.

Hey Ivan, thanks for the praise on our design work! I did it all…

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Jennifer T.

Elite 26

1073

731

3 years ago

Really fun place, great food and beer which is hard to find. I got the red ale which was quite tasty and my husband was happy with his as well. For food we shared a sando and caeser salad. The philly cheesesteak was amazing. The bread was crusty and soft on the inside and the wagyu was perfectly done. I was surprised by how good it was. It had the perfect amount of cheese too. The beer has an interesting concept where they have a validated beer, which is the most popular beer currently on tap. They have a board showing the status of beers vying for more sales so once that one outperforms the validated beer, it can get the previously validated beer kicked out of the list. I think it's a really good way to help me make decisions on what to get since I'm generally indecisive and just want to try the most popular beer. They have a wide variety from ipa, red ale, pilsners to offering mead, wine, and seltzers so it's a great place to go with a group. There's lots of seating inside and on the outdoor patio. It's dog and family friendly. Service was very friendly and helpful. read more

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Brian D.

Jennifer, thank you for all the nice comments! My wife and I started…

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joy o.

867

3 years ago

Great food/ambience/service & music!really comfortable place to spend the evening in the Funk zone

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Brian D.

Thank you Joy! So glad you feel comfortable here! See you again soon

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C W.

3 years ago

On our search for an IPA we came across Validation Ale. Our visit was in the evening around 8pm. We walked over from the overcrowded and extremely loud Biergarten. The ambiance/vibe at Validation Ale is refreshing and chill. The service was excellent and attentive. Beer-tender was friendly and informed. The pale ale I had was Yanonali Dipa which was perfect for capping off the evening. Overall, I look forward to returning and trying some of their other brews. read more

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Brian D.

Thanks for coming in CW, we can't wait to hear what you think of the…

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Bobby G.

261

3 years ago

Giving a 5 for the overall vibe. Beer was good. Food was good. Love the fact that they work with the Cal Poly U and offer classes in brewing. The reason I know that is the manager came over to check on us and shared some of their story. Good times! read more

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Jennifer S.

2 years ago

Adam's attitude and attitude for treating customers right is amazing and his musical tastes are outstanding.

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Tim C.

2 years ago

Pastrami sando was delicious (better than Wexlers) and service was outstanding. Amazing selection of craft beers. Highly recommend.

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Doug M.

Elite 18

139

4 years ago

Fun concept. Great beers. Excellent food. Live music a couple nights a week. And really very pleasant service. Worth your time if you're cruising the Funk Zone, for sure! read more

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Brian D.

Appreciate you cruising in Doug! Thank you for the kind words - if…

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Lorraine M.

2 years ago

Not only is their beer, location, and ambiance really good, their staff and service is amazing! They are very attentive and ask if you need anything else and check in routinely. Your empty glasses and dishes are taken away quickly. read more

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Jon L.

159

4 years ago

We checked out several breweries in the "Funk Zone" and I think Validation was my favorite. The building itself is very cool and modern, with fun architectural elements. The beer selection is good and they have a fun interactive bar on the tv menu showing which beers are in demand and which are not in real time (just ask the server to explain it to you). The outdoor patio looks awesome, although it was raining the day we went. read more

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Brian D.

Jon, thanks for stopping by and for the kind words - sorry about the…

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Eric H.

2 years ago

This place is great. Emma and Hannah provided great service and were super knowledgeable. You'd be missing out if you don't make this a stop when you're in the "funk zone!" read more

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Alex G.

Elite 24

130

1878

590

4 years ago

Super hip, airy and modern; great place to try local beers. If you like casual breweries with a laid back attitude, this is your place. The beers tend to be full flavored and strong; not for the faint of heart. Super cool patrons and friendly bartenders. Definitely give this place a try! read more

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Brian D.

Hey Alex, thanks for visiting and for the review. Happy you enjoyed…

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Jackie F.

2 years ago

WOW! Service beer options and food were all amazing! The sauces were crazy insane. I do not like ranch at all but their was perfect with the karaage nuggets. The smokey ketchup is wonderful. A must do in SB. Had the Italian Pilsner and the Dublin Gold. Just great and laid back vibe. read more

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Shala Y.

3 years ago

So we tried this place during Santa Barbara Burger Week. It was incredible! The beer/cider and seltzer were really good. The burger was very flavorful, well cooked and was super yummy! The service was great too! read more

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Brian D.

Thank you Shala. Burger week is a special time of year, happy you…

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Dana R.

143

2 years ago

Super fun spot, good bear, lively atmosphere. Came here to hang out and play a card game with a couple friends, def would come again!

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Aziz F.

2 years ago

I love their Beers. The Hazy IPA is to die for. I just wish they sold that in cans for me to take back home.

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Aaron G.

137

100

4 years ago

It had a very nice vibe and nice place to relax and enjoy. The beer is very good, enjoyed the Belgian, Dubbel is great. They also have a nice selection of food, we had the Tri-tip Sando. The location is great with other micro breweries or wine tasting in the area. All walkable distance. read more

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Brian D.

Appreciate you stopping by Aaron. I'm loving that Dubbel too!!!

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Jaycson R.

4 years ago

This brewery is unique on how they like to showcase their beers and the popularity of their batches they have. Liz carefully explains how everything works and the food menu they have is superb. I ordered the Tri-tip Sando which they have two different stles to choose from and the quality is what I would say is "high tier" The beer is great and got the Imperial Lager to pair the Sandwich and couldn't be more than happy to have ordered that. The crew is amazing and thank you Liz for a great experience! read more

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Kristina H.

4 years ago

Loved this place! We were planning on going somewhere else and when we walked by we decided we had to go here instead - the vibe was so great and the menu looked delicious. World Cup (USA) was playing, so it was busy but we never had trouble getting the bartenders attention to order and our orders came out quickly (which was great because we had a moody two year old with us). The menu had great hearty options (burger, fried chicken, lobster roll, tots/fries, etc) - but also had great healthy salad options (& zoodles!) so you could eat healthier if you wanted. I had their new autumn salad and it was delicious & filling. They even had a kids menu, which was appreciated. I loved my lager and my husband was happy they had a couple wines on tap too... The concept was super cool and I wish we lived a bit closer so we could try out all the new beers they release - but we'll definitely be back and make it one of our go-to's when we're in the area. I also can't believe I'm commenting on a bathroom - but it was very modern and cool. All in all - they're an awesome new place in the area! Cheers read more

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Brian D.

Kristina, thank you for stopping in, thrilled you enjoyed your visit…

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Alex G.

136

3 years ago

Good Food, Amazing Beer, Great Staff. With a very cool take on how to try new drinks with the menu, and there are in an amazing location in the funk zone. read more

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Brian D.

Trying new beer is exactly what we're going for! So happy that is…

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A G.

3 years ago

Good beer. Had some good IPAs along with other types of beer. Burger was pretty good. Great service and good vibe here. Nice outdoor patio in the Funk zone and dog friendly too! read more

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Brian D.

Appreciate the review AG! Come back and try the fried chicken…

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Joshua S.

4 years ago

My wife & I came here and we absolutely loved it! Love the tech part of ordering on your phone and adding to your tab. Brilliant stuff. The beers I had were some of the best I've ever tasted. Vibe, food, and drinks are all stellar. If you've never been here before, come check it out. We loved it! read more

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Brian D.

So glad you and your wife had such a great time at Validation Ale.…

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Aditya C.

294

4 years ago

Tasty beers and friendly service. Really cool space and concept for a brewery and taproom.

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Brian D.

Appreciate you coming in Aditya! Glad you like the unique space and…

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Marsha S.

3 years ago

We just hosted our son's Rehearsal Dinner at Validation Ale. The event was amazing! The food was excellent!! Staff was very accommodating and helped set up the event perfectly. The welcome party after the rehearsal dinner was a lot of fun too! Great taco bar and I understand the beignets were really good but I never got one... I was too slow! Thanks to the owner, Brian, and staff! It was so much fun!! read more

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Tini M.

4 years ago

Urban style, hip brewery, decent beers, service is ok. Ordered the wings and got them medium rare and quite bloody. When we asked if that's normal, the server said "I don't know" and the chef left without saying anything. Later on, we were told that this is the way they should be. And here's the picture, you be the judge... read more

Validation Ale - Breweries Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Brian D.

Hi Tini, feedback helps us improve so thank you for the time you took…

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Elizabeth W.

489

121

4 years ago

Cheers! Great beer selection, and even better vegetarian food options! B & B and the crew have done a wonderful job bringing this new offering to Santa Barbara. Highly recommend! read more

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Brian D.

Cheers Elizabeth! Thanks for the kind note - hope to see you again…

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Bryan C.

3 years ago

All good! I love this place in the Funk Zone. The food, beer, service and ambiance rocks!

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Brian D.

Rockin' endorsment Bryan, thank you!

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Gabriel B.

3 years ago

First time here and the service was amazing!!! Beer was great and food was great as well. Please try tritip it's amazingly delicious

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Victoria F.

4 years ago

Validation is an absolute must for big parties and special events! My husband and I chose Validation to host our rehearsal dinner and it was one of the best parts of our wedding weekend. The owners made the planning process so easy and were so gracious to our group the entire time. Their staff was so efficient and kind! The food IS SO GOOD! I will be coming back for the tri-tip sandwhich alone. Thank you Briana! read more

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Brian D.

Thank you for the kind words Victoria. Your group was a ton of fun…

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Leland S.

4 years ago

Beer was delicious but the food was terrible. Out of the 4 dishes ordered at our table only 1 turned out decent and it was a salad which is very hard to mess up. Service was okay and the location was nice. read more

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Brian D.

Hi Leland, we're incredibly upset about your experience. This type of…

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Derek M.

3 years ago

Good selection of rotating, competing tabs. Food was pretty good, I got the smashed burger. Great ambience with open air windows and good music. read more

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Brian D.

Thanks Derek, we're stoked you enjoyed your time at Validation Ale…

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Branden K.

189

4 years ago

Absolutely love this brewery: the location and vibe is incredible. They have this fun idea where the customers vote on their favorite beers - and all the beers are incredible. This is a must visit spot in the funk zone. read more

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Brian D.

Thanks Branden! I'm so glad you love the Validation concept.…

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Philip A.

4 years ago

The best Reuben sandwich and tater tots in town !!! Beer is awesome and the wait staff is super nice. Large comfortable space to spend time with family and friends. read more

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Brian D.

You're not wrong about that Reuben, it's addicting. We have a…

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Josh L.

4 years ago

Decent food but their seating arrangement is ridiculous. They have ample room but have not utilized their space very well. They also have no lights, heaters, or seats in their patio. A sad use of a funk zone restaurant space. read more

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Brian D.

Hey Josh, thanks for taking the time to leave a review. You're right…

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Debra H.

4 years ago

Just spent a wonderful afternoon walking around Santa Barbara and came upon this new Pub, VALIDATION ALE... yummy food, fantastic beer and wine, a great staff and fabulous owners! Proudly located in the funk zone in Santa Barbara... Recommend to all!!!! read more

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Brian D.

So glad you found us and gave Validation a try, thank you Debra!…

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Josh B.

4 years ago

Super fun beer competition system. Great beer, awesome spot. They have some of the best lagers I have ever had. Good stuff!

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Brian D.

Glad you liked the lagers Josh! We have another new lager coming mid…

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Justin G.

4 years ago

Great beer, great food, great atmosphere and great people! Best bathrooms in Santa Barbara!

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Brian D.

Best bathrooms in SB is exactly what we are going for! Oh ya, glad…

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Mike E.

4 years ago

Great place to grab a quick bite and drink. Food is on point and comes out quickly. Kids said that the food was faster than McDonalds. Beer is great too. Ever rotating selection of beer and lots of options for a flight. Like the idea of coming back in a month and the list changed based on the customer votes. Atmosphere is inviting and open. Lots of TVs to watch Sunday football. Place can get busy, so plan accordingly for larger groups (more than 4). Definitely plan on making this a regular stop when I'm in the SB area. read more

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Brian D.

I too am amazed at how fast the kitchen turns out quality food, glad…

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Nick T.

4 years ago

Very cool atmosphere and the beer is good but the food is not great. If you're going there just for atmosphere and beer then it's four stars. read more

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Brian D.

Thanks for the feedback Nick - happy you enjoyed the beer and…

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Page 5 of 6

102 E Yanonali St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Directions
(805) 500-3111
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.validationale.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Validation Ale open?

Validation Ale opens at 11:30 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.Validation Ale opens at 10:00 AM on Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Validation Ale close?

Validation Ale closes at 8:30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday.Validation Ale closes at 10:00 PM on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Wed 11:30 AM - 8:30 PMThu-Fri 11:30 AM - 10:00 PMSat 10:00 AM - 10:00 PMSun 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM

Food & Alcohol

Does Validation Ale serve alcohol?

Yes, Validation Ale serves alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Validation Ale allow dogs?

Yes, Validation Ale allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Validation Ale have outdoor seating?

Yes, Validation Ale has outdoor seating options.

Does Validation Ale have parking?

Yes, Validation Ale has parking options. Street Parking, Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Does Validation Ale allow outdoor smoking?

Yes, Validation Ale allows outdoor smoking.

Does Validation Ale have free WiFi?

Yes, Validation Ale has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Validation Ale is a craft brewery restaurant with a unique concept that engages customers in decided what is brewed next. Validated beer is pit agains a new Vying recipe of similar type to see if the new brew should take over as the primary tap. The space is more handsome than most expect for a local brewery with curved walnut panels, massive doors and windows, and clean modern restrooms. And because no one likes fighting for a bartender’s attention, Validation Ale allows you to start, manage, and/or close your tab by using one of the QR codes on the bar and tables. And thanks to the reverse-osmosis tap on the wall, you never have to ask for water. “I’ve been home brewing for 12 years, and I’ve always wanted a brewery,” says the owner Brian. “But whether you’re a beer nerd like me or you’ve only had Coors your whole life, you’re welcome either way. We want this to be about community.”

Ask the Community - Validation Ale

Are you able to accommodate a large party?

Absolutely. We have large groups all the time and semi-private or private events ranging from 50 to 150+ guests. Please email admin@validationale.com to inquire about a specific date / group size.

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Are you dog friendly?

Yes definitely have seen folks bring their dog to the outdoor patio area.

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•$$

Great service. Love the vibe. And the food is great!!…read more Great cocktails If you in Santa Barbra check It out it's a lovely place for nice mid day drink and some food.

STEPH JUDGEMENT: Surprisingly spacious, with good food…read more The hubby and I decided to stop here for lunch on our way up to Sara Barbara. We'd considered several other places in the area but some pub grub sounded good. It was a Wednesday and it was pretty deserted when we walked in. We were surprised by how large the space was--the front area had a bar and several pool tables, and the back area had another bar, lots of seating, and a stage. It must get pretty lively in the evenings. As with most pubs there weren't a ton of vegetarian options on the menu, so we were surprised but intrigued to see a plant-based shepherds pie on the menu. We decided to share that and a cup of potato leek soup. Both items were great--we highly recommend! Our server was genial and the prices were ok. It was definitely a fine lunch stop for us.

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Irish whiskey burger and fries

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Old Kings Road

3.8(105 reviews)

0.4 mi

•$

They don't respect the alcohol limits. Today I had a terrible experience. I went to pick up my…read moreboyfriend, who was already drunk, and the bartender, knowing that the alcohol level was already high and that he shouldn't have sold him any more drinks, did so anyway. A man even bought drinks for my boyfriend, and I told him not to! The man got furious and started yelling at me. I recorded him, the bartender, and the bar staff too! I had to leave the place. I would like to file a report!Four months ago, the same thing happened! My boyfriend ordered some tequila shots, and I put my hand over the glasses to stop him from getting them. I told him he couldn't see the alcohol level, and the bartender got angry. I told him it was illegal to serve them like that! He didn't get them, but I had to intervene; otherwise, he would have gotten more drinks!

Yeah, it was all right. I popped in 'cos you know me, every time I'm in a new place, I've got to…read morehit up the British or Irish pub. Did like the attempt at English decor, namely the phonebox hanging on the side of the bar and the usage of the Underground signage. Appreciated the (at least two) beers on tap that were imports -- couldn't quite see what they were, but they had my Guinness, so that was enough for me. (They do have a good selection of taps, including 805, another blonde, etc. Again - since I really only drink Guinness, I can't say I paid much attention.) The one thing I will say is that the atmosphere can give off a... I dunno, vibe. It's quite dark inside, even when it's moderately light out. (I called in around 7pm). Nevertheless, you can get a Guinness, so that's good enough for me. 2025: 23/100

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The bar

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The Wicked Shamrock

4.2(47 reviews)

46.4 mi

•$

Thee best dive bar, local watering hole, place of gathering or whatever you want to call it. The…read moreShamrock delivers! Always a great place to visit any time of day with guaranteed vibes. The bartenders are very friendly and the drink prices are very reasonable. They carry quite the variety with some specialty beers that hard to find on tap. A must visit especially on Tuesday Karaoke nights!

I grew up in this town but wasn't of age to drink in a bar before I left but when I come back I try…read moreto look up lgbtq friendly bars in this town. I came across this one and the vibe was so lively and the bartender was very friendly and telling me the many name changes the establishment has gone through. Definitely worth a return visit. Also a good Pokémon hangout.

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The Perch In The Pines

4.4(147 reviews)

42.4 mi

•$$

The best food on the mountain hand down. It's not even close. They have DELICIOUS food and great…read morecocktails. My fiancé and I moved here about 2 years ago and quickly became regulars. We love our South African flatbread when it's available or the bountiful salad. Honestly all of their food is TOP NOTCH so you can't go wrong. Luce the owner and his wife Angie work so hard to keep this place going, they are the best! Monet is often behind the bar and she makes a GREAT cocktail. Really can't praise them enough. They always have great events and or live acts that bring the house down, it's always a great vibe there and amazing views if you catch them during the day. Make sure to stop by!

The view from the upstairs deck onto the golf course was gorgeous. Service was fine, except that I…read morehad to order and pay inside at the bar while the locals seemed to have their orders taken at their table. The food was very salty. I had a few fries but could not eat most of them, they were coated with salt. The grilled cheese was made with sourdough and a bit less salty. Overall though, I was disappointed with the food. The complimentary water was chlorinated and undrinkable.

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Guitar

Berry Bramble

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A little keepsake from Luce the bartender's hometown

Barrelhouse 101

4.0(1.4k reviews)

24.6 mi

•$$

Beer Pressure…read more Classic American Pub located in Ventura that features over one hundred beers on tap and classic American comfort foods in a surprisingly family-friendly environment. The Good: * Beyond all the beers on tap, they also have a full bar. * Service was friendly and pretty good overall. * Secret menu for both food and drink. Shhhh...! * Their wings were fantastic! You've really gotta try the Strawbanero (Strawberry-Habanero) sauce, as it was a sweet and savory bite that had all three of us fighting over. * Buffalo Barrels (aka Tater Tots) were worth the $5 upgrade. But, I'm somewhat of a Tater Tot junkie, so take that advice for what it's worth. * Fries were fantastic, as well. * Short Rib Melt was delicious, but very, very rich. It could've used a little relief like some pickles either on it or on the side. The Meh: * They do have their own parking lot, but it is smallish and can fill up fast. There is some street parking available, as well. The Ugly: * They had a lot of beers that were out of commission, including several that I was pretty excited to try. =/ Conclusion: Great spot to get your suds and spuds!

Came here for a late lunch with my girlfriends that were visiting from out of town. Service was…read moregreat because our drinks were filled and food came out pretty quickly. The portions are Large!! I got the short rib sandwich with sweet potato fries. One friend got the carnitas nachos (also sooo tasty) and another got a shrimp wrap. No drinks for us but the happy hour menu looked fun. Would love to come back and check that out b

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101 beers on the wall (on tap)

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Jimmy's Pub

4.0(118 reviews)

24.7 mi

•$$

Perfection !!!! The ambiance The food The service was just perfection…read more We had lunch with friends here Sunday afternoon and loved every minute of out time here. Beautiful scenery and delicious lunch what more can you ask for. The Customer service was friendly and attentive. The fish tacos I ordered were so good, probably the best one ever. My husband got the smash burger and loved it. I had a bite of course and it was amazing. My friend got the shredded beef tacos and again amazing ,,, the French fries were made perfectly. No bad oil taste, crispy goodness. The appetizer we ordered came with a big warm puffy bread. Soooo good. Labneh and roaster pepper dip. We enjoyed every bite and dip. Overall a wonderful place to eat at when in Ojai. Specially if you are staying at the hotel. I can't wait to go back and order the fish tacos again. And a burger. lol

We had lunch & dinner here, they have friendly service, good food with indoor & outdoor seating. No…read morereservations, first come first serve seating. They have many gluten free options including GF pizza! We enjoyed the fish tacos, margarita pizza, pepperoni pizza, salad & lavender lemonade.

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Jimmy's Pub Smash Burger

Eggplant spread

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Lavender lemonade

Lucky Fools Pub

4.2(456 reviews)

47.0 mi

•$$

I was pleasantly surprised how good the food was at this pub!…read moreIt was much better than usual bar food and prices were very fair. Fish and chips were very good. Our waitress Lexie was THE best. She was pleasant, friendly and handled large group with ease. I will definitely go back and will ask to be in her area.

A last minute decision after previous plans were cancelled we ventured into Lucky Fool Pub for some…read moredinner. Great atmosphere and decor, our server was very friendly and helpful and checked on us even after our food was served. Let's s talk about the food, very good for a Pub scene, food was plenty and came out hot. The fish and chips (what I ordered) were very good, crunchy outside and fish was fresh and cooked to perfection. Not greasy at all. All our entrees had the option of skinny fries or fat fries. The French Dip had plenty of moist beef in it with a great Au Jus, burger was cooked to perfection and the smashed chicken sandwich was amazing. Plenty of choices of beer featuring local breweries as well as the standard go to's. We got there before the dinner crowd got there and it filled in fast. Great menu with lots of choices and they also serve a breakfast menu on the weekends. Glad we came in and was a very pleasant experience. Bravissimo Lucky Fool's, you gained a new customer. See you again, Ciao

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The Bar

Smashed Chicken Sandwich

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Avocado Mango Poke Salad

Ojai Pub

4.1(105 reviews)

25.9 mi

Stumbled in for a bit of A/C and a snack as we were walking back to our AirBnB and I'm so glad we…read moredid! Ya'll .... The bratwursts are insanely good. The margaritas are some of the best I've had. Everything is super fresh down to the house made syrups for the cocktails. I walked to the bathroom and peeped some tomatoes under a grow light in the back. Not sure what they were for but definitely a testament to freshness haha. Stop by when you're in Ojai, you won't regret it!!!

Four of us walked to the bar to have some drinks and an appetizer. I was very excited at first,…read morebecause the vibe in there is unique and I loved the way it looked inside. The wait/bar staff were rude and a little gruff. The drinks took forever and we ended up just paying and leaving before the appetizer even came out. They were not busy. As a former restaurant manager, I will say that anyone can work behind a bar, but not everyone should. Those employees need to brush up on what good service is, because that's pretty important if you're working in the service industry...

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Chicken wings! with buffalo sauce.

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Pub Chips. Served with Burnt Green Onion Non-Dairy Aioli

Zaidee’s

4.5(62 reviews)

26.2 mi

It was my friend's birthday and she chose this spot for a birthday lunch. We went on a Saturday…read moreafternoon. It was a bit warm to sit outside (80°F) and the wait for outdoor was 30 min so we opt to sit inside. We still had a nice view of the golf course and the rolling hills behind the golf course. By the bar area is a huge bar bench with a huge open window. We didn't notice that spot otherwise I would have suggested it. (Next time!) The lunch prices were really great. Our total bill with tip was $50. I got the buffalo chicken sandwich that was delicious, juicy but also really messy. And my friend got the Bistro Burger. We spit out sandwich/burger in half with one another to try both. Although I liked my Buffalo chicken, I think I preferred the burger. We also both upgraded to truffle fries.

Came here with a group of 25 after a Porsche club drive, and we tried to be mindful by staggering…read moreinto three groups about 15 minutes apart so it wouldn't be too overwhelming. Upon arrival, the staff seemed a bit frazzled. The menu changed a few times, which made things a little confusing, but the two women helping us were very kind and did their best, they just didn't seem fully prepared for a group our size. We kept our orders simple, and surprisingly, the food came out extremely fast... before the coffee even arrived. Overall though, the food was good. I had the avocado toast, which was really tasty, and everyone in the group seemed to enjoy what they ordered. The real standout here is the setting, the golf course and surrounding grounds are absolutely beautiful and make for a really nice atmosphere. Overall, a solid spot for smaller groups or a casual outing, but larger parties might be a bit of a challenge for them.

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Inside

Patio

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7 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Mel A.

7 months ago

We've been here before and rode over 30 miles to come back with a group of six. After a long ride, we ordered full meals and drinks and were happy to support the business again. We respectfully placed our bikes on an empty section of the outdoor patio. The restaurant wasn't busy, no one was sitting outside, and we were nearly done eating. The owner told his employee to tell us we couldn't have our bikes there. We explained to the owner the patio was empty and that we were about to leave anyway -- another 5-10 minutes and we would've been gone. Instead, we were singled out and told to move them. We did so without arguing because we respect his establishment, but it felt unnecessary and unwelcoming. What made it even stranger was that after telling us to move the bikes, he got back in his car and left. It's hard to understand why this became such an issue when he wasn't even there otherwise. Giving it 5 min would've solved the problem. On top of that, our table was very wobbly, the chairs were ripped and need replacing, and parts of the seating area were worn and peeling. Overall, it left a disappointing impression and made us feel unwelcome despite being paying, repeat customers. read more

Ashley R.

1 year ago

We hosted a wedding celebration at Validation Ale, and it was absolutely perfect for what we wanted! The space had such a welcoming vibe and was ideal for our family to relax, mingle, and celebrate together. It's dog-friendly, which was a huge plus for us, and there was plenty of room for the kids to run around and play cornhole while the adults caught up. The atmosphere was laid-back but still felt special enough for the occasion. The food and drinks were awesome. Everyone found something they loved. And the communication leading up to the event was super smooth. Reserving the space was easy, and the team was helpful and responsive throughout the process. We're so glad we chose Validation Ale! it made our celebration feel easy, fun, and full of great memories. Highly recommend! read more

Caleb L.

4 years ago

I've been here 3 times now and can say that I haven't had a bad experience. I came for the soft opening and everyone handled it well. Those can be stressful with all the people crowding the bar, and they handled it with grace and poise under pressure. The food is great. Cooked to order and brought out by a member of the kitchen staff personally. I see this place sticking around for a long, long time. read more

Justin H.

1 year ago

This place has turned into a day care. Kids running around unsupervised. Yelling and screaming with drunk parents. To think you could have created a brewery or a day care? Head to unbearable, 21 and over with no rug rats! read more

Anne N.

3 years ago

I've been validated by validation ale! I felt like a real human being finally able to have a beer, fries, and buffalo wings and all without having to sacrifice quality or flavor! THANK YOU!! read more

James C.

1 year ago

Emma and Lily were the bomb. We wouldnt be here without them. 85 characters is kind of a big ask

Josh H.

4 years ago

Great spot, great beer, even better staff. 10 out of 10 - definitely would recommend!

Validation Ale - breweries - Updated October 2026

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Validation Annex

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Every time I pop in for lunch, Andrew is incredibly kind and welcoming. Validation Annex is already…read morea fantastic spot with a super convenient location, but the team really makes it special. Recently, the owner, Brian, was generous enough to let us host an art pop-up over the weekend, and Andrew happened to be working the shift. I actually got to meet Brian and his family in person while they were there, and they are the sweetest people. Andrew went above and beyond, making both me and my guests feel so taken care of, and constantly checking in to ensure everything ran smoothly. The entire Sunday crew--including Chef Ben--was absolutely amazing. We had a blast and can't wait to host 'YA 2 Art' here again soon. Thank you to Brian and the whole Validation crew for everything you do for your customers!

I came here mainly to try the pizza. Some of the things I like about Validation Ale are:…read more -Plenty of other drink choices besides beer -Good chicken karaage. Crispy, juicy, and made properly with chicken thigh instead of chicken breast. -Good smash burger, but my favorite shall remain Third Window. -Good size pizza for $23. I think the crust was a little hard, but the toppings were really good. The standout was the caramelized pineapple topping. It was sweet and cooked down. Kind of reminded me of Taiwanese pineapple shortbread filling. It was not at all like having raw pineapple on pizza which I know people have strong opinions on that.

Night Lizard Brewing Company

4.7

(198 reviews)

•$$

Owner was there helping his employee's... ( super nice guy) it was a big night... World Cup game…read more.. Mexico game... We found a spot outside... my son and grandson choosing to stand so they could see the indoor BIG screen TV.... Eventually we got a spot inside... we stayed until the end.... We walked so no need for parking...

Excellent happy hour and many options on tap! Have not had many kombucha drinks but this one was…read moreboth delicious and pretty. Could be described as sweet and tart, like a better version of prosecco. Tons of space and daily events. The bar is open to the outside and there is plenty of outdoor seating as well. Owner was very friendly. Would love to come back for line dancing or trivia in the future!

Institution Ale - Santa Barbara

4.3

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•$$

Great selection of beer at a fun location on State St! We ordered a flight, a sour beer, and tater…read moretots. We love that the brewery opens out onto the street, makes for fun people watching!

Extremely bizarre confrontational customer-service experience…read more Came in around 5 PM with my wife and dog for Yankees-Red Sox. Everything was great for the first couple hours until around 7:45 PM. I brought my two-hour-old glass up for another Mexican lager and said, "I brought my glass up so you guys don't have to waste another glass, here you go brotha." The employee that just clocked in, Aaron, responded, "Of course I'm gonna use your glass, what else am I supposed to do?" He then stared at me and said, "do you expect me to give your dirty glass to someone else?" I explained I was only offering because I had seen fresh glasses being used earlier for other customers . He gave me the beer and said, "Go ahead and take this glass exactly where you were sitting" with a smug smile He continued staring at me from behind the bar after I sat down. Completely baffled, I finally asked across the bar, "What's the issue, man? You're still staring at me. I'm just sitting here with my wife. Are you drunk on the job? That's the only explanation. What's your issue?" Another employee wearing a Red Sox hat also appeared to repeatedly take shots of beer directly from the tap. I believe Aaron was as well cause his eyes were squinty a bit, but I can't confirm..Will only say facts I can replicate. I only had two drinks over 3 hours and wasn't intoxicated, celebrating anniversary with my wife. I've never experienced customer service this bizarre anywhere. If you're considering coming here, I'd seriously reconsider. A completely unnecessary interaction ruined what had otherwise been a great night. Multiple breweries in the area, go elsewhere.

Figueroa Mountain Brewing

4.1

(493 reviews)

•$$

Today is Thursday so apparently they Welcome & Treat College students with a night of their own $5…read morePints from 6 - Close. Don't forget your ID Bru! Excellent beers served with a smile; The brews choices are endless but I'm such a light weight I decided on Citrus Santa Barbara or Santa Barbara Citrus "te digo" lol it's only 4.3 Love it, it's crisp & fruity tasting but yet refreshingly light. "No calories" Bueno ... not that many. It's a perfect location for sightseeing y shopping, do drink responsibly, "yo digo" y la ley de Santa Bárbara, CA.

We went in for a sit down break...and of course a beer…read more.. Staff were friendly and helpful...

Brass Bear Brewing

3.9

(213 reviews)

•$$

First time here at Brass Bear Brewing, but certainly not the last! The atmosphere was lively and…read morewelcoming, with kind service and the food and drinks definitely did not disappoint. The Blood Orange Old Fashioned was outstanding. Just one of those cocktails that makes you want to order another! The appetizers were excellent, especially the brown sugar sriracha chicken wings. I ordered the Surf and Turf Skewers, that came with some skewered tri-tip and shrimp along with a nice serving of street corn and truffle parm fries. Lip-smacking delicious! And don't skip dessert. We had the butter cake with ice cream and some freshly made churros with chocolate and caramel dip. Everything we tried was delicious and a perfect way to finish the meal. Great drinks, excellent appetizers, delicious desserts, and a fun atmosphere. Definitely a place I'd happily come back to!

We had our wedding reception at Brass Bear Brewing Co. Uptown and I honestly cannot put into words…read morehow incredible this team was. They didn't just host our wedding- they genuinely took care of us, and I will be grateful to them forever for the amount of love, effort, and attention they poured into our day. From the beginning, Emily (the venue coordinator) was absolutely amazing. She was endlessly communicative, patient, accommodating, and supportive through every question, vision, change, and stress spiral I had throughout planning. Somehow she made all of my ideas come to life while still respecting our budget, which felt impossible at times. She truly became one of the people I trusted most throughout this process and was genuinely my hero. Kenzie and Melanie were our event leads the day of, and they completely ran the show flawlessly. They didn't just decorate the space beautifully (which they absolutely did -it looked PERFECT), they made sure Tyler and I were taken care of every second of the night. They got us food and drinks so we could actually eat without constantly being stopped, checked on us throughout the evening, handled problems before we even knew they existed, and made sure we were happy, relaxed, and able to actually enjoy our wedding. They made the entire night feel effortless, and I truly cannot imagine the day without them. We also specifically requested Darren as our bartender because we already loved him so much, and even though it was his normal day off, he still came in for our wedding. That meant the world to us. Anthony and Declan were also incredible support staff and helped keep everything running seamlessly all night long. Every single person at Brass Bear went above and beyond for us in ways I'll never fully be able to express. Our guests are still talking about how wonderful everything was, and truly one of the best decisions we made for our wedding was choosing this venue and this team.

Rincon Brewery

4.3

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I am glad I picked Rincon for an early dinner during our recent anniversary trip in Santa Barbara!…read more A major plus, they sell food here, they have an extensive menu so it's easy to order at the bar, they bring it to your table, no hassle, running around for food from 1000 places! It might not be as trendy as other breweries in the Funk Zone area, but I don't care. Quiet and laid back was the vibe we needed! I love that they are located in an old Spanish looking house. Beautiful outdoor options, charming, quiet, great to enjoy a meal at! I don't care for their indoor area - with TV-s playing game and lacking decor. Service was great, friendly, Sam took care of us, he was nice, kind, attentive! Had their Mac Brown, a darker nice beer, smooth and started our feast with their nachos, we added chicken on which was a great decision since it was marinated and freshly grilled, you could taste the nice flavors right away. Great guacamole in top, a fun dish! We continued with the fried dill pickles (they come with Ranch and Sriracha sauce), very nice, had fried pickles before (in the South) and they were too greasy. Not here, crisp and tasty, lightly breaded. We finished with the onion rings tower, panko crusted, delicious flavor! They have locations in Ventura and Carpinteria! Great food and beer, nice service, very chill and relaxing. Rincon proved me right, gave us the fun, laid back experience we needed! Cheers to that, Mac Brown in hand!

(Drank/Dined 02/02/24 FR @ 6:00pm): You didn't need to con me into coming to this brewery!…read more I looked for some salvation and solace in the beer suds of Rincon Brewery while I waited out the freeway traffic back to Los Angeles after a bad day. This brewery was on my list of several to try since I was scheduled to work the upcoming Santa Barbara International Film Festival. I loved beer and was always thrilled to visit a brewery new to me. Were their libations a brighter spot on what was a darker day!? PURCHASE Cetaceans Dry Hopped Marzen Lager Beer 5.2% ABV 16floz Draft ($7.75): Rich golden amber color, floral malty aroma, low body, light malty flavor, smooth finish, and light malty aftertaste. My favorite of the ones I tried. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=N2clMCdp3sxjEPMxkFIO1Q&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Caught Inside Imperial DIPA Beer 8.6% ABV 16floz Draft ($8.50): Rich hazy amber color, earthy hoppy aroma, low body, slight bitter hoppy flavor, drying finish, and light hoppy aftertaste. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=rXWQ8wG4UFIFDlZKwH087g&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw [ONION RINGS/STRAWS/STRINGS ALERT - 4.0 of 5.0 STARS] Onion Rings ($8.00): A tower of seven plump La Reina (their own beer) lager-infused panko crusted rings all generally the same size, these were hot, lightly browned, crunchy, and had some tendency to crumble when bitten into while the onion ring (not sweet Maui) stayed intact. These were really good, I wasn't a fan of the somewhat watery ranch dipping sauce, and the "mere" seven rings surprisingly filled you up. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=n3NQ7J8Q1Uw6j6G1t3CLGw&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Bates Blonde Fish + Chips ($17.00 + $2.00): Bates (their own beer) blonde-battered cod with a choice of housemade potato chips or french fries (I opted for these), I was impressed by the three thick darker brown pieces of fish and a pile of golden crispy crunchy spud sticks. This was a hot plate, and early bites of everything released soft whispers of steam. The cod was meaty, moist, lightly seasoned, and honestly didn't require the provided tarter dipping sauce (I used it for the fries). My only issue was that the fries weren't included, so in actuality this was a "fish plus chips" meal. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=fpuwzGbFwXqCwOdssuTSbw&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Coastal American Lager Beer 5.5% ABV 16floz Can 4pk ($11.99): Bright amber color, citrusy lime malty aroma, low body, citrusy lime malty salty flavor, crisp effervescent finish, and light citrusy lime aftertaste. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=FCS5RuJzpdwz2VstJ8wlbA&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw 9th Anniversary Fleurs De Mer Saison Farmhouse Ale Beer 6.1% ABV 16.9floz Bottle ($9.00): Dark amber color, fruity tart yeast aroma, low body, earthy fruity tart yeast flavor, crisp drying finish, and light earthy fruity aftertaste. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=oUt_RJDUeFzIqfUlwzLMuQ&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw Stickers (Varied; COMP this instance): I loved stickers and enjoyed placing them at other breweries to spread the love! https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=-E-QPl_6n-LQGn-Y3zrvoQ&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw SERVICE I was warmly greeted by a young man behind the bar where I sat. He gave me a quick rundown on their beers, and once I placed my order, the beer arrived immediately, while the food appeared within minutes. Everything was efficient and straightforward - thank you! PARKING (FREE) Street parking only, I found a spot along the main drag of Santa Barbara St. while there were plenty on other surrounding roads - 'nuff said! ATMOSPHERE, DÉCOR, AMBIENCE Located in the "Funk Zone", the interior was an open spacious layout, a ton of places to sit, a multi-sided bar with barstools, and various surfboards hung on the walls. There was also a large exposed outdoor patio. Plenty of natural lighting came in through the large windows, obviously plenty outside, while various electric ceiling lights filled in the rest inside while decorative string lights outside. There were two TVs while Emo music (e.g. Fall Out Boy, New Found Glory, Sum 41) played in the background. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=O-v3lFvwpLlljOvdH7CpVw&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw ATTIRE Totally casual, so I would normally be in a t-shirt, boardshorts, and flip-flops. OVERALL Rincon Brewery ended my day on a positive note, and I would love to return and try more of their beers. Their food was lovely and appreciated, they had a happy hour (MO-TH), it was a relaxing place, the service was very good, and the beer prices were comparable (beer flights also available). The food menu was varied and not just bar snacks. I found complete value based on the prices, service, and experience noted above (TOTAL paid experience was around $71.00 BEFORE any discounts and/or tip). And, they accepted my credit card of choice... AMEX! 5.0 STARS

Lama Dog Tap Room

4.1

(335 reviews)

•$$

Lots of great beer, wine, and cocktail choices. Really enjoyed their Frozen Mango Margarita, and…read morethe husband enjoyed his Old Fashioned. Would love to come back and try some of their beers on tap. Love the wide open seating inside, and even saw a couple dogs. Happy to have another place on my list that I can visit with my doggo! They also had a little restaurant (Nook) you could order food at. A bit over-priced, but the food was good. Lobster Mac & Cheese was a little short on the lobster but was overall tasty. We came during a weekday afternoon and had no problems finding street parking. Overall, a great choice to just relax and enjoy a drink.

Super impressed with the adult beverage game, Beer, Wine, and Cocktails available!…read moreBeer cave with a variety of choices and a mix&match deal Food available too! Well behaved Dogs allowed on patio Tried the Boochcraft Strawberry Lemonade - very nice! Also ordered the Sauvignon Blanc - refreshing Great atmosphere Beach, chill & relaxing vibes 10 out of 10 Izzy made our first time experience amazing, thank you!!!

Captain Fatty's Brewery

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(152 reviews)

•$$

It's a nice place to visit if you thinking about relaxing with a great glass of beer. Although,…read moreservice could improve a little bit when it comes to answering questions such as what kind of food is being served or what types of beer are top 5... or 10! However, my daughter liked the ambience and the kids games they had And I definitely like the CHISME! a.k.a gossip beer. And as always said, judge for yourself!

This place reminds me of everything I love about beer. Inviting taproom, knowledgeable beertender…read more(thanks Nic), and most importantly great beer. Love the variety of styles, all done well and feeling like a regular even on my first visit. Would and will be back.

Villa Wine Bar & Kitchen

4.9

(101 reviews)

•$$

I stopped by and it was quite busy. A lot of happy customers singing and drinking. They had live…read moremusic which was nice. We ordered their cheese and charcuterie board and a marguerita pizza. What can I say delicious and even more delicious! Everything tasted fresh but I especially enjoyed the salami and copa.

Three of us descended on Villa and were immediately made to feel right at home by the…read morePortuguese-speaking American owner. We started with Bruschetta, being careful to use the proper Italian pronunciation since our host had recently traveled to Rome to pick up his daughter from a student exchange program. We then split the kale salad and the charcuterie/cheese plate. My daughter said she hated kale, but this salad converted her. It was good, but even better would have been to use baby kale. Being a beer aficionado, I appreciated the eight choices they had on draft. Being from South Texas, I may never find my way again, but for sure I can recommend it for its good food and welcoming atmosphere.

The Black Sheep Restaurant + Bar

4.4

(1.3k reviews)

•$$$

My partner and I came to celebrate our one year anniversary and we had an amazing time!! We chose…read moreto do the 4 course tasting menu which was out of this world and incredibly worth the price. Each dish was so flavorful and made with so much care. My favorite dish was the pumpkin style gnocchi we had and the branzino fish, he loved the bone marrow. The soup I forgot to take a picture of was potato and leek with truffle was amazing as well. The restaurant is also very cozy with great ambience and we had fantastic service.

This was a last-minute booking, and I was glad to see plenty of seats available. The food was…read moredelicious and full of flavor. Yummy! The portions were quite small (that sucks!), but the quality and taste definitely made up for it. The restaurant itself is beautiful. I really loved the décor and the overall atmosphere, especially the upstairs section. I was seated in a corner on the ground level, though, and it was extreeeemely hot. The front door was open, but I didn't notice any fans, and I don't believe there is air conditioning. My date was sweating, and I was feeling quite warm as well. We also didn't have any ice in our water, which would have been especially nice given the temperature. Our waiter was pleasant and friendly, although the service didn't feel particularly memorable or exceptional. I was also a little surprised that bread and butter cost extra if you'd like them before your main course. Overall, I want to thank the chef for preparing such delicious food. I would definitely return if I needed a last-minute booking.

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