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Boathouse
2981 Cliff Dr, Santa Barbara
Phone: (805) 898-2628
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Reviews by the General Public
Not learning from experience, 11/9/2009
Reviewer: Sylvia
from Santa Barbara, CA
I met a friend for lunch today; she chose the place because of the beach location. The outside table was not clean and there was debris underneath. This was a weekday at 11:30, not busy at all, and the staff had time to attend to cleanliness. I ordered the shrimp and fish skewers and I GOT skewered! This $9 item consisted of 2 tiny shrimp, 4 microscopic pieces of what I think was fish, a few tiny pieces of pepper, and a piece of burned corncob on a very small bed of white rice. We waited at least 20 minutes for our meal although there were few customers. With so many negative reviews about the food quality I expected the owner and manager to make needed improvements by now. This is the third meal I've had at the Boathouse...all bad. I only go back because friends take me there. I would never choose this restaurant volunatarily.
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Not worth the view!, 11/4/2009
Reviewer: Molly
from Santa Barbara, CA
Lunch was miserable, had to sit inside with tables so close to one another there was absolutely no possibility for a private conversation! My salad was tasteless and pricy! My companion's meal was no better. The only redeeming person was the busboy, the waiter was non-existent once he took our order but was really quick to snap up my plate the second I put my fork down even though my companion was still eating. The check arrived before we were actually finished eating, we had planned on dessert - passed on it. Will not be returning as there are many other choices with a better trained staff and way better food!
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Will definitely go again, 10/3/2009
Reviewer: Vickie
from Santa Barbara, CA
Went to the Boathouse the other weeknight. Our phone reservation hadn't been written down in the book but the staff made up for it by seating us almost immediately at an inside table with an ocean view; they even brought out a free appetizer. Great service and really yummy food.
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The perfect location!, 9/28/2009
Reviewer: Jocelyn
from Santa Barbara, CA
People complain too much. This is a new restaurant which has become very productive in record time.
The owner put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into this project. I live across the street and saw him labor there each and every day.
I love the location and the food continues to improve.
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Go For the View, 9/3/2009
Reviewer: MARY
from Santa Barbara, CA
The food is not good or bad. The hostess was not very effective. I requested an outside table for 3 and waited 15 min to be seated. After all that, I was seated at the very table that was empty when I first got there. Our drinks arrived after our entrees did. To the waiter's credit, the least expensive drinks were taken off the bill.
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fantastic, 8/7/2009
Reviewer: amy
from newport beach, california
Went there on a recommendation from the hotel where i was staying. Had read the reviews and was sceptical but decided to try it anyway and I am so so happy I did. This place is beautiful, the service was friendly and attentive and the food was absolutely delicious. Someone complained about portion size...where are these people getting this stuff, the portions were so big that neither myself or my boyfriend could finish. We had the sliders and ahi to start, AMAZING!! Then had the halibut and the steak, delicious! I will definitely go back! These reviews that people write are crazy. One lady complained about her dog, all I have to say is WOW!!
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still lame, 8/5/2009
Reviewer: V
from Santa Barbara, CA
...they are getting better. the hostesses are soooo rude. they should really hire people that smile and nice rather than nervous, first time job, little girls that have no sense of hospitality. as for the bartenders...they act like this is home and talk to you like you are roommates. get a clue - please treat me like a guest and save your sarcastic jokes for your friends. The bartenders should smile more and be more pleasant. This is a pricey restaurant - go work at a bar on state if you are not going to be cordial. The cocktail waitresses in the bar area are awful...
Does a restaurant manager even exist in this restaurant?? If there is one then they lack the leadership and necessary mgmt skills to get this wait staff, bar staff, and hostess staff into shape.
The food has gotten a little better but the portions are way too small. The dipping sauce for the tuna needs to be 86ed! Yuck! just give soy. Why are the sliders always burned on the buns? And why can't the cheeseburger be cooked to the temperature that is requested.
STILL NEEDS A LOT OF WORK
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Danger!, 7/30/2009
Reviewer: R. Paul
from Santa Barbara, CA
I've been going here since before there was anything to eat. I have to say I will never step inside this place again. I had just taken my dogs for a swim and decided to check out the outside bar and have a beer. It was mid afternoon and one of their employees from the Fish House was having his birthday party at the bar. He was drunk and abusive. I left my half finished beer and left.
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Great spot for drinks and food, 7/27/2009
Reviewer: Alexis
from Santa Barbara, CA
I love the boathouse, I keep seeing negative reviews, but I go here often and always have a great experience whether I am dining inside for dinner or having cocktails and lunch out by the bar. Great bartenders and good service! The view can't get better, I don't know what there would be to complain about?
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Not very good, 7/24/2009
Reviewer: Jessica A.
from Santa Barbara, CA
Been here a few times since they opened, even attended the opening night party. But I have to say, the food is not very good. It's not awful, but for the price there is a lot lacking. Went here last weekend for some drinks and apps. The calamari was very greasy and the crab cocktail was not very fresh. But the worst part was how filthy the restaurant was. There was food and crayons and trash underneath every table. Our tablecloth looked like it hadn't been washed in weeks and the glass cover had crusty food all over it. There was an abandoned used straw sticking out of the booth next to me. But the most disgusting part was the swarm of flies landing on our food and on us. For 50 dollars and only two apps and two drinks, I expected A LOT more than the below mediocre experience had here. The owners spent a fortune restoring this place and should take some pride in their work and make some changes.
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They could do better, 7/19/2009
Reviewer: Randy
from Simi Valley, CA
I am glad to see that there is still a restaurant here. I hope the management realizes there is some work to do. The food was not bad and not great. The service matched the food. My vegetables tasted and smelled like fish. That is easy to fix and should be fixed. The wait staff did a fair job. There needs to be more assistance from the bus staff. That is the key to a great restaurant, especially during a rush. The bus staff was not attentive to the table. The bacon on my filet was not cooked well, and the steak was cooked as I like it. Not bad; Not good, but could be great with a little work and more informed management.
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Best dining experience at Hendry's Beach in 20 years!!!, 7/14/2009
Reviewer: Sabrina
from Santa Barbara, CA
Everyone knows the location can't be beat, but....will the food be good, and will I ever get served? The answers now are YES and YES. Thankfully the Brown Pelican days of so-so food and poor service are gone! I had the most wonderful dining experience today for lunch. The waitress was friendly, the wait staff was very attentive, and the food was delicious (I had the ceviche)! I can't wait to go back!
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Mary didn't read my review very closely, 7/9/2009
Reviewer: Christine
from Santa Barbara, CA
And she gave stars but didn't mention her food or service experience at this restaurant. If she'd read my post, she would understand that I asked the restaurant first about allowing dogs, and the restaurant suggested a situation where our dog would be close to us as we sat at the patio and yet not in the restaurant. This is actually quite impossible due to the construction of the patio walls. Also, a patio situation is much different that an "all inside" restaurant - I wasn't expecting Boathouse to allow dogs inside. And I'm not expecting all restaurants to allow dogs on all patios. This restaurant is at a popular dog beach and has a patio. I think they would gain business by allowing dogs on the patio.
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Why would you want a dog to eat an "upscale"lunch with you??, 7/7/2009
Reviewer: Mary
from Santa Barbara, CA
I just cannot do anything but laugh at those who get frustrated that they cannot bring their dog to a nice restaurant to eat with them!! Really?? If you want to have a nice relaxing lunch....and let other customers do the same...then take your dog home and come back. Even though it is a dog beach that doesn't mean the restaurant has to be the same. I hate seeing dogs barking and being abnoxious when I am paying good money for a nice meal. Leave your dog at home or don't go out to eat at all!! :)
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No dogs allowed - but it's at a dog beach?, 7/6/2009
Reviewer: Christine
from Santa Barbara, CA
I gave half a star for service because I received a reply email before our first visit. (Otherwise it would be zero.) Reply was that the dog could be tied up outside the patio near our table, and that we could be seated at the edge of the patio to accommodate this. But the patio is walled off with tall glass! I had the impression from the email that the walls were more accessible, that doggy could be nearer to our table, but that's not possible. You can't even fit your arm between the plates of glass. We weren't about to leave a puppy tied up at a distance and try to have a relaxing lunch. To suggest you leave your dog tied up far away is ridiculous. We remembered more open "fencing" of rope at the old restaurant; dog could have been within arms reach and tied up that way. Why did they change it to such an extreme, on a dog beach, where customers probably have a dog with them? Any other restaurant - of course dogs aren't allowed inside. But this is 2 steps off the water, and it's a dog beach, with a huge outdoor patio area! These 6 adults looking to have a more "upscale" lunch than a hot dog from a to-go counter took their money elsewhere.
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Poor Service, 7/6/2009
Reviewer: Scott
from Santa Barbara, CA
The location is beautiful, but that's where it ends. The server messed up our drink orders, our food orders and charged us twice on our credit card. We tried to keep a positive attitude, but service was really horrible.
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absolutely nothing for vegetarians, 7/2/2009
Reviewer: Nora
from Santa Barbara, CA
If you are a vegetarian, you are really out of luck: you can't even have french fries or a baked potato. Your menu selection: a plain green salad. My dining companion said his salmon dish was just ok, the kind of thing that you can be found on the daily special at the Natural Cafe. I wouldn't know about the food; there wasn't anything for me to eat.
If you want the ocean view, I think the Beachside is clearly the better choice.
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Terrible Service, 6/23/2009
Reviewer: Sean
from Santa Barbara, CA
Waited for more than an hour for a table. Made it clear that we were there for happy hour. Hostess seated us inside. Could not order happy hour from inside the restaurant. The staff made no effort to accomodate.
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Good Food -- Horrible Service, 6/18/2009
Reviewer: Sheri
from Santa Barbara, CA
The appetizer that was ordered first took about 40 minutes. The waiter kept complaining they were busy and the kitchen was backed up. We got our soup and salads before appetizers. The Tortilla soup was great. Waiter kept saying they were busy. One gentlemen at our table asked for another round of drinks and the waiter brought all but one drink and had to be reminded twice to bring the other. No small plates on the table for bread. We finally requested butter plates and waiter plunked down dishes instead of giving each customer their own.
Waiter never inquired about dinner and placed check down before asking us for dessert, which we ordered. Waiter again placed check down before asking us if we wanted anything else. We wanted after dinner drinks. We felt very extremely rushed!!!
I came here aprx one year ago when they opened and thought the same. Unfortunately my friends asked me to give this restaurant a second chance. I did! What a mistake!!!
Being busy is no excuse for poor service. What a shame!
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Good! Such an improvement over the Brown Pelican!, 6/6/2009
Reviewer: Karen
from Santa Barbara, CA
I've had lunch and breakfast here so far. Both experiences were fine! Good food, and cheerful, attentive service. For breakfast on a weekday we had a large group. Our waitress could've used a bit of help filling coffee and water, as well as delivering the food, but she did a pretty good job. Everyone enjoyed the food! My 88 year old mother devoured the huge plate of biscuits and gravy! And of course, you can't beat the setting. It is finally a real pleasure to bring out-of-town guests to eat at Hendry's beach, and we'll be back.
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great location, terrible service, 6/5/2009
Reviewer: Lynn DeLuccio
from Santa Barbara, CA
For the price you pay for food and drinks here you would think a little bit of "customer service" would occur. Granted I did go to the boathouse at 6 p.m. on a Friday, however I was never spoken to by an employee except for the bartender when I ordered. By the way the bartender was very friendly and seemed to handle the rush very effectively! My friend and I were able to grab a table in the "bar area". The waitress came to collect her check but we were never asked if we would like to order more or if she could clear the table! When I made my way to the restroom I was bumped into by two servers to which I apologized to them for them walking into me because they were talking. After paying the tab we left the boathouse where the 2 hostesses were to busy gossiping that they couldn't even say goodbye! Sadly it seems a restaurant like this with a great view is not likely affected by a poor review of the service standards! What a shame... I understand that this is a busy time at a restaurant but are the employees trained to assist one another when busy or to greet or thank the customers?
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CHOWDER WITH CLAMS !, 5/23/2009
Reviewer: Charles Hall
from Boise,Idaho
As a old customer of the Brown Pelican during visits to S.B. I was anxious to see what the new management had done to our favorite seaside cafe.
I found the reconstruction of the exterior patio to be quite in keeping with the environment,appreciating the heaters and glass panels when needed.
The clam chowder we ordered was easily the best we had found thus far having eaten in a couple of other similar places in the West Beach area.There was an abundance of mollusks in the dish and the accompanying bread and wine were equally good.A most pleasing meal in a unique setting.
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Very Good Dinner For All, 5/21/2009
Reviewer: Diane
from Goleta, CA
We ate at the Boathouse last night. All in all, I would say it was very good and a good experience. Service was efficient and friendly. It is not over the top gourmet, but not cafe food either. Priced accordingly. Most full dinners were $18 -$25. I liked that they had LOTS of choices of fish. They were also very flexible in how they served it. If it came with rice but you wanted polenta they would switch. The view is unbeatable, it looked like we were sitting IN the water. Everyone in our party of 6 liked their meal. Two had Petrale Sole, two had local Sea Bass, one had seared Ahi, and I had Ono. All good. Dinners came with salad or clam chowder. Salad was a really nice mix of fresh greens, carrots and cucumbers. Chowder was thick but tasty. Bread arrived warm and crusty. The atmosphere was a little noisy, but not intolerable. We ate inside, but the outside patio looked nice. No one had dessert.
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Very good seafood, 4/23/2009
Reviewer: Jonathan
from Santa Barbara, CA
We have been to the Boathouse several time for happy hour but never a proper meal. We were a little worried because of the mixed reviews. However, I have to report that the food was very good. Between the group of 4, we had 3 different seafood dishes on the specials list. Everyone was very happy with the food. The service was good. We at there on a Saturday night and it was a good thing we had a reservation.
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What a fun time, 3/18/2009
Reviewer: Alice Larsen
from Carpinteria, CA
The place to go tonight! First time since the new owners and the extensive remodel. Great weather, food and nice to be with my husband w/o the kids! Read the other reviews before we went. All the comments about the bread piqued our attention to the matter. We found the bread to be warm and crusty. The best we've had since leaving SF. We thought it might have come from there somehow.? Friendly staff and good food and views. What more can you ask for! Delightful.
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Green Flash, 3/18/2009
Reviewer: Michael
from Santa Barbara, CA
Window booth for six, Drinks, Appetizers, Dinner, Sunset, saw the green flash. Fab drinks, fab appetizers, fab dinner, fab sunset. Great, friendly service.
I like a restaurant owner whose business card lists his occupation as "Fish Buyer."
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Enjoyable Evening, 3/16/2009
Reviewer: Amy
from Santa Barbara, CA
There were six of us, all local, and all had a great meal. Fish was delicious, expecially the local black cod. Good martinis and a great cosmo! However, I have to agree with a past review...the bread was AWFUL. Chewy, cold and tasteless.
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It's in the Details... or Not, 3/15/2009
Reviewer: Alex
from Santa Barbara, CA
Warm, crusty bread can be so wonderful... too bad their bread was cold and hard and flavorless... also the caesar salad had prepackaged type croutons, no garlic flavor, bland dressing. Great fish and views, service uninspired.
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Great Fish, Service Disappointing, 3/15/2009
Reviewer: Barbara Alexander
from Santa Barbara, CA
The food was very fresh and well prepared, veggies al dente, rice & mashed potatoes good. Cocktails marginal, not that extra caring that comes through at places that really try to make a great drink. Service never refilled water, left dishes on table, very nonchalant. Would not want to take guests to this level of service, which is disappointing as the fish was excellent. Of course, the location/views are superb!!
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Turning into Brown Pelican all over again?, 3/12/2009
Reviewer: Daryl
from Santa Barbara, CA
Started out pretty good, with a friendly & enthusiastic wait staff, good prices, and good food. Prices seem to have drifted upward, though, and the staff's enthusiasm appears to have waned. I hope I'm wrong, but I suspect they may be drifting toward the "you're paying for the setting, so we don't have to be that good" attitude of the old Brown Pelican.
We live close by and have eaten there several times. It would be very convenient to get food to go from the Boathouse on those days when dining out just isn't an option. They will take to-go orders but, for some bizarre reason, will not take them over the phone; you have to go there in person, place the order, and wait around for it. Dumb, dumb, dumb! They've lost my carry-out business over that one.
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Good caesar but...., 3/10/2009
Reviewer: Carolyn B
from Santa Barbara, CA
I have been in twice, sat outside once in the day time, inside one evening. The hostess and other staff were very gracious about my friend and I moving twice that evening, she is more picky about seating then I am, but the staff was very tolerant about it. We had a great cocktail and I think the caesar is great and she had one with shellfish added and loved it too. The bread was pretty bland, a good salad needs to be paired with a good bread and the ciabattaish like roll was pretty mediocre, really kind of flavorless. Maybe if it was served warm more flavor would emerge? The only other thing was the tables are a sort of long, rectangle shape set up length wise that made me feel more distance from my friend and it was LOUD inside when we first sat down so it was hard to talk. As things quieted down it became more comfortable to converse and our servers were very good about everything, well done on that end!
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not the best of the three, 3/1/2009
Reviewer: ali
from Santa Barbara, CA
i've eaten at all three of what started out as just the shellfish co - shellfish co., fisHouse, and now the boathouse. the boathouse was just disappointing. the fish was not that fresh. we got the spicy seafood pasta and the halibut pieces seemed like the least desirable pieces that they chose to hide amidst the sauce. many items listed on the website were not on the lunch menu, so we decided to give the dinner menu a go. not impressed. server was attentive and patient, but save yourself the trouble - go to fisHouse instead. much much better.
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First visit after renovation, 2/10/2009
Reviewer: Cindy
from Santa Barbara, CA
After hearing mixed reviews we decided to give the new Boathouse Restaurant a few months to work out the kinks. Sure glad we did. Tommy took very good care of us this morning for breakfast. French toast was very tasty and bacon cooked exactly as requested. Everyone else in our group had egg dishes, and all plates were empty when picked up. One egg dish was alittle too done, but promply replaced with not one, but two perfect soft eggs. A very positive experience! We'll try lunch next time.
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Good location, decent weather for a January night., 1/28/2009
Reviewer: Luke
from Santa Barbara, CA
I took my girlfriend here the other night and we had a good experience but kind of quiet, but probably being a Sunday evening. The food was good though the bread was cold and the portions were a decent size. I would come back for sure, especially during lunch. I would like to see more drink specials.
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Overpriced....under whelming, 1/27/2009
Reviewer: chuck
from Santa Barbara, CA
I was warned by my daughter to avoid it,,,she had tried it twice. She was right. Food was mediocre...very limited menu as well. Salad dressing was tasteless and the fish dish I ordered was smothered in such a thick sauce that I could hardly locate it. The service (alleged) was painfully slow (close to an hour)
Will I return??? Not as long as there are 400 other restaurants in Santa Barbara.
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Best Happy Hour on the water, 1/27/2009
Reviewer: Jonathan
from Santa Barbara, CA
We went for happy hour today at The Boathouse (pretty new for them). We've not eaten there because of the mixed reviews. The happy hour was very good. The various food items were $6.95. We had the fried calamari and pulled pork sliders.
The drink menu has $3 draft beers and well drinks and glasses of wine at $5 or $6. These bar apps were good. We are going to give it a try for a proper meal some time soon.
Plus, there are very few places to sit outside and actually see the sun set over the water.
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Much better than I had expected!, 1/24/2009
Reviewer: chee
from Santa Barbara, CA
I went to dinner last night with a bit of wariness because of the previous reviews of the Boathouse. The hostess was super nice and I was seated immediately (they take reservations). I had requested a window seat, and they happily obliged my request. Although it was a bit dark outside, I could still see the waves rolling in while eating my dinner. They seemed to be pretty busy and crowded, and therefore, it took a little while to have my order placed. The busboy who brought the bread and water was very attentive and polite. One request would be a different variety of bread, as the sourdough was slightly cold but of good texture. I think I'd prefer something warm and crusty to sop up my food. I ordered the yellowtail, my sister ordered the black cod appetizer and chowder, and my mom ordered the salmon. They were all outstanding, but if I were asked to rank them in order of deliciousness, I'd say the cod first, salmon second, and yellowtail third. But once again, it wasn't that the yellowtail tasted bad at all; rather, the other two fish options were just uber tasty! I had requested sauteed green beans instead of smashed potatoes with my entree (but they forgot), but the fish and other veggies well made up for the forgotten beans. I'd definitely come again for dinner! A great place to take out-of-town guests :)
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Tourist Food at Locals Restaurant, 1/2/2009
Reviewer: Lisa Keller
from Santa Barbara, CA
I'd reviewed lunch at the Boathouse several months ago and hoped things had improved. My husband and I had breakfast this morning and probably won't go back. He had the banana pancakes, which were huge but "kind of dry". My burrito grande arrived, in its enormity, simply plopped on the plate. At $12.95 we might have expected at least an orange slice! What was billed as chorizo tasted like spicy Italian sausage. Every bite of the behemoth tasted the same, and it was all one-note. Table service was excellent but despite the restaurant not being especially busy, the kitchen was quite slow. The location is lovely but the food doesn't justify the prices.
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Wish the food matched the locale., 12/29/2008
Reviewer: Dave
from Santa Barbara, CA
We took out-of-town relatives here for lunch Christmas Eve. Our first visit ever. The food was adequate--nothing special--and considerably overpriced for what you get, both in terms of spicing and portions. Good chowder. I will say that, except that a coffee cup-size serving was $5. Our waiter was a very nice guy, but the service was incredibly sloooow even though the restaurant was only half-full. I guess you're paying for the oceanside view. I definitely like this place more when it was the Brown Pelican.
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delicious!, 12/28/2008
Reviewer: amy
from Santa Barbara, CA
Went here again with my hubby and kids on an incredibly busy Friday. I have been a few times so I have developed "favorites" on the menu but decided to branch out this time and try new items. My husband ordered the el vaquero, it was outstanding. I ordered the huevos hope ranch and my kids ordered the pancakes. Even though the restaurant was really busy; both inside and out were filled, the food came out quickly. All our food was excellent. When looking around at other's tables, I saw plate after plate of yummy food. It seemed like everyone was pleased with their meals and I now have a few more items I want to try!! You cannot beat the location of this place and the food and service has been consistently great. We love it here!! Where else in SB can you eat a wonderful meal, get up and step foot directly on the beach after? It's beautiful!!
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A wholesale debacle of biblical proportions, 12/28/2008
Reviewer: Berkeley Breathed
from Santa Barbara, CA
Maybe not a biblical plague. But dreadful. Six people's orders. Six arrival times for the food. The server was completely lost. Food cold and boring. The pancakes were like huge flattened, stale birthday cake slices. No butter, but something they called "strawberry butter" which I suspect was some sort of sherbert ice cream. My kids wouldn't touch. That says volumes.
Listen, a restaurant has to try extraordinarily hard to be so bad in this town. I applaud the Boathouse for their effort in this regard.
Odd that the same company owns Santa Barbara Shellfish on the wharf, which is great.
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Great Value...Boring Menu...So So Food, 12/25/2008
Reviewer: Scott
from Santa Barbara, CA
These guys spent a fortune doing a remarkable renovation of the old Brown Pelican...but it seems they ran out of creative energy when it came time for the menu. Although the food options are limited and the overall quality is so so, they do offer a variety of fantastic wines, and all at a VERY REASONABLE price. So it's a trade off. Amazing location, nice dining environment, boring menu with so so food, but all at a great value. So go for the view and not the food and just appreciate that we have ONE restaurant on the beach in Santa Barbara!
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Amazing Location , 12/14/2008
Reviewer: Kristine
from Santa Barbara, CA
My Dad and I come here frequently for a father, daughter meal. We have been about 6 times since the Boathouse opened and it has been wonderful every time. We have always been seated right away and had very friendly and attentive servers. The Honey Mojitos are tasty and the clam chowder is to die for. The desserts are so yummy they have put a serious dent in my diet. The view cannot be beat, it is wonderful to be able to take a stroll on the beach after eating! Keep up the good work Boathouse!
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average food, but can't beat the view, 11/23/2008
Reviewer: chee
from Santa Barbara, CA
the good thing about boathouse is that they take reservations and the outdoor seating is unbeatable--nothing else in SB compares. I like how they have the glass panes to protect diners from the beach breezes. the food and service, however, were about average. I got the caesar salad, which consisted of romaine, a few strips of grilled chicken, croutons, and parmesan cheese. my mom had the teriyaki chicken sandwich, which she enjoyed. our server only came to take our order and bring us the check. the other servers seemed more attentive to the other guests, offering to bring bread to their tables. a nice busboy came by and offered to take a picture of me and my mom, which was quite thoughtful! I think I shall come back for more breakfasty or brunchy items--perhaps I'll feel like I'm getting more bang for my buck with the brunch menu.
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Food, just food, 11/23/2008
Reviewer: jinelle
from Santa Barbara, CA
Oh dear, come here just for the food. Portions are large enough to take some home, but there is no distinction with any part of the entire dining/feeding experience. You won't be hungry when you leave, but you also will not be satisfied. Clam chowder was typical pasty glop. Various kinds of primarily "white" fish covered with enough competing sauce as to disguise whatever is underneath, so pick the cheapest. Side dishes without merit. And all dessert choices high on calories and low on appropriateness or inspiration. A place and location with such promise, but sadly hit middle brow mediocracy. No, it was not awful. It just should have been so much more. Server was pleasant and service was speedy. Not worth it for dinner but outdoor lunch setting is probably still worth it and items that few on the planet can screw up. However, it was packed with happy diners that night, so it is the right place for a lot of people. Just not me.
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Great experience!, 11/22/2008
Reviewer: SBL03
from Santa Barbara, CA
The remodeling is great - I sat outside last night in cold & windy weather, yet you couldn't tell. The food was delicious & the service was *VERY* attentive. I'll definitely go back!
I found it much improved from the Brown Pelican - in many aspects.
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super beautiful, super fun, super yummy!
Reviewer: amy
from Santa Barbara, CA
went there this weekend with some friends for breakfast. i have been a few times before and it has always been good! it was really windy so we were a little concerned but the patio was sunny and warm, even with the big winds. there were 5 of us. we all ordered different items in order to try each. we got the huevos hope ranch, the pancakes, the sb benedict and the special benedict w/ crab cakes. i have to say we were all really pleased, the food was excellent. we had an adorable waiter, i think he was from brazil. he was attentive and you could tell happy to be working there. we really love going to this place and will continue to go and recommend it to others. i have read some of the reviews... funny how people can have such very different experiences. everyone i know loves this place, it's almost like the other reviewers ate at a totally different restaurant...curious!
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Perfect Location -- Good, but could be better food
Reviewer: Sandi
from Santa Barbara, CA
I was back in Santa Barbara and couldn't wait to dine at the Boat House. Thank goodness it wasn't the Brown Pelican anymore! My clam chowder was great with lots of clams. I enjoyed the calamari, but it has room for improvement. The coating could have been more evenly distributed. In fact just a light dusting with flour always works for me. However, that being said it was very crisp and the best part was the chipotle & red jalapeno cream along with the grilled jalapeno. I will definitely go back and try the other items on menu. Overall, service was good, he did come back and ask how things were, but an ice tea refill was not forthcoming. But, it's nice to see a happy staff at work.
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beautiful views, awesome service, even better food!
Reviewer: bern
from Santa Barbara, CA
went here on friday with a group of friends. we have been in a few times before and have never been dissapointed. the six of us sat outside this time and were very impressed. although it was night, the patio was very sheltered and the space heaters kept us very warm. the place was packed, which it usually is but the service and the food were excellent. we ordered what seemed like every appetizer to start. by the time we were to order dinner we were all pretty full considering the sizes of the apps. we ordered 3 entrees to share, the salmon, cioppino and the coquilles st. jaques, all were excellent. i am more and more impressed each time with this place, you can see why it is so busy, it's really good.
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Not impressed
Reviewer: Tom
from Santa Barbara, CA
The service was lacking. I suggest that the "server" should ask for a drink order when people are seated. When we had a question about an item the "server" got a bad attitude and had to find another "server" that could answer out simple question. The food was expensive, small, and below average. The Calimari was barely cooked. The "server" dropped the check and disappeared. I had to hunt down someone to take my money. Think of this place as a bar that happens to serve food. The Brown Pelican was much better.
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Dark Night, No Lights, Great Location
Reviewer: Tara S.
from Santa Barbara, CA
The location is gorgeous. Our first trip for brunch outside right after they opened was delightful. Two months later we dined on a Sat. night. Inside was so noisy that we changed to outside. Unfortunately, those of us outside were in the dark. The candles kept blowing out. We couldn't read the menus. Our drink orders were incorrect - 2 out of 5, both rounds. Cigarillos appetizer was cold. 5 for dinner and 3 small pieces of bread. When dinner arrived we had to clear our own salad plates and all had cold vegetables, one dinner had the wrong meat and needed to be corrected. It is difficult to eat a good steak in the dark and peel shrimp. Ordered coffee with dessert and told it would be 5 minutes. Water glasses not refilled. Wait service is not refined. Maybe Shannon could train others. Person who took our order did not serve our food and those who did just set it down and left. What's up with the mirrors in front of the toilet in the ladies restroom? We're locals and won't return for dinner. Too much competition in area.
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HUGE disappointment!
Reviewer: Maureen
from Santa Barbara, CA
I was very excited to try this place especially because I love the Santa Barbara Fishouse and Shellfish Company (they are "sister" restaurants). I was really disappointed with my experience at the Boathouse. The service was TERRIBLE. I had to flag down the busser several times to get water. Although the ambience is amazing, the wait for my food was unacceptable especially dining at lunch. Ingredients listed on the menu were excluded from not only my sandwich but my mother's as well. When it was brought to their attention about the missing items, they brought it out on a small plate with no apology. I would give them a couple of months to work out the kinks. I WILL try it again considering the other two restaurants are phenomenal!
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Good view doesn't mean good food
Reviewer: Ryan
from Santa Barbara, CA
Great Atmosphere, mediocre food and terrible service. Congratulations you created the Brown Pelican. This spot is too nice to have the same faults as the Pelican. I know its tough to motivate when you're going to pack in the customers no matter what. But w/the location this could be the crown jewel of Santa Barbara with a little bit of effort. Instead we see another place going down the same road, "beachside tourist trap". On a positive note the bar service was great. I hope the food and wait staff follow the lead and improve. The waitstaff was slow forgot orders and other mistakes. Seemed to be a management issue. The good news is this should improve with some training and experience after the place is open for some time.
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Unacceptable service at a beautiful location
Reviewer: Mark Biada
from Santa Barbara, CA
Our second visit to the Boathouse, and this time around I feel compelled to write a review here about it. The food has potential. It is not outstanding, but good. With the right chef and kitchen crew who perhaps paid more attention to detail could make the expensive dishes served extraordinary. The service, on both visits to this restaurant have been downright awful. We were ignored with bread, water, the basics. Menus were handed over and no one came to take our order. Our dishes arrived warm, not hot. On our latest visit, our guests wondered if all of the restaurants in Santa Barbara were this rude to their customers. In the words of my wife's friend, "Our server was a stuck-up, college girl with no interest in working.: The icing on the cake was our heater was actually turned off, only moments after we requested it be turned on! Quite frankly, the Boathouse should be better than it is. I hope the owners make improvements and make an effort to tell the public about them.
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Service very poor, food descent
Reviewer: Cindy
from Lee's Summit, Missouri
Ate at the boathouse on Friday October 18, 2008. Received very poor service from all employees. We went around 8:00pm could not see the menu items, no one could find candles to put on the table, it was rather chilly that evening and do one would light the heaters for us and than when we finally got someone to light the heaters someone else came and turned it off. We were never served bread and butter. Took quite along time for the server to bring water, take our order. On a good note the clam chowder soup was the best I have ever had, the yellowtail fish was excellent. When I return to Santa Barbara I do intend to eat at the Boathouse, however this time we will try to get there during daylight hours. It was not a comfortable night due to not seeing the menu to order and it was extremely chilly.
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Bad Times at the Boathouse
Reviewer: Tyler Hayden
from Santa Barbara, CA
My girlfriend and I were excited to try the Boathouse - we frequent Hendry's Beach and we were looking forward to enjoying a nice meal with a beautiful view. We were not disappointed about the view, as we chose a table overlooking the afternoon tide. We WERE disappointed, however, about the abysmal food and service that the Boathouse offered. After being seated by a brisk and unfriendly hostess, our disinterested waiter took his sweet time in taking our order. We shared the huevos rancheros - big mistake. They were so salty. If our waiter had come by once to see how things were, I might have asked for a different dish. As it were, we were pretty much forgotten about until our all-too-expensive check arrived. Don't make the mistake we did. Don't go the the Boathouse. Oh, and they spell espresso as "expresso" on their menus - enough said.
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Great location, greater service, food needs help!
Reviewer: Ryan Richmond
from Santa Barbara, CA
We went there for breakfast, however the eggs that came to us were somewhat cold and the food took awhile to cook. However the service was excellent. Our server was quick with food and very, very pleasant and attentive. I asked for our waitresses name which was Katie and told her she was wonderfull. The service and the location is great, however the food needs improvement. I would recommend this restaurant.
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once again a fantastic meal!!!
Reviewer: amy
from Santa Barbara, CA
My husband and I have been back a few times. We wanted to try all what they had to offer. All meals have been really really good. I wrote an earlier review praising this restaurant and I have to say, it has remained consistently good, maybe even better than before. You honestly cannot beat this beautiful location and the food is exceptional. The staff was, once again, very friendly, and seemed very knowledgable. Our waitress was very personable and attentive. I will not hesitate to go back again and tell my friends about it. If you haven't been, you've got to go!!
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I second the previous review
Reviewer: Laura
from Santa Barbara, CA
Like the previous reviewer, I was at Boathouse for brunch on 10/19 with four other people. The food was pretty good and everyone at the table enjoyed what they had. I was disappointed with the buttermilk biscuit - biscuits and gravy is one of my favorite guilty pleasures and I prefer my biscuits fluffy, not dense. The service was ridiculously slow and our waiter definitely seemed to prefer some tables (especially one with two of his friends at it) to any of his others. It was disappointing but was a beautiful day so we enjoyed the view during our long waits. The hostesses also seemed to have no idea what exactly they were supposed to do. Hopefully the service will improve since the food is pretty good!
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Web Menu Misleading
Reviewer: Carlos C
from Santa Barbara, CA
The four of us had a delicious lunch and enjoyed prompt, personable service.
Just one word of caution - the lunch menu on their web site is incorrect. A couple of us had been eagerly anticipating the Cioppino, but the actual lunch menu is less extensive than the web version and the Cioppino was not offered.
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still trying to get good service
Reviewer: Barry Colwell
from Santa Barbara, CA
Same slow meal service as my early October visit. I took 4 folks from Palm Springs to the Boathouse on Sunday, 10/19 for lunch. Menu was abbreviated Brunch version, and yet the food still took over 35 minutes to arrive. We had clam chowder and sandwiches.! I'm still wondering why these item took so long. Folks around us arrived after our order was in, and yet they were finishing up when our food finally arrived. Very Very inconsistent service here. Other than that, the weather was great and atmosphere excellent....
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Like a great vacation!
Reviewer: Joyce D
from Santa Barbara, CA
I have lived in SB for 35 years, but while lunching at The Boathouse I felt as if I was off on a great vacation - the outdoor and indoor ambiance was ideal, the service warm, quick, (without rushing you) and friendly. I LOVED the ahi club sandwhich and the lobster tacos - we will be back ....often!!
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Spectacular Views, Less for the Food
Reviewer: Elizabeth
from SB
Came for breakfast and ordered the Belgian waffle which was really nice. My hubby ordered the French toast and that was awful, even with a light coating of egg batter it was underdone. Coffee and juice were good. The restaurant is set up so that most everyone can get an ocean view which is well worth a visit. Service was fine but they really need to focus on keeping this place clean. It's understood that sand is gonna get on the floors but some of the windows were a bit grimy and the new white leather booths were ladened with dried up food--looked like a romper room! We'd like to return to the Boathouse after they make some improvements.
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Boathouse Has Got Me Stroked! (pun intended)
Reviewer: Linda Burns
from Santa Barbara, CA
I dined at the Boathouse for the first time last night, and the experience was astounding. At first, I decided to be seated inside: adorable. It almost looked like the inside of the Titanic. It was elegant, yet comfortable. But one glance out the window, and I had to change my location to the outside seating, where I got a spectacular ocean view.
The waitress had supreme service and, much like the atmosphere, luster. The bread was rolling in, water glasses were never dry, and cocktails had a kick to them.
The food was luscious (most notably the coquille!). The seafood was fresh and succulent; the desserts could have made the poorest fool feel like a million bucks, they were so rich. I recommend the chocolate (molten?) cake and the mudd pie.
But why only 4.5 stars? Well... maybe it's my palate, but I found myself squeezing more lemons and Tapatio on my seafood dishes. Or perhaps I just haven't found "my" dish yet. But even so, the food was amazing.
So yeah... I loved it. I'll be rowing back there in no time!
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Note to Boathouse manager: TRAIN YOUR WAITSTAFF!!!
Reviewer: Jessica
from Santa Barbara, CA
The hostesses were great, the bartender was quick, the waitstaff/buss-staff were horrible. After we were seated, we waited for bread and silverware. After asking for both, 15 min later, the bread arrived. Had to ask again for silverware when salad arrived... 5 min later, got to eat the salad with a fork!! After finishing the salad, the plates sat there until after the food arrived. The girl who delivered the main course put the plates down and ran away, only taking time to remove a few of the empty salad plates.
Never were we asked if we needed new cocktails (would have ordered more, was NEVER asked). Never were we given water refills, we asked our server, she said she would send someone.... Finally, had to call over a bus boy to refill water, he acted like it was an inconvenience. Our waitress brought the check (after we sat with empty dinner plates for 15 min.) WITHOUT asking if we wanted dessert/coffee/anything else. This is our second experience here, service was slightly worse this time around. I hope whoever is training the waitstaff reads these reviews?? Food is good, but bad service will keep us away... maybe next time we'll eat at the bar.
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Overall good experience
Reviewer: Mallery
from Carpinteria, CA
This restaurant is beautiful, they did an amazing job remodeling it. The half inside- half outside bar is very cool looking. We were seated by a friendly and accomodating hostess, and our waitress was good and took care of us well. Service wasn't spectacular or anything to write home about, but everything was well executed, and the timing in between courses was just about perfect. We ordered the seared ahi appetizer, and it was just OK, the tuna seemed like it could have been more fresh, and the seasoning and dipping sauce had a weird flavor. I ordered the Ono, and it was good, a little overcooked though. The olive tapenade mashed potatoes were probably the best part of my meal. Pricing was about right. Next time I would probably just go for drinks and bar type food instead of a three course dinner. Regardless, it feels like you are in Hawaii at Boathouse and the atmosphere is definitely worth going back for. A pleasant place to be, and would love to try brunch sometime.
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once again...lovely time
Reviewer: JS
from Santa Barbara, CA
Went to boathouse yesterday for afternoon cocktails and appetizers. We were sat right away, at a beautiful table by the glass wall and were greeted right away by our waitress. Food was great, service was great, view was great! Thank you to Sabrina for taking care of us!
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simply the best
Reviewer: michael
from Santa Barbara, CA
first off i want to start by saying this place is amazing. If you guys are looking for a place to bring a special someone this is it. The food was first class and the service was excellent. I will definitely be returning. P.S you have to try the salmon
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Boathouse has it all!
Reviewer: Kathy
from Goleta,Ca
The Lobster Tacos are excellent, as was the service. Killer view - what else can you ask for?
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pleasantly surprised.
Reviewer: JS
from Santa Barbara, CA
Went to the Boathouse this sunday morning for breakfast. I was a little skeptical because of past reviews but everything was great. we were greeted in a timely manner and order taken quickley. The food came out hot and delicious! Maybe they are finally working out the kinks. I will be back to try dinner!
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Great start...... stumbling now
Reviewer: Barry
from Santa Barbara, CA
I won't be too redundant on the food comments, but we had similar experiences during our 6 visits. Started off with a bang upon opening, and was thrilled to see a fresh formula at that stellar location. I just seems now it can't carry the momentum anymore. Tragically, restaurants that have unique and spectacular locations often become lazy in food and service quality... and yet still survive due to location. In today's economy, that may not work anymore, so I hope the great folks at the BoatHouse take notice and step up their interaction with employees - both in the kitchen and on the floor. As a local Santa Barbara native, I'm always looking for places to entertain out of town guests - but they need to be consistent not hit or miss as is the case presently at the Boat House. C'mon guys, we all are trying to help you here - please take note. Ciao
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INCONSISTENT
Reviewer: MAYA
from Santa Barbara, CA
I first tried the new restaurant out on my b-day for brunch and had the crabcake benedict and honeycomb mojito-it was fabulous and the service was great. I was excited to come back again after this first experience and then got majorly disappointed. The second time, I returned for brunch again the kitchen wouldn't cook a corndog for my toddler (even though it was 30 minutes before lunch and they do not offer children's menu at breakfast).
Also, it took 15-20 minutes for our drinks and a long time to get our mediocre food. The third time I went, there was a gorgeous sunset and we sat at the bar. I had a nice time with the cool bartenders and a plate of calamari and beer. However, my friend was not so lucky...for some reason, she fell ill and threw it all up. I didn't dip in the habenaro sauce and she did? I am not sure who to blame, but she wasn't ill before this meal!!
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Lights are on, but no one's home.
Reviewer: May
from Santa Barbara, CA
OK, so I'm going to start off by complimenting the restaurant on creating an atmosphere befitting such a lovely location. I am a Hendry's beach local, and it was a breath of fresh air, entering the restaurant with it's beautiful bar and seating areas. Well done.
Now for the not-so-nice. My companion and I, upon learning that we would not be able to be seated for 30 minutes (granted it was 1:00 on a Saturday afternoon), decided to sit at the bar where the hostess assured us we'd get "full service".
If what we experienced was "full service", I'd hate to see what they considered "a la carte".
A bartender listlessly placed a piece of paper with about ten items on it at our seat, and then disappeared. When we asked to order mojitos, it was like Dawn of the Dead -- no smiles, no friendly exchange. The drinks were plunked down on us, and then the bartender disappeared again. We had to nearly fall over the bar to get her attention again to actually order food.
Then the food never arrived.
Granted, the bar was full, but it wasn't "crazy busy". There was no reason in the world why we shouldn't have been able to get a prawn cocktail in a reasonable amount of time.
So we asked the bartender, "Excuse me, just wondering where our food is...?"
And the bartender replied, "Oh, I forgot to go back to the kitchen." Without even an, "I am so sorry, what else can I get you?". It was like she was just stating a fact. Total zombieville.
The whole experience was like this. I REALLY hope they can jump start their service at the restaurant, because it's such a great location.
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Needs work
Reviewer: Jason
from Santa Barbara, CA
Our family had a late lunch on Sunday at the Boathouse, after brunch ended and before the dinner shift at 5. First the good -- they've put a lot of thought and care into rearranging the restaurant and the outside deck and making it into a nice place. The Brown Pelican was a dump, and operating on pure nostalgia, so it was nice to see the new place really trying to make an effort. Now for the bad -- service, service, menu, and service. The timing of our visit may explain the experience. We'd noticed there was a full house at brunch time when we were on our way to the beach a couple hours before. When we arrived for late lunch the crowds had thinned out quite a bit (lots of open tables) but the waitstaff seemed exhausted and completely apathetic. Think blank stares all around, from the hostess who we had to wait 10 minutes to appear to the waitress who silently took our order and produced the food and visited the table only when we got up to find someone. There were similar gripes from other tables near us with different servers. The lunch menu is extremely limited, at least on this particular day -- the usual sampling of crabcakes, fish and chips and burgers. That may be a function of there being a Sunday brunch and keeping lunch to a minimum. The sandwich I had was actually quite good; very fresh and well prepared, but the plates that arrived for the others in my party were pretty meager and not worth the price. The $13 crabcakes were an embarrassment in size and taste for anyone who's been to Brophy's or even Endless Summer Cafe. I ended up sharing my sandwich and fries just to help them feel full. I don't like to judge a place based on one try, but after reading some of the prior reviews here I have to absolutely agree. You're not paying for the food; you're paying for the location. There are dozens of better restaurants out there. Go here for the bar and the views and maybe a snack, but they need to put the same kind of thought into the menu and training the staff that they did in redesigning the space. For starters, they need to make sure there's an adult out there on the floor who can manage things and make sure people are doing their job. It's early yet, so I think they have time to improve -- I'm hoping this can be a nice new local hangout and not just an overpriced place to gouge the tourists coming up from LA.
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Upper mid-scale prices and lower-mid scale experience
Reviewer: Brent
from Santa Barbara, CA
Good View, good ambiance, and an interesting menu. Surprisingly good service - we were told by everyone that it was horrible so our expectations were low, but the staff was nice, attentive, and helpful (though a bit amateurish).
The design is not appropriate for a spot right on the beach - those polished wood floors and white leather tufted booths are not going to hold up well to the wet bathing suits and sandy feet, I can assure you!
The food was a massive disappointment - all three items we ordered - a cheeseburger (Med), a NY Steak (MR) and the ono (fish) were HORRIBLY overcooked. The cheeseburger was beyond well done, the NY Steak was medium well, and the Ono was almost inedible (burned on one side).
I sent the steak back politely, and several minutes later I got another steak that had been pressed to the grill with a weight, was charred, flattened, and still cold and raw through the middle. We didn't pay for the steak.
The manager came over and apologized and comped our glasses of wine, which I thought was generous.
I tipped the waitress on the full original amount of the bill (before our drinks were comped) since she tried hard but was let down by the kitchen which wasn't her fault.
Will we go back? I'm sure we will – it is walking distance from our house, and this is too neat of a spot for a glass of wine and some appetizers. But I think that the next time we want to go out for a $120+ meal, it will be to a place where we can depend on the food preparation. There are too many other options in town...
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great view poor food
Reviewer: sheldon
from Santa Barbara, CA
My wife and I tried the Boathouse this am for the first time. I called to find out how late they served breakfast and was told up until 11:45 am. When we arrived at 11:25 am we were told be the "snippy hostess" that only lunch was being served. When I asked to speak with the manager a very nice young women came by with the breakfast menus and seated us immediately.
We decided to share the $16.00 "boat house special" crab-cake eggs benedict and requested a milder citrus hollandaise sauce available on other egg dishes (as my wife can't eat spicy sauces). What arrived was the following: crab cakes totally burned on one side and raw on the other, with eggs just about hard boiled on top and the spicy hollandaise instead of the one ordered.
My recommendation would be to go to the bar for a drink and fabulous view and skip anything that comes out of the kitchen.
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Best view for dinner, wish I could say the same for the food
Reviewer: Hikmer
from Santa Barbara, CA
Just what you would expect for a new resturant with a great location in Santa Barbara. Decent food, so so service, high prices. Hey folks...at these prices, you need to educate your staff on WINE! Let them taste it so they can recommend it!!! Get rid of the corn meal cakes too....the portions were small but the atmosphere was good. Need to get those heat lamps just right...and work on the night time lighting. Can't see anything on the table.
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1st try not so great
Reviewer: Ralph
from Santa Barbara, CA
We went for drinks and some "starters". Got seated without menus, took several minutes to be noticed. Finally got menus but they didn't take drink order so we waited again. Drinks took longer than expected and then we had to tell them we'd like to order before server ran off again. Food was tasty but the $15 clams (we got about 15-18 small clams) had several that hadn't opened during cooking (shouldn't eat unopened clams). Chef should have removed any unopened clams from the serving. Other dishes were good. Prices are high, food and service should match the great view. Too bad it doesn't yet. We'll try again in a few months.
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Great Food, Better Views
Reviewer: Todd Fredeen
from Santa Barbara, CA
My wife and I brought two out of town relatives to the Boathouse this past Friday and were blown away. The food was awesome, great service, incredible views. The place was packed but the anticipated 45 minute wait turned out to be about half that. We will definitely add the Boathouse to our list of must do's for out of town visitors.
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Outstanding!
Reviewer: Mandy
from Santa Barbara, CA
What a beautiful restaurant this is! I've visited the Boathouse for Breakfast Lunch and Dinner, and all three visits were very satisfying. The waitstaff seemed very punctual and upbeat, and the dishes were delicious. I had the blueberry/raspberry pancakes for breakfast, the chicken sandwich for lunch, and the seafood penne was perfect for dinner. I definitely anticipated a few kinks here and there, but the staff seemed to have it under control. Awesome job Boathouse!
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Needs some polishing
Reviewer: Jason
from Santa Barbara, CA
A group of friends visited after work on a Thursday evening. We were extremely lucky to get bar space overlooking the Pacific because the place was PACKED for a non-Friday weeknight. We only had appetizers and drinks... albeit appetizers, the portions were small for the price. If you want a good grilled artichoke, go to Chuck's on State - the Boathouse's were terrible. The service staff was fairly attentive, but I wouldn't trust a full meal here until they work out the kinks.
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Beautiful Restaurant/Food & Service need major improvement
Reviewer: Jean
from Santa Barbara, CA
The owners of the Boathouse have done an execllent job with the rennovations. Unfortunatley the food and service were below standard on our first try for dinner last week. Hopefully they can get it together since the setting is so nice.
It is mainly a Seafood Restaurant which one would expect the freshest fish but unfortunately we had to send back the shark entree since it was spoiled and waited at least 20 minutes for a replacement.
There were long lags on the service and at one point I almost had to get up from our table to get someone's attention.
Hendry's Beach is such a local favorite spot that we hope they can improve the problems soon.
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extraordinarily disappointed
Reviewer: Michele
from Santa Barbara, CA
We were very excited for the new Boat House to open, as we completely avoided the Brown Pelican after many unpleasant food and service experiences. To begin with, the hostess we first spoke with was anything but nice. We were told it would take 30 minutes for a table with five parties ahead of us. When we looked inside and out, there were eight tables open and ready. So we decided to sit by the bar, which we thought was super cool since it was indoor/outdoor. When we asked if that was okay, the hostess responded by saying "I think someone MIGHT serve you." The other hostess came up at that point and said that of course some one will serve us. She was very pleasant, friendly, and knowledgeable. We sat there for what seemed like forever before anyone came to approach us. And actually, no one ever did. We had to ask for someone to wipe down our very dirty area and then also had to ask for water and a server... Again it took forever. We were given the dinner menu by accident (not a big deal, since we wanted to check it out anyway). We got excited because some of the appetizers looked really yummy, But then when we realized we had the wrong menu,we were very disappointed by the minimal choices. (I highly recommend expanding the lunch menu options and also making the menu itself nicer instead of a dirty and crumpled up piece of white paper.) That was when we decided to leave. Having been in the restaurant business before, I understand the importance of letting a restaurant work out the bugs. I will definitely give them one more chance in a little bit, but only for breakfast, dinner, or cocktails. Obviously the view is amazing. I pray that they take stock in what people are saying and step it up, as we will definitely benefit very much from a new and yummy place here on the water in SB! Also, for being on the beach I suggest having a separate and fancy cocktail menu.
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High expectations were let down
Reviewer: Terri
from Santa Barbara, CA
The atmosphere is beautiful and looks much better than the Brown Pelican. Our server did not come over to our table once the food was dropped, about 15-20 minutes later I had to ask a hostess to get him to come by. My husband and I ordered an omlette and both of them came without the cheese that was supposed to be in it. The food wasn't hot and to top it off, I found a hair on my plate half way through my meal. The server came by and took it away once I told him, but did not offer anything else, or ask. He dropped the check and took my meal off. Was NOT very satisfied other than the view.
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Two good visits
Reviewer: Shurlow
from Santa Barbara, CA
I've been here twice and both were excellent. I'm so happy they replaced the woeful Brown Pelican. The food and service at the two Boathouse visits were great, and the remodeling decisions are A+. Great apps, good fresh fish, and great atmosphere on the beach. Huge thank you to the owners for making this Santa Barbara gem of a location so much better.
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Needs a lot of help - Don't order the chowder
Reviewer: John
from Santa Barbara, CA
This place needs major help. I know it just opened and everything but it needs serious tweaking. We started off with the Spiced Chicken Cigarillos appetizer. Not good. It tasted like the chicken was pureed or something. It gets worse. For dinner, I ordered the Clam Linguine. It came with my choice of Clam chowder or Lobster bisque or a salad. I chose the claim chowder. The chowder was by far the worst I've ever tasted. It did not have any cream in it what so ever. It looked exactly like what you would expect to see coming out of a Campbell's Soup can. The broth looked like water. I was very disappointed. My entree was no better. Half of the clam shells were not even open but nearly sealed shut! Additionally, there was hardly any pasta and the sauce was very very watery. Not worth anything near $18.95. Finally, they are very stingy on the bread. They bring you like 2 pieces which we commented to the waitress and she said "no wonder every table is asking for more bread."
The only good thing I have to say about this restaurant is the food and the cocktails. We got the honeycomb mojito and the blood orange margarita. They were really good. The food needs major help.
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just ok
Reviewer: Tiffany
from Santa Barbara, CA
Atmosphere is great. Nice patio and bar. Service was pretty good. Staff a little undereducated about the food. We all ordered dishes that came with potatoes, when the meals came out they were all with a very dry rice. When we questioned the waiter she didnt know and walked away. All things that hopefully will be worked out with time. Over all just ok, not great.
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OUTSTANDING!!
Reviewer: Kelly
from Carpinteria, CA
We went to Boathouse for the first time this week for dinner and thought it was outstanding! Excellent food...amazing location... beautiful views... friendly service. Can't wait to go back!!
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Great food, beautiful restaurant!
Reviewer: Linda
from Santa Barbara, CA
The food was really good, the service excellent, and the inside of the restaurant finally does justice to the fabulous view. I will definitely be returning to try some of the other items on the menu, and have some more of that delicious sourdough bread. A huge improvement over the Brown Pelican!
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Don't Waste your Time or Money
Reviewer: Chuck Davis
from Santa Barbara, CA
The Grilled Artichoke was a bad attempt to imitate Chucks Steak House artichoke. The heart and bottom were cut off, leaving a few bar-b-qued leaves. They are stingy on the butter. Giving one wrapped pad of butter per person and giving one additional when requested. The Pork Sliders were saturated in grease. The meals weren't much better. Busboys had no direction. Mud Pie Dessert was offered as compensation and then Manager informed us that it wasn't available. Management didn't have a clue.
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Nice view
Reviewer: Larry
from Santa Barbara, CA
Don't go there for the food or the service. However, the view and atmosphere are great. Our waitress completely ignored us for about ten minutes, then came and got our drink orders that she completely screwed up. She knew absolutely nothing about Tequilas and then forgot that she was getting me one. The food was barely eatable. I ordered the rib eye and it was stringy, tough, and tasteless. Well maybe the fish was better? Not so as my son rated the Halibut as similar to the rib eye. They need a chef to take control of the kitchen, and training of wait staff by a professional. It is one of the few places in SB that is right on the beach and should be one of our favorite spots.
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Just OK... hope the service will get better in time
Reviewer: Roxy Diaz
from Santa Barbara, CA
Had a lite dinner and a few drinks with companion on a Wednesday evening. Hostesses ignored us completely as we waited at the front of the line for a table. No acknowledgement of us, not even "are you here for dinner? It will be about 5 minutes". They simply did not make eye contact. Not that I need a lot of attention, just a tad bit of courtesy would have been great. Seemed like the hostesses hadn't been trained in basic customer courtesy. (If it had been a rough busy night with huge lines, it would have been more understandable.) It took a long time for our waitress to arrive but when she did she was very warm and friendly and professional. Our food took quite awhile. Our waitress seemed experienced and doing her best with what she had to work with. However she was surrounded by inexperienced wait staff who were taking plates away from us before we were finished. We were still eating and drinking when they tried to take our bread away (never take carbohydrates away from customers without asking!) It felt like they were trying to shoo us out. So we ordered more cocktails. Overall a nice evening. For awhile the bar area seemed jammed up while patrons awaited tables. It seemed like the bar was not big enough to be a "waiting area". And there is no "bar area" with tables. The location is wonderful. With a few tweaks and more staff training, they have the potential to be a great restaurant. Restaurant work is some of the toughest work there is but can be very lucrative and rewarding if you are cut out for it and know what you're doing. Keeping good wait staff and training the novices are KEY. Glad the location is open again and look forward to future visits.
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All this Hoopla?
Reviewer: Mike Moriatis
from Santa Barbara, CA
Went there for lunch today and was surprised to find only a limited menu, I mean limited. Only soup, one fish and burger. Service was horrible. Saw our waitress only twice during the whole meal. This better be growing pains or the Boat House will be in trouble
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Freshest fish, great service ...the place for dinner in SB
Reviewer: Andrew
from Santa Barbara, CA
Hands down the best dish on the menu is the local, fresh sea bass. Not only was the fish perfectly prepared, the sauce was incredible. Never have I had such a great sauce on a piece of fish before. To top it off, dinner for two was delivered in minutes of being seated and we were out the door in under an hour. This is THE restaurant to go to in Santa Barbara! Check out their incredible menus on their website.
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This restaurant should have been at Hendry's all along!!
Reviewer: Cindy Thomas
from Santa Barbara, CA
I can't even believe the change in scenery. It is clean, inviting and just plain beautiful. This is such a well needed change from the dingy, dirty restaurant before it. I was amazed when I walked into the restaurant. Although I live in Santa Barbara I was jealous that tourist get to vacation here and eat in a beautiful place and watch the sun go down. My husband and I had a couple drinks at the bar. The bartender was very friendly and professional. We sat down for dinner. The food took a little long but we were enjoying ourselves and it wasn't so long that we became uncomfortable. The fish was cooked perfectly and was very fresh. Everything tasted light and healthy which is exactly the way you want to feel near the beach. We will definitely go here again!!
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A Breath of Fresh Air
Reviewer: john
from Santa Barbara, CA
What a great improvement for such a prestine spot in SB. It is the perfect atmosphere for the "on the beach" setting. Service staff was friendly and attentive. I highly recommend you give it a shot.
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Thanks Boathouse-we'll be back
Reviewer: Ann
from Fairhaven
Awesome!! Went to S.B. for a vacation and ate at the Boathouse. Having owned a business for over 28 yrs. I more than understand things don't always go smoothly. Many people had a great time but like everywhere you go, I again, wondered why some people seem to get so demanding & cranky when food is involved - they should relax, this is S.B. perhaps the most beautiful place on earth and the Boathouse touches on her beauty. Our breakfast was great (S.B. omelettes-yum), staff was honest (about wait times) with sincere smiles, management was visible & sincerely helpful - and in this day an age, this became an exceptionally positive experience. Hats off to the Boathouse - we will be back!!
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What an Improvement!
Reviewer: Elise S.
from Santa Barbara, CA
All I have to say is....what an improvement and FINALLY! Finally a place that I'm not embarrassed to bring out of town guests for dinner. I've been to the Boathouse two times and both times the food, drink and service were great. Every suggestion that I have given to the manager was appreciated and by the next time, fixed! The food was better than most seafood places in town- all fresh and great selection. The atmosphere was lively and fun! It's a great place to spend the evening and enjoy the view!
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What a Santa Barbara delight!!!!!!!
Reviewer: Brett
from Santa Barbara, CA
I have had two wonderful experiences at the Boathouse so far and can't wait for the third. I have enjoyed their dinner and lunch, with breakfast right around the corner. I could hardly tell that they just opened other than how nice the place looked and everything is brand new. I am a SB local(born and raised), and this is what SB is all about. Great food 3 times a day, professional/friendly service, good cocktails over-looking an unbelievable location. And to top it off this entire production has been created by other SB locals with a long, deep root into our community.
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Not ready to serve
Reviewer: Rob
from Santa Barbara, CA
Granted it has been only open 1 week but they should have an experienced cook and wait staff both of which were in over their heads. They did an excellent job with the building itself and the patio was pleasant for dinning. The calamari appetizer was under cooked, the clams and linguine (a very small portion for the price) tasted watered down with no flavor and the mushrooms were drowning in sherry. The crab cakes were good as was the halibut. Service was just OK with an inexperienced server. A manager ask how our dinners were and we told her our concerns. The waitress offered us complimentary desserts. We choose a creme brulee and key lime pie. Having lived in Florida it was not your typical key lime pie, more like a lime chiffon cheese cake. The creme brulee did not have the nice crisp crust a good creme brulee should have. We are locals and will try again in hope they succeed in bring there service and food up to par. We hope they can do it right.
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Local likes the changes!!!!
Reviewer: Molly Carter
from Santa Barbara, CA
Hard to believe the other reviews... understand waiting is a little hard but it was not unreasonable for a Sunday morning Once I was seated thought service was friendly and professional and the food was well worth the wait it was a great visit....I will bring my friends with me next time.
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GIVE THEM A BREAK! IT'S BRAND NEW!
Reviewer: ANNA D
from Santa Barbara, CA
I HAVE WORKED IN THE RESTAURANT INDUSTRY FOR THREE YEARS. MY BOYFRIEND AND I WENT TO THE OPENING COCKTAIL PARTY, AND AGAIN ON SUNDAY FOR BREAKFAST. THE HOSTESS TOLD US THERE WOULD BE A SHORT WAIT, AND WE WERE SEATED AFTER 15 MINUTES. THE SERVER TOLD US THE KITCHEN WAS A LITTLE BEHIND, WHICH I ANTICIPATED FOR THEIR VERY FIRST SUNDAY. MY BOYFRIEND ORDERED THEIR SIGNATURE BREAKFAST, CRAB CAKES WITH A CHIPOTLE HOLLANDAISE, AND I GOT THE BREAKFAST BURRITO.THE FOOD WAS AMAZING, NOT TO MENTION THE BOATHOUSE HAS THE BEST VIEW AND LOCATION IN TOWN. FOR THEIR VERY FIRST SUNDAY BREAKFAST, THE KITCHEN WORKED THEIR BEST (I COULD SEE THEM WORKING UP A STORM), AND THE MANAGERS DID A STELLAR JOB OF TRYING TO MAINTAIN A HAPPY CROWD. UNLIKE THESE OTHER FOOD CRITICS, MY BOYFRIEND, AND OUR FRIENDS, WILL DEFINITELY BE COMING BACK. I BELIEVE THE BOATHOUSE CREW WILL PERFECT THEIR RESTAURANT IN NO TIME.
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Not Worth the Sunburn
Reviewer: Lisa Keller
from Santa Barbara, CA
After great anticipation I had lunch at the Boathouse. The hostess was less than welcoming but managed to seat us and find menus. Our waitress was enthusiastic and attentive. After we asked twice for an umbrella (not enough to go around) one was slid over, but then we and the party at the next table were in the hot sun. I had shrimp tacos which were plopped down on a large plate with no garnish except a flavorless salsa that did nothing to give interest to the liberal but underseasoned contents on stale tortillas. I'd recommend that corn tortillas be steamed rather than grilled, and that the chef taste the food and consider upping the seasoning. On first impression it seems to be just another restaurant with a great view and uninspired cuisine.
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Not ready for service
Reviewer: Sarah R
from Santa Barbara
We tried to eat at the Boathouse this morning (Sunday) which soon turned into waiting for lunch. After waiting 20 minutes or so for a table we were seated outside on the patio. The waitress did warn us that the kitchen was a bit slow, but after waiting for an hour no food in sight we left. They told us they weren't expecting the crowds they got, but they had to know that on a Sunday they would be mobbed. Wait staff all seemed to be very amateurish and I constantly heard them questioning the 3-4 hostesses that were hanging around at the entrance. Lovely location, but seemed very unprofessional.
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First Weekend Breakfast Service
Reviewer: Laura H.
from CA
Went for breakfast today 8/24; it took nearly an hour to be seated on the patio in the sun (not enough umbrellas to go around) and then took over an hour and a half to be served our food. I've never felt like a hostage at a restaurant before today. The worst thing is they continued to seat people only to inform them after they ordered a beverage that it would be 1.5 hours until they would see anything from the kitchen. Horrible experience -- Left this restaurant after 3 hours with a headache and a sunburn -- completely disappointed. I hope they work the kinks out as it is a great location.
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The building is nice, service so...so, and food thumbs down
Reviewer: Vanessa
from Santa Barbara
So... it is finally here. Well at least The Brown Pelican is gone as that was pretty bad. Skyeline construction did an awesome job with the building. The service was not very good. Our waitress was nice but not very experienced. For the price you pay they should do a better job training there wait staff. It is not just about smiling they need to be trained in maintaining a smoothly timed dining experience. We waiting forever for our drinks and food. We ordered lattes as this was breakfast and they were over-milky and served in thin small glasses. We could not lift the glass until the drink cooled down as the glassware was too thin for hot beverages. The food was ok but the presentation and portion size was soooooooooo bad. My father in law ordered corned beef hash and i ordered the smoked salmon plate. His corned beef hash was like 2 spoonfulls and 2 small poached eggs; he finished his meal in about 2 minutes. At $13 a plate for corned beef hash breakfast that is ridiculous. Any person that orders corned beef hash is looking to feel satisfied and probably is a man with an appetite. My smoked salmon was good but it looked like it was just thrown together with some bread a small bullet of mayonaise cream cheese. The experience was not very good and for $50 for breakfast for 2 (no cocktails) I probably won't go again.
Suggestions on improvement:
-more experienced professional wait staff, not just smiley college students
-much bigger portions!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I suggest hiring a really good restaurant manager and service manager...not just someone that wants to be part of the scene.
nice view of the ocean! ;)
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Ok, but sure not stunning
Reviewer: steve
from sb
Clam chowder was pretty good, -but not as good as Brophys. French fries were soggy....disappointing. Fish was ok...not like fresh perfect. Cole slaw tasted awkward...cabbage part was fresh...but flavor of sauce not tasty. Compared to their Fish House...the Fish House has a lot of tasty things.
Didn't quite like the feel of the restaurant...better than the one it replaced....but squeezing into the tough parking...then waiting 10 minutes when leaving because sometimes people just block you waiting for others to leave so they can park. But not a bad place to have a beer at the bar if you are there at the beach already. A similar, but more natural "behind the glass feel"...would be the Shoreline...but their choices are fewer, and no draft beer?
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It's Back! It's Great!
Reviewer: R & R
from Santa Barbara (Mesa), CA.
We loved the open house and our follow-up visit. It is fantastic to have our "local" hang-out back! Adam White has a home run in this one....
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Awesome Spot - Great food and excellent service!
Reviewer: Courtney
from Newport Beach, Ca
Went with group of ucsb alumni - go gauchos! We had a super fun lunch! The food was tastey...highly recommend the lobster tacos! I ate here years ago when it was Brown Pelican, however there is no comparison...Boathouse Rules!
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fantastic!!
Reviewer: Amelia
from Santa Barbara
We have been waiting for some time for the Boathouse to open and I must say it was well worth the wait!! The place is absolutely breathtaking! We sat inside close to the windows but really felt that we were on a ship in the water. What they've done to the place is incredible! It is an entirely new restaurant, and I must say all the changes are for the better.
The food was exceptional and the menu had something for everyone in our party. From the apps. to dessert to the yummy specialty drinks, we all were pleased. Our waitress was very cheerful and very attentive.
I have heard that breakfast and lunch are very good too, I will definitely be back to try those.
All in all it was a great experience, I was very very pleased!!
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