Bluewater Grill Seafood Restaurant Santa Barbara

We ate at Bluewater Grill on New Year's Day at around 7:30 pm. There was no wait to be seated and they actually allowed us to bring our dog to eat indoors (first floor). We were served complimentary sourdough bread and butter and our server brought a bowl of water and treats for our dog. For entrees, we had the sanddab and fall chopped salad (removed chicken and added salmon for an extra $2). Both entrees were delicious. For dessert, we had the McConnell's ice cream sundae which had chocolate dipped strawberry ice cream topped with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and sprinkles. Overall, a very pleasant experience with the staff and food, and we appreciated that they can accommodate dogs indoors.

Visited 3 months ago

I recently had a fantastic seafood experience at Bluewater Grill at Santa Barbara! Located right by the beach, the views were stunning and the atmosphere was lovely!
The seafood was incredibly fresh and expertly prepared. We devoured the fresh oysters, succulent shrimps, and tender mussels - all were absolute perfection!
Service was attentive and knowledgeable. Our server helped us navigate the menu and made excellent recommendations with oysters.
Highly recommend Bluewater Grill for seafood lovers! Can't wait to return.

Visited 5 months ago

First the food was delicious, I cannot say that enough. The selection was pretty good. Maybe I caught them on shift change or something but the service seemed inattentive and had a bunch of young new hires (or so it seemed). I went there about 5 so maybe the dinner wasn't in full swing but for $40 per person, before tip, I think there has to be a minimal service expectation. There were long delays in, initial contact, beverages, complementary bread and meals. Again, kudos to the food and wine. I would go back and try it again if I'm in the area and still give it 4.6⭐s, just for the price the timeliness could have been better.

Visited 6 months ago

Good place for seafood.

Went to the Santa Barbara for the day and mom wanted seafood by the ocean. Found this place Bluewater Grill.

The restaurant was across the street from the beach and pier and had a great location. They have indoor and outdoor seating. The restaurant has 2 floors and the patio seating was upstairs where we sat to enjoy the view of the ocean and enjoy the Santa Barbara weather.

The location has 2 bars…1 upstairs and 1 downstairs. Place is probably great to have social drinks.

But we were there for dinner. We came a little early. So the restaurant wasn’t too busy which was nice.

I had the Wagyu burger and I substituted my fries with a salad. The salad was great. The burger was a good burger. But I won’t lie…it didn’t wow me in any particular way. It was good. Just not great.

My wife had the Pan Seared Sea Scallops. While she said her scallops were delicious she said her side, the grits I guess, weee cold compared to the rest of the dish. Her words not mine. I’m not a seafood person and I don’t really know about those kind of dishes.

My mother and aunt split the Seasonal Special, (staff was nice to split the meal) the Seafood Paella Valenciana. While they enjoyed the protein in the dish (which was a lot) they had complaints of the rice served with the dish. My aunt compared it to Uncle Ben’s rice. Be aware the dish is called “A Taste of Spain “ and her daughter lives in Barcelona so she knows how this dish is supposed to taste. Like I said the protein was great the rice was meh.

My son had the Kid Grilled Cheese menu and thanks to Bluewater Grill my son now loves ranch with his fries. Oh kids grilled cheese came with sandwich, fries, carrots and oranges. Great little kids meal.

My drink was a margarita on the rocks. Solid drink. Nothing special. But they did not have Red Bull so I couldn’t have my Redbull and Vodka.

Sad we didn’t get any bread when we were sat. Wife said the bread that my son’s grill cheese was served on was excellent and wanted to try their bread. This was a minus for the service.

The service was okay. Serviceable at best. Not like they were busy(they weren’t) never offered refills. Never asked if I wanted another well drink. They did ask if everything was good with our meal and the server’s assistant did offer to clear plates throughout our meal. Greeters were nice, Server was nice and Server’s asst was great as well.

I will say the atmosphere of the restaurant is great. Totally recommend for couples and groups of friends. Amazingly they have a decent menu for young ones.

I would like to come back here again without the kids. Even though I’m not a seafood person this place seemed nice. Also I would like to take my dad here and try out their oysters and have my mom try their clam chowder. So maybe next time.

I’ll admit…not a perfect trip but worth another look. Come try them out.

Verdict. Probably will go back if I’m with people who want to eat seafood.

Visited 5 months ago

Great customer service! I’m not just saying that because the dish we didn’t like was removed from the bill without any questions, but because we received just the right amount of attention to feel welcomed and relaxed. It might sound strange, but a restaurant is not only about the food; it’s about the full experience) so we really enjoyed the pasta, crab and artichoke dip, the view, and the service.

Visited 8 months ago

Five of us had a fabulous lunch upstairs at The Bluewater Grill with David yesterday! The oysters, ponzu scallops, lobster tail, trout, sushi roll, fish and chips, scalloped potatoes, spinach, and libations were all exceptional!! David was the BEST SERVER, also!

Visited 7 months ago

Wow, what a treat! My boyfriend and I stumbled upon Bluewater Grill and were pleasantly surprised. The food was incredible, and the service was even better. Our server, Topaz, was so sweet and knowledgeable about the menu.

We tried the New England clam chowder bread bowl, and it was honestly better than any I’ve had in Boston. The crab cakes were amazing, and we also loved the blackened swordfish, scalloped potatoes, and coleslaw.

If you’re in Santa Barbara, this place is a must-try!

Visited 3 months ago

I am not traveling in the US very often. Had been in Santa Barbara a few decades ago and had the time and opportunity to kind of revisit places.

I found the restaurant through a search for a seafood restaurant close to the SB marina. Booked a table. Only after the booking I read all those not-so-positive reviews...

I went anyways. And I was really positively surprised! OK, lighting is a bit harsh, music is a bit loud...

The service was very attentive and competent. I ordered a Margarita, received it within a few minutes, and it was a good one. The bread and butter were good. Warm crispy bread, good but not outstanding butter.

Ordered 6 oysters, asked for the options, got a competent answer. The oysters that I received were fresh and very tasty. You won't get other/better ones at Michelin star restaurants.

The leaves in the green side salad that I ordered looked a bit dated, but still alright. Just not crispy fresh.

The local swordfish main course was good. The fish was perfectly cooked and juicy, absolutely not overcooked. The accompaniments were a bit too complex and too aromatic for a relatively 'neutral' fish. In Europe, one would probably left out the guacamole or the corn or the olives in the rice.

But altogether the was a very good meal!

Visited a year ago

Service was amazing the food was great ! We will return. Bartender was top notch ( Sam & Raul

Visited 2 months ago

Excellent French Bouillabaisse!
Fun bar location and great service staff .

Visited 2 months ago

Order the clam chowder (half and half) and the pasta! Very good food with great service!

Visited 2 months ago

We ate at Bluewater Grill on New Year's Day at around 7:30 pm. There was no wait to be seated and they actually allowed us to bring our dog to eat indoors (first floor). We were served complimentary sourdough bread and butter and our server brought a bowl of water and treats for our dog. For entrees, we had the sanddab and fall chopped salad (removed chicken and added salmon for an extra $2). Both entrees were delicious. For dessert, we had the McConnell's ice cream sundae which had chocolate dipped strawberry ice cream topped with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and sprinkles. Overall, a very pleasant experience with the staff and food, and we appreciated that they can accommodate dogs indoors.

Visited 3 months ago

Отличный ресторан, вежливый и приветливый персонал, уютный зал, вкусные блюда. Рекомендую к посещению. Единственный момент - парковка метров 300 от ресторана.

Visited 3 months ago

i ate in this restaurant for the lunch, i’m italian and the dishes i ate, remembered to me the italian dishes… So i recommend this restaurant if you are in santa barbara to eat good dishes 👍

Visited 3 months ago

Wow, what a treat! My boyfriend and I stumbled upon Bluewater Grill and were pleasantly surprised. The food was incredible, and the service was even better. Our server, Topaz, was so sweet and knowledgeable about the menu.

We tried the New England clam chowder bread bowl, and it was honestly better than any I’ve had in Boston. The crab cakes were amazing, and we also loved the blackened swordfish, scalloped potatoes, and coleslaw.

If you’re in Santa Barbara, this place is a must-try!

Visited 3 months ago

This is a true 5 star! You gotta try the crab cake and the New Englad Clam Chowder. Best!

Visited 3 months ago

The servers were great and nice, the food was so good. The fried calamari was melting in my mouth. The atmosphere inside and outside is great, you can see the Santa Barbara beach from up top. Would definitely recommend this place.

Visited 3 months ago

One of the best restaurants during our road trip up the coast of California. Food was delicious and service was great.

Visited 3 months ago

Died barlck died Blacke

Visited 3 months ago

Visited 3 months ago

Visited 4 months ago

Visited 4 months ago

We had dinner on Nov 22 at 7:30 PM. Food is not good and certainly overpriced for the quality. Service is great though. We took the Mahi Mahi fish, the sword fish among other 3 dishes. My dish had water at the bottom and was tasteless, and someone else’s fish was cold in the center and similarly bad.

The only reason I write this review is because I know have a stomach ache after paying $42 per person.

Visited 4 months ago

Really great service. We had a party of 20 and our server was on it.

Food was delivered quickly and tasted great.

Visited 4 months ago

We ordered 4 different food entrees and 2 appetizers. 3 of 4 entrees were very salty. The most disappointed was with Pan Seared Sea Scallops. The scallop dish was more expensive than in the same area, near Bluewater Grill, and not tasted as good the other restaurants nearby.

Visited 4 months ago

I am putting 1 star after my wife feel sick after oysters poisoning in this place avoid this place very bad

Visited 4 months ago

Visited 4 months ago

Food was good BUT they messed up our reservations on two separate occasions. Barely an apology.. Felt like crocodile tears. Think twice !!

Visited 5 months ago

Visited 5 months ago

I recently had a fantastic seafood experience at Bluewater Grill at Santa Barbara! Located right by the beach, the views were stunning and the atmosphere was lovely!
The seafood was incredibly fresh and expertly prepared. We devoured the fresh oysters, succulent shrimps, and tender mussels - all were absolute perfection!
Service was attentive and knowledgeable. Our server helped us navigate the menu and made excellent recommendations with oysters.
Highly recommend Bluewater Grill for seafood lovers! Can't wait to return.

Visited 5 months ago

Nice place management very professional and friendly, service outstanding Food was very disappointed I hope it's just an accident!?

Visited 5 months ago

Visited 5 months ago

La comida es Exelente fui por las recomendaciones de Google y realmente vale la pena ir !

Visited 5 months ago

Service was slow, food was greasy. Empty

Visited 5 months ago

Wonderful experience!!! Topnotch waitperson in training, attentive, connecting and professional! The food was exquisite! My husband had the Gemelli w scallops, shrimp, mushrooms w creamy pesto Parmesan. I had delicious crab cakes for my meal
W roulade and micro greens. Fresh, moist, every mouthful delicious! A gourmet presentation and taste.
Excellent!!!

Visited 5 months ago

Visited 5 months ago

Good place for seafood.

Went to the Santa Barbara for the day and mom wanted seafood by the ocean. Found this place Bluewater Grill.

The restaurant was across the street from the beach and pier and had a great location. They have indoor and outdoor seating. The restaurant has 2 floors and the patio seating was upstairs where we sat to enjoy the view of the ocean and enjoy the Santa Barbara weather.

The location has 2 bars…1 upstairs and 1 downstairs. Place is probably great to have social drinks.

But we were there for dinner. We came a little early. So the restaurant wasn’t too busy which was nice.

I had the Wagyu burger and I substituted my fries with a salad. The salad was great. The burger was a good burger. But I won’t lie…it didn’t wow me in any particular way. It was good. Just not great.

My wife had the Pan Seared Sea Scallops. While she said her scallops were delicious she said her side, the grits I guess, weee cold compared to the rest of the dish. Her words not mine. I’m not a seafood person and I don’t really know about those kind of dishes.

My mother and aunt split the Seasonal Special, (staff was nice to split the meal) the Seafood Paella Valenciana. While they enjoyed the protein in the dish (which was a lot) they had complaints of the rice served with the dish. My aunt compared it to Uncle Ben’s rice. Be aware the dish is called “A Taste of Spain “ and her daughter lives in Barcelona so she knows how this dish is supposed to taste. Like I said the protein was great the rice was meh.

My son had the Kid Grilled Cheese menu and thanks to Bluewater Grill my son now loves ranch with his fries. Oh kids grilled cheese came with sandwich, fries, carrots and oranges. Great little kids meal.

My drink was a margarita on the rocks. Solid drink. Nothing special. But they did not have Red Bull so I couldn’t have my Redbull and Vodka.

Sad we didn’t get any bread when we were sat. Wife said the bread that my son’s grill cheese was served on was excellent and wanted to try their bread. This was a minus for the service.

The service was okay. Serviceable at best. Not like they were busy(they weren’t) never offered refills. Never asked if I wanted another well drink. They did ask if everything was good with our meal and the server’s assistant did offer to clear plates throughout our meal. Greeters were nice, Server was nice and Server’s asst was great as well.

I will say the atmosphere of the restaurant is great. Totally recommend for couples and groups of friends. Amazingly they have a decent menu for young ones.

I would like to come back here again without the kids. Even though I’m not a seafood person this place seemed nice. Also I would like to take my dad here and try out their oysters and have my mom try their clam chowder. So maybe next time.

I’ll admit…not a perfect trip but worth another look. Come try them out.

Verdict. Probably will go back if I’m with people who want to eat seafood.

Visited 5 months ago

Outstanding all around! Our waiter, Nick was on piont. This was the 2nd visit and I requeted the same waiter just because he is so good. Always a smile and knows the menu well. Of other note the two hostesses Delaynee and Jennifer greeted us with smiles and gave us the seating we wanted.

Visited 6 months ago

Visited 6 months ago

Visited 6 months ago

We went there yesterday, Sept 28, for lunch and will never go there again. My son in law had the lobster roll and got food poisoning. We should have left when the service was bad to start. We had 3 different servers and 2 of them looked (and acted) high. We had to ask 4 times for limes. This place has a great location, decent atmosphere but it was not crowded and the service was horrible. Now I know why. Avoid this place!!

Visited 6 months ago

If you visit Santa Barbara never miss this restaurant.

Visited 6 months ago

First the food was delicious, I cannot say that enough. The selection was pretty good. Maybe I caught them on shift change or something but the service seemed inattentive and had a bunch of young new hires (or so it seemed). I went there about 5 so maybe the dinner wasn't in full swing but for $40 per person, before tip, I think there has to be a minimal service expectation. There were long delays in, initial contact, beverages, complementary bread and meals. Again, kudos to the food and wine. I would go back and try it again if I'm in the area and still give it 4.6⭐s, just for the price the timeliness could have been better.

Visited 6 months ago

Great spot along the beachfront. Great views, great food, and very accommodating to food allergies/sensitivities. They modified the avocado crab salad for my dietary needs and it was really fresh and tasty. My husband said the clam chowder was just as good as home-made, and the almond crusted trout was HUGE (half a fish!) And very delicious.

Visited 6 months ago

Great tasting octopus! I also had garlic fries that were good 👍

Visited 6 months ago

Slow service, overpriced, mid quality food, bad value for the price.

Visited 6 months ago

decor and location was cute. food was good. there was country music playing the whole time? not the vibe at all so that was weird. server forgot our side of fries which is okay and understandable but didn’t check up on us once between getting our food and finishing our food. took a long time to get our bill and stuff so just overall annoyed at that point. Oh! and they forgot to return the card so we left with out it and they had to find it! so yeah nottttt the best service sorry maybe they were just off their game today idk. kinda off topic but the busboy like slammed the waters down at the tables lol. not really that upsetting just kinda funny.

Visited 6 months ago

Lovely dinner, the food was good, and the service was efficient and friendly. Great views from the balcony

Visited 6 months ago

The service was just OK because we were sitting at a high top in the bar area. One of the first disappointments was they severed the soup with the meal. The other REAL disappointment was the presentation of the meal. It looked like someone bleached and regurgitated the fish, potatoes and spinach on a plate. Then added some green capers for show. Can’t tell you how embarrassing it was because my husband had never had Sanddabs. I raved about the clean flavor and the lemon and capers making these delicious gens so tasty.
Not a place I would recommend

Visited 6 months ago

Visited 6 months ago

Fantastico, andateci

Visited 6 months ago

Visited 6 months ago

It was great having dinner at Bluewater. We ordered at the bar even though the staff found us a table, the atmosphere was great. Service and staff are great and take the time to advise good wines. Seafood is a must here I recommend the shrimps pasta if you are shy to try !

Visited 7 months ago

Visited 7 months ago

Visited 7 months ago

Five of us had a fabulous lunch upstairs at The Bluewater Grill with David yesterday! The oysters, ponzu scallops, lobster tail, trout, sushi roll, fish and chips, scalloped potatoes, spinach, and libations were all exceptional!! David was the BEST SERVER, also!

Visited 7 months ago

Visited 7 months ago

Good freindly service.

Visited 7 months ago

Visited 7 months ago

The Swordfish, asparagus and garlic fries were delicious. Good customer service and the restaurant was very clean.

Visited 7 months ago

I frequent Blue Water Grille in Az. I was hopeful for the same culinary experience..but was completely disappointed. The Sand Dabs were not crisp and the scalloped potatoes not only looked horrible and brown but were not at all tasty. Their sourdough bread was the best food item. We had Creme Brulee and it too was a disappointment. It was not at all smooth rather lumpy and bad. For the price this was more than a disappointment and I would NEVER tell anyone to come here. The only positive was the service but a definite NO to the food.

Visited 7 months ago

Visited 7 months ago

Er werd ons verteld dat het 10min wachten was voor een plaatsje, bleek na 15min dat het nog een extra 30min wachten was. Dit vind ik niet oke dus zijn we maar door gaan zoeken naar een ander restaurantje. Het werd uiteindelijk Fish House wat zeer sfeervol was en lekker, echt een aanrader!!

Visited 7 months ago

Fish tacos were big and scallops were great!!! Wonderful view of waterfront.

Visited 7 months ago

Omg.. Fabulous. Especially the tuna

Visited 7 months ago

UPDATE Mar 22, 2024
Enjoyed the upstairs balcony with a wonderful view of the pier and the bottom of State Street. It was a little chilly but not too bad and they turned the heaters on near the end. Service was excellent and attentive and friendly. Three of us ordered the sand dabs and to be honest they were disappointing. Part of it may be that the food cooled quickly on the balcony, but they're also seem to be a lack of flavor in the fish and an abundance of skin. The scalloped potatoes were also cold but reasonably tasty.

Service was very sketchy! Maybe they just don't have kinks ironed out but our waiter, despite being affable and polite just didn't seem to be able to remember to bring us the things he promised. Sent mine back once because it was not right. I am not a fussy eater. We will go back however because the atmosphere is great. A wide variety of different types of seats from high tables near TV to more intimate booths, to upstairs tables with a view. But the wait for upstairs was too long (1½ hours!) and they don't let you get on the wait list if you have a reservation. Kind of a Catch 22.

Visited 7 months ago

Food is so-so at best. Full of crying babies last we went. Decided the food and atmosphere weren’t worth returning to.

Visited 7 months ago

Visited 7 months ago

Great local restaurant good food and good service.

Visited 7 months ago

Great location. The meals our group had were all very good. Cocktails were good and appetizers were also very good.

Visited 7 months ago

Visited 8 months ago

My friend and I just dined at this fabulous restaurant. We stumbled upon it and it was the best coincidence of our trip so far. The location could not be better when going to Stearns wharf or the beach right there. We sat out on the patio upstairs and the view was incredible! Our service was perfection. Jake was warm and there when we needed him. He was a superb server in every way. We were thrilled with our food as well. My friend had the half Louis salad and a cup of Manhattan chowder. Everything was super fresh and beautifully prepared. I had some mud pie for dessert that was absolutely wonderful! The bread they served was delicious as well. I cannot recommend this stop more! Will be back again for certain!

Visited 8 months ago

This is beautiful place for spending time with family and friends. Amazing food and service! Thank you for such a nice evening ✨🌆

Visited 8 months ago

We did some fishing during the day and brought it in to eat, and it was some if the best fish I have ever had. We fried it and blackened it and the flavor was amazing.

Visited 8 months ago

Great food and excellent service.

Visited 8 months ago

Enjoyed our meal. Chowder was delicious, raw oysters and scallops were terrific. Good key lime pie. Service was friendly, recommend.

Visited 8 months ago

Great customer service! I’m not just saying that because the dish we didn’t like was removed from the bill without any questions, but because we received just the right amount of attention to feel welcomed and relaxed. It might sound strange, but a restaurant is not only about the food; it’s about the full experience) so we really enjoyed the pasta, crab and artichoke dip, the view, and the service.

Visited 8 months ago

Visited 8 months ago

I was visiting my family in southern California (Ventura county, not L.A.)
Decided to take a drive up to Santa Barbara to enjoy the cool coastal temps. It's so nice to be able to find public parking near Cabrillo St., and then walk to the nearby restaurants, shops in "The Funk Zone", and/or the wharf. This restaurant has several tables with a great view of the beach.
The service was excellent as was the food. I had been craving seafood and this place has a lot of nice choices.
We had several dishes, my favorites were the muscles in chorizo sauce and the spicy sushi. Least favorite was the pan seared scallops atop grits with corn and asparagus. The scallops themselves were perfect, however the other part of the dish was an odd combo that just didn't pair well.
Definitely a place to try if you're in the Santa Barbara area.

Visited 8 months ago

The location is superb, we were seated in the lighthouse room
which was really cool, service was fantastic. The staff is great
and very attentive, but the food was mediocre. Fish was overcooked, the "oven-dried sundried tomato" sauce on my fish
looked like it had been glopped on. Everyone in my party said
the food was "meh" for the price.

Visited 8 months ago

They denied us service bc of our ethnicity and having a service animal saying 15-20 min wait for have drinks at the bar when no one was sitting there

Visited 8 months ago

Good ambiance, good accompany and food are delicious （.m）

Visited 8 months ago

Visited 8 months ago

We had a feeling things might take a turn for the worse at the onset. 8:15PM on a Monday night, and Nick (our server, God bless him), started taking our order for 3 people without writing it down (1.5 orders in, he reached for a pad and asked us to repeat...NOT a problem!). We ordered a bottle of wine w/2 glasses, out come 2 glasses of wine and no bottle...quickly corrected. One entree came out, then one app/entree at the same time (calamari entree clearly also under a heat lamp and rubbery, oyster app salty as hell), which we asked to them to take back, so app could be enjoyed first. Third app comes out 10 min later (clam chowder...30 min to ladle pre-made chowder?) and, of course, the entree 5 min later. Fish is warm, but dry (obv under a heat lamp) with ice cold potatoes and green beans. Calamari entree inedible and uneaten. In the end, resto comped the 2 entrees, but then tried to explain it off as a customer having assaulted a bartender JUST after we ordered, and the local police were apparently involved (we could see the bar from our table, and if police came, they were mostly invisible and silent, as the entire episode apparently was, soooo...had they just comped the meals and called it a night WITHOUT the "drama story", probably a better idea, but Nick did what he could, and we appreciated his kindness). Honestly, it seemed to be mostly a kitchen problem, but if you don't really want any people eating after 8pm, then don't offer up to 8:45 reservations. Overall, a pretty miserable experience, but kudos to Nick for going the extra mile.

Visited 8 months ago

Very good fish and chips, nice service! Prices are fair *****

Visited 8 months ago

That dang parking attendant did not inform me in any way be word, written or sign language that he would demand 5$ after dinner for parking …. Then he says he Told me, which was absolutely not so… no you didn’t Junior!!! Then you got aggressive to collect 5$ from me, it off set the pleasant dinner with my lady friend from the parking attendant’s behavior

Visited 8 months ago

Sat outside on upstairs patio and had a lovely view and lunch. Service was great. Highly recommend!

Visited 8 months ago

Blue Water came highly recommended for oysters on the half. It didn’t disappoint. My wife had the salmon and it was very nice but came on a bed of scalloped potatoes which was like warm. The Ahi tuna salad was excellent. Sitting upstairs gives a great view of the coastal area across the street

Visited 8 months ago

Visited 8 months ago

Best cioppino ever!!!

Visited 8 months ago

I don’t often visit “chain” restaurants. But, I was hungering for seafood and this was walking distance from our hotel. It appears we picked the perfect place. I had the Gemelli Pasta with shrimp and scallops. It was fresh, creamy, and delicious. My other three guests loved their meals as well. BWG has a nice wine list that’s not too pricey. It’s also has a great location with views toward the boardwalk and beach. Our server, Casey, was friendly, professional and efficient. We will definitely return for another meal. Helpful Hint: Enjoy lunch or dinner and then take a stroll on the nearby beach boardwalk or iconic State Street.

Visited 9 months ago

Visited 9 months ago

Blue water Grill was very delicious! The clam chowder was amazing and the crab cakes were so good! Service was outstanding!

Visited 9 months ago

Fantastic! Upstairs sat at bar which I normally never do yet it was fine! Had nigiri salmon and it was fabulous. The other two dishes were very nice.
Quality food, service and a view!

Visited 9 months ago

Visited 9 months ago

The brunch specials were great, as were the sand dabs. Molly took good care of us on the upstairs balcony.

Visited 9 months ago

Visited 9 months ago

Visited 9 months ago

We came here for our 24th anniversary this place came highly recommended from our hotel, customer service was awesome but the food didn't hit the mark It was a little bland. And the atmosphere was okay.

Visited 9 months ago

Was in town celebrating a friend’s College grad with their family and chose to eat here. The night was perfect.

I had the slightly cooked Ahi tuna 🍣 which turned out to be superb!

Have to go back next time in the area.

Visited 9 months ago

Visited 9 months ago

Visited 9 months ago

Great food, great price

Visited 9 months ago

The sushi was average at best. My wife's sand dabs were excellent, however, the side dishes were also average.

Visited 9 months ago

Visited 9 months ago

Specifically went here looking for muscles. First order the muscles of the twelve only two weren't distroted for they seemed shredded in the shell. We ordered a second batch and these had over half shredded. If formed the waiter who informed the manager. They refunded one of the orders. And each had a grit, pearl, shell in almost every one.....so was not enjoyable and afraid for my teeth. The sautéed spinach we got to accompany the muscles was however very good.

Visited 9 months ago

Half of the oysters had shell fragments, and one had a spoiled taste and smell.
I had to be careful when eating because I was afraid of hurting my teeth.
Also, when eating clams, a little bit of sand was chewed.
It was a very disappointing dinner.
As a good restaurant, the basic food preparation was disappointing and the hygiene was also unreliable.

Visited 9 months ago

Visited 10 months ago

Outstanding service, food was very good. However, there were two tables that were loud and full of expletives. The staff clearly had no intention of saying anything, which I don't understand. It was uncomfortable.

Visited 10 months ago

We had dinner 🍽️ here and sat at the bar the food was delicious and desserts Mud Pie and Bread Pudding 🍮 was ok.

Visited 10 months ago

Beautiful views upstairs. Great variety, service was great. Had the calamari and gemellini pasta

Visited 10 months ago

Visited 10 months ago

Great happy hour, great service .

Visited 10 months ago

Visited 10 months ago

Visited 10 months ago

My experience here with my friends was amazing! Everything was perfect. I would love to come back!

Visited 10 months ago

Ok this location is different. I’ve been eating at this chain for almost 15 years in several cities. The Santa Barbara location is the best. From the host to the service at the table, to the food and our waiter. It was better than I’ve had than at more expensive restaurants. Could have just been that night. Could have been anything but I can’t wait to go again.

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Beautiful interior, amazing food, service was 11/10. My server took care of our table really well. The food was delicious and didn't take to long to come out.

Visited a year ago

I was a couple of times there but today the waitress is very unfriendly and rude.

First at all I wanted something with salmon like a sandwich she said we don't offer this anymore then I asked for plain grilled shrimps was also not possible my Mai Thai awful and it is Happy Hour she didn't bring another one I ordered salmon sushi and garlic fries I wanted to have barbecue sauce she said we don't have this last time I got it and I wanted additional ranch she didnt bring an additional one so I had only a bit ranch the whole restaurant is empty and she chat only with her coworker another meal for another customer had to wait on the counter 20 min until she picked it up my salmon sushi roll tasted old

Visited a year ago

I ate here while visiting family in Santa Barbara and got THE WORST food poisoning from what I'm thoroughly convinced was their lobster roll. No thank you, never again. 👍

Visited a year ago

Slow service, bland food. These reviews are all fake or people wanting it to be better than it was.

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Unterdurchschnittliches Essen - uns war extrem schlecht danach. Es schien nicht frisch zu sein. Der Spargel war völlig verbrannt. Wir hatten einen Fisch Eintopf und das Hähnchengericht. Erstaunlich da das Restaurant an sich sehr schön war - der Service war ok.

Visited a year ago

Great location. Service has big opportunity areas

Visited a year ago

Food quality was below average. We had 5 people at our table, 4 people said that their main course (fish or seafood) was not fresh. Service was average. Not friendly, and you won't feel welcome there.

Visited a year ago

My daughter wanted to eat seafood during her spring break vacation. We looked at reviews and landed at the Bluewater. It is beautiful, right across from the beach. However, when I walked in, the first thing someone said to me is, did you need something? Like I was in the wrong place. That was my first clue. We sat down and the waiter, took our, someone else brought our food and we never saw him again: the orders were wrong, I never go my soup and my plate was cold. When I flagged down the bus boy, he said that they were short staffed. For a high end restaurant, that is never acceptable. Our drinks were never refilled. I began to think we were not the type to eat there. The rich type that is. Very disappointed in the Santa Barbara Bluewater restaurant. Will never visit again and will tell everyone I know, not to visit.

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Very good food, outstanding customer service from greeter to staff clearing table, food...absolutely delicious!!! Very good atmosphere. Will return again for lunch.

Visited a year ago

Close to the Wharf, Short walk from the Santa Barbara Hotel. Food was fantastic. If you're looking for an espresso martini, try the Drunken Pigeon😉

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Nice place to enjoy the sunset over dinner.

Visited a year ago

This was just a 15 minute walk from our hotel. It's directly across the street from the pier. I had the salmon. It was AMAZING. The food, the drinks, and the service were all perfection. I brought my boss and two clients here for dinner, and all left with very good things to say about our experience. Thank you, Bluewater Grill!

Visited a year ago

This place never disappoints. The food and service is always great. Tonight I had the Lemon Pepper Mahi Mahi and it was awesome.

Visited a year ago

Staff and service were excellent! Food was super delicious! Creme brulee was sooo good!!

Visited a year ago

We hit this restaurant every time we are in Santa Barbara. Is it because the terrace is magical? Maybe. Was it because the fresh swordfish we had the first time was divine? Possibly.

Whatever the reason, we always have had a great experience here.

Visited a year ago

Great dinner at Bluewater Grill on the outdoor balcony. Seafood pasta and oysters on the half shell were excellent! Beautiful view of the harbor. Highly recommended!

Visited a year ago

great staff!

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Located conveniently next to the pier, blue water grill has a nice oceanfront and street view. The staff are friendly and our server checked on us often to make sure we have what we want. The menu has a large number of seafood, which was great because we love seafood. Kids meals are complimented with fresh fruits and vegetables. Fried items are lightly covered in panko which makes them tasty but not oily. We tried the key lime pie for dessert and it was delicious. Highly recommended !

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Delicious meal on their terrace on a bright sunny winter’s day.
The server was attentive.
The fish & chips were really fish & fries & they had malt vinegar!

Visited a year ago

Everything was great, and There were Respectful servers. All the food was cooked excellently and tasted excellent, looks and comfort were top edge, and the atmosphere was calm and relaxing. Recommend if you are in Santa Barbra.

Visited a year ago

Gabe was our waiter and was exceptionally kind from walking in the door to great food suggestions, allowed us to taste wine, brought heater an blankets.
Food was amazing and of course love the view🥰

Visited a year ago

The Go To for any celebratory meal! Or just a casual meal. Many a birthdays spent here!
Shooters, trout, stick to the fish dish!

Visited a year ago

I must say I came here to just get away in the rain. However, with everything pretty much closed, you would think that the service would have been better. Our food was COLD,and put inside an oven to warm up. I truly don't know if it is because we're African Americans, and they thought we didn't want to pay. Because, we were asked if we would like a refund. WOW!!! No, just treat everyone the damn same. Because I saw how they looked at us, not knowing we just got off the Amtrak, out here in the storm on a fun adventure trip just for fun. But, when people like this judge you, it's SAD. I didn't show pictures of our meal because it was cold served to us. Our waitress, Morgan, was very friendly, but unfortunately, the service was poor.

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Popped in here for a quick glass of wine over looking the sea on the roof terrace. Good spot!

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Really good taste food and architecture
Clean your vents and window near the center bar area tho

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Great little seafood restaurant

Visited a year ago

Awesome

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Our server was super helpful as this was our first visit. His recommendations were delicious.

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

What’s not to love about this place! The location is perfect with a great view of the beach. Food and service were fantastic. I had mahi mahi, guests had ahi tuna and steamed mussels. Everyone left filled and happy!

Visited a year ago

octopus is not very tasty, I don’t recommend it

Visited a year ago

I’m giving this restaurant 2 stars because the food is good, however I have never received worst service anywhere. Starting with the hostess who made us wait 15 mins even though we had a reservation, when my husband approached her to ask when was our table going to be ready she gave us an attitude and said: we can’t guarantee the patio. We then told her that when we booked the table we specify the patio and it was never a problem.

We finally sat down after 25 mins of waiting and then the server came and it was just terrible. We didn’t get our drinks for another 20 mins, we ordered a bottle of wine that arrived when we were done with the food and we told her that we didn’t want it anymore and she just turned around, didn’t apologize or tried to make it up for us.

It’s such a shame because the food was good and the place is nice but they make you feel that are making you a favor. For sure we will not come back, and you should train your team on apologizing when they make mistakes.

Visited a year ago

We went for end of the year dinner.
They offer me an appetizer and two beverages to compensate the change of my reservation but they never gave me this.
Service was really awful. I had to ask for more water more bread.
They served our meal really fast and we couldn’t enjoy our end year dinner or enjoy the moment.

Blue water grill 👎🏾

Visited a year ago

Great location and ambience but food was meh. Shrimp cocktail wasnt chilled enough and didnt taste fresh. Filet was chewy. Scalloped potatoes were good though. Overall not worth the $88 I spent.

Visited a year ago

The host staff was very kind and let us know a to-go order would be faster at that particular time than waiting for a table for 6 adults and a toddler. They took extra care when determining if a menu item had an allergen in it. My husband and I sat at the bar and had a cocktail while 7 entrees were prepared in a timely fashion. They had good communication between staff, which stood out when one host went for break and the second host seamlessly took over. The orders were perfect (not a detail missed) and very, very tasty. Not only were the adults pleased, but the toddler ate every bite of their kids meal. We called it the magic chicken 😄. Would definitely recommend and I look forward to dining in at a future date.

Visited a year ago

Très bien , personnel aimable et serviable
Plats copieux et savoureux dans une ambiance chaleureuse
Très bonne adresse

Visited a year ago

We decided to try a new place on this trip instead of one of our regular spots. We were graving fish & chips and beach vibes, and this place delivered both. We split Caesar and order of fish & and chips, which were perfect portions. Food was straightforward and good. The service was great. Server initiated having kitchen split orders without an additional cost - yep, that is a thing. We got a seat by the window. The beer and wine list offered a lot of local offerings.
We'll add this spot to our list when in SB for an easy casual bite.

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

A+ on vibes, staff & food/drinks!
Gabe was great & the upstairs patio was gorgeous. The manager gave us some oysters and they were incredible! The chowder was amazing, had it two times!

Visited a year ago

¡Super vistas desde la ventana del restaurante! ¡Todo está muy delicioso! personal agradable, buen aparcamiento!

Visited a year ago

Good location. I liked second floor outdoor, it has pier view. Also the indoor interior very good. Friendly and fast stuff. The waiter went to confirm there is table for us upstairs, for us not to bother going up and down just in case, and while we were waiting for this waiter another waiter came and asked if we need any assistance. Which was very nice.
Food was delicious. Paella reminded me of time in Barcelona, very good quality.

Visited a year ago

We dined here tonight for our thanksgiving dinner with our family. I was stunned at the horrible service!!
Out server was MIA after our entrees were served. We were seated at the front by the hostess desk and had to ask 3 times for our server to come to our table. Empty glasses for 15+ minutes and when she returned, acted like we were a problem. I have never left below 25% for a server until tonight. I contemplated leaving any tip but had to acknowledge basic service.

Visited a year ago

Really nice restaurant, relaxing environment good food and amazing drinks!

Visited a year ago

Love the outdoor patio and the staff are great.

Visited a year ago

Amazing service. View tremendous. Food perfect.

Visited a year ago

Very satisfied had Salmon Sandwich with Garlic Fries do yummy and a lot and I had 2 Mai Thais so good delicious

Waiter very friendly the only thing I wanna complain about that bathrooms are very dirty and coffee machine broken so no Espresso

Visited a year ago

This is a great place to have a delicious seafood meal in a nicely designed restaurant with awesome and friendly service. We had 4 dishes and they were all delicious. Surprisingly even the chicken was cooked to perfection and we enjoyed it very much. The place is right on the waterfront and makes for a pleasant experience.

Visited a year ago

Super long wait for everything including drinks even though the place was basically empty on the first floor

Visited a year ago

I am not traveling in the US very often. Had been in Santa Barbara a few decades ago and had the time and opportunity to kind of revisit places.

I found the restaurant through a search for a seafood restaurant close to the SB marina. Booked a table. Only after the booking I read all those not-so-positive reviews...

I went anyways. And I was really positively surprised! OK, lighting is a bit harsh, music is a bit loud...

The service was very attentive and competent. I ordered a Margarita, received it within a few minutes, and it was a good one. The bread and butter were good. Warm crispy bread, good but not outstanding butter.

Ordered 6 oysters, asked for the options, got a competent answer. The oysters that I received were fresh and very tasty. You won't get other/better ones at Michelin star restaurants.

The leaves in the green side salad that I ordered looked a bit dated, but still alright. Just not crispy fresh.

The local swordfish main course was good. The fish was perfectly cooked and juicy, absolutely not overcooked. The accompaniments were a bit too complex and too aromatic for a relatively 'neutral' fish. In Europe, one would probably left out the guacamole or the corn or the olives in the rice.

But altogether the was a very good meal!

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Nice setting but if I'm honest, disappointing food. I ordered the trout and it was a deep fried, flavourless bit of fish.
Shame as the restaurant was in a prome location. Downstairs appeared to he heaven for anyone after deep fried everything.

Visited a year ago

We ate at the upstairs bar counter last Saturday night because we were told that the only available booth there was reserved. Our dinner extended for more than an hour and the bar was almost empty when we left, including the supposedly "reserved" booth.
Dissapointed is an understatement....

Visited a year ago

It was my first time in SB and I picked Bluewater grill based on good reviews and location. I was craving for fresh seafood after all day at the beach. Restaurant was half empty but we couldn't sit at the patio since it was reserved only. We had 4 course meals and it was terrible. Ordered grilled shrimp with mushrooms and it was basically 4 burned shimp with oil soaked mushrooms. Second was grilled octopus and it smelled spoiled. Lastly we had seafood paella and the mussels and clams tasted also bad. Best one was the clam chowder. We will not be back. Such a disappointment since there is plenty seafood restaurants around.

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

Bluewater Grill in Santa Barbara is a must-visit for any seafood lover. With its stunning waterfront views and delicious menu, it's no wonder that this restaurant is so popular.

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Bluewater Grill, and I was absolutely blown away by the sea scallops. They were perfectly cooked, seared to perfection on the outside and juicy and tender on the inside. The scallops were served on a bed of creamy risotto with a light lemon sauce, and it was all absolutely delicious.

The scallops were so fresh and flavorful, and the risotto was perfectly cooked and seasoned. The lemon sauce added a touch of brightness and acidity, and it all paired together beautifully.

I also had the opportunity to try a few other dishes from the menu, and they were all excellent. The calamari fritti was light and crispy, the crab cakes were packed with crab flavor, and the lobster roll was piled high with fresh lobster meat.

But the sea scallops were definitely the highlight of my meal. They were simply outstanding.

In addition to the delicious food, Bluewater Grill also has a great wine list and a friendly and attentive staff. The restaurant is also beautifully decorated, with a nautical theme and stunning views of the Santa Barbara harbor.

Overall, I had an outstanding dining experience at Bluewater Grill. The sea scallops were the best I've ever had, and the other dishes I tried were also excellent. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a delicious seafood meal in a beautiful setting.

Here are a few additional things that made my dining experience at Bluewater Grill so outstanding:

The service was impeccable. Our server was knowledgeable about the menu and wine list, and he made sure that we had everything we needed throughout our meal. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. The restaurant was full, but it didn't feel crowded or noisy. The prices were reasonable, especially considering the quality of the food.

I highly recommend Bluewater Grill to anyone looking for a delicious and memorable seafood dining experience.

Visited a year ago

Mahi mahi was really good the scalloped potatoes are delicious. Wasn't impressed with the drinks. We ordered drinks and they came out right before we got our food. Not a lot of non-shell fish options.

Visited a year ago

Visited a year ago

You're paying for the ocean view... if you get the ocean view. It's not as good as it used to be. Fish tasted like it was frozen, server must have been having a bad day... idk it used to be good but not so much anymore

Visited 2 years ago

Visited 2 years ago

I called from across the street to ask if they had any vegan options on their menu, the woman said yes. The waiter says no, everything is already prepped with dairy etc. So the only thing is a side of sourdough bread & a bowl of lettuce. The view is nice.

Visited 2 years ago

1. Arroganter, unflexibeler Service.
2. Informationen im Internet entsprechen nicht den Gegebenheiten vor Ort.
3. Kundenorientierte ist aufgesetzt und nicht authentisch.

Visited 2 years ago

Choosing a beachfront restaurant for dinner is always a wise decision, and this place didn't disappoint. Its prime location offers a breathtaking view from the terrace. We were fortunate enough to snag an outdoor table with a picturesque of the wharf in the background. The service was exceptional, courtesy of the wonderfully friendly staff. Our drinks and meals arrived promptly, and the ambiance was just perfect, complemented by the friendly vibe of fellow diners. I wholeheartedly recommend this gem, but be sure to get a res in advance.

Visited 2 years ago

Visited 2 years ago

We sat down, and the wall was infested with ants. We had to inform someone to be moved.

Visited 2 years ago

Great clam chowder, made without pig meat / bacon. Delicious. Restaurants that put bacon in it do that for a cheap seasoning. You don't put clams on your pork chops.
The rest of the food was ok. The view from upstairs overlooking the ocean is a real plus

Visited 2 years ago

Good food

Visited 2 years ago

Visited 2 years ago

Visited 2 years ago

Visited 2 years ago

Great location and good menu.

Visited 2 years ago

My first the there the view was beautiful, food was great and service was pretty awesome.

Visited 2 years ago

Muy bonita vista

Visited 2 years ago

Visited 2 years ago

Buena atención y muy buena comida

Visited 2 years ago

Visited 2 years ago