Santa Barbara shellfish company menu overview
Nestled on the iconic Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company offers a vibrant menu featuring fresh, seasonal seafood served in a laid-back waterfront atmosphere. This menu carefully balances classic coastal flavors with creative dishes that showcase the ocean's bounty, making it a must-visit destination for seafood lovers, foodies, and travelers seeking an authentic California dining experience.
Starters to ignite your appetite
Begin your meal with a selection of enticing starters that celebrate the freshness of the sea and garden produce alike. The New England Style Clam Chowder is a creamy, comforting bowl brimming with clams, potatoes, onions, celery, cream, and bacon — a timeless classic that warms the soul. For a seasonal twist, try the Bisque featuring fresh seafood, cream, herbs, and vegetables, perfect for those who appreciate delicate, rich flavors.
If you're craving something hearty, the Bread Bowl of Soup offers the soup of the day served in a freshly baked sourdough bread bowl, combining warmth and texture in every bite. Salads such as the Side Caesar with crisp romaine, parmesan, croutons, and classic dressing, or the Side Garden Salad with mixed greens and fresh vegetables provide refreshing options to balance the meal.
- Shrimp Louie – Succulent shrimp atop mixed greens with avocado, tomato, hard-boiled egg, croutons, and thousand island dressing.
- Dungeness Crab Louie – Sweet Dungeness crab meat served with crisp greens, avocado, tomato, egg, and classic dressing for a refreshing coastal taste.
- Coconut Shrimp – Crispy shrimp coated in coconut, paired with tangy coleslaw and crispy onion rings for a tropical flair.
Main courses showcasing seafood excellence
The mains at Santa Barbara Shellfish Company celebrate the ocean's best offerings with generous portions and flavors that highlight freshness rather than heavy seasoning. The signature Cioppino is a standout dish, served in a bread bowl and loaded with crab legs, shrimp, scallops, clams, and mussels in a savory cioppino sauce, topped with parmesan for an indulgent finish.
For crab lovers, options include the Steamed Local Crab and Alaskan King Crab, both served with crisp coleslaw and crispy onion rings, offering a delightful contrast of textures. The Crab Cakes provide a flavorful bite with a mix of crab meat, herbs, spices, and a chipotle aioli sauce, accompanied by classic sides.
- Lobster Pasta – Tender lobster bathed in a buttery garlic white wine sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, served over linguini.
- Shrimp and Scallops Pasta – Fresh shrimp and perfectly cooked scallops in a garlic butter white wine sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and linguini.
- Clam Linguini Pasta – Plump clams in a rich cream sauce combined with garlic butter over linguini, bringing a luxurious coastal flavor.
Other hearty options include the Crab Sandwich and Calamari Sandwich, both served with coleslaw and onion rings, perfect for a satisfying lunch by the water. The Fried Calamari, Oysters, Shrimp and Scallops platter provides a crispy and indulgent variety for those who enjoy fried seafood favorites.
Sweet endings and refreshing beverages
Finish your meal with delightful desserts and enjoy a selection of drinks to complement your dining experience. While the menu highlights seasonal seafood, the restaurant also proudly serves coffee, cocktails, wine, and beer to suit all palates. The casual waterfront setting with outdoor patio and fire pit creates an inviting ambiance for any time of day — whether brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Special features and dining experience
Located at 230 Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, this restaurant combines fresh seafood with stunning ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy outdoor seating where pups are welcome, and take advantage of nearby parking options. The friendly and efficient staff ensure quick service, making it easy to savor the fresh local flavors without the wait.
