Szechuan Restaurant, nestled at 1994 Cliff Dr in Santa Barbara, CA, is a hidden gem that brings authentic Sichuan flavors to the forefront. Diners consistently praise the restaurant for its delicious and flavorful dishes, highlighting the spicy chili, which is a favorite among many. The lunch specials, which include a robust selection of soups, rice, egg rolls, and cream cheese wontons, are particularly popular for their quick service and hearty portions.
Customers have described the ambiance as colorful yet calm, making it an ideal setting for family gatherings or casual meals with friends. The diverse menu caters not only to traditional Chinese dining experiences but also includes American-style offerings, appealing to a wide array of tastes. Standout dishes, such as the Westlake beef soup and Szechuan boiled fish, shimmer with authentic spices and fresh ingredients. The exceptional service, highlighted by the warmth of the owner and staff, ensures a welcoming experience for both locals and visitors.
With reasonable prices and the option for takeout as well as home delivery, Szechuan Restaurant remains a top recommendation for those seeking the best Chinese cuisine in Santa Barbara.
Amenities and More
Service options
Outdoor seating
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Great tea selection
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Comfort food
Happy-hour drinks
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Parking
Free parking lot
Parking
Photos
Reviews For Szechuan Restaurant
李盈臻
Jun 15,2025
I love to come here for lunch special that comes with a soup, rice, egg roll and cream cheese wonton. The food is flavorful, testy and come out quickly. I love their spicy chili, it’s really authentic. The price is also reasonable and worthy. The service is indeed very professional and conscientious. I would recommend to bring over your family and friends together.
Ruth M.A.
Jun 7,2025
Every time I've ever eaten in or ordered to go, I've been very pleased. Restaurant is clean & spacious despite it's small location. Food is delicious, cooked to order and reasonably priced. They also provide home delivery which is less expensive then using "delivery app" service. I've never hesitated recommending this restaurant to local or out-of-town friends.
陳政熙
May 7,2025
No doubt. The best Chinese food in town. A hidden gem in SB. Very authentic and reasonable price. The service is great and the ingredients are fresh.
Rick North
May 1,2025
The Szechuan Restaurant on the Mesa in Santa Barbara is a real gem! A colorful but calm ambience is a great contrast to the exciting menu. All of the soups are good, but the Westlake beef soup recommended by our waitress Anna was a real stand out, so cozy and warming on a cool night. Susan, the owner is very friendly, and recommended some great dishes. The Chinese scallion flatbread made a perfect appetizer. And Mushu chicken (also available in a vegetarian or pork version) wrapped in thin Chinese "pancakes" and served with plum sauce is delightful. We had the A-Choy vegetable with garlic--crunchy and fresh. My personal favorite was the richly spiced Szechuan boiled fish, with plenty of fresh garlic and chili. The best Chinese food I have had in Santa Barbara!
Macoya T
Apr 4,2025
I’ve been a loyal customer for years. The food is always great and tasty. The price is reasonable and provides takeout and home delivery. They have variety menus, including Chinese and American style which is very impressive because they consider every customer from overseas. My family and I have tried almost everything on the menus, and no disappointments yet. Everything is fresh and delectable. We love their special spicy chili and spice level can be adjusted.The service is superior. The owner and waitress are friendly and exceptional, they take good care of every order and table. A very nice ambiance place for lunch and dinner. Strongly recommended. The best Chinese food in town.
Max Dragon
Mar 26,2025
Largest Chinese food portions of la main I have ever seen delicious
Andrew
Mar 25,2025
Went for lunch and ordered the Dan Dan noodles. The pork was well seasoned and slightly spicy, the noodles were cooked perfectly, and the sauce was infused with szechuan peppercorns which created a gentle "numbing" sensation on the tongue. Would definitely order this dish again.
林安安
Mar 5,2025
I ordered togo five times so far, it’s always hot and fresh. They offer home delivery, it’s fast and pack it professionally. Make sure you ask for the secret menu, there are so many Chinese authentic dishes on it. Trust me, you won’t get disappointed. 非常道地非常好吃.
Reviews For Szechuan Restaurant