Santa Barbara Food Connection

Food Connection has quickly become my partner and I's favorite take out spot in town. The staff is friendly, the prices are great, and the food is incredible. The tortillas are hand made to order, and that alone is worth a trip! We both highly recommend Food Connection in every way.

Food Connection has decent food, but the overall experience would be better. The biggest downside is the lack of parking—it’s really frustrating to find a spot nearby. The location itself isn’t very convenient, especially during busy hours. It might be worth it if you’re already in the area, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to eat here.

First Time at Santa Barbara Food Connection My first time in Santa Barbara was an amazing experience, and I was eager to try some local food. Fortunately, I came across Santa Barbara Food Connection, and it did not disappoint. I decided to go with the California burrito, which I believe is a great way to get a taste of all the flavors the place has to offer. They also have a fantastic selection of salads, and my personal favorite was the spicy peanut sauce — a real standout! Don’t miss out on trying the tomatillo salsa (also spicy), which was a highlight for me. The burrito itself was packed with flavor and honestly didn’t even need any extra sauces, but their sauce selection was the cherry on top! The atmosphere was wonderful, and the service was quick and friendly. Highly recommend this spot if you’re in the area!

We were looking for a casual but yummy spot for lunch before hitting the road, this was the right spot! The menu is small and straightforward, if you like to share, you can definitely create an amazing experience here. We had the 3 taco plate, the caesar salad and the kids had the chicken tenders and the burger. Your choice of mix n match meats for the tacos, your choice of tri tip or chicken for the salad, I chose to top the salad with some toppings from their salsa bar and it was perfection. They offer bottled alcoholic drinks and a malt liquor margarita that was so nice over ice and a tajin rim, which they provided free of charge. Seating is limited but we made it work, this corner spot is a little local gem.

Showed up today during business hours and they were closed with no sign or information on their door. Had to check their Instagram to find out there were probably somewhere else for the day with their food truck. I understand they probably don't have enough staff, but it's still weird that they close their restaurant during their normal business hours when they operate their food truck.

We recently visited this restaurant in the former Dave's Dogs Milpas location. The prices were okay and service was friendly. The menu included tacos, burgers, salads, and breakfast. I had a Greek salad with tri tip. Tasty, with plenty of tender steak and fresh, quality ingredients. Bonus: they give you plenty of dressing. Too many places skimp on dressing, a pet peeve of mine. She had steak nachos and they too were fresh and full of yumminess. My only real complaint is the lack of parking. There are a few spaces along the side of the building, otherwise you'll have to hope you can find a nearby spot on the street. Good luck.

Just came in randomly after the zoo and the food and service was way beyond our expectations! Get the quesabirria tacos! That consommé was absolutely phenomenal!

I wish I can add more stars to this review because they earned it! My family came from out of town and we found this spot I had a group of 5 adults 2 kids they took us in made us feel more than welcomed . They made our food with so much love we all enjoyed it so much we will be making more stops when in Santa Barbara thank you so much for this amazing food! Keep up the good work🫶🏻

For the 3 years coming here... the jalapeño burger during burger week always satisfies and never disappoints! Staff is friendly and welcoming with a smile, even the cooks look over to wave, smile, and greet you! It's places like this that put people first... not to mention prepare delicious food! We ordered the burger week special- double stacked burger with cheese, Guac, and chopped jalapeños- I can't remember all the ingredients, but it sure was worth the wait. For the past 3 years of ordering this jalapeño burger, it has never been dry, but so juicy! This is the place to go to for great salsa too! So far my fave is the guacamole salsa. The asada burrito was great too- had to buy one for the road :) Thank you for the friendly service and the tasty burger!

We were headed to the Santa Barbara Bowl for a show and decided to grab something quick at the Santa Barbara Food Connection. While this wasn't our original planned restaurant choice, the SB Food Connection did not disappoint! Love a little local and tasty spot. We were greeted by friendly staff and placed our order at the register. Lots of good Mexican and smash burger choices. We went with a smash burger (double) + fries & carne asada street tacos. Holy smash burger!! Wagyu beef, crispy thin patty on a soft brioche bun. Fantastic seasoning and toppings and one of the best I have had. A little greasy, but so savory and balanced flavor. Fries were steak fries and while not usually my pick, the seasoning helped. Tacos were good, definitely above average. The salsa was the only thing lacking (we tried a couple different ones). Service was friendly and prices were very fair. Would return and highly recommend the smash burger. Indoor and outdoor seating. Mostly street parking. Good local spot!

Affordable and freshly made food. Get Mexican and burgers in one spot. They have weekly specials. I've tried their burgers and loaded fries at their food truck and brick and mortar store already. Solid food. Not much for ambiance, but the workers are really nice and there's inside+outside seating. Typical week deals include Burger Mondays for $11 (includes fries!), $10 Adult Happy meal Tuesdays (a beer & 3 tacos), $8 burrito Wednesdays, $10 torta Tuesdays, and $11 loaded fry Fridays. Follow them on Instagram for updates! Get your comfort food in hefty portions and great prices at this local spot! Just recently visited for their SB burger week, and it's GASSS. Crispy edges for the beef patty, melty cheese, and grilled buttery potato bun - what more could you want from a smash burger?

Food Connection has decent food, but the overall experience would be better. The biggest downside is the lack of parking--it's really frustrating to find a spot nearby. The location itself isn't very convenient, especially during busy hours. It might be worth it if you're already in the area, but I wouldn't go out of my way to eat here.

I had the Joe's Smash Burger tonight and man, was that a good burger! For $11 you get a double smash with cheese, fresh toppings all on a toasty brioche bun. Friendly service and a very clean kitchen. I am impressed and will def return.

SB Food Connection is amazing. We work with them on a corporate level and our employees are always excited to have them. Joe and his employees are so courteous and friendly. Their truck is always clean and the ambiance is very welcoming. I ordered a burrito with asada and al pastor the other day and it was absolutely delicious. The homemade tortillas are incredible and the beans and cheese are mouthwatering as well. Thank you!

Tried this place one day and absolutely loved it! I got loaded fries and it was a 10/10 !

The best fresh tasting Chile Relleno dish. Service is great. Free refill on soda's. Owner Joe & Wife Liz. Plus employees are great people. I Highly Recommend Santa Barbara Food Connection. Also the Best Hamburgers and Queso Birria Tacos.

Ok... I have had their food many times via catering events and so it was so good every time! Yesterday we stopped in for some tacos on a taco crawl, been to most taco/taqueria places around town and wow!!! Tacos were amazing!!!! We had the pastor and smoked tri tip...both were significantly better than the other stops we visited, our service was great and we learned about a ton of week day meals that are the best in town. Oh and their chips are amazing! They do a seasoning (reminds me of taco works chips) and delicious! The only comment for improvement that we had was the ambiance could use a little pick up but if you just want good tacos and service...give this place a try! We will definitely be back :)

I was surprised on how good the food is. They give you a lot of food for the price. Service was nice young man. I can't wait to go back and try other food. I had the nachos and the homemade chips wore perfect.

Soooooooo Santa Barbara burger week has passed... But the memories live with us that have participated Forever..... Here is my review of Santa Barbara Food Connection. Location wise, very easy to find. Openly sitting on milpas the east side of Santa Barbara I went to this restaurant the last day of burger week. And it was quite an experience 5:40 pm I arrived to a early dinner rush.. Lots of people were there to participate in burger week And while crowded wait experiences can be a bummer This was far from it.. This business is family owned and operated Diego is at the front counter operating like an octopus Doing several things at once... He did it all while holding a smile and taking care of people in a speedy fashion.. I totally admire his work ethics.. I met several people while waiting and even while eating. Everyone was eager to try the 10.00 burger and bonus with fries.. No one was upset, the crowd seemed very patient. A total of three people working took care of all the customers needs.. They have outdoor seating.. And indoor too. Unfortunately it was crowded inside.. So it was a race against time to strategically consume my meal... I started with the fries... ( No one likes cold fries and it was a cool night) The fries reminded me of sour cream and onion potato chips.. They had a season on it that definitely kept the taste buds alive standing At attention... fries The burger was next.... I believe it was supposed to be jalapeños in it But I didn't taste anything hot.. And to my dismay... it was dark outside So I didn't get a chance to really see all what I was eating I just followed my nose....... The burger was beefy, Classically styled and built. Reminded me of something mom would do at home In a hungry childhood memory... I asked others around me what they thought Without me injecting my thoughts on them Surprisingly, they said it's "Its a classic cheeseburger " I smiled in agreement and continued to entertain small talk with them... And what's a review without a surprise happening? Jojo the dog was just that.. While I was eating.. I felt eyes on me... I could feel the energy of hunger.. I looked up above my burger bun... Jojo was staring at me... And now you can see him in this pic staring at you

The food was amazing!! Big portions and great taste! Service was very good! Definitely recommend eating here!!

Delicious fresh fast food. I recommend the chile relleno burrito! I first tried this place when it was a food truck at M Special Brewery!

Went for the first time today and ordered the three taco plate and it was delicious, quick, and sooo much meat in each taco. And it came with chips. Definitely be back.

Great burger! Great service! Loved the roasted jalapeno on the burger, it added just the right heat. Will be back to try more menu items for sure.

Ok my friends, if it's Tuesday...come here! Taco Tuesday is alive and well right here at Santa Barbara Food Connection! $2,00 gets you a taco with your choice of meat, Pastor, Tri Tip, Asada, Chicken or Veggies and they hand make the tortillas! What a deal...$6.00 lunch, no kidding!

My hubby and I came here for SB Burrito Week and were floored by the amazing flavors of our birria burrito! The lady who took our order was sweet as pie and provided great hospitality. Parking isn't easy to come by and seats are limited but do not let that stop you from enjoying a mouthwatering burrito!

By far the best nachos I've had! If I had to recommend one thing, it would definitely have to be the nachos with pastor. Santa Barbara Food Connection has incredible staff who are eager to take your order and offer their services. The different salsas they offer are spicy and absolutely delicious! Definitely my favorite food truck by far in the Santa Barbara/Goleta area. Available at M special brewery in Goleta on Thursday and Friday nights is the best go to spot to start your weekend!

The best American food in town. I haven't had any Mexican food here yet, but I bet it is just as good. The reason why it's good? Real quality food, not purchased from some food vendor in town, but personally by the owners. I have been there and something was not in the menu. The sole reason it wasn't? The owner didn't think the product was up to par with their standards, so they didn't purchase the substitute for what they usually purchase, and just took the item off the menu until they were able ti purchase quality product. Great place! I preach it to everyone I can.

I stopped in on the last day of burrito week to try this recently opened Mexican restaurant. I believe it was a successful food truck for about 5-6 years prior to opening this location. I ordered the birria burrito week $7 special. It was busy and I thought that was a great sign and was excited. Unfortunately, I was a little disappointed with the food, perhaps my expectations were high. The birria burrito was just mediocre to me, nothing special. There was a lack of flavor, texture, and presentation. The consommé was also bland. A small bone in the meat nearly broke my tooth but I still gave a fair review knowing that can happen when ordering meats. I've had birria at many other places and sbfc didn't match up. I can't speak for the other food items but my first impression with the birria wasn't what I imagined.

My coworkers and I stopped by here for lunch only to find the truck window closed. However, as we were leaving the owner walked up and offered to cook us something despite being closed for the day. We all ended up ordering a variety of mulitas - it was my first time trying them and they were delicious (a bit like a quesadilla but with small tortillas sandwiching the fillings); the meats and salsas were all on point. Mostly I appreciated the kindness and hospitality we received here!

Wowowowow!!! The food here is so good! 4 of us went for dinner recently and each got something different, all of us were raving to each other about how delicious our meals were. I have had a lot of tacos in town and these are now my favorite! The Carne tacos had the softest tortillas and the best tasting meat with all the right fixings. There salsa was also divine. The price was great and the portions were perfect. I was extremely satisfied and full but still wanted more because they were so good! Hope these guys stick around for a long time!

Top nachos and burger we have tried in SB. So flavorful and very filling too. I came here with my husband on a Friday around 2PM and were served right away. Staff was very friendly and gave us great recommendations. It was very quiet in the restaurant, just us and another family. We found street parking very easily in front of the restaurant.

The food is delicious, and the portions are big. I had the streak nachos and tri tip torta. They were both fresh, full of flavor, and big enough to share. I will definitely go back to try their burgers.

Tried it for the first time at M. special and I haven't stopped thinking about it since! Ordered the carne asada nachos and an el pastor burrito, both of which were fantastic! What really stood out was the way they seasoned their fries. Their pastor was super flavourful and their salsa were the right amount of spicy. I highly recommend trying them out, some of the best Mexican food I've had in SB county!

Best place to go eat I usually get the birria tacos they come with a very delicious consomé, everything is so delicious! Also the Micheladas are really good! The service is great, really good environment, 100% recommended!!!!!

The food is amazing. The service is amazing, and I enjoy being there, the ambiance is nice and I love getting food from there. Their quesadillas are bomb af. I just tried their Pesto Capri sandwich, and it was so good and delicious.

Love their burritos and burgers. Awesome daily specials. Learned about them through burrito week and keep going back.

Came here for the Santa Barbara Independent's Burrito Week, got the birria burrito that was the special for the week here. This is their more permanent location now instead of their food truck. Used to be Dave's Dogs. Great tasting birria burrito, love that they include the consomme. It came with chips and a red, fresh tomato-based salsa. I didn't find a wedge of lime, but it would have been great to go with the consomme. The house-made aguas frescas were very nice too. Service was friendly despite them being super busy during the promotional burrito week. There are a few spaces in the side parking lot, otherwise it's street parking. There are a few tables outside and inside too, but it's a small space. Verdict: Will definitely be coming back to try the other items in their regular menu. Somewhere between Good and Great. 5 stars!

The carne asada torta changed my life. Thank you so much to the staff who worked tonight. I'm so satisfied and happy.

Great food, great service! Burger was solid, tacos great, burrito was super. Give them a try and you will be pleasantly surprised.

This spot is is super fire. I enjoyed one of their $7 Burrito Week options - I hate to sound so extreme after many burritos from a wide array of locations, including plenty of trips to the Burrito Motherland, Mexico, but I think I can truly say SB Food Connection made me the best burrito of my life. Thank you guys, the dipping sauce blew my mind! Couldn't have been a more well-balanced burrito! Truly a masterpiece. Great chips & salsa options as well.

I ordered Birria tacos and received this nasty ass plate .the cheese is burnt the tortillas are soggy and the tacos are suppose to be red. I wasted my time waiting just for this disgusting tacos

Food truck was on East Beach Santa Barbara Cabrillo Pavillion. I legit had the best tacos of my life at this truck. I'm 42 years old and these are the best! I had the biccia red tacos and they were a amazing! Don't miss it! And the lemonade basil cucumber. Delicious!

We hired them to cater our Cinco de Mayo company lunch. Everyone loved the taco meal. They were great, responsive, food was amazing. Will definitely use them again.

I have never been here before but went for Burger Week. So glad I did, the burger was so good. Quality meat and cooked beautifully. Everything on it was fresh and delicious. I am so glad they did burger week which prompted me to try it out. I will definitely be back and recommend to family and friends.

Great food at great prices. The tri tip burrito is super yummy, as is the carne asada. The staff is really nice.

Me encanto este restaurante , lo recomiendo a todos tienen comidas súper deliciosa , precios accesibles y un personal muy amable . Ve a visitarlos , no te vas arrepentir

I did it!!!! Deeeelicious tortas!!!! Asada meat great, bread soft and toasted. Flavorful and worth every dime!!! I finished it before I could take a picture but...I shall return!!!

This food is amazing! We stopped 2 days in a row and ordered different items... Everything we ordered from tacos to the burgers was excellent!! BBQ burger & birria tacos!!!

Had my very first experience there on Saturday ordered some loaded fries and some tacos. The food was amazing had lots of flavor and was a very good portion. The only reason I would not go back is because the cashier. He was young and didn't seem to care about his customers I was waiting for a while before he took my order the cook was more concerned about me then the cashier. To make matters worse when the cashier did come take my order he smelled as if he was drinking. Found that very unprofessional.

Great find. Had the nachos and fries! Great food! Friendly service, highly recommend! :)

Carne Asada Torta, Tacos, and the Fries are the bomb!! SB fine Mexican dining brought to us from an SB native! Thank you Joe!!

They have some of the best Mexican food in the Santa Barbara area. Priced appropriately and consistent quality!

Fabulous food. Big yummy burritos like they are supposed to to be. Savory tacos. Big Cokes in glass. Support this business with your food dollars if you can. One of the best deals in town

I have eaten at Food Connection 3 times. The first couple experiences were great. The food was tasty and left me craving more! But last night I ate the pastor nachos and my boyfriend had the pastor burrito, and unfortunately we are both trying to recover from food poisoning. We both had pleasant experiences the first couple times, but now I don't think I can look at this food truck the same way again.

Delicious! Handmade made from scratch tortillas. My goodness. I cook and am often critical with food- but the chicken, carne asada, and pastor tacos are the best I've had! My man said the burger was the best he's had in a long time. Wait is worth! Definitely order from them. We don't eat from food trucks, but decides to give it a go, and have zero regrets. And to add- the gentleman who was taking the orders wanted to make sure he included utensils in our bag and walked over to where we were sitting and brought us extra. That's above and beyond!

This place is awesome! My boyfriend and I go here all the time and absolutely love it. Authentic, great quality Mexican street food. The portions are fantastic, we usually split the carne fries and can't even finish them because the portions are so filling! The service is awesome, the guys are super kind and generous and really do just the best job. 10000/10 recommend this place !!!!!

This is the first yelp review i have ever made and its because they absolutely deserve a 5-Star 100%!! I've had most of the menu and its all fantastic, but today I had the Red Birria tocos with consome dip and it is out of this world. Best tacos i've ever had and I've had a loooot. Big applause to the chef and his wonderful staff!! See you soon.