About
Perched in the Santa Barbara Harbor is a family-owned restaurant that has been dishing out quality seafood and good times since 1986. By the Bennett family's account, Brophy Bros. is not a mecca for gourmet seafood. This doesn't mean the food isn't good; it is. But the heart and soul of the eatery is its down-home vibe, where bartenders remember your name and your go-to drink.
With moored boats and ships outside its windows, Brophy Bros. offers a unique ambiance. It is a gathering place for mariners needing a tasty meal mingling with locals and vacationers. They have one thing in common: a love for fresh seafood, chill times, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Brophy Bros. has a front-row seat at the harbor to select seafood from the local fishermen. This adds to the allure of dining at Brophy Bros., with its sea-to-table philosophy.
The restaurant's clam chowder demonstrates its reach beyond the Central Coast. You can grab a quart at the restaurant and take it home to warm up and eat.
The eatery's central location makes it the perfect dining spot after an excursion to the Channel Islands with a charter at Santa Barbara Landing. With its rich history, harbor setting, and superb customer service, dining at Brophy Bros. is a must on any Santa Barbara getaway.
Vibe
With the harbor as a backdrop, you know you're in for a charming dining experience. The two-story restaurant has a rustic look that blends in with the pier, boats, and water. The upper balcony offers al fresco dining, while the lower section includes a patio, too.
The interior is quintessential California coast decor, with nautical pictures dotting the walls and vintage maritime lanterns. The wrap-around windows provide picturesque views of the harbor, adding to the charm of dining on the water.
The vintage wood bar at Brophy Bros. has seen its share of guests since 1986 but remains a go-to for solo diners or a cold brew after shopping at The Funk Zone. Small wood tables dot the floor to cater to couples or groups out for a fun-filled evening.
Whether enjoying lunch with friends or a romantic dinner at sunset, Brophy Bros. provides the perfect atmosphere on your Santa Barbara vacation.
Brophy Bros.: Menu & Drinks
The menu at Brophy Bros. focuses on seafood, but other options exist to satisfy the pickiest eater.
A must-try is the clam chowder, an iconic favorite. Renowned for its rich, creamy texture, potatoes, and generous portions of tender clams, the chowder is the ultimate coastal comfort food.
The Seafood Pasta will appeal to those with a hearty appetite. The dish contains fresh shrimp and sea scallops sautéed with garlic, lemon, and white wine. Tomato and basil are added before being served over linguini and topped with Parmesan cheese.
If seafood isn't your thing, consider the Brophy Burger! This juicy handheld is cooked to your liking and comes with onion, lettuce, tomato, and cheddar cheese. Another healthy pick is the Chopped Blackened Chicken with roasted corn, jicama, bell pepper, bacon, and blue cheese tossed in the house dressing.
When you're ready to toast your marine life spottings with Condor Express Whale Watching, the Perfect Margarita is a delight. It features El Jimador Blanco tequila, agave nectar, and fresh lime.
The picturesque views, vibrant atmosphere, and tasty food make Brophy Bros. a must on any Santa Barbara vacation.
Local Tips
- Arrive early to avoid long wait times during peak hours.
- Order pick-up for a picnic or to take back to your Casago rental.
- The kid's menu makes Brophy Bros. family-friendly.
- Dine at lunch for a less crowded experience.
- Consider sharing dishes to taste a variety of offerings without breaking the bank.