Brophy Brothers, Best Clam Chowder in Santa Barbara!

If you are on vacation in Santa Barbara, California, and are like me, you want to eat where the locals dine. I prefer to stay away from the tourist traps and chain restaurants, don't you? One of my recommendations for a casual dining sea view harbor restaurant in Santa Barbara is Brophy Brothers Clam Bar and Restaurant. You won't feel out of place in your vacation shorts either, and there is no sign of snobbery at this blustering popular restaurant. Brophy Brothers welcomes all customers in their relaxed atmosphere, and they deliver excellent customer service and a pristine harbor view. 

Brophy Brothers have been in business since 1986 and have yet to change their award-winning New England clam chowder recipe. Who can resist a bowl of hearty clam chowder and a bottomless basket of heavenly tasting sourdough bread while enjoying the California coastline. 

Brophy Brothers Award Winning and Best Clam Chowder in Santa Barbara!

​I first visited Brophy Brothers right after they opened and have been a frequent purveyor for over 30 years. One of my favorite things to do while dinning is to watch the harbor activity. You can see all the local fisherman arrive with daily catches, especially in the early evening. If you have to wait for a table, take the time to walk around. Brophy Brothers gives you a buzzer so you have time to explore the unique seafood atmosphere. Pictured, and a video below, are catches of black cod and sea urchins. ​​

Black cod being hauled in from the local fisherman's daily catches loading onto their trucks.

Ron Evon of Sea Stephanie Fish with local sea urchins.

Video showing local fisherman delivering daily catches of sea urchins.

Picture above are Calamari and a Hot Combo - Beer-Boiled Shrimp (8), Steamed Clams (4) Oysters Rock (2), Steamed Mussels (4), Baked Clams (2).

The location for Brophy Brothers is in the working harbor for Santa Barbara, not to be confused with Sterns Warf, right off State Street. If fact, you can see Sterns Warf from Brophy Brothers. Since it is a popular restaurant, there is often a wait for a table. I have learned the best time to go is mid-afternoon to early evening and on weekdays. 

Santa Barbara is a popular cruise ship destination. From the harbor, you can view ships, such as Celebrity Cruise Line, visit beautiful Santa Barbara and the coastline. From the distance, you can also see a sailing class in progress.

​What is also impressive about Brophy Brothers is its commitment to the Sustainable Seafood Program and the Foodscraps Collection Program. If you are in the Ventura Harbor, Brophy Brothers has nearly the same restaurant there to enjoy.