Derf’s

Reviews

• Emily W.

  star star star star star 23 May 2026

  Great cafe style place with history and character that's hard to find these days. The staff is always extremely friendly and happy and makes us and our dog always feel great. The food is consistent and delicious. I always go for the tuna melt and my fiancé and Dad say the steer burger can't be beat! We come here at least once a month, it's our top choice for a nice, outdoor lunch with tons of people watching at the intersection. You'd be crazy not to give it a try!

• Mark F.

  star star star_border star_border star_border 11 May 2026

  Derf's, as devided as the nation. You'll have to just for yourself.
  
  I find my friends, and potentially this town, is split on their relations with Derf's. The fanatics love the quirky little dive on the corner wile others find there's nothing more to this place but paint on the walls. Me? I don't see why people come here unless it's to spend time with their fanatical friends. And maybe that's reason enough.
  
  The Location
  Easy for an Uber or to walk up but very tough to park. Little lot behind the building and littler options for street parking. Face it, you're probably going to be having multiple, $6.50, pint filled mimosas, so it's better if you don't drive.
  
  The Charm
  There's a patio. We get it. It's not a big patio, the view is of an enter section, the chairs are not comfortable and tables wobble on the old, widener planks. The bar has a TV so there's that. The inside dining room feels like a lake side lodge built in the 50s. Lots of windows, bad carpet, slanting floor and a big TV on a table. I will say the bathroom has always been clean. Points for that.
  
  The Food
  I usually try the specials and am usually disappointed. The idea is sound but the education not to my speed with too much salt and not much more in the taste category. The $7 Breakfast Sandwich is usually my Go To and is consistent. I like the smaller size. It will not fill you up but is perfect for the price. A good base for all those mimosas, bloody beers or John Dalys.
  
  The Service
  What service? This is the area were I don't understand why people come here. I'm told by my friends like quirky charm of the staff. How's its ok you don't get a menu for 20 minutes because you should already know what you want to eat. Beside, you have a pint of mimosa in front of you so what do you care? Well, I care. I'd like to know the silverware, napkins and menu arrive shortly after I've arrived. Not the customary deliver with my second mimosa. Seriously. It's been that delayed. The food does come out quickly so I guess it averages out to a normal wait time but it sure does not feel like it.
  
  I highly suggest you try Derf's and judge for yourself (not to be confused with the diner of the same name). It's a Santa Barbara institution that splits the town in half. I will tell you that it's never my chose to go but I do a few times a year to meet up with friends. I know what I'm in for...and that's not much.
  Maybe you'll find the charm and service I can't

• Luz G.

  star star star star star 10 May 2026

  I came during their busy time. Seemed like they were short staffed. The waitress however worked diligently and was organized to get the orders out accordingly. Food was great and service was great for being very busy.

• Richard L.

  star star_border star_border star_border star_border 7 May 2026

  Don't even know what to say other than what the F#*K was that.....how dare you even call that food.... a toddler with a microwave and play dough could make more appetizing food than that...... just don't.... seriously grab a microwave sandwich form 7-11 you'll be a lot less disgusted which is terrifying

• Abbey F.

  star star star star star 6 May 2026

  Derf's is one of those old Santa Barbara standards that everyone loves! I'd been for dinner and happy hour a couple times but not in years.
  
  Today we went for lunch and enjoyed a typical beautiful, breezy Santa Barbara afternoon at the corner of Mission and de la Vina Streets. Derf's has a nice big patio with umbrellas and palm trees for shade.
  
  We enjoyed pint glasses full of mimosas for only $6!!! The menu was extensive and cheap! For such low prices, the food portions are generous and delicious.
  
  We loved the vegetarian eggs Benedict and the BLTCA with fries. Others in our group had burgers and beer. Derf's has something for everyone!!
  
  Our server Bree was a treasure and a delight! She had excellent menu recommendations for us and kept our mimosa glasses full the whole afternoon.