Santa Barbara Shellfish Company

I was cautiously optimistic about this place. It’s a very communal kitchen and I was sitting at the bar so I could watch them prepare food. The fryers are not gluten free. I watched the cook staff use the same tongs to pull onion rings out of the fryer, handle some buns for lobster rolls, and then handle the sautéed shrimp for other dishes. I let the waiter know I had a severe gluten allergy but I’m not entirely sure it was honored. Fortunately, I didn’t get sick, but there was significant cross contamination. That being said, they had fantastic raw oysters that I had with lemons.

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Not at all

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— No gluten-free information on the menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Not Much

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Excellent

Other Characteristics

• Good for dinner
• Good for kids
• Good for lunch
• Good for takeout
• Offers outdoor seating

My wife is gluten sensitive and we always come here for their crab specials. Their crab is by far the best and most delicious item on the menu and my wife has never gotten sick. Make sure to tell the waitress of your allergen because it does come with a breaded onion rings and croutons that aren't gluten free