Sam's To Go — Restaurant in Santa Barbara

My father is 75 years old, a three-time stroke survivor with limited use of his hands and legs. Transitioning him from a wheelchair to a car requires level ground—it’s not possible from a curbside. My mother, his full-time caregiver, has atrial fibrillation and struggles to walk more than short distances. Outings like this are rare for them—and incredibly meaningful. So on this particular morning, we carefully planned a visit to The Shop Kitchen, where they could enjoy one of their favorite meals: breakfast.

From the moment we arrived, the staff at The Shop Kitchen were gracious and helpful—guiding us through lines, assisting with shaded seating, and accommodating our family without hesitation. The kindness and professionalism they showed set a beautiful tone for the day.

The only accessible place to safely get my father in and out of the car was a nearby driveway connected to Sam’s restaurant. During drop-off, Sam’s wasn’t open. At pickup, it was. We blocked his parking lot entrance for a few minutes—moving as quickly as possible—while no cars appeared to need access. I was lifting a heavy wheelchair into the trunk while assisting my elderly parents. This is not an easy process. And yet, this is when the owner of Sam’s chose to approach us—not to offer help, not to express concern—but to chastise us.

Rather than respond with humanity, he confronted us with condescension and hostility, remarking, “You didn’t even choose my business,” as if that justified his lack of compassion. My mother apologized to him—not because we were in the wrong, but because she was alarmed at his demeanor toward us.

This behavior was more than rude—it was dehumanizing. We weren’t blocking access to be disrespectful; we were trying to provide our elderly, disabled father a safe way to leave a restaurant. That the owner walked away from this interaction believing he was justified is deeply troubling.

I’ve since read other negative reviews that echo similar experiences—mentioning rudeness and unprofessional behavior. In at least one reply, the owner suggested that “every story has more than one side.” I want to be clear: this is an accurate account, and I am not someone who typically writes reviews. But after what we experienced, and seeing that others have raised similar concerns, I felt compelled to share. The critical reviews about this establishment’s staff behavior are, in my experience, valid.

We are longtime locals, and my son is a loyal customer of Sam’s. But this experience changed that. A great meal can make a place popular. But how a business treats people—especially the vulnerable—defines its character.

In contrast, The Shop Kitchen showed us what it means to be welcoming, respectful, and accommodating to all members of the community, including those with mobility challenges. I’m sharing this in hopes that business owners live up to the same high standards in their behavior as they do in their food.

To treat people with dignity costs nothing. To ignore the humanity in front of you—especially when someone is clearly in need—is something no good burger can...

I love this place. This mom and pop sandwich shop recently celebrated 37 years of business, and their son now expects to have another successful 37 years.

Great selection of food with reasonable prices, and outdoor seating as well as indoor.

Definitely worth a visit!

Update March 2023:

I am hooked, and I mean fanatically hooked on the cheese steak I get here. I have tried to keep it in check, but last time I ordered an entire large ($28) because I had a friend visiting and they became addicted to them the last time they were here.

I order mine more true to a Philly style without lettuce and tomato, but definitely with grilled mushrooms, onions and peppers, mayo, pepperoncini, and both provolone and pepper jack cheeses. I go with wheat over white (don't judge me!) and my day automatically becomes 150% better.

I added mustard last time, andbtuat wasn't a terrible decision, but I will skip that addition next time.

I can't wait for my next fix. I am moving back up to the Bay Area will be sure to stuff my face before I say farewell.

Sam's is at the top of my list of places to lunch when I'm on the East side, and the first place I will lunch at when I visit Santa Barbara...

Been going to this wonderful place since 1988. Classic menu items like ham, roast beef and turkey subs along with speciality items like their chicken club sub. Since I moved out of the area almost 20 years ago my number of visits dropped but still managed to go once or twice every year when I visited the area for work or as a quick stop towards LA to visit family. This time was special since I got to introduce my 18 year old son to the place that many times fed me during my early years in Santa Barbara. My son noticed the Burger items and right away knew what to order. My wife stuck with classic turkey sub with provelon. It's one of her favorites. Glad to see they are ok and doing well during this time of Covid-19. Highly enjoyed my visit and I'm sure you will make the long time favorite list for my...