Shaw's Restaurant

Though the food is good at this restaurant I would not recommend trying to reserve a table. My husband and I had 7:00 p.m. reservations for Valentine's Day. We made the reservations over a week ahead of time. When we arrived at the restaurant just before 7:00 we couldn't even get through the door. We were finally able to find out that reservations are not honored. People with 5:30 reservations were still waiting and it would be at least another hour wait if not longer. I asked the hostess about the reservations. In her words, ""Oh, a reservations for us is just something to give us an idea of how many people to expect. It doesn't guarantee you seating."" That would have been nice to know when I made my reservation. I am so angry, I will probably never set foot in that restaurant again!!!! more

Shaw's upholds a long tradition of serving authentic Santa Maria style tri-tip. They do a great job...and it is really fun to watch them work the grill through the big windows. For those who don't know...Santa Maria style tri-tip is a local grilled meat. It is the triangular cut of meat right below the sirloin. The locals marinate it in soy sauce, garlic, salt and pepper. Then, they grill it over oak logs. Yummy! Shaw's is one of the better restaurants in Santa Maria--which means it is about average in ambience and quality compared to a big city place. You can wear your jeans and cowboy boots. The local cattlemen and oil people often come here...along with Ma and Pa. Definately have the tri-tip or steak. If you come here for anything else, you are wasting your time. The meals come with all the fixin's. Soup, salad, olive plate, potato, beans, and salsa are included with every meal. The waitresses are friendly, efficient, and good. Overall, it is a good value. So come enjoy some Santa Maria hospitality and Tri-tip! more

The food at this place is HEAVENLY! When you drive by, the restaurant is really not much to look at. It is an older place and it kind of just blends into the surroundings. You would probably just think it was some dive. However, when you go in, it is very nicely furnished. The staff is friendly and courteous. The food is absolutely amazing. This is a steakhouse and they have wonderful steaks. Their fries are also wonderful. They also have very good seafood. I have been here several times and nothing I have ordered has been bad. They have an indoor oak BBQ and you can watch the people as they BBQ the food (they are in an enclosure, so you aren't covered with smoke or anything). I would highly recommend this restaurant. more

The dry rub baby back ribs are the best anywhere. Earlybird dinners a great value. Steaks always cooked to perfection. Old fashioned steak house with plentiful portions, excellent values, and casual, unpretentious service. Pros: Good value, Excellent food Cons: Parking more