Santa Maria, California: Shaw’s Steakhouse & Tavern; restaurant review

Shaw’s Steakhouse & Tavern 

714 South Broadway, Santa Maria.  L &D M-Sat.

entrance to Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California

Shaw’s steakhouse is known for its authentic traditional Santa Maria-style barbecue in which the meat is cooked over an open fire of slow-burning native red oak wood that imparts an aromatic smoky-sweet flavor to the meat. Most people come here for a barbecued steak with all the trimmings, but Shaw’s also offers other menu options including fish items and hamburgers. And a well-priced short wine list highlights local wines by the glass and bottle.

fire pit at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California

dining room at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California

bar at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California

The trimmings include a relish tray starter with black olives and crisp celery and carrots, a green salad, garlic bread, a baked potato with two big scoops of butter (or housemade soup), and salsa. Additionally, a side is included of unusual pinquito beans that are grown only on the central coast of California. These beans are about half the size of a regular pink bean and have plenty of flavor. I feasted on a top sirloin that was cooked to my medium specification, and I have enjoyed equivalent deliciousness only in Texas at the Big Texan Steak Ranch. I was hungry but still surprised I was able to eat so much of my meal. If I had been going right home after, I would have loved to have the leftovers the next day.

relish tray at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California

top sirloin plate at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California

pinquito beans at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California

This casual old-school steak house is equipped with comfy booths and large round tables. A full bar operates in a separate room. And the staff is pleasant and friendly. Get here between 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. for the Early Bird Special.

lunch menu at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California

dinner menu at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California

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images ©2024 Carole Terwilliger Meyers