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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Monica

American food and beer

A classic American meal paired with a cold beer that feels like a neighborhood staple rather than a tourist trap.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated May 2026
01
The Curious Palate image 1
The Curious Palate image 2
The Curious Palate image 3
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New American restaurant

Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

Hamburgers come cooked to order with homemade buns and ketchup. Roasted brussel sprouts, nachos, squash soup, and salads add variety, while chicken wings and fries offer unique flavors.

Varied selection of mostly-local craft beer pairs well with homemade food made from local produce. Burgers and local beers stand out as very good choices.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and delicious."

"This Local Spot's fresh, from-scratch cooking uses local ingredients."

"The American food here, especially the fries, is fantastic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

02
The Cloverfield image 1
American restaurant

Large outdoor patio offers an airy, dog-friendly space with heaters and warm fires for chilly nights. Smooth jazz music plays, creating a peaceful and warm vibe that suits groups and families. A special bar room in the back hosts celebrations, adding to the cozy atmosphere.

Fried chicken sandwich stands out with strong competition in LA. The cheeseburger features tangy cheddar and spicy thousand island dressing. Nachos rank as exceptional, while chicken pot pie is solid. Mac and cheese comes off as just okay.

Outdoor beer garden offers a nice spot to enjoy cold beer. The selection is good with great drinks and solid service.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating has a great vibe and atmosphere."

"The outdoor beer garden is a lovely, relaxing spot."

"You have to try the nachos; they're the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available on the premises.

2

Reservations are required for outdoor seating.

3

Happy hour, called social hour, offers special deals.

03
Andrew's Cheese Shop image 1

Space feels stark with mostly white surfaces and minimal staff diversity, creating a clean but somewhat clinical atmosphere. Selection focuses on artisan cheeses, American-made products, and gourmet pairings like wine and olive oil, attracting those seeking expert recommendations. Prices run at a premium, reflecting the curated specialty nature of the shop.

Events focus on grilled cheese and beer, offering tasty pairings. The reuben sandwich is available but less notable compared to other spots.

Events focus on pairing beer and grilled cheese, offering a tasty combination. The selection includes varied beers alongside cheeses and cured meats, enhancing the tasting experience.

People are saying

"Andrew's recommendations for wine and cheese were amazing."

"The grilled cheese and beer nights here are a fun experience."

"I found the grilled cheese and beer at the event to be very tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like grilled cheese and beer nights.

2

The cheese of the month club offers curated selections with detailed information.

3

Expect a premium price for all products at this specialty shop.

04
The Backyard image 1
Cocktail bar

Cozy outdoor seating blends with live acoustic music to create a relaxing garden vibe. The atmosphere stays quiet and chill, attracting those seeking a peaceful spot away from tourist crowds. A hidden gem with its own bar and kitchen offers a laid-back, dog-friendly experience.

Steak nachos stand out as a very tasty dish. The menu also features a Wagyu Dog and a Southwest Nachos with Guacamole. The hamburger is flavorful and well-prepared.

Happy hour features $5 beers. The beer list includes Angel City IPA and a secret drink menu with unique options.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing and flavorful."

"The American Food here is delicious, especially the steak nachos."

"They offered a great beer selection and super cocktails."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 beers on Sundays.

2

The Backyard does not take reservations.

3

Parking is free for guests.

05
Chez Jay image 1
Steak house

Small dining room with romantic booths and a bar in the same space creates a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Outdoor patio called The Backyard offers live music and a chill vibe. Interior blends old school dive bar charm with a unique, cozy mood.

Juicy chicken sandwich comes with a refreshing apple coleslaw. The hamburger stands out as very good. Drinks and crab cakes are also notable.

Draft beer comes super tasty and perfectly cold. Prices run on the higher side, with a beer adding to a meal that can reach around $85 to $100 per person.

People are saying

"This bar feels like it hasn't aged a day since the sixties."

"The draft beer here is super tasty and perfectly cold."

"This American Food chicken sandwich with apple coleslaw is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the small size of the restaurant.

2

Parking is limited, but there is free parking next to the building.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

06
Pier Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Retro style and ocean views create a unique Californian vibe with plenty of outdoor seating on the terrace. The atmosphere is lively and sometimes noisy, with loud order announcements and occasional chaos. Vintage flair and great music add to the energetic, casual dining experience.

Cheese bacon hot dog stands out as a surprising highlight. Hamburgers cost only $6 and come with melted cheese for an indulgent bite. Hot dogs consistently impress with their exceptional flavor.

Cold beers come in cans with no extra cups provided. The Santa Monica IPA pairs well with the Double Pier Burger. The beer selection complements the great burgers served here.

People are saying

"I thought the burger I had was the best I've ever tasted."

"The American food here, especially the burgers, is fresh, juicy, and delicious."

"I enjoyed their cold beer."

Good to know

1

Pier Burger offers affordable prices for a quick bite on the pier.

2

The restaurant is family-friendly and suitable for casual dining.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during peak hours.

07
The Albright image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers huge outdoor deck with scenic views and patio seating where dogs are welcome. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with Bob Marley music and heaters keeping the space warm. Counter service uses buzzers for orders, creating a casual, relaxed vibe.

Lobster rolls stand out with a hot, chunky style that rivals New England versions. The clam chowder comes in a hearty bread bowl with a generous portion and rich flavor.

Cold draft beer pairs well with grilled oysters and beer battered fish and chips. Beer fridges near the register make grabbing a beverage in hand easy while waiting for food.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"You have to try the clam chowder; it's outstanding."

"I loved the local draft beer selection here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

2

Expect long lines around noon; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices are effectively 10% higher due to a hidden fee.

08
Jameson’s Pub image 1

Irish pub with authentic decor and many TVs creates a lively sports bar atmosphere. Live music and karaoke add to the energetic vibe, while indoor and outdoor spaces offer a beachside feel without sand. The crowd varies from chill on weekdays to busy and spirited on weekend nights.

All-you-can-eat prime rib night offers a hearty, flavorful meal with just the right kind of indulgence. Buffalo wings and Irish nachos add tasty variety, with the nachos often finishing before the main course.

Happy hour offers 2-for-1 beer, making it a good deal. The beer selection includes bottles and taps, plus layered beer cocktails. The vibe pairs well with hearty dishes like Shepherd's Pie.

People are saying

"It's a lively bar with a fun, energetic atmosphere."

"It's a great place for beer and watching sports."

"The American food here, especially the prime rib special, is pure midweek comfort."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 7pm with 2-for-1 drink specials.

2

A cover charge applies after 10 PM on Saturday nights.

3

The pub can get very crowded during football season.

09
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere that energizes the evening. Outdoor seating features fire pits enhancing the vibe. Music volume often challenges conversation but adds to the lively environment.

Steak and eggs stands out as a very delicious dish here. Buffalo wings, cheeseburgers with fries, crostini, and oysters also feature as notable American food options.

Local craft beers appear during happy hour with a limited selection overall. Options include a Guava Picante and a lemon drop cocktail alongside standard beer choices.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and delicious."

"You have to try the steak and eggs; it's delicious."

"They offered local craft beers during happy hour."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

10
Tavern on Main SM image 1

Bar and grill offers spacious indoor and outdoor areas with a full bar and numerous big screens showing sports. Atmosphere ranges from relaxing and welcoming to lively during major games, with music often loud. Features include a pool table, power outlets, and a genuine neighborhood vibe.

Breakfast includes a burritos breakfast bowl and eggs Benedict with spare ribs. Salads like the chopped Cobb are filling and tasty. Chicken wings are available but just okay.

Offers a burger and any beer on draft for $9 on certain days. Draft beer selection is good and pairs well with burgers and other dishes. A game lets you guess the suit under a PBR cap to win the beer free.

People are saying

"This bar is the best place to watch the Detroit Lions games."

"You can get a burger and a beer for just $9."

"The American Food here is served by really nice staff."

Good to know

1

No one under the age of 21 is allowed in the restaurant or on the terrace.

2

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday between 9 and 11 pm with 2-for-1 deals.

3

Wings are a special on Wednesdays, with a 50 cent deal.

11
Perry's Café & Beach Rentals - Santa Monica 2400 image 1

Outdoor seating on sand with ocean views and umbrella-covered tables creates a relaxed, beachside atmosphere. Comfortable beach chairs and live music on select days add to the laid-back vibe. The setting features sunset views and casual dining right by the water.

Cheeseburgers stand out with strong recommendations. Hot dogs come with options like onions and peppers for extra flavor. Other items include grilled cheese, margherita pizza, tacos, and a crispy chicken sandwich.

Cold beers come in cans with a good selection. Enjoy them on the beach or during happy hour alongside pizza or shrimp salad.

People are saying

"I loved watching everything happening on the beach from the cafe."

"I enjoyed a cold beer while watching the sunset."

"I highly recommend the cheeseburger; it's the best American food ever."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm to 7pm on weekdays.

2

Bikes and beach umbrellas can be rented for $8 per hour.

3

The café closes just before sunset, limiting evening visits.

12
Bludso's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Brick walls and concrete floors frame a space filled with multiple TVs showing sports and a full bar serving distinctive cocktails. The atmosphere is friendly and casual with an easygoing vibe despite occasional loudness from busy take-out orders. The place draws a crowd that appreciates authentic barbecue and lively energy.

Brisket stands out with its tender, juicy texture and perfectly balanced fat cap. Wings come with a peach-flavored dry rub, and sides include Mac and cheese and Texas caviar.

An impressive variety of beers appears on tap, including options like red ale and canned Lagunitas. Beers come served in chilled pint glasses, contrasting with iced tea served in plastic cups.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is so juicy and tender."

"The cornbread was amazing, sweet without being overly sweet."

"The red ale here was amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $5, but the lot is small and spaces are compact.

2

Dinner plates are large enough to share, but they are expensive.

3

A pound of rib tips costs $38, which is on the higher side.

13
The Whaler Santa Monica image 1

Oceanfront setting offers unmatched beach views and a lively atmosphere with loud music and a DJ at night. The space includes a game room nook and TVs showing sports, attracting groups who enjoy social and energetic vibes. Outdoor seating on terraces enhances the experience with sunset views and a bar-focused environment.

Western Clam Chowder stands out with a rich and delicious flavor. The menu features fish and chips, yellow fin tuna nachos with excellent homemade guacamole, and a shrimp and lobster roll served with small pull-apart rolls for sliders.

About 15 different beer taps offer a solid variety. The Whaler Lager stands out and comes by the pitcher. Draft beers stay cold and refreshing, great for watching the game.

People are saying

"The live sports here are great, with friendly and attentive service."

"The clam chowder and fish and chips are delicious."

"I enjoyed the cold draft beers."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Karaoke night, called terry-oke, happens every Monday at 9pm.

3

Parking is available nearby through SpotHero for convenience.

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