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Cool spots with beer in Santa Monica

A cold beer in a space that actually feels like it has a pulse is the only requirement for tonight.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Weary Livers image 1
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Bar combines eclectic spooky decor with a chill, low-energy vibe and friendly atmosphere. Plenty of board games and activities like shuffleboard and darts create a relaxed social setting. Dogs are welcome, adding to the casual, community feel.

Owners like Ashley bring a super cool vibe. The bar feels spacious with a cool aesthetic and bartenders who are laid-back and welcoming.

A great selection of beers on tap offers both unique craft brews and classic favorites. The beer choices suit every palate and pair well with a chill atmosphere.

People are saying

"This bar has the coolest eclectic decor with a relaxed vibe."

"I found the atmosphere and vibes here to be super cool."

"They had a great selection of beers on tap."

Good to know

1

Speed dating events are popular and can get packed quickly.

2

Karaoke happens every Saturday night with a two-drink minimum.

3

Weary Livers hosts a monthly comedy show that starts at 8pm.

02
Library Alehouse image 1
American restaurant

Gastropub offers a library of craft beers with options like Pliny the Elder on tap and Russian River brews. Back patio features green plants and a quiet, comfortable space with dog-friendly seating. Interior feels warm and inviting but can be loud and crowded due to dense seating arrangements.

Cozy, relaxed vibe creates a laid back and classy atmosphere. Friendly setting adds to the overall cool feel.

A large variety of craft beers fills the menu with diverse options. Free samples and staff help make finding the right beer easy. Draft beers pair well with hearty dishes like the signature burger.

People are saying

"They have an awesome, wide selection of craft beers."

"I thought the burgers here were the best I ever had."

"They have a solid selection of craft beers on tap."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm Monday to Friday with great deals.

2

Trivia night is held every Wednesday evening in the back area.

3

Parking can be challenging, but there are usually spots available nearby.

03
Solidarity image 1
Polish restaurant

Polish restaurant offers authentic homestyle decor with private outdoor patios featuring firepits and cozy seating. Atmosphere feels like a friend's home, combining cozy vibes with an elevated dining experience. Bar serves unique cocktails like the Warsaw Mule, creating a lively spot to meet and relax.

Outdoor patio offers a cool vibe for hanging out. Servers bring a warm, unpretentious energy, matching the nostalgic feel of an Eastern-European aunt's spot with stronger vodka and better lighting.

Offers a nice selection of imported Polish beers including Zywiec lager and a blood orange beer. Happy hour features awesome beer and cocktail deals alongside food specials.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, homestyle, and elevated comfort food."

"The pierogi here are a comforting taste of authentic Polish food."

"I enjoyed the imported Polish beers and the blood orange beer."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough in that area; street parking is available.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The outdoor courtyard hosts Yappy Hour on alternate Thursdays, and dogs are always welcome.

04
The Daily Pint image 1

Bar with extensive whiskey wall and two pool tables offers a traditional pub atmosphere that stays chill and friendly even when busy. Games like Pac-Man and darts add casual fun without flashy music or crowds. Regulars include a tech crowd, creating a local vibe that feels safe and welcoming.

The bar offers a cool vibe with a cool happy hour. The staff and the woman's bathroom add to the overall cool atmosphere.

An unrivaled selection of beer includes a wide variety of pints and special Belgian beers. The bar pairs this with a deep beer list and great craft beers to satisfy all tastes.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is super friendly and attentive."

"You'll find an amazing variety of beer here."

"This place has a really cool vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7pm, making an early arrival worthwhile.

2

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday at 8pm.

3

Street parking is available at meters nearby.

05
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.

High quality food pairs with a laidback vibe and a cool back bar. Outdoor seating shines on a cool night.

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."

"The food here is amazing, especially the chicken sandwich."

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.

06
Santa Monica Brew Works image 1

Huge space with indoor and outdoor seating offers a vibrant, bustling atmosphere where dogs are welcome and live bands play. The big patio with umbrellas invites sunlit gatherings, while screens show sports events. An extensive selection of on-tap brews pairs with highly regarded pizza from a notable food partner.

Spacious areas and huge patios create a cool atmosphere with a bustling vibe on weeknights. The cool ocean breeze and TVs showing sports add to the relaxed, lively feel.

Offers a great selection of beer with options like Head in the Clouds standing out. Beers are reasonably priced and served with friendly, informative service.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection here."

"The brewery staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

"The vibes here are really cool and the space is super spacious."

Good to know

1

You must be 21 or older to enter the brewery.

2

There is a mandatory 18% service charge on all bills.

3

The brewery does not accept cash payments.

07
TR!P Santa Monica image 1
Live music venue

Live music venue with cozy atmosphere and clean sound thanks to stage curtains. Crowd is eclectic and friendly, creating a welcoming vibe. Multiple screens show sports during performances, which can distract from the music.

Live music creates a cool vibe here. The crowd is laid-back and the bar keeps things simple and local.

Wide selection of IPAs on tap keeps the beer choices fresh. Cold beer and a variety of options make it easy to find something new to try.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great live music here."

"I found the beer selection to be good."

"I caught some cool live music playing every night."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Friday at 8pm with no cover charge.

2

Live music events occur every Saturday night starting at 9pm.

3

Open mic night is on Mondays, featuring local musicians.

08
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.

The atmosphere offers a very cool, unique, and fun experience with incredibly friendly staff. The patio and the Backyard provide cool spots for dinner and after-dinner drinks.

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 vibe here is so cool and retro."

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

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.

09
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.

A chill vibe sets the tone here, making it a cool little spot to hang out. The great cocktails add to the relaxed atmosphere.

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."

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

"The vibe here is so cool and chill."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 beers on Sundays.

2

The Backyard does not take reservations.

3

Parking is free for guests.

10
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.

The atmosphere feels relaxed and cool, with a vibe that suits drinks well. The ambience resembles a sea shack with lots of wooden furniture, creating a laid-back setting.

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."

"I loved the local draft beer selection here."

"The vibe and atmosphere here are really cool."

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.

11
Busby's West image 1
Bar & grill

Huge sports bar with over 100 TVs, multiple rooms, and an arcade with mini golf creates a lively, packed atmosphere. Loud, fun energy comes from friendly crowds, especially sports fans, enjoying games and socializing. Spacious seating areas and a cool outdoor deck add variety to the experience.

Multiple rooms create a great space with plenty of seating and TVs. The cool outdoor area and gaming room add to the cool vibe throughout.

Great IPA selection and a nice variety of beers make this spot stand out. Pints go for about 6 dollars, which feels reasonable, and pitchers are available too.

People are saying

"The food here tasted great and fresh."

"I enjoyed the cold beer and good drinks."

"The staff here are so inviting and make it feel like home."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Trivia night happens every Monday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Expect a wait for pool tables during peak hours, especially on weekends.

12
Jamesonโ€™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.

Vibe feels laid-back and friendly, making it a cool spot to hang out. Food and atmosphere combine for a chill weekend hangout with friends.

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."

"It's a cool place to hang out and have a good time."

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.

13
Ghisallo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Back patio offers cozy outdoor seating under olive trees with quaint lighting, creating a chill and intimate vibe. Sidewalk tables provide a chance for people-watching in a lively neighborhood setting. Dog-friendly space adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Patio offers a cool spot to hang out. Location feels close to everything, adding to the cool vibe.

Draft beer and Belgium NA beer are available alongside wine. Two pizzas and two beers cost about $80 including tip.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza had a delicious, fluffy, and crunchy sourdough crust."

"The pizza here is thin, cheesy, and has a stellar crust."

"I loved the beer here; I planned to come back for more."

Good to know

1

A $5 per person cake cutting fee applies for birthday celebrations.

2

Expect to pay around $80 for two pizzas and two beers, including tip.

3

Online ordering may not work reliably; consider calling instead.

14
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.

Cool breeze from the Pacific flows through the spot at Ocean and Broadway. The place features a clean atmosphere and a very cool bar. Food matches the vibe with delicious flavors.

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 outdoor seating has a great view of the Santa Monica Pier."

"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.

15
Britannia Pub image 1

Pub offers multiple seating areas including a backyard patio, balcony, and sidewalk patio, creating a spacious feel. Atmosphere mixes British and Philadelphia Eagles themes with loud music and a lively crowd during games. Features include pool tables, many TVs for sports, and a DJ energizing the space.

Atmosphere feels cool and relaxed with a friendly staff. The bartender adds to the English bar vibe.

Pitchers go for $28 and happy hour features $8 for 20oz Guinness and $6-7 for 16oz beers. The pub offers a good selection of beers plus non-alcoholic options.

People are saying

"This bar is the perfect find for watching the Eagles game."

"It's a cool place with a friendly staff and a different vibe."

"They have a good selection of different beers."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4 to 7 pm, Monday to Friday.

2

Karaoke night happens on weekends with no cover charge.

3

The pub offers $7 fish and chips during Happy Hour.

16
Kappo Miyabi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalist design blends traditional Japanese elements with modern charm in a serene, elegant space. Open kitchen adds interactive dining energy while booths provide privacy. Atmosphere suits both casual and intimate meals with a calm, authentic vibe.

Pork broth makes the Seafood Udon mouth-watering and soothing in cool evening weather. The place has a cool modern interior and an authentic atmosphere.

Offers a stout Japanese beer and a yuzu ale. Draft beer costs around $10.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is top quality and incredibly fresh."

"I enjoyed a great Japanese stout beer."

Good to know

1

The Omakase experience offers a curated selection of sushi and sashimi.

2

A 22% service charge is automatically added to the bill.

3

Expect to pay around $35-$50 for udon dishes.

17
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.

The spot has a really cool concept and a super cool vibe. The bartender adds to the laid-back atmosphere.

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."

"I found the place to be a super cool spot to hang around."

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.

18
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.

Atmosphere feels very cool with a nice ambiance. Music adds to the cool vibe during brunch and dinner.

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."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and nice."

"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.

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