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Top picks in Santa Monica

Taco and beer spots

You know that a cold beer is the only proper way to wash down a taco.

Based on 628 Opinions
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01
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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.

Squash blossom tacos offer a melting cheesy flavor that stands out. Fish tacos come fresh, never frozen, ensuring high-quality taste.

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

"They have a fantastic selection of local beers."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they were incredible."

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.

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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.

Crispy fish tacos stand out with outstanding flavor and come with a big portion of beans and rice on the side. Shrimp tacos also feature generous servings, and the taco plate offers a solid variety.

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 had the crispy fish tacos; they were outstanding."

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.

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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.

Fish tacos stand out with solid flavor and fresh ingredients. Sharing four tacos offers a good variety alongside options like the veggie burger and sweet potato fries.

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 beer garden is a lovely, relaxing spot."

"I highly recommend their ahi tuna tacos."

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.

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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.

Shrimp tacos stand out with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Blackened ahi and chicken tacos offer varied tastes that complement the menu well.

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

"I loved the local draft beer selection here."

"You've got to try the Mahi Mahi tacos; they were great."

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.

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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.

Taco Tuesdays offer a flavor fiesta with crispy fish tacos and Margaritas. Tacos come without salsa, and even kids enjoy the plain versions.

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

"I enjoyed the cold draft beers."

"I thought the crispy fish tacos were amazing."

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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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.

Tacos come in juicy chicken and steak varieties with a green sauce that pairs well. Small plate servings include veggie tacos and sliders, making Taco Tuesday both tasty and affordable.

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

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

"The chicken tacos are so juicy and flavorful."

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.

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Beachside cafe with tables and chairs facing the ocean offers a relaxed atmosphere where people sit informally on sand or grass. Bicycle rentals and beach volleyball nets add to the casual, active vibe. Fire pits provide warmth on chilly days, enhancing the easygoing, mellow energy.

Fish tacos have a strong fan following. Chicken tacos come out better than expected. Shrimp tacos show bold flavor but lean too salty for some tastes.

Beachfront setting offers a rare chance to enjoy a cold beer right by the water. Drinks include a great beer selection that fits the relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"It's a perfect spot for a cold beer with your feet in the sand."

"I had the best fish tacos I've had in a while."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7 pm through Thursday.

2

Parking costs $10 all day until 8 o'clock.

3

Bike rentals are available, but not until 10:45 - 11:00 am.

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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.

Fish tacos stand out with exceptional flavor and quality. Taco Tuesdays offer an all-you-can-eat deal for $12.99, paired with 2-for-1 drinks during happy hour.

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 great place for beer and watching sports."

"You can get all-you-can-eat tacos for $12.99 on Tuesdays."

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.

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