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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Chill burger spots in Santa Monica

A burger is the ultimate comfort when the only goal is to relax.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
The Backyard image 1
The Backyard image 2
The Backyard image 3
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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 atmosphere sets the tone with a cool vibe perfect for casual and social drinks. Food stays simple and tasty, offered at a great price.

Huge burgers made with great quality meat stand out here. The Californication burger is especially flavorful and fresh, alongside options like the Jalapeno Smash Burger and Crispy Chicken Sandwich.

People are saying

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

"The service here is outstanding and super friendly."

"I loved the calm and relaxed atmosphere here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 beers on Sundays.

2

The Backyard does not take reservations.

3

Parking is free for guests.

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.

Casual service and a warm, well-decorated patio create a chill ambiance. Music stays relaxed and the crowd feels happy, making it a good spot to enjoy a quality beer.

Signature burgers come with rich flavors and pair well with draft beer. Kids get two small burgers on the menu, making it easier for small hands to enjoy.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a chill spot with a warm, inviting vibe."

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
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.

Super chill atmosphere makes it easy to relax. The crowd stays laid-back, creating a casual vibe perfect for watching sports or just hanging out.

Burgers come out fresh and include options like a grilled chicken burger made to perfection. Expect a wait time around 30 minutes after ordering on the phone.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection here."

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

"You won't be disappointed with these amazing burgers."

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.

04
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.

Nice warmer fires create a cozy spot to fight the chill. Outdoor space lets you bump your own jams, chill, and socialize with a jazzy and chill band playing on Sunday evenings.

Veggie options include a vegan veggie burger served with sweet potato fries. The salmon burger also stands out alongside the classic burger, both noted as delicious.

People are saying

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

"I loved the spacious outdoor seating for a chill vibe."

"I found the burger here to be amazing and delicious."

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.

05
Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge image 1

Frank Gehry-designed space offers a gorgeous architectural setting with chic decor and warm, comfortable vibes. Music from a DJ energizes the atmosphere, creating a lively and busy environment. Outdoor patio features vintage Los Angeles clips, adding a unique touch to the experience.

An intimate and casual setting creates a chill grown-up spot without the sports bar vibe. The music adds to the relaxed atmosphere, fitting for a casual yet elegant gathering.

Burgers come in a slider size but pack good flavor. The $18 price feels high, especially with beer and fries adding up to a $160 total for three burgers.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"It's a chill, grown-up spot that feels like vacation."

"I had the best burger I've ever had in LA."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food and drinks for $10.

2

Parking is available, but not validated.

3

The restaurant has a family-style dining option for sharing.

06
Holy Cow BBQ - Santa Monica image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small space with cozy, upscale design and warm lighting creates an inviting atmosphere. Barbecue aroma fills the air, complementing a menu that balances meat lovers and vegetarian options. The vibe stays unassuming and neat, with a quieter pace than typical barbecue spots.

Casual but clean interior creates a relaxed vibe. It suits a casual date night well.

Juicy and flavorful burgers stand out here, especially the All American Burger and Ol’ Smokey Burger. A great variety of burgers pairs well with friendly service that sometimes includes a free beer.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ here was the best I've ever had."

"These burgers are juicy and flavorful, truly some of the best I've ever had."

"The brisket was melt-in-your-mouth good."

Good to know

1

Customers must stand in line to order and pay before receiving their food.

2

Parking costs outside the restaurant can be high.

3

The website for placing orders is user-friendly and efficient.

07
Calabra image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop setting offers stunning views and outdoor heaters that keep the space comfortable despite the breeze. Atmosphere blends casual enjoyment with a sexy, entertaining vibe, attracting a lively crowd. Accessibility features include elevator access and wheelchair-friendly seating.

Atmosphere feels casual and relaxed. Overall vibe stays chill and easygoing.

A vegan burger features a creamy vegan cheese and a tomato-fig sauce on vegan brioche bread. The patty is homemade and tastes distinct from common brands, making it a standout option.

People are saying

"The food here was incredible, especially the slow-roasted chicken."

"Their vegan burger is delicious with a creamy vegan cheese."

"The atmosphere here is pretty chill and has a fantastic vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are almost required due to high demand.

2

A $5 non-refundable reservation fee is charged per person.

3

Valet parking is available and convenient.

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.

An earthy casual vibe sets a laid back tone with dimmed lights creating a chill atmosphere. Staff stay attentive yet relaxed, adding to the backyard buzz feel.

Jalapeño burger stands out with strong flavor and ranks highly. Burgers come with a chef's special secret sauce and serve well in the garden or backyard spaces. Some patties can be burnt, but overall the burgers and steak sandwich are solid.

People are saying

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

"It's a really chill place with a laid-back backyard vibe."

"I thought the burgers here were great."

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
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.

Casual dining suits large groups well. The host offers a chill, friendly vibe with no rush.

Burgers come with pork ingredients unless requested otherwise, and staff clearly explain this. The Sicilian burger offers a solid flavor, while the Impossible burger feels light and satisfying. Fries accompany the burgers well.

People are saying

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

"The servers here are so chill and attentive."

"Rico made great recommendations for the burgers and drinks."

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.

Vibes turn chill as the sun sets, creating a relaxed atmosphere. The spot offers a mid-week setting with proper food and beer for easygoing evenings.

Burgers come with options like sliders or chicken tenders. You can pair a burger with draft beer for around $9 to $11, making it a solid deal.

People are saying

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

"The tacos here are juicy and flavorful."

"I got the $9 burger and beer combo on Monday."

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.

A super chill beach restaurant with a relaxed and casual beach vibe. Great spot to unwind and enjoy the sea breeze while having a drink or a burger.

Burgers here come with high quality ingredients and a delicious taste. Prices run close to $20 per burger, reflecting their premium nature.

People are saying

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

"It's a super casual beach spot to just chill."

"I found the burgers here to be delicious."

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
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.

Casual vibe with fast, friendly service makes it a chill spot. Affordable prices and a sports bar feel add to the relaxed atmosphere.

Burgers come with fresh, tasty bread and are seasoned very well. Options include both meat and vegetarian, served piled sky high and consistently tasty.

People are saying

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

"I thought the burgers were really tasty and well put together."

"It's a really chill place to eat some delicious food."

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.

13
pasjoli image 1
French restaurant

French fine dining unfolds in an elegant yet warm space with cozy bar, rich layered decor, and tableside pressed duck spectacle. Atmosphere balances casual and upscale vibes, creating a polished but inviting energy. Guests enjoy attentive service alongside classic French furnishings and artwork.

An elegant yet casual French bistro atmosphere sets a chill tone. The place feels bustling yet relaxed, blending fine dining with a casual vibe through its open kitchen.

Burger stands out with a unique flavor and earns honorable mentions alongside steak frites. It pairs well with cocktails and draws attention from food influencers.

People are saying

"The French food, especially the steak frites, is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"I might go back just for a burger and red wine."

"The duck menu here is $350 for two people."

Good to know

1

A mandatory 15% service charge is added after tax.

2

Appetizers and sides cost between $25 and $30, with main dishes over $50.

3

The early menu is available from 5 to 6 PM.

14
The Curious Palate image 1
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.

Great atmosphere creates a unique place to unwind. Casual dining pairs well with a great draft beer selection.

Burgers here feature fresh ingredients and are cooked perfectly. Options like the California Burger and blue cheese burger stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

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

"I thought the burgers and fries were fresh and meaty."

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and well crafted."

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.

15
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.

Weekdays bring a more chill vibe with a casual atmosphere. The spot offers a decent menu and a place to unwind and catch a game.

Burgers come with vegan options like the Impossible Burger with Daiya cheese and a vegan chicken BLT. The GameTime Burger stands out as hot, juicy, and affordable with just the right toppings.

People are saying

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

"The burgers here are great for watching the game."

"It's a great spot to chill, especially on weekdays."

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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