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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Monica's best

Chill cocktails

A well-made cocktail is the only way to properly unwind after a long day.

Based on 678 Opinions
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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.

Cocktails come well-mixed and nicely presented. Signature drinks include the Coco Cabana, Lavender Haze, and Frozen Passion Fruit Margarita.

People are saying

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

"I loved the calm and relaxed atmosphere here."

"I really loved the great cocktails 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
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.

Cocktails feature a well-crafted menu with drinks that are both delicious and reasonably priced.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The cocktails here are delicious and reasonably priced."

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

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.

03
Weary Livers image 1

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.

The spot has a very chill atmosphere where you can drop in, have a beer, and relax. It consistently offers laid-back vibes that make it easy to unwind.

Soju cocktails stand out for being creative, refreshing, and perfectly balanced. The bartender crafts drinks with care, offering a good selection of cocktails and wines that are consistently great.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails here are creative, refreshing, and perfectly balanced."

"It's a cool place to drop in and have a beer and chill."

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.

04
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.

Cocktails come out impeccably made and never watered down. Drinks like the Mambo Splash stand out for their full flavor. The menu pairs great cocktails with delicious food.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"The servers here are so chill and attentive."

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.

05
The Chestnut Club image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with dim, moody lighting and an old-timey speakeasy vibe. Music features a live saxophone and a DJ mixing new and old jams, creating a cool, laid-back atmosphere. Seating includes booths, high tops, and bar stools, supporting both relaxed drinks and dancing.

Space offers a chill vibe perfect for unwinding with friends. Cocktails, beer, and appetizers fit well with the relaxed atmosphere.

Cocktails here are high-quality and well-crafted, offering a fun spot to unwind with friends. The menu can be deceptive, so asking about flavor profiles helps pick the right drink.

People are saying

"The DJ mixed different music and played all the jams."

"It's a great spot for a chill drink and appetizer."

"I enjoyed the high-quality cocktails here."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect wait times of less than 10 minutes for drink orders.

3

Happy hour offers specials on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm.

06
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.

Cocktails cost $10 and offer great prices. Drinks like the Guilty Pleasure and Empress gin cocktail taste good and feel fun to order.

People are saying

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

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

"The cocktails here are super tasty and fun."

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.

07
Chelsea Restaurant image 1

Upscale restaurant with trendy decor and intimate vibe offers a quiet, sophisticated atmosphere suited for date nights or casual outings. Comfortable booths and a nearly full dining room create a lively yet relaxed energy. Inventive cocktails and gourmet menu complement the hip South London Indian influence.

Atmosphere stays casual with a dress code from date night attire to jeans and a sweater. Options include a bar or deck for a relaxed evening or a spot for special occasions.

Inventive cocktails like the American Samurai and Foggy Earl stand out. The menu offers a nice variety with well-executed drinks served right at the bar.

People are saying

"This place is perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual night out."

"The cocktails here are expertly crafted and super inventive."

"The food and drinks here are outstanding and impressive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get busy quickly.

2

Valet parking is available for $15, but street parking is also plentiful.

3

Dress code is business casual; avoid flip flops and shorts.

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.

Service and cocktails stand out as superb here. The patio offers a cool spot for dinner or cocktails at night.

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 found the cocktails here to be superb."

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
XUNTOS image 1
Tapas bar

Spanish tapas bar offers a cozy art deco interior with soft warm lighting and a down-to-earth yet elegant vibe. The atmosphere ranges from loud and lively to more intimate upstairs seating, attracting those seeking authentic Spanish flavors paired with an extensive vermouth and cocktail selection.

Offers a casual and charming night out. Fits well for a date night or a chill evening with friends.

Cocktails stand out for their incredible G&T and overall fabulous quality. Every drink matches the high standard set by the food.

People are saying

"The garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

"The tapas here are so fun, I tried more foods than usual."

"I thought the cocktails were spectacular."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy evenings.

2

Happy hour is available on weekdays with a limited menu.

3

The restaurant adds a 4% employee benefits fee to the bill.

10
Perry's Cafรฉ & 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.

Cocktails come in canned drinks with a good balance of organic custom flavors and alcohol. Bartenders serve these cocktails by the beach, letting you enjoy them with your toes in the sand.

People are saying

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

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

"You can enjoy a cocktail with your toes in the sand."

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 cafรฉ closes just before sunset, limiting evening visits.

11
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel with warm, comforting vibe and beautiful, charming design offers a rooftop pool oasis and panoramic city views. Spaces range from relaxed rooftop bars to lively restaurants with strong energy. Guests encounter a mix of calm ambiance indoors and vibrant social scenes on the rooftop.

Rooftop pool offers breathtaking views of the city and ocean, perfect for unwinding. Design blends coastal chill with high design, creating a casual and inviting vibe.

An extensive selection of craft cocktails caters to all tastes in a chic atmosphere. The bar serves great cocktails alongside delicious food.

People are saying

"This hotel's design is beautiful, stylish, and incredibly comfortable."

"The cocktails here are stunning, with a design that blends modern aesthetics and coastal vibes."

"The design here blends coastal chill with a warm, inviting atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Valet service fee is $55, but some guests report being charged $70.

2

Additional $40 per night for amenities not disclosed at check-in.

3

The pool and bar may be closed for private events, impacting guest access.

12
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.

Expertly curated cocktails complement the food with full flavor. The cocktail program offers plenty of great options and maintains an excellent standard.

People are saying

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

"Their vegan burger is amazing, especially the patty they make."

"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.

13
FITOOR image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Huge space with contemporary decor and a full bar anchors the atmosphere. Live belly dancers provide subtle entertainment without distraction. Outdoor patio welcomes pets and stays comfortable with effective heaters.

Soft lighting and stylish decor create a relaxed atmosphere. The vibe stays chill despite occasional belly dancing, and the dress code ranges from casual to classy.

Cocktails here come with an upscale bar vibe and pair well with the great appetizers. The setting feels like a cocktail bar with upscale food.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The cocktails were terrific and refreshing."

"The ambiance here is warm, inviting, and perfectly chill."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street and in a nearby lot, but it's limited.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

Happy Hour offers limited menu items on Fridays from 4-6pm.

14
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a club-like vibe created by a live DJ and percussionist. Atmosphere suits large groups and blends beachy elegance with lively energy.

An oasis of relaxed chill-out with a Mediterranean vibe from the South of France. The ambiance stays not too loud and not too wild, perfect for casual appetizers and happy hour.

Creative mixes of flavors define the cocktails here, with standout choices like the margarita and old fashioned. Staff like James and Victoria provide attentive service, ensuring drinks and needs are promptly met.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"Victoria made the best charcuterie recommendation and cocktails."

"The vibe here is pretty chill, not too loud."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks, making it worthwhile.

2

Expect long wait times during busy events, like Valentine's Day.

3

The restaurant turns into a lively party after 9 pm with dancing.

15
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.

Inventive and tasty cocktails stand out here, paired with a great wine list. The spot suits both a quick drink and a full multi-course meal.

People are saying

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

"I really enjoyed their cocktails, especially the 'Contesse'."

"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.

16
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.

Cocktails come in small servings and cost around ยฃ16 each. They taste very tasty but feel a bit pricey.

People are saying

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

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

"I enjoyed the cocktails; they were very tasty."

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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