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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Monica's best

Chill unique spots

Made for those who seek out unconventional experiences that reject the standard tourist path.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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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.

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.

Decor stands out with a unique style that sets the mood. The drink menu features a solid selection of beer and wine plus some unique craft brews that cater to many tastes.

People are saying

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

"It's a unique place with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere."

"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.

02
Kavahana image 1
Coffee shop

Indoor bar counter and large outdoor patio create distinct seating options. Atmosphere stays relaxing and wholesome with a chill vibe, though seating comfort varies. Extensive board game collection encourages socializing and casual hangouts.

Offers a clean kind of chill that avoids the usual foggy feeling. Great for weekend hangouts with easy conversation away from crowds and alcohol.

Ancient inspired beverages like kava nectar offer an earthy and relaxing taste. Drinks feature unique flavor profiles with high-quality ingredients and blend fun cocktails with traditional Kava.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating offers a peaceful, grounding vibe perfect for unwinding."

"The kava nectar here is smooth, earthy, and leaves a cool tingle."

"It's a unique, clean chill that leaves you feeling calm and clear."

Good to know

1

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

2

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

Open mic night is every Tuesday, showcasing local talent.

03
LOKL HAUS image 1
Coffee shop

Small space with eclectic decor creates a cozy, authentic vibe that feels like a family kitchen. Quiet and inviting atmosphere suits relaxing or catching up with friends. Known for excellent specialty coffee and unique Turkish-inspired dishes.

A chill vibe comes from the quiet music and casual breakfast setting. Outdoor seating adds to the relaxed atmosphere for catching up with friends.

Distinctive Turkish coffee offers a truly unique flavor. The cafe operates with a sincere and thoughtful approach.

People are saying

"I loved the rich, distinct flavor of the Turkish coffee."

"The staff here is so friendly and kind, it's really chill."

"It's unique how they serve real Turkish Dรถner on Wednesdays and Saturdays after 4 PM."

Good to know

1

Parking is metered and only allows 20 minutes on the same side of the coffee shop.

2

They serve breakfast and drinks only, with an expanded menu on weekends.

3

Seating is limited, so expect a small space if visiting during busy hours.

04
MUD\WTR :gather image 1

Massive interior with high wooden ceilings and an open floor plan creates a spacious, calming environment. Dedicated rooms for meditation, sauna, and cold plunge support relaxation and focus. The vibe suits co-working and quiet gatherings, with a peaceful atmosphere that encourages long stays.

The spot offers a great atmosphere with really nice and chill vibes. It works well for both relaxing and getting work done.

Quality alternative lattes come with unique milk options like pistachio or coconut cashew. They serve unique mushroom coffees in a space with a tranquil atmosphere that supports neuronal activity.

People are saying

"It's a cozy, quiet spot perfect for getting work done."

"It's a hip, trendy coffee shop perfect for relaxing and working."

"It's a unique, tranquil coffee oasis perfect for relaxing and working."

Good to know

1

Public parking is available just a 2-minute walk away.

2

Credit cards are accepted at the cafe.

3

The cafe offers great options for vegans and health-focused individuals.

05
Bread Head image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers a bright, well-designed space with an eclectic gallery wall and Margaritaville-themed bathroom. Atmosphere is loud and lively with a laidback, neighborhood vibe that feels fun and relaxed. Seating is limited but includes a gorgeous curbside patio that adds charm to the setting.

Casual, cool sandwich shop with a chill vibe and easygoing atmosphere. Music and overall feel keep things relaxed and comfortable.

Sandwiches feature unique flavors and exciting options. The bread and tuna sandwich stand out with their incredible taste.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were fantastic."

"The bread and flavors here are unique and incredible."

"The bread here is perfect, with a beautiful crust."

Good to know

1

The joint is small, so seating is tough.

2

Expect long queues around lunch hour.

3

They don't accept cash, only touchless payment methods.

06
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.

Food shows baffling originality with unique takes on classic Indian dishes. Presentation stands out with unique fusion like the avocado burrata balancing creaminess and spice.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"I loved the unique Indian food, it was a wonderful journey."

"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.

07
Amai coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Minimalistic coffee shop with cozy, chill atmosphere and warm, inviting interior. Space is small with limited seating, often crowded, attracting mainly college students. Offers free Wi-Fi and a creative menu focused on sweet treats rather than specialty coffee.

A comfy atmosphere with a chill aesthetic sets a relaxing tone. Staff stay super chill and provide thorough drink descriptions, adding to the easygoing vibes.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese coffee here is amazing and very good."

"Their Asian fusion drinks are amazing and truly unique."

"The vibe here is so chill and relaxing."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available in the strip mall lot.

2

The place is small and doesn't have much seating.

3

The pastries are sold out pretty fast, especially by noon.

08
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.

Galecian empanada and anchovy on buttered brioche toast offer unique flavors with salty, savory, buttery, and slightly crusty notes. The bartender creates a custom wine flight tailored to personal taste, enhancing the sensorial experience.

People are saying

"The garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

"The lamb skewers were the best I have ever tasted."

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

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.

09
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior features modern design and beautiful chandeliers with a calm, clean atmosphere ideal for relaxed dining. A robot waitress named Bella delivers food, adding a unique touch to the experience. The place attracts those seeking high-quality sushi in a cozy, inviting setting.

Cozy yet modern design creates a relaxed atmosphere. The setting suits a chill meal with a calm vibe.

A robot waitress named Bella delivers sushi rolls directly to tables, adding a high-tech touch to the dining experience. This feature stands out compared to typical sushi spots.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the fresh, well-prepared sushi."

"The sushi here is so fresh, buttery, and beautifully presented."

"The robot waitress, Bella, adds a unique tech twist to the dining experience."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features items priced around $5 to $7, with good-sized portions.

2

The lunch special costs $24 for a full plate, including a nice roll and sashimi.

3

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

10
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.

Spectacular design and unique art pieces shape the interiors with warm tones and natural materials. Responsive guest services add to the memorable experience.

People are saying

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

"Its design is a unique blend of modern and bohemian luxury."

"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.

11
Le Great Outdoor Restaurant image 1

Outdoor dining area offers a spacious patio with plenty of heaters keeping the space warm and comfortable. Atmosphere blends lively yet calming vibes with the scent of wood smoke, creating an elevated backyard bar feel. Guests enjoy relaxed, leisurely meals in a mellow DIY setting that encourages conversation.

Spacious outdoor seating creates a casual and lovely atmosphere perfect for relaxing with friends or a date. The vibe stays cool and low key while the food remains excellent.

Outdoor seating offers a unique dining experience with shared dishes. The menu includes distinctive offerings that change the usual pace, though the food itself lacks standout uniqueness.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and great."

"The food here is flavorful and creatively prepared, even the vegetables."

"I loved the unique outdoor dining with shared dishes."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a huge free parking lot available for guests.

2

Reservations are limited to 90 minutes, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant accommodates various dietary restrictions, making it inclusive.

12
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.

Menu items feature unique twists and interesting ingredients that give each dish a distinct flavor. The atmosphere feels homespun despite the mall setting, with creative takes on standard dishes.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here has unique flavors and interesting ingredients."

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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