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Top picks in Santa Monica

Cocktails with outdoor seating

Sipping a cocktail while sitting outside is the only way to fully appreciate the transition from day to night.

Based on 874 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.

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

Cozy patio seating creates a lovely spot to relax. Live music adds to the fun atmosphere outdoors.

People are saying

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

"I really loved the great cocktails here."

"I found the outdoor seating to be cozy and lovely."

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
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.

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

Large outdoor patio offers plenty of tables and many heaters. This setup keeps the outdoor dining area comfortable even in chilly weather.

People are saying

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

"The large patio is dog friendly and they even give pups a treat."

"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.

03
Cosetta image 1
Italian restaurant

Open air dining with a large, heated patio creates a cozy Italian style atmosphere that invites lingering. The space combines a tasteful interior design with ample outdoor seating and a fire pit, supporting both lively and romantic vibes. A bar area complements the setting, making it suitable for casual drinks or date nights.

Cocktails feature unique flavors and showcase expert craftsmanship. The menu offers creative options that invite trying something new.

A gorgeous patio offers ample space and heaters that keep it comfortable on cool evenings. The setting suits both sunny afternoons and large gatherings, making it a versatile outdoor spot.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the steak and prawns."

"The outdoor seating is so warm with amazing heaters."

"Brian's cocktails are next level amazing and unlike anything I've tasted."

Good to know

1

Reservation is highly recommended during weekends and peak hours.

2

Parking is available in the lot behind the restaurant with two hours of validation.

3

Happy Hour runs from 4 to 5 pm on weekdays.

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.

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.

Outside patio offers a fireplace setting that suits family gatherings and relaxing brunches. Outdoor seating supports a vibe for parties and casual nights with a bottomless mimosa brunch option.

People are saying

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

"Our Brunch server Robert was very attentive and accommodating."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

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
Fia Restaurant image 1
Californian restaurant

Outdoor garden with fire pits and seating under a pine tree creates a cozy, magical atmosphere. Space heaters and blankets help manage a chilly, intimate setting. The vibe suits modern American brunch and dinner, with a unique, beautiful indoor-outdoor design.

Craft cocktails deliver a perfect kick with intense flavors that stand out. Drinks consistently impress with their exceptional quality.

Outdoor seating features a gorgeous patio integrated with surrounding trees. A plastic cover allows dining outside even when it rains, making it more pleasant than indoors.

People are saying

"The brunch here is amazing, especially the chilaquiles."

"The pasta here is rich, fiery, and unapologetically bold."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for brunch, especially on weekends.

2

Brunch for four people costs around $460, so plan your budget accordingly.

3

Happy hour is available from 4:30 to 5:30 PM on weekdays.

06
Orla by Michael Mina image 1

Tiered flooring and panoramic ocean views create an elegant, inviting atmosphere with high ceilings and a large bar. Music from a DJ blends into the background, supporting a vibrant yet conversational vibe. Spaces range from lively patio areas to quiet, segregated rooms for intimate talks.

Creative and balanced cocktails stand out here. Each drink offers a fun twist and pairs well with the overall excellent entertainment and service.

The covered patio offers stunning views of the ocean, pool, and pier. The temperature stays perfectly warm on cool nights, making outdoor seating enjoyable even when it's chilly.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is extraordinary, with layers of flavor."

"The cocktails here are served with attentive and friendly service."

"The food at this outdoor seating is delicious."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $25 if validated inside.

2

A mandatory 20% service charge is added to all bills.

3

Reservations are recommended to guarantee a spot, especially for outdoor seating.

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.

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.

Back patio offers private event space with a great vibe. Patio seating invites guests to enjoy summer vibes alongside meals like the burger.

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 new patio has a great vibe and excellent food."

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
La Vecchia Cucina image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers an elegant and warm atmosphere with close-set tables and a spectacular bar. Outdoor seating includes a heated patio but can be affected by street odors. The vibe balances relaxed yet classy, often buzzing and crowded during peak times.

Well curated wine and cocktail list offers solid drinks. Cocktail servers are very nice and guide the selection smoothly.

A heated patio offers a cozy spot for outdoor dining. The dog friendly seating area sits on a cute front patio.

People are saying

"Their Bolognese is the best Italian food I've ever had."

"The food is delicious, especially the amazing bread."

"The cocktails here were good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets quite busy.

2

Happy hour is available at the bar with limited seating.

3

It gets chilly by the sea in the evening; bring a warm layer.

09
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.

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

Rooftop seating offers a mountain view and heaters keep the space warm. The outdoor area feels inviting yet intimate and creates a nice atmosphere for evenings.

People are saying

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

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

"The outdoor seating has heaters, keeping it warm."

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.

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.

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.

Large and pleasant outdoor seating basks in Californian sunshine with inexpensive patio furniture. The outdoor bar serves delicious margaritas and tropical rum painkillers, while cushions show signs of wear and need cleaning.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor seating offers romantic sunsets and a great beach bar."

"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.

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

Openable windows offer direct views outside. Remote work spots include the lobby and pool deck. Outdoor areas on the first floor and rooftop provide lovely settings.

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 hotel's outdoor seating areas are attractive and lovely."

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
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.

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.

Outdoor seating features a covered patio that lets sunlight in, with laughing sofas and areas decorated with bamboo and rope. Views of the PCH and ocean enhance the relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The food here is delicious, especially the calamari."

"Victoria made the best charcuterie recommendation and cocktails."

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.

13
MARELLE Santa Monica image 1

Restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with ocean and pool views and a breezy coastal charm. Outdoor area features live DJ sets and heaters, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Space suits both casual meals and large events, blending Tulum-style design with a beach-front vibe.

Handcrafted cocktails burst with flavor and include creative presentations like a shell-shaped glass. They pair well with dinner and stand out for their attention to detail.

Outdoor seating offers a poolside view with a partial beach backdrop. The area features impeccable lighting and creates an amazing atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and totally worth it."

"The outdoor space overlooks the pool and ocean."

"The food here is amazing, especially with the outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and the restaurant is usually not busy at night.

2

Parking validation is available for $10 off valet parking.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

14
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.

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 food at this Outdoor Seating is amazing and flavorful."

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.

15
Shutters on the Beach image 1

Hotel offers beachfront views and a stylish, romantic atmosphere with live music and evening cocktails. Guests enjoy daily bike rentals and a lounge bar favored for socializing. The setting combines luxury decor with a relaxing vibe despite occasional traffic noise.

Evening cocktails come with live music and a fireplace setting. The cocktail and ice cream pairings stand out for their quality.

Outdoor seating offers a nautical theme with a beautiful setting on the patio and boardwalk. The area includes a beach bar by the pool and spa, plus a large check-in bar called the Living Room.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is great, right on the beach."

"The cocktails here are served by a genuinely warm and professional staff."

"The outdoor seating offers panoramic views of the ocean and pier."

Good to know

1

Parking without validation costs $44 for 2.5 hours.

2

The hotel offers a Mon-Thurs Happy Hour at Coast restaurant.

3

Live music is available on Wednesday nights.

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.

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

Outdoor seating offers great views of the waterfront and Santa Monica Pier. The patio catches the setting sun, creating a pleasant dining atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The food here is excellent, tasty, and beautifully presented."

"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.

17
Citrin Restaurant image 1

Dining space feels elegant but cramped with loud music creating a bar-like atmosphere when busy. Outdoor patio offers a romantic and quiet setting ideal for dates. Interior blends new yet dated decor with veneers and cheaper materials.

Cocktails are crafted precisely to order with excellent service. Some confusion occurs when cocktail orders are offered to others before delivery.

The outside seating offers a quiet, romantic patio that suits a first date. Service animals are accommodated there, but service can be slow, with long waits before dishes arrive.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal and beautifully presented."

"The outdoor seating is quiet and perfect for a first date."

"I thought the cocktails were amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required well in advance for prime weekend seating.

2

The meal typically takes about 2.5 hours to complete.

3

A 4% opt-out service charge is added to the bill.

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