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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Monica

Fun activities for dinner

You want a dinner spot that keeps the energy high enough to feel like an activity but low enough to let you enjoy your food.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Long, narrow space with open kitchen and intimate bar seating offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Lighting creates a romantic atmosphere that highlights the antique sake cups and skilled chefs at work. The setting feels distinct from typical izakayas, blending minimal decor with thoughtful design.

Sitting at the bar offers a fun atmosphere with great vibes. Watching food being cooked right in front of you adds to the entertaining experience.

Dinner here offers a wide variety of choices that suit solo diners and couples alike. The interior feels intimate and cute, making it a solid pick for a quiet dinner date.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are insanely delicious, like a religious experience."

"You've got to try the corn ribs and kimchi udon; it's a fun activity!"

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Sunday with food and drink specials.

2

Most happy hour menu items are about $5 cheaper than regular prices.

3

They offer both early and late-night happy hour specials.

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Hotel offers mesmerizing water views and a swanky surfer vibe with luxurious rooms featuring king beds and sectional sofas. Heated pool area provides a quiet retreat despite nearby freeway noise. Guests can enjoy free rentals like surfboards and skateboards, enhancing the beachside experience.

Great location adds to the fun atmosphere. The room and overall decor feel lively and interesting. Staff interactions bring a friendly vibe to the experience.

Dinner happens at the attached restaurant and bar, The Surfing Fox, which serves a wide range of options including cocktails and dinner. The spot offers a spectacular dining experience downstairs.

People are saying

"The service at dinner spots here is phenomenal and friendly."

"I loved the beach yoga and signing out boards for fun activities."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located just a 2-3 minute walk to Santa Monica beach.

2

Expect a $40 daily amenity fee, even if amenities are limited.

3

The hotel is undergoing renovations, so the pool and gym are unavailable.

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Small dining room with only five tables offers an intimate atmosphere and close-up view of the open kitchen. Bright lighting contrasts with the sleek, modern design and vinyl records playing softly in the background. Staff create a relaxing, comfortable vibe that complements the upscale yet cozy setting.

Small space includes solid silver duck press for jus and a turntable playing classics like Stevie Wonder. A hidden door adds a playful touch.

Dinner here is very expensive with a Michelin-level dining experience. Meals start promptly at the reservation time, serving all guests each course together.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have incredible flavor profiles and seamless pairings."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

The cost is on the higher side of tasting experiences at $399 per person.

3

Expect a unique performance using an 18th-century press during the meal.

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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.

Tapas format encourages trying many foods, making tasting fun for kids and adults. Eating at the bar adds a lively and vibrant atmosphere. Pulling open gooseneck barnacles offers a unique, interactive experience.

Dinner here offers a great interactive experience that suits both romantic evenings and gatherings with friends. The spot handles large celebrations smoothly, making it a solid choice for special dinners with groups.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have amazing taste and fresh ingredients."

"Trying the gooseneck barnacles is a fun activity."

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.

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Open hibachi-style setup offers an engaging dining experience with chefs performing theatrical grilling shows at each table. Dim lighting and cozy decor create a fun, lively atmosphere suited for date nights and family outings. A second-level bar adds to the venue's entertaining vibe and interactive energy.

Staff like Pablo, Joey, Tyler, and Ivan make the experience very fun and personable. Celebrations such as birthdays feel extra enjoyable with their lively service.

Dinner here turns into a show with the chef’s performance. It suits celebrations well, making dinners memorable and fun with friends or family.

People are saying

"The chefs here make the dining experience truly fun."

"Chef Pablo's skilled performance made our dinner feel special."

Good to know

1

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

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The staff celebrates birthdays with a special song and treat.

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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.

Controlled chaos creates a fun hipster backyard BBQ vibe with a casual yet fancy feel. The atmosphere stays energetic and lively for small groups.

Dinner feels like eating in a friend's backyard in France with a relaxed, intimate vibe. The menu offers great outdoor dining options that suit brunch, lunch, and dinner well.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is fantastic and delicious."

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.

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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.

Live DJ and belly dancers create an elevated, fun ambience. Belly dancing events add a lively, interactive element to the experience.

Dinner here features elevated Indian food with dishes like Dahi Kachori, Eggplant Kulcha, and Jackfruit & Chestnut Korma. Desserts include Gulab Jamun Crème Brulèe and Paan Ice Cream, paired with masala chai for a complete meal.

People are saying

"The service at these dinner spots is attentive and thoughtful."

"The live DJ and belly dancers make for such fun activities."

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.

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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.

Stepping inside feels like joining a celebration with an upbeat atmosphere. The spot works well for large groups and offers a fun twist on French cuisine, especially during brunch.

Beautiful location sets a romantic tone for dinner. Attentive service and a rooftop with a live DJ create a perfect Saturday night vibe for celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.

People are saying

"The staff made our celebration feel personal and special with fun activities."

"The grilled fish and truffle chicken at these dinner spots were outstandingly spots were outstanding."

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.

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Santa Monica, California

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