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Cocktail bars in Downtown Santa Monica

Made for those who demand a sophisticated cocktail experience without straying from the heart of the city.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Bar Chloe image 1
Bar Chloe image 2
Bar Chloe image 3
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Small, intimate bar connected to a hotel offers a cozy, swank atmosphere with comfortable seating and pleasant music. It fills up early on weekends and stays open late, creating a lively yet relaxed vibe. Cocktail options include unique choices displayed on the wall, enhancing the speakeasy feel.

Cocktails come with a 20% surcharge not clearly disclosed upfront. Drinks are delicious and the bar stays open late until 2am. Service varies from friendly to poor, and the atmosphere feels like a small NYC bar.

Craft cocktails stand out with a wide selection including options on the wall beyond the menu. The drinks are delicious but pricey, served in a chill, hip atmosphere ideal for a night out.

People are saying

"I loved the great cocktails here."

"The bar has an amazing atmosphere, like NYC bars."

"It's an intimate little spot, cozy and connected to a hotel."

Good to know

1

Bar Chloe charges a 20% surcharge on every drink without clearly informing customers upfront.

2

There are good parking options nearby.

3

The bar can get crowded early, around 7:30 pm on Saturday.

02
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.

Gorgeous bar interiors create a striking atmosphere. Top-tier service comes from bartenders like Jaun, Hernan, Luciano, and Cameron.

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 bar staff, especially Santi and Cameron, provide an amazing experience."

"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.

03
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 bar offers city views and a poolside setting. Bar staff like Sergio, Ricky, and Carlos deliver impressive service with excellent drinks and delicious food.

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 bar's interiors are stunning and beautifully designed."

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

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.

04
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.

Eating at the bar feels fun and lively with the owner often slicing ham behind the bar. The bar menu sometimes features sliders with crispy jamรณn that stand out.

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 bar's tapas, like the sliders and fried eggplant, are delicious."

"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.

05
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.

Rooftop bar offers phenomenal drinks and a charming, relaxed setting. Outdoor lounge vibe pairs well with great entertainment during brunch.

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 bartender Enrique was super friendly and made exceptional drinks."

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.

06
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.

Dark, old school vibes set the tone with booths lining the walls and high top tables in the center. The bar offers fancy cocktails and comfy stools, creating a cool 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."

"I enjoyed the high-quality cocktails here."

"I found the bar had cool, old-school speakeasy vibes."

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.

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.

Rooftop bar offers a lively atmosphere with great people-watching by the pool. Lounge bar Palma stays open late and has a fantastic vibe for evening drinks.

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."

"The rooftop bar has a brilliant, lively atmosphere."

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

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
Cabo Cantina image 1
Bar & grill

Colorful bar with a laid back Mexican beach shack vibe offers lively atmosphere and loud music that keeps energy high. Outdoor patio provides ample seating but lacks heaters. Sports play on TVs, adding to the casual, fun environment.

Lively bar with a laid back Mexican vibe and a beach shack feel. Serves huge margaritas and bar food that pairs well with drinks. Bartenders work fast and offer perks like free shots during events.

Offers 2 for 1 cocktails during happy hour with a focus on college-style drinks and solid margaritas. Serves a variety of nice cocktails that pair well with casual dining.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and the portions are generous."

"It's a great bar for people watching on the pedestrianised Promenade."

"I had no idea how good the cocktails are here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 2-for-1 drinks, but check for holiday exclusions.

2

Children are not allowed after 4:00 PM.

3

Expect busy times during happy hour and sports events.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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