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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Cool bars in Downtown Santa Monica

Finding a bar with a distinct personality changes the entire rhythm of the evening.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Small venue with an intimate stage hosts live band karaoke and soulful melodies. Vintage bar vibe combines with professional, classy atmosphere and inviting dance floor. Friendly crowds enjoy great music without pretension.

A professional and classy atmosphere stands out with a doorman and owner working the bar some nights. Friendly people and good music add to the experience.

A cool dive bar opens at 8:00 PM with a cool vibe at the bar and a cool bartender. Karaoke and live music add to the atmosphere, supported by a cool staff throughout.

People are saying

"I loved the live music and the amazing atmosphere here."

"This bar has amazing live music and shows."

"This place has a cool vintage bar vibe."

Good to know

1

Karaoke with a live band happens every Wednesday night.

2

Entry costs $10, which includes a drink minimum of two per person.

3

Live music performances occur on weekends and Tuesday nights.

02
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.

People are saying

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

"The bar's interiors are stunning and beautifully designed."

"The vibe here is modern, relaxed, and effortlessly cool."

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.

03
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.

Live saxophone music creates a laid back vibe with cool 90's tunes playing. The decor and lighting give off dark old school bar vibes.

People are saying

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

"The old-school speakeasy vibe and decor inside is really cool."

"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.

04
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.

A super cool rooftop bar with a central bar and heat lamps all around. A DJ plays in the pool area early on, adding to the cool vibe before leaving.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a cool spot with a great 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.

05
Britannia Pub image 1

Pub offers multiple seating areas including a backyard patio, balcony, and sidewalk patio, creating a spacious feel. Atmosphere mixes British and Philadelphia Eagles themes with loud music and a lively crowd during games. Features include pool tables, many TVs for sports, and a DJ energizing the space.

A true Merseyside family runs this British bar, creating a welcoming vibe with a rockstar doorman and attentive management. It plays Philadelphia Eagles games with game sound and a DJ hyping the crowd, making it a standout spot for sports fans.

Atmosphere feels cool and relaxed with a friendly staff. The bartender adds to the English bar vibe.

People are saying

"This bar is the perfect find for watching the Eagles game."

"The pub staff were really friendly and helpful."

"It's a cool place with a friendly staff and a different vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4 to 7 pm, Monday to Friday.

2

Karaoke night happens on weekends with no cover charge.

3

The pub offers $7 fish and chips during Happy Hour.

06
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.

A rooftop bar offers cool views and a creative drinks menu. The atmosphere feels really cool and inviting.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and relaxed."

"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.

07
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.

Atmosphere feels very cool with a nice ambiance. Music adds to the cool vibe during brunch and dinner.

People are saying

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

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

"The atmosphere here is really cool and nice."

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.

08
The Room Santa Monica image 1

Small downstairs bar and dance club with unique open layout and disco ball creates a communal vibe. Music focuses on hip hop and R&B, with DJs playing a mix of oldies and pop that keeps the dance floor lively but never overcrowded. Crowd tends to be diverse and welcoming, favoring good times over college scenes.

A cozy spot with a downstairs bar and dance club vibe offers good drinks and a place to sit at the bar. Karaoke happens here, adding to the lively atmosphere.

A downstairs bar and dance club with cool music and lighting sets a distinct vibe. The staff is cool, adding to the overall atmosphere.

People are saying

"This nightclub's music is fire and keeps everyone dancing."

"The DJ was always killing it with nonstop bangers."

"The music and lighting here are cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 9 to 10:30 PM with discounted drinks.

2

Entry is free for all guests.

3

The DJ starts playing around 10 PM, creating a lively atmosphere.

09
Shirubฤ“ image 1
Izakaya restaurant

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.

Intimate bar seating offers a front-row view of skilled chefs preparing Japanese style bar food. The bartenders go above and beyond to accommodate, and the raw fish dishes stand out.

Flaming the mackerel right in front of you adds a cool visual touch. The sharing menu features some unique items. The window display and the staff vibe also stand out as cool.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The Japanese bar food here is amazing and super tasty."

"I thought the window display was pretty cool."

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.

10
Holey Moley Golf Club Santa Monica image 1

Miniature golf course features unique themed holes spread over several floors with a great bar and live magician entertainment. Atmosphere is loud and crowded, with karaoke music playing openly and tight spaces causing frequent bumping. The vibe suits energetic nights out rather than quiet, relaxed play.

Several floors host a great bar with friendly staff like Ryan and Sean who take good care of guests. The bar offers a relaxed vibe indoors and on the balcony, with reasonably priced drinks around $15 each.

Unique mini golf holes and a lively DJ create a cool vibe. Friendly bartenders add to the fun atmosphere and occasional magic shows bring extra excitement.

People are saying

"The mini golf here is amazing fun and super creative."

"The bar staff here is super friendly and attentive."

"Elvis's exceptional service made our visit so cool."

Good to know

1

Events can cost over $1000 for limited time slots, so plan accordingly.

2

No kids are allowed after 8pm, so check age restrictions before visiting.

3

The venue lacks air conditioning, making it very hot during summer visits.

11
Benihana - Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

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.

Upstairs bar offers quick eats and good drinks during happy hour with a personable bartender who helps pass the time. The bar top provides a welcoming spot for dining and snacks with helpful staff.

Staff like Larry and Harry show cool tricks and kindness, making the experience lively. The dinner show and Chef Fabian's creative touches add to the cool vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"Leo the bartender made my bar experience the best."

"The chefs here are so cool and entertaining while they cook."

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.

12
Two Bit Circus image 1
Video arcade

Digital-circus theme blends with spacious layout and varied arcade and VR games. Atmosphere mixes bright lighting with cool vibes suitable for both kids and adults. Bar area offers views of gaming action, supporting a lively but casual energy.

A full bar offers a wide range of drinks and lets you order food from nearby restaurants using QR codes. The bar area provides a clear view of the arcade, blending classic games and virtual reality with a lively atmosphere.

Cool vibe comes from a unique mix of VR games and a chill ambience that suits both young people and adults. It offers a different scene than typical bars or clubs.

People are saying

"I loved the virtual reality games and experimental experiences here."

"I had a blast playing games and enjoying drinks at this bar."

"The staff here are so friendly and professional."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and snacks.

2

Thursdays are college nights with an extra $5 for students to play games.

3

Check their Instagram for updates on public events and special activities.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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