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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downtown Santa Monica

Food bars

A place where you can grab a drink and a bite without having to move to a second location is a relief.

Based on 665 Opinions
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01
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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.

Japanese style bar food features authentic flavors and dishes mostly under $25. The Saba stands out for its quality and careful preparation, paired with warm, thoughtful service.

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.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and full of flavor."

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

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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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.

Food includes delicious dishes, complemented by wonderful wine and a surprise dessert. The bar offers excellent drinks alongside the meals.

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

"The food here is fresh, creative, and truly memorable."

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

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.

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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.

Spanish dishes arrive quickly and showcase authentic flavors that match dining in Spain. The menu offers a quality tapas experience that stands out among local options.

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 jamón that stand out.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and authentically Spanish."

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

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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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.

Food arrives quickly and looks as good as it tastes. Drinks and service match the consistently great quality of the dishes.

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.

People are saying

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

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

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.

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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.

Food preparation handles allergies perfectly with consistent quality. Dining offers amazing food paired with exceptional service for a reliable experience.

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.

People are saying

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

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

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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Seafood market combines fresh seafood displays with a lively oyster bar and casual dining space. Atmosphere balances bustling market energy with enough quiet for conversation. Offers a community hub vibe where people shop and eat in one place.

Food features exceptional freshness and high quality with flavors that stand out as extremely delicious. Staff provide helpful guidance on ordering both dine-in and takeaway options.

Oyster shucking happens right at the bar, which features a year-round oyster selection. The bar offers raw bar favorites like Mexican White Shrimp Cocktail and Purple Peruvian Scallops alongside wine and clam chowder.

People are saying

"The food here is exceptionally high quality and delicious."

"The raw oyster bar is fun, lively, and perfect for oyster lovers."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the market.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for fresh seafood are comparable to upscale restaurants.

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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.

French cuisine shines with delicious dishes and amazing flavors. Service matches the food quality, creating a very good dining experience.

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

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"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.

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Small, cozy sushi bar offers authentic Japanese ambience with an intimate feel and local vibe. Atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly despite often being crowded. Sushi features fresh, high-quality fish served in generous portions with traditional preparation.

Food features freshness and excellent quality with flavors that are consistently tasty and delicious. Prices reflect the value of the food and align with a fine dining experience.

People are saying

"The sushi here is incredibly fresh and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are strongly advised due to high demand.

2

Sushi King tends to be quite crowded, especially on weekends.

3

Expect long wait times if you arrive without a reservation.

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Walls lined with hundreds of wine bottles create a wine cellar atmosphere with high ceilings and marble surfaces. Loud music fills the space, generating energetic vibes where people gather around the bar and dining areas. The setting combines upscale decor with a chilly temperature, offering shawls for warmth.

Food features exquisite dishes with a strong focus on truffle homage. The menu pairs well with an amazing wine selection and includes cheese and charcuterie options.

The bar offers a full bar alongside a wine-focused selection. The space has a cocktail and wine bar vibe where people gather around the bar counter.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and exquisite."

"The wine bar has an amazing, extensive wine list."

Good to know

1

Weekly tequila tasting events occur every Saturday, offering a fun experience.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers, making it a popular time to visit.

3

Live performances take place on Monday nights, adding to the venue's atmosphere.

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Brick walls and concrete floors frame a space filled with multiple TVs showing sports and a full bar serving distinctive cocktails. The atmosphere is friendly and casual with an easygoing vibe despite occasional loudness from busy take-out orders. The place draws a crowd that appreciates authentic barbecue and lively energy.

Delicious food stands out with consistently great flavors. Service quality complements the meals, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Bar features a cute design and sweet staff. Service at the bar is friendly and attentive.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The pork ribs at the bar were seasoned so well, I didn't need sauce."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $5, but the lot is small and spaces are compact.

2

Dinner plates are large enough to share, but they are expensive.

3

A pound of rib tips costs $38, which is on the higher side.

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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.

Happy hour offers good drinks and food options. Food quality varies, with some dishes not standing out.

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.

People are saying

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

"The food and drinks here were awesome."

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.

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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.

Offers authentic UK foods served crispy and hot with adequate portions for the price. Food quality stands out as solid and delicious, often better than the service.

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.

People are saying

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

"The fish and chips here are delicious."

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.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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