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Local picks

Chill dinner spots in Downtown Santa Monica

Made for those who want a low-pressure evening meal and refuse to deal with high-stress, loud environments.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 2
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Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior features modern design and beautiful chandeliers with a calm, clean atmosphere ideal for relaxed dining. A robot waitress named Bella delivers food, adding a unique touch to the experience. The place attracts those seeking high-quality sushi in a cozy, inviting setting.

Cozy yet modern design creates a relaxed atmosphere. The setting suits a chill meal with a calm vibe.

Dinner features three sushi rolls and edamame for a simple, satisfying meal. The spot suits quick dinners and is easy to reach by walk or short drive.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the fresh, well-prepared sushi."

"The baked salmon and eel rolls are delicious dinner spots."

"The sushi here is so fresh, buttery, and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features items priced around $5 to $7, with good-sized portions.

2

The lunch special costs $24 for a full plate, including a nice roll and sashimi.

3

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

02
Desvelados Santa Monica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with stunning design and beautiful decor creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Music plays softly while a large screen TV shows NBA games behind the bar. The place welcomes families and groups, featuring large tables for celebrations.

Atmosphere blends casual and formal vibes. Scenery suits both dates and solo unwinding moments.

Dinner here lasts long, often around 2 hours. The food is very good, making it a solid choice for a relaxed Saturday night meal.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is amazing."

"I thought the food was delicious and outstanding."

"I loved the piรฑa colada at this dinner spot; the food was great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers margarita and taco specials.

2

Santa Monica charges a 10.75% city tax on all bills.

3

The menu features a variety of innovative burritos and tacos.

03
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.

Casual dining suits large groups well. The host offers a chill, friendly vibe with no rush.

Dinner here features excellent food and service with options for both casual seating like couches around the fire pit and private gatherings in an upstairs private room. The spot suits celebrations and group dinners well.

People are saying

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

"Our server Rico was so kind and helpful during dinner."

"The servers here are so chill and attentive."

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.

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.

Offers a casual and charming night out. Fits well for a date night or a chill evening with friends.

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 garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

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

"The tapas here are so fun, I tried more foods than usual."

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
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.

Atmosphere feels casual and relaxed. Overall vibe stays chill and easygoing.

Dinner offers a fantastic experience with dishes that impress guests consistently. The atmosphere supports a wonderful evening for groups and individuals alike.

People are saying

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

"The service for dinner spots here is so friendly and amazing."

"The atmosphere here is pretty chill and has a fantastic 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.

06
Nick The Greek image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with authentic music enhancing the vibe. Seating includes a nice outdoor area and high chairs for kids, though indoor space can feel warm and smokey. The place fills up during busy times but maintains a low-key, friendly energy throughout.

Casual atmosphere keeps things low key and relaxed. The vibe is super chill without any fuss or formality.

Offers a quick dinner option with a casual vibe. Meals come in baskets mainly for French fries or fried chicken, not large dinner portions.

People are saying

"The Greek food, especially the gyros, is delicious."

"It's a super chill and low-key place, perfect for a quick lunch."

"It's a great, easy spot for a casual dinner."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunchtime, especially on weekends.

2

Online ordering is recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so plan accordingly.

07
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.

An oasis of relaxed chill-out with a Mediterranean vibe from the South of France. The ambiance stays not too loud and not too wild, perfect for casual appetizers and happy hour.

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 food here was delicious and high quality."

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

"The vibe here is pretty chill, not too loud."

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.

08
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 pool offers breathtaking views of the city and ocean, perfect for unwinding. Design blends coastal chill with high design, creating a casual and inviting vibe.

Rooftop dining offers panoramic city views and a beautiful sunset backdrop. The spot serves dinner alongside drinks, creating a nice setting for celebrations.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here are beautifully designed and spectacular."

"The design here blends coastal chill with a warm, inviting atmosphere."

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.

09
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

Great atmosphere creates a unique place to unwind. Casual dining pairs well with a great draft beer selection.

Dinner features fresh and local ingredients with options tailored to individual tastes and kids' needs. The spot welcomes families and suits quick meals after a long day.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here have amazing handmade dishes with fresh ingredients."

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and well crafted."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

10
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe image 1

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.

The spot offers a casual but inviting atmosphere ideal for quick bites or casual date nights. It serves fine dining at a casual level, making it a solid choice for lunch or dinner in an expensive area.

Seafood dinners stand out with fresh, flavorful fish options. The spot suits families, dates, and business dinners well. Early meals help avoid crowds and secure seating.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"I had the freshest, most delicious seafood dinner here."

"It's a chill spot with a great market vibe and fresh fish."

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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Downtown, Santa Monica

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