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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown Santa Monica

Chill food spots

A slow, low-pressure meal is exactly what you need to decompress.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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01
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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.

Food comes out fresh and flavorful, packed with authentic Mexican taste. Service is attentive, making the dining experience smooth and enjoyable.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and outstanding."

"The atmosphere here is great and chill."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers margarita and taco specials.

2

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

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The menu features a variety of innovative burritos and tacos.

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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.

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

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

People are saying

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

"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.

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Valet parking is available and convenient.

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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.

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

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.

People are saying

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

"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.

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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.

Food features homemade dishes crafted from local produce including beer. Quality consistently rates as outstanding with delicious flavors and excellent service.

People are saying

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

"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.

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The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

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There are many vegetarian options available.

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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.

Space offers a chill vibe perfect for unwinding with friends. Cocktails, beer, and appetizers fit well with the relaxed atmosphere.

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

People are saying

"It's a great spot for a chill drink and appetizer."

"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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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.

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

People are saying

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

"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.

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The pool and bar may be closed for private events, impacting guest access.

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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.

Generous portions of fresh Mediterranean food come with fast service. The menu offers authentic Greek cuisine including a brilliant kebab and healthy options at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

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

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.

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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.

The vibe stays laid back with a super chill chef and an efficient, relaxed server. The show adds a fun, entertaining touch that keeps things casual and enjoyable.

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

People are saying

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

"The teppanyaki chef's flair and jokes made the dinner show really chill."

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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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.

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

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"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.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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