Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Cocktails in Downtown Santa Monica

Sometimes the evening calls for a drink mixed with precision and care.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
1212 Santa Monica image 1
1212 Santa Monica image 2
1212 Santa Monica image 3
View all
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun vibe. Cocktails like Mambo Splash are impeccably made and full-flavored. Outdoor fire pits add warmth while drinks pair well with tasty food.

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."

"Our Brunch server Robert was very attentive and accommodating."

"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.

02
XUNTOS image 1
Tapas bar

Spanish tapas bar shines with authentic flavors and a cozy art deco vibe. Cocktails impress with fabulous G&T and quality matching the food. Atmosphere shifts from lively downstairs to intimate upstairs seating.

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 dinner spots here have amazing taste and fresh ingredients."

"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.

03
Bar Chloe image 1

Small, intimate bar offers a cozy atmosphere with unique cocktails displayed on the wall. Comfortable seating and pleasant music create a relaxed vibe that fills up early on weekends. Drinks are delicious but pricey, perfect for a hip night out.

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.

04
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel blends warm vibe with panoramic city views from a rooftop pool. Guests enjoy a mix of calm ambiance indoors and lively rooftop bars. Extensive craft cocktails pair well with delicious food in a chic setting.

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 rooftop offers breathtaking ocean views and smart cocktails."

"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.

05
The Chestnut Club image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar boasts high-quality cocktails in a speakeasy vibe with dim, moody lighting. Live saxophone and DJ mix tunes, creating a laid-back atmosphere. Seating options include booths and bar stools, perfect for both relaxing and dancing.

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."

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

"I enjoyed the high-quality cocktails here."

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.

06
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant boasts cool water views and a club-like vibe with live DJ and percussionist. Creative cocktails like margarita and old fashioned shine, served by attentive staff. Perfect for large groups seeking lively energy and beachy elegance.

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."

"The DJ played awesome international music and took requests."

"Victoria made the best charcuterie recommendation and cocktails."

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
Calabra image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop setting delivers stunning views and cozy outdoor heaters. Cocktails are expertly curated with full flavor. Atmosphere mixes casual fun with a sexy vibe, drawing a lively crowd. Accessibility includes elevator and wheelchair-friendly seating.

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 staff, especially Juan and Paul, are so attentive and friendly."

"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
Citrin Restaurant image 1

Elegant yet cramped dining space buzzes with loud music and a bar vibe. Outdoor patio shines with a romantic, quiet setting perfect for dates. Cocktails are crafted precisely with excellent service, though order mix-ups happen occasionally.

Cocktails are crafted precisely to order with excellent service. Some confusion occurs when cocktail orders are offered to others before delivery.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal and beautifully presented."

"The service here is top-notch and attentive."

"I thought the cocktails were amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required well in advance for prime weekend seating.

2

The meal typically takes about 2.5 hours to complete.

3

A 4% opt-out service charge is added to the bill.

09
Cabo Cantina image 1
Bar & grill

Colorful bar with a laid back vibe and loud music keeps energy high. Outdoor patio offers ample seating but no heaters. Enjoy 2 for 1 cocktails during happy hour, including solid margaritas that pair well with casual dining.

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."

"You can get all-you-can-eat tacos for $12 on Tuesdays."

"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.

Discover more

Downtown, Santa Monica

Area guide
Loading Map...