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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Cool spots in Downtown, Santa Monica

You gravitate toward places that have a distinct sense of style and a pulse.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated May 2026
01
The Chestnut Club image 1
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Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar shines with live saxophone and a DJ spinning 90's jams. Dim, moody lighting and old-timey speakeasy vibe set a cool tone. Seating options like booths and bar stools suit both relaxed drinks and dancing.

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."

"The Mexican Food here is so nice and friendly."

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.

02
Solidarity image 1
Polish restaurant

Polish restaurant blends authentic homestyle decor with a cozy outdoor patio featuring firepits. Servers bring a warm, unpretentious energy that fits the nostalgic vibe. Bar offers unique cocktails like the Warsaw Mule for a lively hangout.

Outdoor patio offers a cool vibe for hanging out. Servers bring a warm, unpretentious energy, matching the nostalgic feel of an Eastern-European aunt's spot with stronger vodka and better lighting.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, homestyle, and elevated comfort food."

"The outdoor seating feels like a beautiful secret garden."

"The pierogi here are a comforting taste of authentic Polish food."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough in that area; street parking is available.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The outdoor courtyard hosts Yappy Hour on alternate Thursdays, and dogs are always welcome.

03
Harvelle's image 1

Small venue with an intimate stage hosts live band karaoke and soulful melodies. Vintage bar vibe blends with a cool bartender and friendly crowds. Inviting dance floor and professional atmosphere make it a great spot for music lovers.

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."

"The live band karaoke here is amazing and so much fun."

"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.

04
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior with modern design and beautiful chandeliers creates a calm, clean vibe. Robot waitress Bella and a robot cat delivery add a cool, futuristic feel. High-quality sushi shines in this cozy, inviting spot.

Robot waitress Bella adds a unique touch to the vibe. A robot cat delivery brings a cool, futuristic feel to the experience.

People are saying

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

"The lunch special here is a huge, affordable plate."

"The robot waitress, Bella, was super cool!"

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.

05
Shirubฤ“ image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Long, narrow space with intimate bar seating creates a cozy vibe. Flaming mackerel at the open kitchen adds a cool visual touch. Romantic lighting highlights antique sake cups and skilled chefs, blending minimal decor with thoughtful design.

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."

"You have to get the corn ribs; they're amazing."

"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.

06
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.

People are saying

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

"The rooftop offers breathtaking ocean views and smart cocktails."

"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.

07
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop spot boasts cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a creative drinks menu. Live DJ and percussionist create a club-like vibe that blends beachy elegance with lively energy. Perfect for large groups seeking a fun night out.

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 DJ played awesome international music and took requests."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and relaxed."

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
Holey Moley Golf Club Santa Monica image 1

Mini golf features unique themed holes across floors with a lively DJ and magic shows. Bartenders are friendly, adding to the fun atmosphere. Expect loud, crowded spaces with karaoke music, perfect for energetic nights out.

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.

09
Britannia Pub image 1

Pub blends British vibe with lively Eagles spirit, offering multiple patios and pool tables. Friendly staff and a DJ keep energy high. TVs everywhere make it perfect for sports fans seeking a lively crowd and cool hangout.

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.

10
Kappo Miyabi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalist design with traditional Japanese elements creates a calm, authentic vibe. Open kitchen adds interactive dining energy while booths offer privacy. Pork broth makes the Seafood Udon mouth-watering, perfect for cool evenings in a modern interior.

Pork broth makes the Seafood Udon mouth-watering and soothing in cool evening weather. The place has a cool modern interior and an authentic atmosphere.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The food here is a work of art, truly a feast for the senses."

"The sushi here is top quality and incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

The Omakase experience offers a curated selection of sushi and sashimi.

2

A 22% service charge is automatically added to the bill.

3

Expect to pay around $35-$50 for udon dishes.

11
Calabra image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop setting offers stunning views and heat lamps that keep it cozy. DJ spins tunes by the pool, adding a cool vibe early on. Elevator access and wheelchair-friendly seating make it easy for everyone to enjoy.

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

"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.

12
The Room Santa Monica image 1

Small bar and dance club with unique open layout and a disco ball creates a cool, communal vibe. DJs spin hip hop and R&B, mixing oldies and pop to keep the floor lively but not crowded. Staff and crowd are welcoming, making it a great spot for good times.

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.

13
Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery image 1

Traditional Italian deli blends market, cafรฉ, and quick-stop with authentic Italian groceries. Outdoor stone picnic tables offer a cozy spot for sandwiches. Friendly staff and a super cool vibe make it feel like Little Italy in Manhattan.

Small market offers almost everything needed with a super cool vibe. Employees stay friendly and the deli feels authentic with quality products.

People are saying

"The Godmother sandwich with the works is the best choice."

"The bread here is remarkably fresh and enhances every sandwich."

"I thought the sandwiches were perfect."

Good to know

1

They accept only cash and debit card.

2

You need to grab a ticket with a number and wait until they call out the numbers.

3

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

14
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere. Outdoor seating with fire pits adds to the cool vibe. Music energizes evenings but can challenge conversation.

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."

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

"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.

15
Two Bit Circus image 1
Video arcade

Digital-circus theme creates a spacious layout filled with varied arcade and VR games. Bright lighting and cool vibes make it suitable for all ages. Bar area offers views of gaming action, blending lively energy with casual comfort.

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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