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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downtown, Santa Monica

Cozy date spots

Made for those who seek out intimate, low-light environments when they want to focus entirely on their partner.

Based on 690 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.

Clean and modern design creates a cozy atmosphere ideal for a chill meal.

Cozy, modern interior creates a relaxed but polished vibe ideal for lunch or dinner dates. Macarons ice cream stands out as a favorite dessert for couples.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is so fresh and beautifully presented for Date Spots."

"It's a cozy spot, perfect for a chill meal."

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
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Polish restaurant

Polish restaurant offers authentic homestyle decor with private outdoor patios featuring firepits and cozy seating. Atmosphere feels like a friend's home, combining cozy vibes with an elevated dining experience. Bar serves unique cocktails like the Warsaw Mule, creating a lively spot to meet and relax.

Warm lighting and soft seating create a cozy setting that feels welcoming. The overall good vibes make it easy to relax and enjoy the space.

Dimly lit outdoor garden vibe creates a romantic ambiance with warm soft lighting and bookshelves that add charm. The space suits evening dates and hosts events like speed dating.

People are saying

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

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

"The pierogies and lamb dumplings are amazing date spots."

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
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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.

Cozy atmosphere blends with modern dรฉcor and lively energy. Sitting at the bar feels especially warm and inviting. Music matches the vibe, making it a great spot for a relaxed night out.

Great atmosphere near the promenade offers good people watching and a lively vibe. Food feels authentic and fresh, making it a solid choice for happy hour date nights or special occasions.

People are saying

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

"The servers here are so attentive, making it a great spot for a date."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and inviting."

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
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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.

The atmosphere feels down-to-earth and elegant at the same time. Seating options include cozy tables upstairs and spots perfect for enjoying a few cocktails in a welcoming vibe.

Cute decor sets a cozy mood for a date night. Small plates like stuffed dates and artichoke hearts offer tasty bites to share.

People are saying

"The garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

"The Spanish tapas here are really delicious and fresh."

"The food here is so flavorful and yummy."

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
Orto Santa Monica image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a smallish space with soaring ceilings and lots of windows, creating a bright and pleasant atmosphere. Soft jazz music keeps noise levels low, making it easy to have conversations. The outdoor courtyard adds a charming setting that complements the elegant interior.

Soft lighting and intimate tables create a romantic and cozy atmosphere. The space feels adorable and semi-casual, making it a comfortable spot to relax.

A relaxed vibe suits low-key date nights and special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays. The beautiful setting makes it a solid pick for a first date with quality Italian food.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The Italian food here feels so authentic and romantic."

"It's a cute and cozy spot with a romantic, intimate atmosphere."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a 20% service charge for large parties of six or more.

06
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.

Dim warm lights and blankets create a snug atmosphere. The decor blends cozy with elegant, making it a great spot for small gatherings.

Memorable date nights happen here with a warm atmosphere. It suits special occasions like graduations and romantic evenings.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

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

"It's so cozy with dim, warm lights."

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
Casa Martin | 3rd St Promenade image 1

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, stylish atmosphere with live Mariachi music and outdoor seating on a promenade. The space feels warm and inviting, blending a laid-back vibe with exquisite decoration. Guests enjoy a mix of traditional dishes and notable margarita flights in a lively setting.

Ambiance blends stylish and inviting elements, creating a beachy cozy feel.

A great place for a date with a menu that includes a Vegetarian Tostada. Drinks come in simple servings like a plastic bottle of ginger ale.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the fish tacos, is fantastic."

"It's a classy, sexy, and cool place for a date."

"It's so cozy and beachy here."

Good to know

1

Expect an 18% automatic service charge on your bill.

2

Happy hour offers better value with a 2 taco special.

3

The average entree costs around $25.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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