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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Food and fun activities in Downtown Santa Monica

You want to pair your meal with an actual experience rather than just sitting at a table.

Based on 825 Opinions
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01
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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.

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

Staff like Pablo, Joey, Tyler, and Ivan make the experience very fun and personable. Celebrations such as birthdays feel extra enjoyable with their lively service.

People are saying

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

"The chefs here make the dining experience truly fun."

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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Small dining room with only five tables offers an intimate atmosphere and close-up view of the open kitchen. Bright lighting contrasts with the sleek, modern design and vinyl records playing softly in the background. Staff create a relaxing, comfortable vibe that complements the upscale yet cozy setting.

Food here shows flawless execution and well-balanced flavors in every dish. The intimate 14-seat dining room adds to the immersive dining experience.

Small space includes solid silver duck press for jus and a turntable playing classics like Stevie Wonder. A hidden door adds a playful touch.

People are saying

"The food here is superb, with flawless execution and balanced flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

The cost is on the higher side of tasting experiences at $399 per person.

3

Expect a unique performance using an 18th-century press during the meal.

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Long, narrow space with open kitchen and intimate bar seating offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Lighting creates a romantic atmosphere that highlights the antique sake cups and skilled chefs at work. The setting feels distinct from typical izakayas, blending minimal decor with thoughtful design.

Japanese style bar food features authentic flavors and dishes mostly under $25. The Saba stands out for its quality and careful preparation, paired with warm, thoughtful service.

Sitting at the bar offers a fun atmosphere with great vibes. Watching food being cooked right in front of you adds to the entertaining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and full of flavor."

"You've got to try the corn ribs and kimchi udon; it's a fun activity!"

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.

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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.

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

Stepping inside feels like joining a celebration with an upbeat atmosphere. The spot works well for large groups and offers a fun twist on French cuisine, especially during brunch.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The staff made our celebration feel personal and special with fun activities."

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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Outdoor pedestrian mall features live street musicians and local artists performing in a lively plaza. The atmosphere blends casual shopping with diverse dining options, attracting both tourists and locals. Security is strong, creating a safe and vibrant environment near the ocean.

Outdoor dining on the Promenade offers a mix of casual fare and gourmet cuisine. Various restaurants and a food court provide good options for different tastes.

Walking down Promenade Street offers a fun and enjoyable experience with a safe atmosphere. Its close location to the beach and pier adds to the convenience for a day of fun.

People are saying

"I found the street performers and outside entertainment really fun."

"I enjoyed the delicious food during the event."

Good to know

1

The Sunday salsa event runs from 7pm to 10pm every week.

2

Farmers market takes place on Promenade Street every Saturday morning.

3

Street musicians perform daily, creating a lively atmosphere.

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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.

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.

Tapas format encourages trying many foods, making tasting fun for kids and adults. Eating at the bar adds a lively and vibrant atmosphere. Pulling open gooseneck barnacles offers a unique, interactive experience.

People are saying

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

"Trying the gooseneck barnacles is a fun activity."

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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Outdoor market offers fresh, organic produce and unique vendors verified as genuine farmers. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful early mornings to vibrant, crowded late hours with street performances. Visitors find wide variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and meats in a clean, well-organized space.

Fresh food comes from local vendors with a good variety of raw meat, poultry, cheeses, bread, dried fruits, nuts, and olive oil. Few prepared-food options exist, focusing more on premium ingredients.

Walking around the Farmers Market offers a vibrant and fun atmosphere. The location itself adds to the enjoyment.

People are saying

"I found the farmers market fun and vibrant with unique vendors."

"I found the food to be so fresh and premium."

Good to know

1

Public parking is available on 4th and Arizona for 90 minutes free.

2

The market features a wide variety of fresh produce, flowers, and meats.

3

Many vendors offer organic options for produce and other goods.

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Miniature golf course features unique themed holes spread over several floors with a great bar and live magician entertainment. Atmosphere is loud and crowded, with karaoke music playing openly and tight spaces causing frequent bumping. The vibe suits energetic nights out rather than quiet, relaxed play.

Corn bites and corn ribs stand out as spectacular dishes. Pizza and a pesto dish also feature, with staff like Elvis and Marissa providing attentive service to ensure food and drinks arrive smoothly.

Mini golf courses feature unique themes on every hole, making the game engaging at all levels. The atmosphere suits date nights, group outings, and team building with a caddy who ensures smooth play.

People are saying

"The mini golf here is amazing fun and super creative."

"The food here was awesome and delicious."

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.

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Open-air mall with modern architecture and rooftop ocean views offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music and family-friendly entertainment. Spacious design includes plenty of seating areas and shaded outdoor spaces. Unique features like the Immersion Room and rooftop dining add extra charm.

Plentiful and diverse food options include restaurants, cafรฉs, and fast-food outlets. A rooftop dining area offers beautiful ocean views and a clean, modern setting with exceptionally clean restrooms.

Outdoor mall offers a vibrant atmosphere with ocean and city views. Variety of stores and rides provide fun for both kids and adults.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with plenty to do for the whole family."

"I found many food options and shops here."

Good to know

1

DJ performances occur on weekends, providing live entertainment.

2

Parking is available, making access convenient for visitors.

3

Many stores are currently closed or boarded up.

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Pub offers multiple seating areas including a backyard patio, balcony, and sidewalk patio, creating a spacious feel. Atmosphere mixes British and Philadelphia Eagles themes with loud music and a lively crowd during games. Features include pool tables, many TVs for sports, and a DJ energizing the space.

Offers authentic UK foods served crispy and hot with adequate portions for the price. Food quality stands out as solid and delicious, often better than the service.

A pool table with a beautiful and convenient design stands out for fun. The pub offers a great spot to chill, talk, and listen, creating a lively atmosphere for good times.

People are saying

"The fish and chips here are delicious."

"The pool table and karaoke are seriously fun activities."

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.

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Huge, spacious building with large common areas including a patio, kitchen, and lounge. Atmosphere is generally quiet and safe, with silent hours at night and a clean, cozy feel. Guests find plenty of relaxation spots and enjoy amenities like a pool table, fireplace, and well-equipped kitchen.

Hearty breakfast comes included with the stay. A friendly kitchen staff adds a welcoming touch. The dining area feels delightful and casual.

Organized events include tours, yoga, and comedy nights.** A variety of fun activities keeps the atmosphere lively and social.

People are saying

"The free breakfast food options were good, with bagels and cheese."

"The staff's local tips made exploring the area a blast for fun activities."

Good to know

1

The hostel organizes daily activities like movie nights with free pizza and donuts.

2

Free yoga classes and comedy shows are available for all guests.

3

The location is ideal, just minutes from the Santa Monica Pier.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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