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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown, Santa Monica

Outdoor seating spots

Outdoor seating that feels like a deliberate choice rather than a few wobbly tables shoved onto the sidewalk.

Based on 838 Opinions
+835
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Updated April 2026
01
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Polish restaurant

Polish restaurant blends authentic homestyle decor with a lively bar serving unique cocktails like the Warsaw Mule. Cozy outdoor seating includes a secret garden patio with firepits, creating a warm, inviting vibe. Atmosphere feels like a friend's home, perfect for relaxed dining and socializing.

Outdoor seating offers a secret garden patio that feels cozy and inviting. Tables spread across a renovated home and extend to a fun, lively space outside in the back.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a super cozy spot with warm, soft lighting."

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.

02
Calabra image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop seating offers stunning views and outdoor heaters that keep it warm. Atmosphere blends casual enjoyment with a sexy vibe, drawing a lively crowd. Elevator access and wheelchair-friendly seating ensure good accessibility.

Rooftop seating offers a mountain view and heaters keep the space warm. The outdoor area feels inviting yet intimate and creates a nice atmosphere for evenings.

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."

"The outdoor seating has heaters, keeping it warm."

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.

03
Santa Monica Place image 1
Shopping mall

Open-air mall boasts rooftop ocean views and a modern outdoor concept near the beach. Live music and family fun create a vibrant atmosphere. Plenty of shaded seating makes it a perfect spot for relaxing and dining outdoors.

A very modern, open outdoor concept defines the mall, creating a fun outdoor mall vibe. It sits close to the beach and pier, offering a high-end outdoor shopping experience.

People are saying

"This mall is a beautiful, large, open space."

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

"I loved the modern, open outdoor mall concept."

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.

04
Silverlake Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen spot features bar-style seating and a simple design for a quick, casual meal. Outdoor seats offer sunshine views and live blues music, creating a relaxed vibe. Space is tight, so families may find it busy and limited.

Outdoor seating offers a chance to enjoy warm sunshine and watch street performers. The area provides a calm spot to relax during dusk while waiting for food.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is so rich, creamy, and full of flavor."

"The ramen food here is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

"The veggie ramen's textures and flavors are amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Limited seating is available for those waiting for takeout orders.

3

Street meter parking is recommended a few blocks away.

05
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space buzzes with live DJ music and a dog-friendly patio that energizes nights. Outdoor seating features fire pits perfect for family brunches or casual parties. Loud music challenges talk but lifts the lively vibe.

Outside patio offers a fireplace setting that suits family gatherings and relaxing brunches. Outdoor seating supports a vibe for parties and casual nights with a bottomless mimosa brunch option.

People are saying

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

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

"The outdoor seating has a cozy atmosphere by the fire."

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.

06
Equinox Santa Monica image 1

Gym features beach views and multiple balconies for outdoor seating. Quiet, uncrowded space with a multi-floor layout enhances the workout. Yoga classes add a relaxed energy to the atmosphere.

Multiple balconies and a large patio face the ocean, offering a nice view. The outdoor terrace area provides a space to work out while enjoying the sea breeze.

People are saying

"The gym staff here is so friendly and helpful."

"The outdoor seating has a nice ocean view, especially at sunset."

"I love Dylan's attentive yoga classes; I upgraded my membership just for them."

Good to know

1

Free 2-hour parking is available nearby.

2

Membership costs $220 per month at this location.

3

The locker room often feels unclean and poorly maintained.

07
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Open-air seating creates a calm, relaxing atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Bright, spacious interior feels homey and curated, ideal for families. Outdoor tables offer a comfortable, inviting spot to enjoy meals on nice days.

Outdoor seating offers a pleasant spot to eat, especially on days with perfect weather. Tables outside provide a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"This Local Spot's fresh, from-scratch cooking uses local ingredients."

"The fresh, delicious food here is amazing with Outdoor Seating."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

08
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant blends cool water views with a club-like vibe from live DJs. Outdoor seating offers a covered patio with bamboo decor and ocean sights. Perfect for large groups seeking beachy elegance and lively energy.

Outdoor seating features a covered patio that lets sunlight in, with laughing sofas and areas decorated with bamboo and rope. Views of the PCH and ocean enhance the relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

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

"The food here is delicious, especially the calamari."

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.

09
Holey Moley Golf Club Santa Monica image 1

Mini golf spans several floors with unique themed holes and a lively bar featuring a live magician. Rooftop and upper-level patios provide fun outdoor seating options. Loud, crowded spaces with karaoke music create an energetic vibe perfect for nights out.

Rooftop patio offers a fun mini golf experience. Multiple outdoor areas include a spacious patio on the second level and another patio on the third level.

People are saying

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

"The bar staff here is super friendly and attentive."

"The private outdoor patio was ideal for our joyful, immersive event."

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.

10
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel blends warm vibe with rooftop pool oasis and panoramic city views. Openable windows and outdoor seating on the first floor and rooftop create lovely settings for work or leisure. Indoor spaces balance calm with lively rooftop energy.

Openable windows offer direct views outside. Remote work spots include the lobby and pool deck. Outdoor areas on the first floor and rooftop provide lovely settings.

People are saying

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

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

"The hotel's outdoor seating areas are attractive and lovely."

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.

11
Yagul Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy spot with a family-run feel and casual vibe. Outdoor seating offers two small tables, one dog-friendly. Loud juice machines add noise but don't spoil the relaxed atmosphere.

Two outdoor tables sit outside, one with 2 seats and another with 4. The area is small but clean and suitable for sitting with dogs.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are phenomenal and delicious."

"This Mexican food is so fresh and has amazing flavors."

"The Oaxacan fare and fresh juices are delicious with Outdoor Seating."

Good to know

1

Yagul Cafe is a family-owned establishment known for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine.

2

The cafe seats around 30 people, making it an intimate dining experience.

3

Expect to pay around $20 for chicken enchiladas, which may be considered small in portion.

12
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel image 1

Huge building offers spacious patio with comfy sofas for outdoor seating. Inside, guests enjoy a well-equipped kitchen and a pool table for fun. Quiet, safe atmosphere with cozy spots and a fireplace makes it perfect for relaxation.

A spacious patio and terrace with sofas outside offer comfortable outdoor seating. The outdoor area enhances meals and social spaces with good facilities like a big kitchen and pool table nearby.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are spotless and really nice."

"The Breakfast here is fresh, delicious, and has plenty of choices."

"The outdoor seating is fantastically located near the pier and beach."

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.

13
Citrin Restaurant image 1

Dining space feels elegant but cramped with loud music, creating a bar-like vibe. Outdoor patio offers a quiet, romantic spot perfect for dates and welcomes service animals. Service can be slow, with long waits for dishes.

The outside seating offers a quiet, romantic patio that suits a first date. Service animals are accommodated there, but service can be slow, with long waits before dishes arrive.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal and beautifully presented."

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

"The outdoor seating is quiet and perfect for a first date."

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.

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