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Barney's Beanery
Master Critic Review
Barney's Beanery
8.1
Established in 1920, this legendary Route 66 roadhouse brings authentic sports bar culture to the Promenade with over 175 beer options and a 1000-item menu. The historic venue serves classic buffalo wings alongside their famous chili varieties, maintaining its status as a Santa Monica institution for over a century.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Buffalo Wings, Famous Chili, Prime Rib Dublin Dip
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Century-old institution with 175+ beer options
Who should go: Sports fans and beer enthusiasts
When to visit: Monday-Friday 4-7pm happy hour
What to order: Buffalo wings, chili varieties, craft beers
Insider tip: Home to NY Giants watch parties on Sundays
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Third Street Promenade parking structures $2-3/hour, very crowded on weekends. Street parking limited to 2 hours until 6pm
Dress code: Come as you are - jerseys, jeans, flip-flops all welcome. Classic dive bar casual
Noise level: Loud during games - conversation difficult. Quieter weekday afternoons
Weekend wait: 30-45 min during games, walk-in friendly otherwise
Weekday lunch: No wait, plenty of seating
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - veggie burgers, salads, nachos, multiple appetizers
Vegan options: Very limited - mainly salads and sides, ask for modifications
Gluten-free options: Some options but no dedicated prep - wings without breading, bunless burgers
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal unless you both love sports - very loud during games and casual dive bar atmosphere. Better for group hangs or watching the game
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, they don't take reservations. First come, first served. Arrive early on game days or expect to wait at the bar
Is it kid-friendly? Yes until 9pm - high chairs available, kids menu, but gets rowdier late night. Best for families during early dinner hours
Best For
Better for: Authentic dive bar atmosphere with massive beer selection beats cleaner sports chains. Historic character and 1000+ menu items means something for everyone
Skip if: You want intimate dining, craft cocktails, or a quieter scene. Head to The Misfit or Sonoma Wine Garden nearby instead