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Chez Jay
Master Critic Review
Chez Jay
7.9
Historic dive bar steakhouse established in 1959, featuring peanut shells on the floor and a legendary jukebox. This Santa Monica landmark has hosted celebrities for decades while serving classic steaks and seafood in red vinyl booths.
Must-Try Dishes:
New York Steak, Fresh Catch Scampi, Jay's Surf & Turf
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Santa Monica Historical Landmark since 1959
Who should go: History buffs and dive bar enthusiasts
When to visit: Late night for authentic dive atmosphere
What to order: NY steak, scampi, classic cocktails
Insider tip: Pentagon Papers allegedly passed through here
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Ocean Ave, metered until 6pm. Small lot behind building fills quickly. Expect 10-15 min search on weekends
Dress code: Come as you are - from beach shorts to business casual. This is a dive bar at heart
Noise level: Loud and lively - especially during games. Intimate conversation difficult at peak times
Weekend wait: 30-45 min typical, up to 90 min peak summer. No reservations taken
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, 10-15 min during lunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited - grilled cheese, salads, sides. Not the place for vegetarians
Vegan options: Essentially none - maybe a modified salad. Look elsewhere
Gluten-free options: Can accommodate with plain grilled proteins and salads, but not a strength
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if they appreciate dive bars and history over ambiance. Great for testing authenticity, terrible for impressing with sophistication
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations - it's first come, first served. Best bet is arriving before 6pm or after 9pm
Is it kid-friendly? Before 8pm yes - kids love the peanut shells on the floor. After 8pm becomes more of a bar scene
Best For
Better for: Authentic old-school atmosphere you can't fake. Better prices than waterfront tourist traps. Real locals spot with genuine history
Skip if: You want refined dining, dietary restrictions, or Instagram-perfect ambiance. Choose Mastro's for upscale steaks or Water Grill for seafood focus