Best Cheap Eats Restaurants in Santa Monica (90405)
5 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
8.3
Caribbean beach shack near the pier serving jerk chicken with Latin fusion twists across entirely outdoor seating. BYOB policy makes this destination-worthy for beachside dining with coconut fried chicken that earned Food Network recognition.
Must-Try Dishes:
Jerk Chicken Enchiladas, Coconut Fried Chicken, Cha Cha Chicken
What makes it special: Caribbean-Latin fusion with BYOB policy at beach-adjacent outdoor shack
#2
Ghisallo
8.3
Ocean Park neighborhood staple serving both New York-style slices by day and Neapolitan-esque whole pies at dinner. Chef Casey Lane works with renowned baker Jyan Horwitz to perfect naturally leavened dough, creating blistered crusts that support creative toppings like nduja sausage with fermented honey.
Must-Try Dishes:
Funghi & Truffle Pizza, Calabrian Sausage, Margherita Slice
What makes it special: Dual dough approach offering both NY slices and Neapolitan pies from artisan bakers
#3
Heavy Handed
8.1
Walk-up smashburger operation with ground short rib patties achieving crispy edges and tender interiors on fluffy potato rolls. Beef tallow fries and front patio seating make this Main Street destination popular despite limited seating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double Smashburger, Beef Tallow Fries, Triple Stack
What makes it special: Ground short rib patties create uniquely tender and beefy smashburgers
8.0
Family-run Mexican institution since the 1980s with home-style specialties and margaritas by the pitcher. Complimentary thick tortilla chips with slow-burning salsa and pickled carrot bowls precede generous plates of carne asada and carnitas.
Must-Try Dishes:
Weekend Menudo, Carne Asada Breakfast, Dorado Tacos
What makes it special: Won Santa Monica's 2024 Most Loved Mexican Restaurant with 50 years of family recipes
Worthy Picks
#5
Samosa House
7.8
All-vegetarian Indian counter with rotating buffet-style selection showcasing smoky cauliflower curry, jackfruit in cashew cream sauce, and handmade samosas. The three-item combo with naan and rice delivers substantial value under $11.
Must-Try Dishes:
Three-Item Combo with Cauliflower Curry, Samosa Chaat, Veggie Chicken in Cashew Cream
What makes it special: Fresh-daily vegetarian Indian buffet with unique charcoal-smoked preparations