Best Happy Hour Mexican Restaurants in Santa Monica (90401)
6 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
#1
Lanea
8.6
Sophisticated cocktail bar with over 400 tequilas and mezcals paired with authentic East LA street tacos from Barbakush. Known for expertly crafted cocktails and famous 36-hour pit-roasted barbacoa lamb in a stylish lounge setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Barbacoa Lamb Tacos, Al Pastor, Carnitas with Consommé
What makes it special: One of the largest tequila/mezcal selections in the US
8.4
Upscale Baja-inspired cantina adjacent to Santa Monica Pier offering creative seafood-forward Mexican dishes and expertly crafted cocktails. Happy Hour features $6 street tacos and $13 signature cocktails in a resort-like atmosphere with ocean views.
Must-Try Dishes:
Striped Seabass A La Talla, Lobster Enchiladas, Casamigos Margaritas
What makes it special: Elevated Baja seafood next to the iconic pier
#3
Casa Martin
8.1
Family-owned authentic Mexican restaurant from Jalisco featuring live mariachi performances and traditional recipes. Located directly on the Third Street Promenade, offering generous Happy Hour deals Monday-Friday 3-6pm with a vibrant, festive atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Tacos, Al Pastor, Fajitas Mixtas
What makes it special: Live mariachi and authentic Jalisco family recipes
Worthy Picks
#4
Sol Agave
7.9
Modern Mexican restaurant near the beach emphasizing fresh, healthy ingredients with a California twist. Started as a food truck in 2014, now serving elevated Mexican cuisine with ocean proximity and daily Happy Hour from 2-5pm.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas Plate, Sugar Cane Filet Appetizer, Lobster Enchiladas
What makes it special: All-natural braised pork carnitas from food truck origins
#5
Tu Madre
7.8
Creative taco concept featuring unconventional combinations like fried chicken and ahi tuna tacos. Popular with younger crowds for margarita flights, daily bottomless brunch, and $1 Taco Tuesday specials in a vibrant, party atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried Chicken Taco, Ahi Tuna Tostada, Street Corn Nachos
What makes it special: Inventive fusion tacos with daily happy hour featuring $1.50 tacos
7.7
Vibes:
Happy Hour Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Trendy Table Hotspots
Newly opened family-run cantina bringing authentic Guadalajara street tacos with over 40 varieties. Features charcoal-grilled meats, handmade tortillas, and agave wine slushies in the former Mercado space since November 2024.
Must-Try Dishes:
Alcapone Taco Grande, Mas Buscados Tacos, No Seas Naca Margarita
What makes it special: 50+ taco varieties and premium mezcal selection