Best Happy Hour Restaurants in Santa Monica (90404)
4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
#1
Birdie G's
8.8
Michelin-recognized restaurant from Rustic Canyon's Jeremy Fox blending Eastern European heritage with California produce in an airy Bergamot Station space. The Early Birdie happy hour (5-6pm daily) showcases refined small plates like corned beef tongue and Vernors-baked ham.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Frites with Montreal Spice, Matzo Ball Soup, Jello Pie
What makes it special: Michelin Guide restaurant with one-hour happy hour featuring chef-driven snacks
#2
Socalo
8.4
Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken's SoCal Mexican restaurant delivers seasonal farm-to-table dishes with standout salsa macha that LA Times praised. Voted best happy hour in Santa Monica, featuring tacos and craft cocktails Wednesday-Saturday from 3-6pm in the cantina bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salsa Macha, Green Fish Ceviche Tostadita, Socalo Burger
What makes it special: Celebrity chef pedigree meets award-winning happy hour with Mexican wine focus
#3
The Brixton
8.1
London-inspired gastropub since 2009 serving elevated comfort food with global twists in a lively sports bar setting. Daily happy hour from 3:30-7:30pm features discounted appetizers, craft cocktails, and drafts alongside eight TVs for game-watching.
Must-Try Dishes:
Short Rib Poutine, Fish & Chips, Corned Beef Reuben
What makes it special: Approachable gastropub fare with California touches and daily happy hour specials
Worthy Picks
#4
Busby's West
7.7
Multi-room sports bar voted 3rd best in the nation by MSN with arcade games, pool tables, and 62-inch plasma screens showing every game. Happy hour Monday-Friday 5-8pm offers 20% off entire menu with entertainment including beer pong and shuffleboard.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Wings, Baby Back Ribs, Santa Monica Burger
What makes it special: Arcade games and late-night club scene combined with Buffalo Bills bar status