Best Cheap Eats Restaurants in Santa Monica
49 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Yagul Cafe
House-made nixtamal tortillas from their own tortilleria
Notable Picks
#1
Yagul Cafe
8.9
This hidden Oaxacan gem crafts exceptional house-made tortillas from fresh nixtamal masa at their own tortilleria, elevating traditional tasajo and cecina tacos with authentic preparation methods. Family-owned since 2021, the bright downtown cafe serves breakfast and lunch with a focus on traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tasajo Tacos, Cecina Tacos, Mole Enchiladas
What Makes it Special: House-made nixtamal tortillas from their own tortilleria
#2
La Purepecha
8.8
Named after Michoacán's indigenous societies, this year-old taquería offers handmade corn tortillas with exceptional meat-to-tortilla ratios. Tuesday's $1.99 tacos draw crowds for authentic carnitas, adobada, and their memorable grilled fish tacos.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas Taconazos, Grilled Fish Taco, Adobada Taco
What Makes it Special: Handmade tortillas with cheese-melted taconazos option
8.6
Since 1925, this legendary deli serves the famous Godmother sandwich alongside imported Italian groceries and fresh pasta dishes. The no-nonsense counter service and packed atmosphere speak to its enduring popularity among locals seeking authentic Italian provisions.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Godmother Sandwich, Burrata Caprese, Fresh Pasta Salads
What Makes it Special: Century-old institution with imported Italian specialties
8.5
Specializing in 16-hour cooked beef birria and wood-fired pollo asado, this street food specialist rose from the ashes of a fire to become a local phenomenon. Their made-from-scratch churros and rich consommé create an authentic Tijuana-style experience steps from the pier.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria Quesataco, OG Plate Combo, Dulce de Leche Churros
What Makes it Special: Authentic birria with 16-hour slow-cooked beef and handmade churros
#5
Colapasta
8.5
Michelin Bib Gourmand winner where Chef Stefano De Lorenzo crafts handmade pasta at an open station, sourcing ingredients from the Santa Monica Farmer's Market. The intimate 30-seat space offers front-row seats to pasta artistry at remarkably fair prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Calamarata with Stracciatella, Handmade Tagliatelle, Daily Pasta Special
What Makes it Special: Michelin-recognized pasta made fresh daily at exceptional value.
#6
Pita House
8.4
Family-run Mediterranean spot opened in 2016 serving generous portions of kabobs, shawarma, and handmade baklava with consistently fresh ingredients. Known for juicy meats marinated in-house and creamy hummus varieties that draw regulars from across the Westside.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Kabob, Chicken Shawarma, Mixed Kabab Plate
What Makes it Special: Halal meats with build-your-own bowl concept and 3000+ delivery reviews
#7
Sweet Maple
8.3
Home to the world-famous Millionaire's Bacon, this breakfast powerhouse elevates American morning classics with Asian flourishes. Thick-cut bacon caramelized with brown sugar and spicy pepper has achieved legendary status among brunch enthusiasts.
Must-Try Dishes:
Millionaire's Bacon, Blueberry Pancakes, Breakfast Burrito
What Makes it Special: Millionaire's Bacon put them on the global food map
#8
Tacos 1986
8.3
This Tijuana-style taco specialist brings authentic street food to downtown Santa Monica with perfectly charred meats, handmade tortillas, and vibrant salsas. Part of the acclaimed LA chain, this location maintains the high standards that earned them cult status across the city.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor, Mulitas, Vampiro Tacos
What Makes it Special: Authentic Tijuana-style street tacos from cult-favorite chain
8.2
This iconic LA chain brings its famous oversized donuts and classic recipes to Santa Monica with consistent quality and generous portions. The glazed raised donuts are fluffy perfection, while specialty items like Randy's Rounds offer playful twists on traditional favorites.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Glazed Raised, Apple Fritter, Maple Bar
What Makes it Special: Legendary LA donut brand with oversized portions.
#10
Sushi Hanashi
8.1
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Happy Hour Hotspots
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Quick Bites Champions
This neighborhood favorite since 2013 serves generous portions of fresh nigiri and creative specialty rolls in a casual, no-frills setting. The warm greeting from the sushi bar, extensive sake selection, and happy hour pricing (3-5pm with a third off) make it a reliable local haunt where quality consistently delivers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Santa Monica Roll, Hanashi Roll, Salmon Sashimi Salad
What Makes it Special: Huge fish portions on nigiri that locals return to weekly
8.1
Santa Monica staple since 1974 serving hearty breakfast plates and classic Mexican comfort food in a casual setting decorated with memorabilia and vintage photos. The family operation is known for generous portions, excellent menudo on weekends, and their legendary Diablo salsa.
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
#12
Sunny Blue
8.1
California's pioneering omusubi specialist crafts Japanese rice balls fresh daily with unexpected fillings like curry chicken and spicy salmon. The eco-conscious counter-service spot transforms grab-and-go into an art form with rice balls wrapped in crispy nori.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Curry Omusubi, Spicy Salmon Omusubi, Miso Beef Curry
What Makes it Special: First and only dedicated omusubi shop in Southern California since 2010
#13
SUGARFISH
8
Chef Nozawa's legacy continues with this no-frills approach to traditional sushi where warm rice and pristine fish take center stage. The Trust Me menus eliminate decision fatigue while delivering a curated progression of the day's best selections.
Must-Try Dishes:
Trust Me Lunch Set, Toro Hand Roll, Daily Special Nigiri
What Makes it Special: Nozawa-style warm rice and no-modifications philosophy
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
A Brentwood Country Mart staple since 1950, Reddi Chick is a walk-up stall turning out rib baskets, rotisserie chicken, and fries dusted with their famous seasoning salt. Family-owned since the late ’70s, it’s a nostalgic, no-frills stop where locals grab saucy BBQ pork ribs and chicken-and-rib combo baskets to eat in the open-air courtyard.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ Rib Basket, Rotisserie Chicken and BBQ Rib Combo Basket, Seasoned Fries with House BBQ Sauce
What Makes it Special: Old-school counter serving rib baskets in a beloved country mart.
#15
Cha Cha Chicken
8
Family-owned since 1996, this colorful Caribbean beach shack serves jerk chicken with Latin fusion twists on two covered patios steps from the ocean. The BYOB policy, coconut fried chicken featured on Food Network, and homemade jerk sauce create a laid-back island vibe that locals have treasured for nearly three decades.
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
#16
Samosa House
8
A counter-service vegetarian Indian cafeteria running a rotating daily lineup of curries, dosas, and chaats — the kind of place where regulars show up not knowing what's on the steam trays and trust it anyway. The three-item combo with rice and naan lands under $15 on a stretch of Main Street where that buys you half a salad elsewhere, and the operation has held this format steady across four locations and nearly 50 years of family ownership.
Must-Try Dishes:
Samosa Chaat, Chole Bhature, Dosa
What Makes it Special: All-vegetarian Indian cafeteria with a rotating daily lineup of curries, served counter-style with a three-item combo of naan, rice, and your pick of entrées.
Worthy Picks
#17
Donut King
7.9
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Family Friendly Favorites
Family-run neighborhood spot behind Starbucks serves old-school donuts alongside breakfast sandwiches and boba drinks from early morning until evening. The unassuming strip mall location belies consistently fresh donuts at budget prices, with apple fritters earning particular devotion from regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Apple Fritter, Chocolate Chip Bar, Glazed Raised
What Makes it Special: Old-fashioned donuts at unbeatable prices in a no-frills neighborhood setting
#18
Tacos Tuzo
7.9
This authentic food truck parks downtown serving traditional street tacos until midnight on weekends. With its no-frills approach and generous portions, it delivers legitimate Mexican flavors at budget prices to late-night crowds.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Carne Asada Tacos, Lengua Tacos
What Makes it Special: Authentic taco truck experience in downtown Santa Monica
7.9
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
A walk-up taqueria inside Brentwood Country Mart, Frida Tacos turns out straightforward chicken, pastor, and mole tacos with a customize-it-yourself salsa bar. It’s a go-to Westside stop for quick, filling taco plates between errands or after-school runs.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tacos al Pastor, Pollo con Mole Taco, Bean & Cheese Burrito
What Makes it Special: Counter-service tacos anchored by mole, pastor, and a robust salsa bar in the middle of Brentwood Country Mart.
Known for massive portions and 24-hour citrus-brined rotisserie chicken, Benny's delivers straightforward Mexican-American comfort food. The handmade tortillas and daily-made salsas elevate simple ingredients into satisfying meals that won't empty your wallet.
Must-Try Dishes:
Surf & Turf Grande Burrito, Rotisserie Chicken Tacos, Bavarian Cream Churros
What Makes it Special: 24-hour citrus-brined rotisserie chicken
#21
Rae's Restaurant
7.8
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Authentic 1950s diner serving classic American breakfast in turquoise-blue retro setting since 1958. Red leather booths, counter seating with griddle views, and old-school hospitality define this local institution where housemade biscuits and gravy, giant cinnamon rolls, and hearty breakfast combos come at remarkably affordable prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Biscuits and Gravy, Hobo Breakfast, Fresh-Baked Cinnamon Rolls
What Makes it Special: Genuine 1950s diner with 66 years of local history
#22
Tavern on Main
7.8
This neighborhood sports bar combines California comfort food with over 20 TV screens, maintaining a locals-first vibe with affordable happy hours and late-night service. The recent management team emphasizes attentive service and safety, offering pool, shuffleboard, and solid bar fare like burgers and tacos at prices rare for Main Street.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tavern Burger, Chicken Tacos, Veggie Tacos
What Makes it Special: Budget-friendly neighborhood bar with exceptional value and caring staff
#23
Z Garden
7.8
Counter-service Mediterranean that delivers sit-down-sized plates—lamb shank, grilled salmon, shawarma—at fast-casual prices, making it a reliable weeknight solve on Pico. The covered patio and strip-mall lot keep the overhead low and the turnover quick, which is the point: real entrees without the restaurant markup. Best suited for locals who want a full plate and an easy park, not a lingering dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Shawarma, Grilled Salmon, Lemon Chicken
What Makes it Special: Counter-service Mediterranean with full-plate entrees, a leafy covered patio, and portions sized like sit-down dining at fast-casual prices.
#24
Classic Pizza
7.8
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Late-night neighborhood workhorse serving gourmet pizzas, generous salads, and Italian pastas until 3 AM most nights. In-house dough made daily and creative specialty combinations draw locals seeking quality without pretension, from quick lunches to post-beach dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ Chicken Pizza, Classic Combo Pizza, Chicken Pesto Pizza
What Makes it Special: Open until 3 AM with made-from-scratch dough and surprisingly creative gourmet toppings
7.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Late Night Legends
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
This 22-year family-run hole-in-the-wall delivers reliable Thai comfort food with generous portions and prices that defy Santa Monica economics. The homey interior features customer signatures covering the walls, live plants, and even resident tortoises, creating an atmosphere that feels more like dining in someone's living room than a restaurant.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad See Ew, Tom Kha Kai Soup, Panang Curry
What Makes it Special: Family-owned for over two decades with loyal following for authentic flavors and value
#26
Marmalade Cafe
7.8
Since 1990, this original Marmalade location has served fresh California-inspired comfort food to Montana Avenue locals. Known for generous portions, varied menu options, and reasonable prices, it remains a dependable neighborhood staple for breakfast through dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chopped Italian Salad, Tri-Tip Tacos, Kansas City Pork Chops
What Makes it Special: Original location of beloved LA cafe chain since 1990
7.8
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Family-owned since 1983, this old-school pizzeria makes classic and gourmet NY-style pies using imported Italian ingredients and local produce when possible. The long-standing neighborhood presence and consistent execution keep generations of locals returning.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original Cheese Pizza, BBQ Chicken Pizza, Caesar Salad
What Makes it Special: Over 40 years in the same location with multi-generational loyal following
#28
Sushi King
7.8
Operating for over 30 years in a modest strip mall, this no-frills spot serves incredibly fresh fish at unbeatable prices. Japanese sushi masters who remember regulars by name create an authentic experience that prioritizes quality over ambiance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Special, Fresh Yellowtail Nigiri, Salmon Skin Salad
What Makes it Special: Exceptional value with generous portions of quality fish
7.8
Family-run since 1993, Rita personally oversees every dish at this authentic neighborhood gem. While the ambiance is modest, the personalized cooking and genuine hospitality create an experience that locals have cherished for decades.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Rogan Josh, Lemon Chicken Curry, Chef's Special Shrimp
What Makes it Special: Rita's personal touch and home-style cooking from family recipes.
#30
T's Thai
7.8
This casual strip mall gem serves authentic Thai classics with generous portions and wallet-friendly prices, just one block from the Third Street Promenade. Popular lunch specials under $15 include soup, salad, and entrée combos that draw both locals and tourists seeking quick, satisfying Thai comfort food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad See-Ew with Crispy Pork, Tom Yum Soup, Lunch Special Combos
What Makes it Special: Authentic Thai at strip mall prices with generous lunch deals
7.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Serving fresh Mediterranean staples since 1958 from a bright yellow cottage across from Santa Monica College. The tiny counter-service spot maintains original recipes with generous portions and some of LA's crispiest falafel at budget-friendly prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel Sandwich, Gyro Plate, Shish Kabob
What Makes it Special: Over 60 years serving Santa Monica with unchanged recipes and $8 falafel sandwiches
#32
Flapjax
7.8
Woman-owned modern diner bringing Turkish-inspired twists to American breakfast classics, using organic produce and scratch-made preparations. The eco-conscious restaurant features bottomless mimosas, creative pancake variations, and the authentic Turkish menemen, all served in a bright space built sustainably around an existing tree.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chocolate Pancakes with House Whipped Cream, Turkish Menemen, Chicken and Waffles
What Makes it Special: Turkish-American fusion breakfast with organic ingredients
#33
Chick 'N' Ribs
7.8
This food court gem specializes in rotisserie chicken and baby back ribs that fall off the bone with a tangy house-made BBQ sauce. The casual counter-service spot delivers surprisingly tender meat at mall prices, making it a budget-friendly option for quality BBQ.
Must-Try Dishes:
Full Rack Baby Back Ribs, Half Chicken & Ribs Combo, Beef Short Ribs
What Makes it Special: Mall food court BBQ that rivals standalone restaurants
#34
CAVA
7.8
This fast-casual Mediterranean chain delivers customizable bowls and pitas with fresh ingredients and bold flavors at accessible prices. The build-your-own format lets diners mix proteins, dips, and toppings for healthy, quick meals perfect for beach-day fuel.
Must-Try Dishes:
Harissa Avocado Bowl, Spicy Lamb Pita, Greens + Grains Bowl
What Makes it Special: Mediterranean Chipotle with unlimited toppings
#35
Bruxie
7.8
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Bruxie pioneered the waffle sandwich concept, serving hand-breaded fried chicken tenders and creative chicken-and-waffle combinations from their Third Street Promenade location. This fast-casual spot transforms Belgian waffles into crispy vessels for buttermilk-marinated fried chicken.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original Fried Chicken & Waffle, Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, Chicken Tenders Combo
What Makes it Special: The original chicken and waffle sandwich concept
#36
Nick The Greek
7.7
This authentic Greek street food spot serves vertical rotisserie gyros, souvlaki skewers, and loukoumades (Greek beignets) with honey. The casual counter-service format with outdoor seating makes it ideal for quick, satisfying Greek classics without breaking the bank.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef/Lamb Gyro Pita, Greek Fries, Loukoumades with Honey
What Makes it Special: Authentic Greek street food at wallet-friendly prices
#37
Urban Skillet
7.6
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Late Night Legends
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
This halal burger concept brings street-inspired flavors and 100% locally sourced halal meat to Main Street, combining beachside chill with bold LA energy. The growing chain's flagship location serves gourmet burgers, crispy wings, loaded fries, and hand-crafted shakes from its Ocean Park spot where it all began.
Must-Try Dishes:
Signature Halal Burger, Loaded Fries, Hand-Crafted Shakes
What Makes it Special: 100% halal burgers with street-style creativity and fresh ingredients
7.6
Late-night friendly spot combining fresh sushi rolls with steaming bowls of ramen in a casual setting. Open until midnight daily, it's become the go-to for satisfying both sushi and noodle cravings without breaking the bank.
Must-Try Dishes:
Volcano Roll, Salmon Lover's Roll, Spicy Tuna Tempura Roll
What Makes it Special: One of few spots serving sushi past 11pm daily
#39
George's Burgers
7.6
Since 1995, this no-frills burger joint has maintained the same quality and value that earned its local following, operating from a Lincoln Boulevard location just off the I-10. The straightforward menu focuses on classic burgers delivered without pretension, attracting both Santa Monica residents and travelers seeking reliable American comfort food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Cheeseburger, Double Burger, French Fries
What Makes it Special: Nearly 30 years of consistent burger quality at unbeatable value
#40
SaMo Pizza
7.6
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Brick oven pizzeria serving late-night slices and pies until 4 AM on weekends. Established in 2018, this counter-service spot draws Santa Monica College students and locals with affordable prices, quick service, and specialty options including vegan, gluten-free, and creative toppings like their signature SaMo pizza with egg and jalapeño.
Must-Try Dishes:
SaMo Pizza, Margherita, BBQ Chicken
What Makes it Special: Open until 4 AM on weekends with brick oven quality at student-friendly prices
7.6
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Modern Vietnamese noodle shop with sleek minimalist design serves aromatic pho with rich bone broth and fresh spring rolls. The trendy space features communal seating and outdoor picnic tables, drawing crowds for banh xeo crepes and lemongrass-marinated grilled meats.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho Tai (Rare Steak), Imperial Rolls, Banh Xeo
What Makes it Special: Fresh Vietnamese street fare in modern minimalist setting
7.6
This California chain delivers consistent chargrilled burgers made to order with fresh ingredients. Known for their signature Charburger and tempura green beans, they offer reliable quality at family-friendly prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original Charburger, Santa Barbara Char, Tempura Green Beans
What Makes it Special: Chargrilled flavor at fast-casual prices
#43
Jinky's Cafe
7.6
This eclectic neighborhood fixture since 2000 specializes in southwestern-influenced breakfast with over 20 chili varieties alongside pancakes and flaky French toast. The family-friendly space offers generous portions and creative combinations like chilaquiles and breakfast pizzas, making it a reliable choice for hearty morning meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Martin's Spicy Chilaquiles, Flaky French Toast, Desperado Omelet
What Makes it Special: Twenty-plus chili varieties and southwestern breakfast focus
#44
Holy Guacamole
7.6
No-frills taqueria on Main Street serving oversized burritos and street tacos until late night with fresh-made tortillas. The casual counter-service spot draws beach crowds with its late hours and straightforward Mexican staples.
Must-Try Dishes:
Super Asada Burrito, Fish Tacos, Breakfast Burrito
What Makes it Special: Open until 2:15am on weekends serving big portions to the late-night crowd
#45
Thai Vegan
7.6
Operating since 2010 in a shared food hall space near Main Street, this counter-service spot focuses on straightforward plant-based Thai classics. The casual setup with outdoor communal seating makes it ideal for quick takeout or a low-key meal, though the menu plays it safe with familiar preparations rather than pushing creative boundaries.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad Thai, Green Curry, Papaya Salad
What Makes it Special: Affordable all-vegan Thai menu in shared food hall near the beach
#46
Dagwoods
7.6
Neighborhood pizza shop delivers consistent quality at family-friendly prices with exceptional service. Known for generous portions and house-made dressing, this local favorite has anchored the Wilshire corridor for years.
Must-Try Dishes:
House Special Pizza, Turkey Sub, Grilled Chicken Caesar
What Makes it Special: Great prices with consistent quality and friendly service
#47
Yoshinoya
7.5
Legacy Japanese fast-food chain serving signature gyudon beef bowls since 1899 with speedy service and eco-friendly packaging. The no-frills counter-service format delivers affordable comfort food for quick meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original Gyudon Beef Bowl, Tokyo Fried Chicken, Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
What Makes it Special: 125-year legacy recipe with secret sauce known to only three people
7.5
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Comfort Food Classics
Since 2009, this Lincoln Boulevard spot serves traditional Thai favorites in a modern, casual setting. The kitchen focuses on fresh ingredients and balanced flavors across a menu that covers the expected range from street food specialties like Khao Ka Paw Moo Krob to standard curries and noodle dishes, appealing to both adventurous eaters and those seeking familiar comfort.
Must-Try Dishes:
Khao Ka Paw Moo Krob, Green Curry, Pad Thai
What Makes it Special: Reliable neighborhood Thai with signature crispy pork basil rice dish
#49
Yogurtland
7.5
Self-serve frozen yogurt pioneer offers rotating flavors and extensive topping bar with fresh fruit cut daily. The pay-by-weight model and constant flavor rotation keeps locals returning for customizable healthy dessert options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal Flavors Swirl, Fresh Fruit Parfait, Cookie Dough Creation
What Makes it Special: Endless customization with rotating flavors and extensive toppings