Best Date Night Mexican Restaurants in Santa Monica
5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
RED O Mexican Cantina
Upscale Baja cuisine with ocean views and Rick Bayless influence
Notable Picks
8.6
Steps from the pier, this upscale cantina elevates Baja-inspired seafood with ocean views and expertly crafted cocktails. Rick Bayless-trained chefs create innovative dishes like lobster enchiladas alongside traditional favorites in a sophisticated beachside setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Enchiladas, Ceviche Trio, Duck Carnitas
What Makes it Special: Upscale Baja cuisine with ocean views and Rick Bayless influence
#2
Tu Madre
8.4
Born from a happy accident with a fried chicken taco, Tu Madre reinvents the taco game with creative combinations like ahi tuna on handmade tortillas. Their vibrant cantina atmosphere and $1.50 happy hour tacos make this a local favorite for groups and date nights alike.
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
8.2
This beachside Baja-meets-Santa Monica spot features ocean views, handmade tortillas made fresh all day, and a coastal approach to Mexican cuisine. Happy hour brings discounted margaritas and sustainable, organic ingredients prepared with California flair.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja Fish Tacos, Short Rib Tacos, Lobster Taco
What Makes it Special: Ocean views with organic, sustainably-sourced ingredients
Worthy Picks
#4
El Cholo
7.7
Since 1923, this LA institution serves traditional Mexican-American favorites with their legendary 1800 margaritas. The nostalgic décor and time-tested recipes for enchiladas and chile rellenos deliver consistent comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Enchiladas Suizas, Chile Relleno, Nachos Original Recipe
What Makes it Special: 100+ year family legacy and historical recipes
#5
Vamos Vamos
7.6
A nacho-and-margarita bar that pivoted toward Japanese-Mexican fusion under new chef Ivan Barros, with duck tacos and carne asada earning repeat praise while the cocktail program—anchored by nine margarita variations and a mezcal-watermelon standout—remains the most reliable draw. The sprawling Main Street patio sets the tone for a casual, flip-flops-welcome session, though food quality swings between visits and portions run lean for the price point. Best approached as a drinks-forward hangout where you graze the taco menu and lean into happy hour.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nachos, Duck Tacos, Grilled Fish Tacos
What Makes it Special: Nacho and margarita bar blending New Mexican hatch chile specialties with beachside Santa Monica energy on Main Street.