Best Happy Hour Mexican Restaurants in Santa Monica
9 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Tu Madre
Inventive fusion tacos with daily happy hour featuring $1.50 tacos
Notable Picks
#1
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
#2
Sol Agave
8.1
From food truck to beachside success, this modern Mexican spot specializes in all-natural braised carnitas and fresh seafood preparations. The contemporary presentation maintains authentic flavors while offering free parking near the pier.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas Plate, Sugar Cane Filet Appetizer, Lobster Enchiladas
What Makes it Special: All-natural braised pork carnitas from food truck origins
#3
Lanea
8.1
This cocktail bar showcases over 400 tequilas and mezcals alongside authentic street tacos from East LA's 'Barbacoa Queen' Petra Zavaleta. The 36-hour pit-roasted lamb barbacoa wrapped in agave leaves pairs perfectly with handcrafted wellness-driven cocktails.
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
#4
Socalo
8
From Border Grill's Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, Socalo offers conscientiously-sourced SoCal Mexican with a famous salsa macha. The dog-friendly patios and proximity to Santa Monica Pier make it ideal for casual lunches with craft beers and creative antojitos.
Must-Try Dishes:
Barbacoa Tacos, Tacos Gobernador with Cheesy Shrimp, Jackfruit Tinga Tacos
What Makes it Special: Award-winning chefs' modern Mexican interpretation
Worthy Picks
7.9
Día de Muertos-themed cantina established in 1991 featuring Mexico City-inspired dishes and over 300 tequilas on a colorful outdoor patio. The kitchen emphasizes lighter preparations suitable for various dietary preferences while maintaining authentic regional flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimp Tacos, Lula Margarita, Chicken Mole
What Makes it Special: One of LA's largest tequila collections with over 500 varieties and vibrant Chicano art
7.8
Vibes:
Happy Hour Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Trendy Table Hotspots
Sixth location of this LA institution brings 50+ taco varieties and premium mezcal to downtown Santa Monica. Opened November 2024 with full liquor bar and the famous 'Alcapone' taco grande.
Must-Try Dishes:
Alcapone Taco Grande, Mas Buscados Tacos, No Seas Naca Margarita
What Makes it Special: 50+ taco varieties and premium mezcal selection
#7
Cabo Cantina
7.8
This party-centric cantina near the Promenade serves mega margaritas and late-night tacos until 2am daily. Known for its 2-for-1 happy hours and raucous atmosphere, it's where beach vibes meet border-town energy with affordable street tacos and bottomless specials.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Tacos, Fish Tacos with Habanero Sauce, Grilled Shrimp Tacos
What Makes it Special: 36oz Mega Margaritas and kitchen open until 2am every night
7.7
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Happy Hour Hotspots
Brunch Bliss Spots
Business Lunch Power Players
Modern evolution of the 1999 taqueria bringing elevated Puebla-style recipes with a full bar to the gentrifying Lincoln Boulevard corridor. The family operation maintains traditional preparations while expanding the experience with craft cocktails and weekend brunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Tacos, Breakfast Burrito, Carnitas Plate
What Makes it Special: Family recipes from Puebla passed down through generations with new bar program
#9
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.