Best Happy Hour Restaurants in Santa Monica
39 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Father's Office
Home of LA's most iconic gourmet burger
Notable Picks
8.9
Since Chef Sang Yoon took over in 2000, Father's Office has become legendary for its no-substitutions Office Burger with caramelized onions, Gruyere, Maytag blue, and bacon compote. This gastropub pioneered LA's craft beer movement with 36 rotating taps and elevated bar food that still sets the standard.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Office Burger, Sweet Potato Fries with Blue Cheese Aioli, Spanish Mushrooms
What Makes it Special: Home of LA's most iconic gourmet burger
8.8
This seductively stylish steakhouse reinvents the traditional American steakhouse experience with 40-day dry-aged New York strips and A5 Japanese Wagyu. The ocean-view patio and vibrant bar scene create an alluring ambiance that matches the exceptional cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes:
40-Day Dry-Aged NY Strip, A5 Japanese Wagyu Flight, Tableside Caesar Salad
What Makes it Special: The only steakhouse offering ocean views with 40-day dry-aged steaks.
#3
Fitoor
8.5
From the team behind Michelin-recognized ROOH, Fitoor brings contemporary Indian coastal cuisine with theatrical cocktails and weekend fire dancers. The avocado chaat with burrata and pan-seared Hokkaido scallops showcase California-Indian fusion at its most refined.
Must-Try Dishes:
Avocado Chaat with Burrata, Maryland Soft Shell Crab, Pulled Butter Chicken Kulcha
What Makes it Special: Fire-based cooking meets craft cocktails inspired by the five natural elements.
8.4
This hybrid wine bar and gourmet market offers California-French cuisine with over 100 wines by the glass in a sophisticated space featuring communal marble tables and a wine-cave inspired private room. The establishment seamlessly blends fine dining with curated retail, offering artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and specialty products alongside their seasonal menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Truffle Pizza with Shaved Black Truffle, Steak Tartare with Quail Egg, Wood Oven Baked Brie
What Makes it Special: Combining fine dining with gourmet retail and exceptional wine program
#5
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
8.4
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Birthday & Celebration Central
Business Lunch Power Players
Happy Hour Hotspots
Celebrating 45 years, this family-owned establishment features Chef Ernesto's legendary Spaghetti Della Casa, often called the best pasta dish locals have tasted. Tuxedo-clad servers provide old-school formal service in a romantic setting with mood lighting and outdoor patio dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spaghetti Della Casa, Tableside Caesar Salad, Gnocchi Sorrentina
What Makes it Special: Chef Ernesto's 30+ years cooking with love creates signature dishes like the famous Spaghetti Della Casa
8.4
Housed in the historic 1929 Clock Tower building, The Misfit champions farm-to-table American comfort food with LA's best happy hour. The high-energy space steps from Third Street Promenade draws crowds for thoughtfully-crafted cocktails and seasonal California cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bacon Mac & Cheese, Pan-Seared Sea Bass, Walnut Bolognaise
What Makes it Special: Best happy hour in LA according to multiple publications
#8
R+D Kitchen
8.3
Part of the Hillstone Restaurant Group, R+D Kitchen serves elevated American comfort food in a sophisticated yet approachable setting. Known for their artisanal sandwiches and inventive cocktails, this Montana Avenue fixture has been a neighborhood favorite for business lunches since opening.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ding's Crispy Chicken Sandwich, Chopped Salad with Blackened Chicken, Sicilian Sliders
What Makes it Special: Hillstone's consistent excellence meets Montana Avenue sophistication
#9
The Brixton
8.3
This neighborhood gastropub delivers elevated bar food with California flair, anchored by crowd-pleasing dishes like short rib poutine and duck confit fritters alongside classic comfort fare. The daily happy hour and eight-TV sports setup make it equally suited for casual drinks or full dinner service, drawing both locals and visitors since 2015.
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
#10
The Counter
8.3
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Business Lunch Power Players
Group Dining Gatherings
Happy Hour Hotspots
Build-your-own burger destination with thousands of customization combinations from grass-fed beef to vegan patties. This contemporary spot lets diners select everything from bun type to premium toppings like truffle aioli and fried eggs, paired with excellent sweet potato or parmesan fries.
Must-Try Dishes:
Create Your Own Burger, Old School Burger, Sweet Potato Fries
What Makes it Special: Thousands of burger combinations with quality ingredients and dietary options
#11
Xuntos
8.2
Chef Sandra Cordero's tapas bar specializes in hard-to-find Galician specialties like percebes and huge empanadas, alongside traditional pintxos from Spain's northern regions. The two-story space with dual mezzanines creates an unrefined Barcelona-style atmosphere perfect for sharing small plates and natural Spanish wines.
Must-Try Dishes:
Galician Empanadas, Jamón Ibérico de Bellota, Percebes (Gooseneck Barnacles)
What Makes it Special: Only place in LA serving authentic Galician specialties and percebes
#12
Socalo
8.2
Modern Mexican from James Beard and Julia Child Award-winning chefs Feniger and Milliken, built around conscientiously-sourced ingredients and creative plant-forward options like jackfruit tinga tacos alongside traditional preparations. The dual dog-friendly patios and well-regarded happy hour made it a natural fit for Santa Monica groups who wanted upscale execution without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Guacamole, Ceviche, Burrito
What Makes it Special: Modern Mexican cantina with plant-forward options like jackfruit tacos alongside traditional carne asada, all served on a dog-friendly patio
8.2
Inspired by East Hampton lobster bakes and Montauk roadside eateries, this casual beachy spot serves overflowing Connecticut and Maine-style lobster rolls with stellar oyster selections. The outdoor patio offers ocean views while maintaining a laid-back vibe that attracts both surfers and studio executives.
Must-Try Dishes:
Connecticut Lobster Roll, Steamers in Broth, Daily Oyster Selection
What Makes it Special: Authentic East Coast seafood shack experience on the West Coast
#14
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
#15
Mikomi Sushi
8.1
This 2025 newcomer brings 18 years of sushi expertise from Monrovia to Santa Monica with an expanded menu featuring exclusive specialty rolls and ramen. The modern space offers both sushi bar and table seating perfect for business groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mikomi Special Roll, Yellowtail Carpaccio, Tonkotsu Ramen
What Makes it Special: Newest location with Santa Monica-exclusive menu items
#16
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
#17
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
#18
Takuma
8.1
Traditional izakaya offering authentic Japanese small plates and extensive sake selection in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Chef Takuma brings genuine Tokyo-style dining with shareable dishes perfect for groups and an impressive variety of premium sake.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Karaage, Sukiyaki Hot Pot, Sake-Marinated Black Cod
What Makes it Special: Authentic izakaya experience rare on the Westside
#19
Massilia
8.1
Marseille-inspired brasserie since 1997 blending French, Italian, Spanish, and North African influences. Known for exceptional happy hour with 50% off drinks and authentic bouillabaisse that transports diners to the Mediterranean coast.
Must-Try Dishes:
8-Hour Braised Lamb Shank, Traditional Bouillabaisse, Clams with Merguez Sausage
What Makes it Special: Authentic Marseille flavors with incredible happy hour value
#20
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
#21
Fogo de Chão
7.9
Vibes:
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Happy Hour Hotspots
Outdoor Dining Oasis
This Brazilian churrasco steakhouse offers continuous tableside service of fire-roasted meats carved by gaucho chefs. The open grill concept with ocean views and extensive Market Table create an interactive dining experience perfect for adventurous couples.
Must-Try Dishes:
Picanha (Top Sirloin), Filet Mignon, Lamb Chops
What Makes it Special: Authentic Brazilian churrasco with endless meat service.
#22
The Galley
7.9
Santa Monica's oldest restaurant since 1934 maintains its nautical theme and neighborhood bar atmosphere under owner Captain Ron, serving steaks and seafood amid year-round Christmas lights and maritime decor salvaged from classic films. The daily happy hour features strong drinks and discounted appetizers, while the dining rooms offer casual steakhouse fare in candlelit booths that haven't changed much in 90 years.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steamed Clams, Filet Mignon, Galley Salad
What Makes it Special: Historic nautical bar atmosphere with decor from 1935's Mutiny on the Bounty
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
7.9
Neighborhood gathering spot centered around a wood-burning pizza oven serving seasonal market-driven plates and handcrafted pizzas. The cozy enclosed patio features a wood trellis reclaimed from a 1920s Santa Barbara bridge, creating intimate ambiance for Ocean Park locals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wood-Fired Pizzas, Lamb Meatballs, Burrata with Fava Beans
What Makes it Special: Wood-fired pizzas and seasonal California-Italian cuisine in a rustic-chic neighborhood setting
7.9
This two-story New American restaurant brings global influences to SoCal cuisine in a vintage-chic space on the Promenade. Creative cocktail infusions and weekly themed promotions keep the energy high, attracting a diverse crowd from shoppers to date-nighters.
Must-Try Dishes:
Korean BBQ Tacos, Truffle Mac & Cheese, Tuna Poke Stack
What Makes it Special: Two-story space with balcony dining overlooking the Promenade
7.8
This authentic Cork-owned Irish pub serves jumbo buffalo and teriyaki wings alongside Guinness and live sports. A 30-year Santa Monica institution with 15 TVs and NY Giants game-day crowds.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Wings with Hot Sauce, Teriyaki Wings, Black & Blue Burger
What Makes it Special: Authentic Irish pub with UFC fights and trivia nights since 1994
#27
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
#28
Robata Bar
7.8
Traditional robatayaki grilling meets modern sushi bar in this atmospheric Japanese pub where skewers sizzle over bincho-tan charcoal. The combination of grilled items with fresh sushi creates a unique izakaya-style experience with Pacific views.
Must-Try Dishes:
Robata Specialty Roll, Grilled Salmon Collar Roll, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
What Makes it Special: Combination of robata grill and sushi in one spot
#29
SOCALO
7.8
Award-winning chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken bring seasonal SoCal-Mexican fare to this Gateway Hotel gem with expansive dog-friendly patios. The funky mid-century decor and string lights create a Palm Springs vibe, while the conscientiously-sourced tacos and strong margaritas make it a reliable neighborhood gathering spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Deshebrada Brisket Tacos, Tacos Gobernador, Salsa Macha
What Makes it Special: Celebrity chef duo creates approachable Mexican gastropub with sustainable sourcing
#30
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
7.8
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
7.7
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
7.7
Shutters on the Beach's casual beachside cafe sits directly on the bicycle path with both indoor and outdoor seating offering contemporary comfort food and ocean views. The self-heating floor provides warmth for cooler evenings while diners enjoy New American cuisine with happy hour specials at ocean's edge.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crab Eggs Benedict, Burrata Appetizer, Fish and Chips
What Makes it Special: Rare direct beach path access with separate entrance for beachgoers and casual atmosphere at luxury hotel
#34
M Street Kitchen
7.7
An all-day comfort food operation on Main Street with an in-house bakery turning out cookies and pastries alongside a brunch-heavy menu built around eggs benedict and avocado toast. The draw is the sprawling, pet-friendly patio steps from the beach—big enough for group hangs and casual enough for weekday happy hour sangrias. It works best as a low-stakes gathering spot where the setting does as much heavy lifting as the food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Eggs Benedict, Hash Browns, Cookies
What Makes it Special: All-day comfort food with an in-house bakery and a sprawling pet-friendly patio steps from the beach on Main Street
#35
Busby's West
7.7
A full-scale sports bar that doubles as a game hall—beer pong, shuffleboard, arcade cabinets, and air hockey spread across multiple rooms alongside wall-to-wall screens. The draw is the activity density: groups come to play as much as watch, with standard bar food (wings, smash burgers, loaded nachos) keeping the table fueled between rounds. Expect volume—50 TVs, DJ sets, and weekend crowds make this a commit-to-the-energy kind of night, not a drop-in-for-one spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Best Damn Chicken Sandwich, Carne Asada Fries, Wings
What Makes it Special: Full-sized sports bar with beer pong, shuffleboard, arcade games, and air hockey alongside wall-to-wall TVs for every game.
#36
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.
#37
Dunkin'
7.5
America's beloved chain delivers reliable classics and signature coffee drinks in a convenient downtown location. While not artisanal, Dunkin' provides consistent quality, fast service, and wallet-friendly prices that make it a solid everyday option.
Must-Try Dishes:
Boston Kreme, Glazed Donut, Wake-Up Wrap Sandwiches
What Makes it Special: National chain reliability with extended hours.
#38
Shirubē
7.5
Authentic Tokyo-style izakaya from the Uno family brings 50+ years of tradition with specialty rolls alongside yakitori and small plates. While primarily an izakaya, their sushi selection showcases careful preparation and pairs beautifully with their extensive sake menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shirubē Special Roll, Aburi Salmon Roll, Soft Shell Crab Roll
What Makes it Special: First US location of Tokyo izakaya institution since 1968
7.5
This beachside bar and grill delivers hearty BBQ baby back ribs alongside live music and ocean breezes. Since 1996, they've mastered the art of smoky ribs paired with craft cocktails, creating a laid-back surf shack vibe that captures Santa Monica's beach culture.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Surf & Turf Combo, Coconut Shrimp
What Makes it Special: Live weekend karaoke meets BBQ on the pier