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Socalo
Master Critic Review
Socalo
8.0
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
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Award-winning chefs' modern Mexican interpretation
Who should go: Dog owners and happy hour seekers
When to visit: Wednesday-Friday 3-6pm happy hour
What to order: Salsa macha, barbacoa tacos, margaritas
Insider tip: Voted best happy hour in Santa Monica
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, challenging on weekends - arrive before noon or after 2pm for best spots. Consider walking from nearby public lots near the pier
Dress code: Beach casual - shorts and flip-flops totally fine, locals come straight from the beach
Noise level: Moderate outdoor buzz - lively but conversation-friendly, can get louder during happy hour
Weekend wait: 30-45 min typical, up to 60 min in summer without reservation
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, 10-15 min max during peak lunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple options including veggie tacos, quesadillas, and the excellent cauliflower dishes
Vegan options: Yes - can modify most vegetarian items, ask for dairy-free options
Gluten-free options: Limited but doable - corn tortillas available, salads can be modified, alert server about celiac needs
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for casual first dates - the patio atmosphere keeps things relaxed, moderate noise prevents awkward silences, and the sharable plates encourage interaction without formality
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches and happy hour bar seating usually available walk-in. Weekend dinners need reservations or expect 30+ minute waits. Pro tip: bar seats are first-come and offer full menu
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly with outdoor space for restless little ones, simple quesadillas and tacos they'll love, and a relaxed vibe where nobody minds normal kid noise
Best For
Better for: Superior happy hour deals compared to nearby Tex-Mex chains, more authentic flavors than touristy pier restaurants, and the best dog-friendly patio dining in the area
Skip if: Want intimate indoor dining, need extensive vegan menu, or prefer traditional Mexican over California-Mexican fusion