30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Late Night Mexican in Santa Monica
Best Family Friendly Mexican in Santa Monica
Best Mexican in Santa Monica
Best Happy Hour Mexican in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
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
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: All-natural braised pork carnitas from food truck origins
Who should go: Families and pier visitors wanting quality Mexican
When to visit: Weekend brunch or happy hour 2-6pm
What to order: Carnitas plate, sugar cane filet, fajitas
Insider tip: Free parking behind building saves pier rates
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot behind building - huge advantage over $15-20 pier parking. Street parking fills up by 7pm weekends
Dress code: Beach casual - shorts and flip-flops totally fine, it's Ocean Park
Noise level: Lively but manageable - families create energy but you can still have conversation
Weekend wait: 30-45 min peak summer, 15-20 min off-season
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, maybe 10 min wait if there's a beach event
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - mushroom fajitas, cheese enchiladas, veggie tacos clearly marked
Vegan options: Limited - can modify veggie tacos and sides, ask server for prep without dairy
Gluten-free options: Yes - corn tortillas standard, most proteins naturally GF, alert server for cross-contamination concerns
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual dates - lively atmosphere takes pressure off, shareable plates encourage interaction, and proximity to pier allows for post-dinner walk
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekdays usually yes, weekends hit-or-miss. Best bet is early dinner (5-6pm) or after 8:30pm. Bar seating often available for walk-ins
Is it kid-friendly? Very - kids menu, high chairs, crayons provided. Staff patient with families, and other diners expect children given the location
Best For
Better for: Authentic carnitas that rival any taqueria but with full-service comfort and free parking that beats everywhere else near the pier
Consider Alternatives If: You want white-tablecloth dining or innovative fusion - this is elevated comfort Mexican, not experimental cuisine
Hours
Monday11am - 9pm
Tuesday11am - 10pm
Wednesday11am - 10pm
Thursday11am - 10pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday10am - 10pm
Sunday10am - 10pm