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ZipPicks Awards
Best American in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Wings in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best French Fries in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Late Night Burgers in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Happy Hour in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Master Critic Review
The Garage on Motor
7.8
A converted auto shop in Palms that commits to the sports bar format with 28+ screens and ping pong, then surprises with a gastropub menu that goes beyond standard bar fare — coconut red curry pub wings and mushroom-burrata flatbread signal a kitchen actually trying. It works best as a group landing spot where the food holds up to repeated visits and nobody has to shout over the TV to justify ordering another round.
Must-Try Dishes:
Coconut Red Curry Pub Wings, The Garage Burger, Short Rib Sliders
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: A converted auto shop with 28+ screens, ping pong, and gastropub food that punches above bar-grade — the coconut red curry wings alone justify the trip.
Who should go: Sports fans and groups wanting elevated bar food
When to visit: Happy hour or Wednesday trivia for the best energy
What to order: Start with the coconut red curry wings, split sliders and a flatbread for the table, and close with the Garage Burger if you have room — portions are generous.
Insider tip: Ask for the smoked wings on weekends — they're a different preparation from the regular pub wings
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking lot behind the building plus free street parking on Motor Ave—easier than most LA spots
Dress code: Smart casual—it's a converted auto shop gastropub, so jeans and sneakers fit right in
Noise level: Loud—rated noisy by diners (2 out of 5 for quiet); expect a lively sports bar atmosphere, not a conversation spot
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including Margherita pizza, Mushroom & Burrata pizza, pasta dishes, and salads (Caesar, Spring Mix, Kale)
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional romantic date — this is a lively sports bar with 30+ TVs and ping pong tables, so the vibe is more energetic than intimate. That said, the outdoor garden area is more relaxed and could work for a casual, low-pressure first date where you both want good food and drinks without a stuffy atmosphere. Best for a date where you're both into the laid-back sports bar scene rather than candlelit romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Most of the time, yes — as a neighborhood sports bar, walk-ins are generally the norm. Expect it to get busier on weekends, during major game days, and when they're hosting MMA or boxing events. On those nights, arriving early is smart, especially if you want patio seating. They do accept reservations, so calling ahead at (310) 559-3400 is a good idea for weekend evenings or event nights.
Is it kid-friendly? It can work for families with older kids during daytime and early evening hours, but it's primarily a sports bar and not specifically geared toward young children. No dedicated kids menu was found online — the gastropub menu (burgers, pizza, tots, tacos) has plenty that kids would eat. The outdoor garden provides more space for restless little ones. Not confirmed whether high chairs are available — call ahead if you need one. Best before the evening bar crowd picks up.
Is it good for groups? Yes — this is one of the venue's strengths. The spacious layout across indoor and outdoor areas accommodates large parties without feeling cramped. They host private events and will work with you on group bookings. With ping pong tables, 30+ TVs, and craft beer on tap, there's built-in entertainment for everyone. For groups of 6+, contact them in advance to arrange seating. For private parties, reach out through their website with your needs and they'll customize the setup.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a sizable outdoor garden with plenty of tables, complete with TVs so you don't miss the game while enjoying fresh air. The patio is a major draw and one of the best features of the space. It's spacious enough to handle large groups outdoors. Whether the patio is covered or heated is not confirmed online — call ahead if weather is a concern.
Best For
Better for: Groups watching games on 30+ TVs, Wednesday trivia nights, weekend karaoke, and casual hangouts with craft beer on tap
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner conversation or consistently attentive table service—the sister venue Motor Club is the mellower alternative
Hours
Monday4pm - 12am
Tuesday4pm - 12am
Wednesday11:30am - 2am
Thursday11:30am - 12am
Friday11:30am - 2am
Saturday11:30am - 2am
Sunday11:30am - 2am