Bars in Santa Monica

1 Pico delivers the best ocean view in Santa Monica dining, anchored at the Shutters on the Beach hotel steps from the Pacific. The California-focused wine list and coastal food program are solid rather than destination-worthy — book here when the setting is the point. Walk-ins are easy; the experience earns its premium on atmosphere alone.

Cosetta is a neighbourhood venue on Ocean Park Blvd in Santa Monica's quieter southern corridor, away from the Promenade crowds. Booking is easy, and the area suits relaxed evenings over high-energy dining. Confirm hours and cuisine details directly before visiting — verified specifics are limited, so it's better suited to local recommendations than cold bookings for special occasions.

Élephante is a rooftop venue on Santa Monica's 2nd Street, well-suited to groups of four or more looking for an open-air setting with food and drinks. It sits in easy walking distance of the beach and the Promenade. Book ahead for weekend evenings — the process is easy, so there is no excuse not to.

Palma sits inside Santa Monica's Proper Hotel and positions itself above the standard hotel bar format, with a wine-focused program that has structural advantages over most neighbourhood alternatives. Booking is easy, making it a low-friction option for Explorer-profile visitors. Confirm current hours and pricing directly with the hotel before planning a dedicated visit.

R+D Kitchen on Montana Avenue is a reliable mid-tier American restaurant suited to low-friction weeknight dinners, small groups, and casual dates. Booking is easy and the room is comfortable, but it is not a cocktail destination or a chef-driven experience. A sound neighbourhood pick — book it when simplicity is what you need.

Shunji Japanese Cuisine on Ocean Park Blvd is the right call for a deliberate, counter-format Japanese dinner in Santa Monica — best for two, best booked in advance, and best suited to diners who want focused cooking rather than a casual beachside meal. Commit to the format and the value-per-course logic holds; walk in expecting flexibility and it will not.

Ye Olde King's Head is Santa Monica's most dependable British pub, and the right call when you want a low-key date night or casual drinks without the beach-bar noise. Walk-ins are easy, pricing is accessible, and the atmosphere is genuinely warm. Not the place for cocktail ambition or occasion dining, but a solid anchor for a relaxed evening on the Westside.