Best Bars In Santa Monica
Santa Monica acts as a relief valve for the basin of Los Angeles because the sea breeze brings down the temperature by, easily, ten degrees. On a Summer day, that means a lot to those of us who have been in the heat since early morning. Heading west to Santa Monica is a great way to cool off after a long, hot day in traffic or at the office. Here are a few great bars that offer a lot and give you that feeling of seaside living in LA.
West 4th and Jane
1432A 4th St.
Santa Monica, Ca 90401
(310) 395-6765
www.west4thjane.com
This is a great bar in the heart of Santa Monica. They have daily specials, happy hour, burgers and sandwiches at affordable prices. You can book a superbowl party in their upstairs, private event room or gather with the local folks in the downstairs event lounge for hot wings and big screen entertainment. An amazing array of beers are on tap for folks that love a cold one after a long hot day.
The Bungalow
Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
101 Wilshire Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 899-8530
www.websitethebungalowsm.com
Located inside the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, the hotels now hugely popular "Bungalow" is the go to spot for Santa Monica locals and other Angelenos who are looking to have a great time. With vintage decor, a terrific craft cocktail program, and a crowd that is uber cool, Bungalow is the perfect place to come with friends or just to sit back and see the beautiful people stroll in.
Barkowski
2819 Pico Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 998-0069
www.barkowski.com
This bar is away from the hustling crowd in the heart of Santa Monica. More of a locals hangout than a tourist spot with faux leather red seats and a bumper pool table. This bar has the important stuff covered: the Moscow mule is only five bucks, and the atmosphere is dark and cozy. It's a bit of a dive but in a good way. With a friendly dart game and a happy hour free snack, it's a great place to park free and grab a cold one while the traffic settles down on the freeway.
The Craftsman Bar and Kitchen
119 Broadway
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 395-6037
www.thecraftsmanbar.com
Just up from Ocean Ave., The Craftsman Bar and Kitchen is the perfect place to stop for a drink and some live entertainment on weekend nights. The place rocks with live music Tuesday through Saturday nights and the drinks are fairly priced; Margaritas are only $5. They sponsor local talent with an open mic every Tuesday and have special events throughout the week with featured cocktails for $5 until 8 p.m.
Related: Best Rooftop Bars in Los Angeles
Fork In The Road
2424 Main St.
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 450-2244
www.forkintheroadsantamonica.com
This bar is all dressed up for a restaurant experience. They host a late night happy hour, including oysters on the half shell, which are fresh and delicious. When you arrive, you'll see a little cozy, dark bar, but when the food arrives, you realize you are having a great dining experience. The menu is filled with inspired options to spark the appetite of any visitor. It's a bit pricey and the plates are tiny but they are really putting out a quality product. As in any big city, when you want something really special, it'll cost you.
The Room Santa Monica
1325 Santa Monica Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310) 458-0707
www.circa93.com/santamonica
The Room is a dark and lively little hole-in-the-wall gem. There's a live DJ to keep you dancing all night, and you can reserve a booth for you and your friends for a cover charge. Valet parking is available.
