Best Bars in Santa Monica

Real videos of Bars in Santa Monica — 12 places, filmed by creators on the ground.

Ranked venues

Red O Restaurants
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$$UpscaleVibrantTrendyHouse-made margaritasBrunch menuOutdoor seating
About the venue
Red O Restaurants is a contemporary dining establishment located on Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, California, known for its modern take on Mexican cuisine. The restaurant boasts an upscale atmosphere with vibrant décor and outdoor patio seating. Signature menu items include a variety of tacos and enchiladas alongside house-made margaritas. Red O also offers a unique brunch menu on weekends, featuring innovative dishes that are Instagram-ready.
What the videos show
The video opens with a shot of the 'Red Cantina Tequila' sign, followed by a close-up of a Skinny Margarita garnished with orange flowers. It then shows a plate of Simola Shrimp Tacos with green and brown sauces and lime wedges, with a hand briefly appearing to hold another drink.
1541 Ocean Ave Ste 120
@alejandra_spots
@alejandra_spots
The Chestnut Club
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$$$UpscaleCasualComfortingComfort foodStylish settingQuality service
About the venue
The Chestnut Club in Santa Monica offers a warm gathering space, focusing on upscale comfort food in a stylish setting. The menu features a blend of classic American favorites and innovative dishes, making it an appealing destination for casual dining. Known for its commitment to quality and service, the restaurant attracts both locals and visitors looking for a relaxed dining experience. The vibrant decor and outdoor seating enhance the overall ambiance.
What the videos show
The video begins with a close-up of a cocktail glass garnished with lime peel on a white napkin at a dimly lit bar counter. The camera then pans to the right, revealing a menu titled 'The Chestnut Club' and gradually showing more of the bar's interior, including patrons seated at tables and a bartender working behind the counter. The focus returns to the cocktail glass while maintaining the view of the bustling bar scene in the background, ending with a wider shot of the bar area.
1348 14th St
@k8linville
@lilsommelier
The INDEPENDENCE
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$$$ChicCasualCommunity-orientedSeasonal menuOutdoor patioBrunch specialty
About the venue
The INDEPENDENCE, a contemporary eatery in Santa Monica since 2018, features a seasonal menu that emphasizes locally-sourced ingredients. The spacious layout offers both indoor seating and a charming outdoor patio, making it ideal for brunch or casual dinners. Known for its creative brunch items, the restaurant serves a standout avocado toast and house-made pastries. The clientele ranges from locals enjoying a relaxed meal to beachgoers looking for a delightful dining experience.
What the videos show
The video shows two mason jars filled with Bloody Mary cocktails, garnished with celery sticks, lemon slices, and olives. The camera focuses on the drinks, held by hands with pink nail polish, and briefly pans to a cluttered table with various items before returning to the drinks, this time with additional orange slices added as garnishes.
205 Broadway
Charcoal Venice
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$$$IndustrialCasualFlavorfulCharcoal cookingOpen kitchenMarket-fresh vegetables
About the venue
Charcoal Venice, located on Washington Blvd in Venice, California, is a popular eatery focused on grilled and charcoal-cooked dishes, creating robust flavors. The space features an industrial design with an open kitchen where diners can see the cooking process. Menu highlights include charcoal-grilled steaks and market-fresh vegetables. Known for its commitment to quality, the restaurant draws a diverse crowd including food enthusiasts and families.
What the videos show
The video showcases a variety of cocktails on a wooden table, with the camera panning across them to highlight their different colors and garnishes.
425 Washington Blvd
@xo.pinsta
Pasjoli
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$$$ElegantRefinedRomanticDuck àArtisanal breadsExtensive wine
About the venue
Pasjoli, located at 2732 Main St in Santa Monica, focuses on French cuisine with a modern twist, offering an elegant dining experience. Open since 2019, the interior features a refined atmosphere with chic decor. Standout dishes include Duck à l'Orange and a selection of artisanal breads. Known for its extensive wine list, Pasjoli has quickly become a favorite for special occasions and romantic dinners.
What the videos show
The video captures a close-up of a dish on a marble table in a restaurant setting, with a bartender shaking a cocktail shaker in the background. The bartender then pours the drink into a glass, and the scene ends with a view of the dining area, emphasizing the ambiance created by candles and plants near the shelves stocked with wine bottles.
2732 Main St
@steve
Rustic Canyon Wine Bar & Seasonal Kitchen
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$$$InvitingSeasonalCasualFarm-to-tableSeasonal produceLocal wines
About the venue
Rustic Canyon Wine Bar & Seasonal Kitchen in Santa Monica celebrates the best of California's seasonal produce since 2015. The menu emphasizes farm-to-table dishes, featuring selections like heirloom tomato salad and artisan cheese plates. With an extensive wine list sourced primarily from local vineyards, the restaurant creates an inviting ambiance perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. Customers appreciate the knowledgeable staff who can recommend pairings.
What the videos show
The video begins with a panoramic view of a bar area where patrons are seated at the counter. The camera then pans to reveal a dining room with tables and chairs occupied by diners. A bartender is seen standing behind the counter, and two people walk through a doorway from left to right.
1119 Wilshire Blvd
@dejenereats
The Coco Club
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CoastalVibrantCasualOutdoor patioFresh cevicheHappy hour
About the venue
The Coco Club located on 1301 Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica offers an inviting beach club vibe with a focus on light, coastal-inspired dishes. Patrons can enjoy sea breezes on the outdoor patio while sampling items like fresh ceviche and poke bowls. This club is well-known for its vibrant atmosphere during sunset hours, often attracting young crowds and outdoor enthusiasts. Their happy hour specials are popular among visitors.
What the videos show
The video opens with a close-up of a bar counter under soft purple lighting, featuring stools and a sleek, modern design. The camera slowly pans right, revealing a larger bar area with a mounted TV screen, additional seating, and ambient lighting that enhances the intimate, lounge-like atmosphere. The scene is entirely visual, with no people present, but the setting clearly suggests a nighttime social space. At 4 seconds, a voiceover is heard saying, 'I'm feeling empty,' adding a layer of emotional tone that contrasts with the calm, stylized environment. The overall mood is introspective and atmospheric, emphasizing ambiance over action or narrative. The video is shot in a horizontal (landscape) orientation, resembling broadcast or stock footage, with smooth camera movement but no editing transitions or dynamic shifts. There is no signage, menu, or clear indication of a specific venue name, making the location generic. The audio is minimal and isolated, with no background music or crowd noise, further reinforcing the solitary, contemplative mood.
1301 Ocean avenue, Santa Monica, California
@erikaeatsandmore
@erikaeatsandmore
Ashland Hill
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$LivelySpaciousRelaxedCraft cocktailsOutdoor patioSeasonal dishes
About the venue
Ashland Hill is situated on Main Street in Santa Monica and features a blend of Californian cuisine and craft cocktails. The restaurant boasts a spacious outdoor patio perfect for enjoying the sunny Los Angeles weather. Known for their happy hour specials and seasonal dishes, it attracts a lively crowd of both locals and visitors. The relaxed atmosphere and contemporary design enhance the dining experience.
What the videos show
The video showcases an outdoor patio area at Ashland Hill bar in Santa Monica. It begins with a panoramic view of the patio, featuring a couple walking by and a teal cart labeled 'Locals Only Bar.' The camera then focuses on a glass of sangria garnished with orange slices on a gray table. The scene shifts to a group of people sitting at a wooden bench under umbrellas, with a black metal round table in front of them. The video ends with a close-up of a plate of nachos topped with various ingredients including guacamole, cheese sauce, sour cream, diced tomatoes, jalapenos, onions, and chicken pieces.
2807 Main St
@SalamWreck
Lotus Dim Sum Dumpling House
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$$AuthenticLivelyCozyFresh dumplingsOpen kitchenBeach proximity
About the venue
Lotus Dim Sum Dumpling House on Wilshire Boulevard in Santa Monica specializes in authentic Chinese dim sum in a cozy setting. The menu features over 30 types of dumplings, including their popular soup dumplings and shrimp har gow. This restaurant has a vibrant open kitchen where diners can see dishes being made fresh. Its proximity to the beach makes it a favored dining spot for locals and tourists alike.
What the videos show
The video showcases a bartender preparing two cocktails and various dim sum dishes. It begins with a martini glass being filled with a clear liquid and garnished with lychee fruits. The bartender then prepares a red cocktail using a shaker and pours it into a highball glass. The scene transitions to a table displaying an assortment of dim sum dishes, including steamed dumplings, spring rolls, and green beans.
326 Wilshire Blvd
@hangrypotato
The Sidewalk Cafe
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BeachfrontCasualRelaxedOcean viewBreakfast offeringsOutdoor seating
About the venue
The Sidewalk Cafe on Palisades Beach Road is a quintessential beachfront eatery renowned for its breakfast and brunch offerings. The café features an expansive outdoor seating area that allows patrons to enjoy ocean views while they dine. Signature dishes include their famous pancakes and acai bowls, complemented by fresh juices and coffee. The vibrant, open-air atmosphere attracts both tourists and locals, perfect for a relaxed morning by the beach.
What the videos show
The video showcases 'The Sidewalk Cafe & Bar,' highlighting its exterior and interior. It features a chalkboard sign advertising happy hour, a small brown dog, and a close-up of the drink specials menu. Inside, two women are seen eating lunch, and other patrons are present, creating an inviting atmosphere.
1401 Palisades Beach Rd
@ValleyGerl
Kavahana
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VibrantHealth-focusedCasualFresh juicesCustom smoothiesHealthy bowls
About the venue
Kavahana, located on Pico Blvd in Santa Monica, is a vibrant juice and smoothie bar known for its health-conscious menu. Opened in 2019, it features colorful decor and a casual environment perfect for a quick drink or light snack. The menu highlights fresh juices, custom smoothies, and healthy bowls, attracting fitness enthusiasts and beach-goers alike. Their focus on organic ingredients ensures high-quality offerings that resonate with health-focused customers.
What the videos show
The video showcases a visit to Kava Nectar Bar, highlighting its exterior, interior decor, and various beverages and food items. It features two individuals enjoying drinks and a close-up of a bao bun.
306 Pico Blvd
@socaliboba
Citrin
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$$$ElegantUpscaleSereneTasting menuCalifornia cuisineOcean views
About the venue
Citrin in Santa Monica provides a fine dining experience focused on California cuisine crafted with seasonal ingredients. Opened in 2015, the restaurant features an elegant dining room and an outdoor patio with ocean views. The tasting menu emphasizes local seafood and fresh vegetables, appealing to food enthusiasts. Known for its attentive service and upscale atmosphere, it’s a popular choice for special occasions and romantic dinners.
What the videos show
A dimly lit bar interior with a bartender behind the counter, extensive back-bar shelving with bottles, and patrons seated at the bar. The camera pans across the scene with noticeable motion blur.
1104 Wilshire Blvd
@Beachport1
@Beachport1