Best Happy Hour Hotspots American Restaurants in Santa Monica
6 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Father's Office
Home of LA's most iconic gourmet burger
Notable Picks
8.9
Since Chef Sang Yoon took over in 2000, Father's Office has become legendary for its no-substitutions Office Burger with caramelized onions, Gruyere, Maytag blue, and bacon compote. This gastropub pioneered LA's craft beer movement with 36 rotating taps and elevated bar food that still sets the standard.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Office Burger, Sweet Potato Fries with Blue Cheese Aioli, Spanish Mushrooms
What Makes it Special: Home of LA's most iconic gourmet burger
#2
The Brixton
8.3
This neighborhood gastropub delivers elevated bar food with California flair, anchored by crowd-pleasing dishes like short rib poutine and duck confit fritters alongside classic comfort fare. The daily happy hour and eight-TV sports setup make it equally suited for casual drinks or full dinner service, drawing both locals and visitors since 2015.
Must-Try Dishes:
Short Rib Poutine, Fish & Chips, Corned Beef Reuben
What Makes it Special: Approachable gastropub fare with California touches and daily happy hour specials
#3
R+D Kitchen
8.3
Part of the Hillstone Restaurant Group, R+D Kitchen serves elevated American comfort food in a sophisticated yet approachable setting. Known for their artisanal sandwiches and inventive cocktails, this Montana Avenue fixture has been a neighborhood favorite for business lunches since opening.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ding's Crispy Chicken Sandwich, Chopped Salad with Blackened Chicken, Sicilian Sliders
What Makes it Special: Hillstone's consistent excellence meets Montana Avenue sophistication
Worthy Picks
7.9
This two-story New American restaurant brings global influences to SoCal cuisine in a vintage-chic space on the Promenade. Creative cocktail infusions and weekly themed promotions keep the energy high, attracting a diverse crowd from shoppers to date-nighters.
Must-Try Dishes:
Korean BBQ Tacos, Truffle Mac & Cheese, Tuna Poke Stack
What Makes it Special: Two-story space with balcony dining overlooking the Promenade
#5
The Galley
7.9
Santa Monica's oldest restaurant since 1934 maintains its nautical theme and neighborhood bar atmosphere under owner Captain Ron, serving steaks and seafood amid year-round Christmas lights and maritime decor salvaged from classic films. The daily happy hour features strong drinks and discounted appetizers, while the dining rooms offer casual steakhouse fare in candlelit booths that haven't changed much in 90 years.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steamed Clams, Filet Mignon, Galley Salad
What Makes it Special: Historic nautical bar atmosphere with decor from 1935's Mutiny on the Bounty
7.8
This neighborhood sports bar combines California comfort food with over 20 TV screens, maintaining a locals-first vibe with affordable happy hours and late-night service. The recent management team emphasizes attentive service and safety, offering pool, shuffleboard, and solid bar fare like burgers and tacos at prices rare for Main Street.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tavern Burger, Chicken Tacos, Veggie Tacos
What Makes it Special: Budget-friendly neighborhood bar with exceptional value and caring staff