The 10 Best Bars in Santa Monica Where You Can Enjoy a Cocktail or Two
8. Bar Chloe
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If you’re looking for a traditional and vintage-style bar to spend the evening at, stop by Bar Chloe in Hotel Carmel on 2nd Street. Bar Chloe has a very European feel to it, and it is the perfect spot to sip on a Manhattan. It is also a wonderful date spot that is quite cozy. If you’re hungry, Bar Chloe offers some small and simple bites such as marinated olives and cheeseburger sliders. There are no windows into the bar, giving you tons of privacy and assisting you in forgetting what time it is outside the walls of this gorgeous and classic bar.
9. Big Dean’s
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It is accurate to say that an experience at Big Dean’s tends to be… well… big. This casual sports bar has a ton of space, and given its close proximity to both the beach and the pier, it is easy to see why this hotspot is so popular among both tourists and locals. While you could totally stop by Big Dean’s for a quick bite to eat on their patio, it is a much better spot for football games and beer buckets. With 17 televisions that are constantly broadcasting the biggest sporting events, Big Dean’s truly is the place to get together with the guys for a simple yet great time. Keep in mind that while they are a sports bar, they are much more of a day-drinking spot and they tend to close relatively early compared to most other bars.
10. Harvelle’s
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From jazz to enticing burlesque shows, Harvelle’s has been entertaining and bringing together the citizens of Santa Monica since 1931. Given its history, Harvelle’s is much more than just a bar; it is an icon. Whether you’re stopping by on a Sunday for their famous Toledo Show, or are popping on a Friday or Saturday night to catch a performance by a local band or artist, there is so much to see and do at Harvelle’s. Basically, if you’re craving more than a basic night out at a club or dive bar, Harvelle’s is guaranteed to deliver spectacular entertainment that will make for a night to remember (as long as you don’t have too many of their ridiculously strong cocktails).
