The Galley

There’s no such thing as time or seasons at The Galley in Santa Monica. The drinks are always flowing, the Christmas lights are always glowing, and the neighborhood fixtures are always hunched over their beers looking for answers. This maritime-themed bar and restaurant (though we really recommend just coming here for drinks and maybe an order of fried calamari) has been around since the ‘30s. We like to imagine not much has changed since—from the strong drinks and mediocre steaks, to the captain’s portholes and mermaid in the rowboat above the door. This is a great spot for a first date, a friend date, or drinks and snacks after the beach. If you’re with a big group, they also have a nice little patio out back. And if you’re a pro, you’ll know to order a cocktail that involves a garnish, so you can get a cool mermaid skewer along with it.