Calabra

In Rome, you might take a tour of the Vatican City, climb the steps of the Sistine Chapel, and look out on the Piazza San Pietro. In Santa Monica, you take the elevator up to the roof of the Proper Hotel and look out at 7-11, CVS, and the Pacific Ocean. Calabra is not Rome, but the crowd is happy to have a reason to be dressed in this part of town surrounded by rattan furniture, palm fronds, and a swimming pool. Though these design elements are evocative of Tulum, it doesn’t feel gimmicky—it’s just nice to see and be seen somewhere other than the farmer’s market. Plus, the cocktails and Mediterranean food here are really, really good, from the kebabs and dips to hefty burgers and gyros.

photo credit: Matt Gendal