Blog Archives
Mexican Food in Santa Monica: Your Complete Guide
Follow @buylocalmarket
If you are anything like us, you are frequently on the hunt for good Mexican food in Santa Monica, whether it’s margaritas at happy hour, late night tacos or a burrito to go. Below is the Buy Local Market guide to all 25 Mexican restaurants in Santa Monica. Your tips, questions and comments are always welcome!
Love Mexican Food? Have Lunch on Us!
Mexican Restaurants in Santa Monica, CA
Baja Bud’s 1315 3rd St. Promenade Santa Monica, CA 90401
Fresh and Healthy Mexican Food
(310) 393-6060
Menu | Directions | Visit Site
Monday – Sunday 11am – 10pm
- Price: $
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Serves Beer and Wine
- Outdoor Seating
Tip
Fish burritos are excellent but take a little while! So worth the wait. – Nathalie K. (foursquare)
Border Grill 1445 4th St. Santa Monica, CA 90401
Upscale, modern Mexican food in a vibrant setting
(310) 451-1655
Menu | Directions | Visit Site | Reservations
Monday – Thursday 11:30am – 10pm | Friday – Saturday 11:30am – 11pm | Sunday 11:30am – 10pm
Happy Hour
Monday – Friday 4pm – 7pm | Friday and Saturday – after 10pm
- Price: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Serves Alcohol
- No Outdoor Seating
Tips
My favorite dish is the cochinita pibil. So delicious! The margaritas are killer too! – Kathryn S. (foursquare)
$10 quick-lunch at the bar includes app, main and drink. – Charm N. (foursquare)
Cabo Cantina 1240 3rd Street Promenade Santa Monica, CA 90401
Enjoy good drinks, good food and good prices in a fun, casual atmosphere filled with upbeat party hits
(310) 393-5755
Menu | Directions | Visit Site
Monday-Wednesday 11:30 – 1am | Thursday-Friday 11:30 – 2am | Saturday 10am – 2am | Sunday 1am – 1am
Happy Hour
7 days a week 4pm – 8pm | All Drinks 2 for 1 Prices
- Price: $
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Full Bar
- Outdoor Seating
Specials
Taco Tuesdays
All You Can Eat Tacos $4.95 (includes rice & beans)
Bottomless Weekends (Fri.,Sat. & Sun.)
Bottomless Mimosas & Bloody Marys $9.95
Campos Famous Burritos 2008 Pico Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90405
A family owned business established in Santa Monica in 1971
(310) 450-4477
Directions | Visit Site
Monday – Sunday 7am – 9pm
- Price: $
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- No Alcohol
- No Outdoor Seating
Tip
Try the burrito horneado. (I like it with turkey, but it’s an acquired taste) good spot. – Laura M (foursquare)
Casa Escobar 2500 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90403
(310) 828-1315
Directions
Sunday – Thursday 11:30am – 9:45pm | Friday – Saturday 11:30am – 10:45pm
- Price: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Full Bar
- No Outdoor Seating
Chipotle Mexican Grill 1218 3rd St. Santa Monica, CA 90401
Gourmet Burritos and Tacos
(310) 458-2141
Menu | Directions | Visit Site | Order Online
Monday – Sunday 11am – 11pm
- Price: $
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Outdoor Seating
El Cholo 1025 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90401
Authentic and traditional Mexican dishes, many of which have come from family recipes dating back to 1923.
(310) 899-1106
Menu | Directions | Visit Site
Monday – Thursday 11am – 10pm | Friday & Saturday 11am – 11pm | Sunday 11am – 9pm
- Price: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Full Bar
- Outdoor Seating
Tips
Order 2 Carne Asada Tacos. It’s not on the menu but they are amazing. – Luke K. (foursquare)
If you don’t like an item in the Taste of History, they will gladly substitute it for a taco or tamale instead. – Peter S. (foursquare)
El Texate 316 Pico Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90405
Oaxacan cuisine
(310) 399-1115
Menu | Directions | Visit Site
Monday – Sunday 8:30am – 10pm
- Price: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards
- Delivery: Yes
- Full Bar
- Outdoor Seating
El Torito Mexican Restaurant 3360 Ocean Park Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90405
Full service Mexican casual dining restaurant
(310) 450-8665
Menu | Directions | Visit Site
Monday – Thursday 11:30am – 10pm | Friday – Saturday 11:30am – 10:30pm | Sunday 10am – 9:30pm
- Price: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Full Bar
- Outdoor Seating
Fast Taco 2901 Ocean Park Blvd # 115, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Mexican Food on the Westside
(310) 450-4255
Directions | Visit Site
Monday – Friday 11am – 8pm | Saturday 11am – 5pm
- Price: $
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- No Alcohol
- Outdoor Seating
Gilbert’s El Indio Restaurant 2526 Pico Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90405
Great Mexican food and great margaritas
(310) 450-8057
Menu | Directions | Visit Site
Sunday – Thursday 8am – 11pm | Friday – Saturday 8am – midnight
- Price: $
- Cash Only
- No Delivery
- Full Bar
- No Outdoor Seating
Tips
Monday’s special dish is the enchiladas suizas. Oh man that’s good stuff. Great Santa Monica institution. – Nigel S. (foursquare)
Taco Tuesday $1 each. – Russell A. & Danny W. (foursquare)
The best margaritas in town for the best price! – Laura P. (foursquare)
Holy Guacamole 2906 Main St Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 314-4850
Directions
Monday – Thursday 11am – 12am | Friday – Saturday 11am – 2am | Sunday 11am – 12am
- Price: $
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- No Alcohol
- No Outdoor Seating
Tips
Super Burrito! Largest burrito I’ve had in LA, and oh so good! I wish it was just a bit spicier, but awesome all-around. Tacos are a healthy size too! – Jorge B. (foursquare)
Veggie Burrito is SO good. +they give you yummy chips and salsa while you wait for your food. – Brittany W. (foursquare)
Kay ‘n Dave’s Cantina 262 26th St Santa Monica, CA 90402
Neighborhood Mexican cantina
(310) 260-1355
Menu | Directions | Visit Site
Monday – Thursday 11am – 9pm | Friday 11am – 9:30pm | Saturday 8:30am – 9:30pm | Sunday 8am – 9pm
- Price: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Serves Beer and Wine
- No Outdoor Seating
La Playita 3306 Lincoln Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90405
Mariscos (seafood), ceviche and tacos
(310) 452-0090
Directions
Monday – Sunday 9am – 11:30pm
- Price: $
- Cash Only
- No Delivery
- No Alcohol
- Outdoor Seating (without the seats)
Tip
Shrimp Ceviche is a MUST. – Zachariah J. (foursquare)
La Sandia 395 Santa Monica Place Santa Monica, CA 90401
Modern Mexican cuisine and tequila bar from Chef Richard Sandoval
(310) 393-3300
Directions | Visit Site | Reservations
Sunday – Thursday 11am – 11pm | Friday & Saturday 11am – Midnight
Happy Hour
Monday – Friday 4pm – 7pm
$3 Bar Menu
- Price: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Full Bar
- Outdoor Seating
- Complimentary valet (up to 3 hours) for dining patrons
Tips
Order the fresh guacamole, carne asada, and mango margarita. – Royce D. (foursquare)
If you like your cocktail on the spicy side try Mezcal con Pepino! – Jenna L. (foursquare)
Great hibiscus margarita and the pork tacos are delicious. Try the guacamole to start! – Kate W. (foursquare)
Amazing place! Tortilla soup is so good. Awesome food and service! The ambiance is amazing too!! – Rhilee K. (foursquare)
Lares Restaurant 2909 Pico Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90405
Serving Santa Monica authentic Mexican food since 1968
(310) 393-3300
Directions | Visit Site
Monday – Sunday 8am – 1am
- Price: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Full Bar
- No Outdoor Seating
Tips
Carnitas were great. Chipotle pollo was good, but really spicy. Loved the mango cheesecake – Nicole T. (foursquare)
Order the carnitas, best on the west side. – Steve R. (foursquare)
Lula Cocina Mexicana 2720 Main St Santa Monica, CA 90405
Authentic regional Mexican cuisine ~ festive tequila tasting nights
(310) 392 5711
Menu | Directions | Visit Site | Reservations
Sunday – Thursday 11:30am – 10:30pm | Friday & Saturday 11:30am – 11:30pm
Happy Hour
Monday – Wednesday 1pm – Closing | Thursday & Friday 1pm – 7pm | Saturday & Sunday 1pm – 6pm
- Price: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Full Bar
- Outdoor Seating
Tip
The lobster tacos are amazing. You won’t be sorry! – Brad B. (foursquare)
Mariasol 401 Santa Monica Pier Santa Monica, CA 90401
Enjoy the best view of the Pacific Ocean in California while eating great Mexican food and drinking delicious margaritas!
(310) 917-5050
Menu | Directions | Visit Site
Monday – Thursday 10am – 10pm | Friday 10am – 11pm | Saturday 9am – 11pm | Sunday 9am – 10pm
- Price: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- Full Bar
- Outdoor Seating
Panchos Tacos 2920 Lincoln Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90405
Capturing the Heart of Mexican Style and Flavor
(310) 452-2970
Menu | Directions | Visit Site | Coupon
Monday – Sunday 7am – 11 pm
- Price: $
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- No Alcohol
- No Outdoor Seating
Tip
Best tacos and breakfast burritos on the West Side. really cheap too. Authentic, take my word for it! – Emily B. (foursquare)
Pinches Tacos 395 Santa Monica Pl Santa Monica, CA 90401
Real. Mexican. Food.
(310) 394-0373
Menu | Directions | Visit Site
Monday – Thursday 10am – 9pm | Friday & Saturday 10am – 10pm | Sunday 10am – 8pm
- Price: $
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- No Alcohol
- Outdoor Seating
Tip
Try the Tortas for an excellent change of pace – Anthony A. (foursquare)
Poquito Mas 2025 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90403
Quality, “Fresh Mexican Cuisine,” in a Baja California atmosphere, at affordable prices.
(310) 828-1700
Menu (PDF) | Directions | Visit Site
Sunday – Thursday 11am – 10pm | Friday & Saturday 11am – 11pm
- Price: $
- Accepts Credit Cards
- Delivery: Yes
- Serves Beer and Wine
- Outdoor Seating
Tip
Get the San Felipe burrito cooked scampi style. It’s bien! – ToddyT (foursquare)
Tacos Por Favor 1406 Olympic Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90404
Healthy Mexican Food That Just Tastes Great!
(310) 392-5768
Menu | Directions | Visit Site
Monday – Saturday 8am – 8pm | Sunday 9am – 8pm
- Price: $
- Accepts Credit Cards
- Delivery: Yes
- Serves Beer and Wine
- No Outdoor Seating
- Parking: meters
Tips
Have a Mexican Coke. It’s made from pure cane sugar. Just ask for a Coke in a bottle. $1.99 – Eliot (foursquare)
Street parking only (bring quarters); huge menu, breakfast all-day. Quality ingredients, cold beer. Even lentil soup. Awsm. And they deliver. – Andrew N. (foursquare)
The Agua de Sandia (Watermelon water) is incredible. So is the veggie sopes and Potato hard shell taco. Yum! – Alia R. (foursquare)
Taqueria Chihuahua 1909 Lincoln Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90405
Serving you the very best for over 30 years!
(310) 828-5003
Directions | Visit Site | Coupon
Monday – Sunday 8am – 10pm
- Price: $
- Accepts Credit Cards
- No Delivery
- No Alcohol
- No Outdoor Seating
Tip
Order the all meat burrito. Best in town – Joseph F. (foursquare)
Now it’s your turn. Leave your tips in the comments section below. And follow us on foursquare for tips around Santa Monica.
Back to School Specials
Photo Credit: Leland F.
Summer is coming to an end and another school year is approaching. Several businesses are now offering specials to make it easier for parents to get their kid’s school supplies in Santa Monica. 
“People can make their Back-To-School purchases count even more this year,” said Linda Greenberg Gross, Executive Director at SMMEF. “What many people don’t realize is that for every $100 spent in Santa Monica, $45 stays in the community. That figure jumps up to $68 when we shop at a locally-owned independent store. Buying locally really helps the schools. Everyone can contribute just by buying what they need right here in Santa Monica.”
Back-to-School Specials in Santa Monica
Agabhumi: The Best of Bali 2665 Main St. | (310) 396-2422 | Visit Site
Agabhumi has two great items for back to school shopping. The Tie Dye Tote ($18) is the perfect solution for carrying around your soccer equipment, text books, or dirty laundry! Or how about some Friendship bracelets ($6-$8), available in hundreds of styles and colors, in cord or leather (buy 3 or more and they’re just $5! Mention “Buy Local” and receive a 15% discount.
Arm Candy Handbag Boutique 2717 Main St. | (310) 392-7492 | Visit Site
Mention ‘Buy Local’ to get $50 off a purchase* of $300. * Regular price only. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires 9/31/11
Cherry Picked Thrift Shop 2807-2809 Pico Blvd. | (310) 998-5858 | Visit Site
Cherry Picked has all kinds of great back to school items for the entire family including lunch boxes, bicycle helmets, and huge discounts on all clothing while the weather remains warm! If you head there soon, you can catch Cherry Picked’s Summer Clearance Sale (through mid- August).
Classic Kids Photography 1627 Montana Ave. | (310) 395-1468 | Visit Site
Book a Classic Kids Photography mini-session anytime before September 30th and receive a specially discounted sitting fee of just $125! Beautiful custom artwork, holiday cards, products and more will be available for purchase following the shoot. Call to schedule an appointment, 310.395.1468.
GoodsLA 1748 Ocean Park Blvd | (310) 392-3922 | Visit Site
This international gift store has all kinds of great items for back to school, including eco-friendly sustainably harvested birch journals; wooden Japanese multicolored pens; colorful striped plastic pencil cases, wallets, key chains, storage cubes; and lunch bags made by a women’s co-op in Bolivia.
McCabe’s Guitar Shop 3101 Pico Blvd | (310) 828-4497 | Visit Site
Squier Mini Stratocaster Guitars for kids discounted by 40%.
Michael Stars 1233 Montana Ave | (310) 260-5558 | Visit Site
Casually luxurious and oh-so-chic, the Michael Stars Fall collection has finally arrived! Visit Michael Stars on Montana Ave and shop fall at its finest. For the back to school shopping must-haves for teenage girls, we’ve got the Michael Stars Free Spirit Suede Tote (Available in Brown and Pumpkin) for $115 and Michael Stars Suede Flats (Oxide Grey and Camo Green) for $85.
Peek…Aren’t You Curious 1015 Montana Ave | (310) 434-9700 | Visit Site
Stock up on amazing Peek essentials all under $25, including boy’s short sleeve solid tees $16 and girl’s ribbed leggings $19.50 (available in a variety of colors and great for ages 2 – 12yrs). And check out fun accessories like Vapur Anti Water bottles, $10, and Mini Lunch Notes to brighten up boring bag lunches, $9.95.
Pourtal Wine Tasting Bar 104 Santa Monica Blvd | (310) 393-7693 | Visit Site
Pourtal will be donating 15% of all tasting sales to the Santa Monica-Malibu Education Foundation as part of its Angel Shares Happy Hour. Specials include $6 glasses and $6 appetizers, Monday (all night), Tuesday-Friday, 4-7pm.
Scribble Press 1109 Montana Ave | (310) 899-0495 | Visit Site
Design your own planner or calendar to keep track of homework assignments, play dates, lessons… perfect for all ages, from little ones to college students. Create a custom notebook for taking notes, scratching out math problems, or practicing for art class. Be the talk of the cafeteria with a custom-designed tin lunchbox. Draw a picture in their art studio and in a few days, you’ll have your very own lunchbox!
Siptea 1627 Montana Ave | (310) 395-2626 | Visit Site
Parents…you know you need that cup of coffee to get the kids off to school in the morning! Siptea is offering hot and cold travel mugs at a discount to the Buy Local For Our Schools Program. Eco Cup on Ice regularly $7.95, is only $6 and regular Eco Cups, regularly $8.95, are only $7. Save some money and save a cup from being put in a land fill. Learn More about Siptea
The Closet Trading Company 2708 Main Street | (310) 396-5013 | Visit Site
This new resale and consignment boutique has all the brands girls love, like True Religion, Juicy and Free People at 70% off department and chain store prices. Even better, girls and moms can trade their own lightly worn fashion for a whole new wardrobe. Learn More about The Closet
Twist 2601 17th Street | (310) 314-9161 | Visit Site
This season’s must-have accessory for that first day of school is…feathers! Twist on 17th has feather earrings, necklaces and YES, even, feather hair extensions! They also have cute canvas flats…similar to those pricey ones with the fancy label… for just $22.
ZJ Boarding House 2619 Main Street | (310)-392-5646 | Visit Site
Santa Monica’s premier local and online surf and skate shop is having a 4 day sale on all apparel and accessories in store from Thursday – Sunday August 11th-14th. They’ll be discounting apparel, backpacks, shoes, watches, shades, hats and more from all your favorite surf and skate brands. And on Sunday, August 14th they will be donating 5% of all purchases that are made to your favorite local school.
Looking for a thought-provoking event for you and your teens? See TEDxYouth@SantaMonica
Your Guide to the Good Food Festival
Photo Credit: E. Kelly
Good Food Festival and Conference
Wednesday, September 14 – Sunday, September 18
Santa Monica, CA
Times and Locations Vary by Event. See Info Below.
Visit Site | Get Tickets
Join us for the Inaugural Good Food Festival & Conference
The Santa Monica Farmers Market celebrates its 30th Anniversary with the very first Southern California Good Food Festival & Conference. This unprecedented multi-day event will focus on regional and national issues integral to building a local and sustainable food system while supporting the needs of California family farmers.
Produced by FamilyFarmed.org, the Good Food Festival brings together farmers, food businesses, sustainable food advocates, chefs, families and individual consumers for 5 days of good food, good business, and good fun!
Schedule:
Wednesday – September 14th, 2011
Santa Monica Farmers Market
8:30am – 1:30pm | 9/14
Santa Monica Farmers Market [Directions]
Amelia Saltsman, author of The Santa Monica Farmers Market Cookbook, will kick off the Good Food Festival and Conference with cooking demos at the renowned Wednesday Farmers Market featuring farmers and fresh produce from the market.
The Harvest, Good Food Film Series
7:30pm – 10:00pm | 9/14
Aero Theatre [Directions]
The Good Food Festival Film Series offers evenings of film and conversation about issues related to our food. Each screening includes a panel discussion providing local perspectives moderated by Lisa Lucas Talbot of Slow Food Los Angeles.
The Festival’s opening night will feature a screening of The Harvest / La Cosecha, a moving new documentary about child migrant workers in the United States. (See the trailer above.) A panel of distinguished participants will discuss timely and critical labor issues that effect food producers and consumers.
Photo Credit: See-ming L.
Thursday – September 15th, 2011
Financing Farm to Fork Conference
9:00am – 5:00pm | 9/15
Broad Stage [Directions]
The Financing Farm to Fork Conference educates regional farmers and food processors about various financing strategies and links them directly to financiers. Farms and food businesses can apply to the Financing Fair, which provides opportunities to connect with potential investors.
Further Details and Scheduled Speakers
Good Food, Good Opportunities, Good Business
9:00am – 5:00pm | 9/15
Santa Monica College [Directions]
The Good Food Conference and Trade Show supports farmers, trade buyers and other stakeholders to grow their business and the good food community. The exhibit floor includes farmers, distributors, artisan food producers, and school food suppliers that are looking for new business and specialize in local food.
Opening Symposium and WPA Agricultural Art Opening
6:30pm – 9:30pm | 9/15
Santa Monica High School [Directions]
Celebrating 30 years of the Santa Monica Farmers Market impact of the Market’s work. Join local, state, and national leaders for this historic celebration as they discuss the impact of the Market work and how it continues to fulfill its mandate of growing local food and supporting local farmers in Santa Monica. Speakers include ‘rock star’ farmers, local and national food experts, world-class chefs, and prominent political leaders.
Photo Credit: Wendy P.
Friday – September 16th, 2011
Good Food Conference and Trade Show
9:00am – 5:00pm | 9/16
Santa Monica College [Directions]
The Good Food Conference and Trade Show offers cutting edge programming and technical assistance to support farmers, trade buyers and other stakeholders to grow their business and increase everyone’s access to good food. National and regional leaders will discuss topics such as: scaling up to meet the demand for local food, food with integrity, public policy, school food, public health, the Farm Bill and more. The Trade Show will connect farmers, food companies, and distributors with supermarkets, schools, hospitals, and other wholesale food buyers interested in purchasing local and sustainable food.
Good Food, Good Opportunities, Good Business
9:00am – 5:00pm | 9/16
Santa Monica College [Directions]
The Good Food Conference and Trade Show supports farmers, trade buyers and other stakeholders to grow their business and the good food community. The exhibit floor includes farmers, distributors, artisan food producers, and school food suppliers that are looking for new business and specialize in local food.
School Food FOCUS Showcase
9:00am – 5:00pm | 9/16
Santa Monica College [Directions]
School Food FOCUS and local partners will lead a day of programming focused on moving school food procurement towards more healthful, regionally sourced and sustainably produced options. Programming includes: school district procurement presentations, roundtable discussions, vendor showcases, and school gardens success stories.
Food Policy and Public Health Summit
10:00am – 5:00pm | 9/16
Santa Monica College [Directions]
Leaders come together for workshops and discussions to support the transformation of regional, state and federal food policy initiatives.
Trade Show
12:00pm – 5:00pm | 9/16
Santa Monica College [Directions]
Farms, food businesses, and distributors that offer Good Food will exhibit and meet with supermarkets, restaurants, hospitals, schools and other buyers of local and sustainable food.
Localicious VIP Reception
6:30pm – 7:30pm | 9/16
Annenberg Community Beach House [Directions]
A limited number of VIP tickets are available for an early arrival to meet the chefs, farmers, national thought leaders and Good Food Festival and Conference speakers.
For Details and Registration Click Here
Localicious Gala
7:30pm – 10:00pm | 9/16
Annenberg Community Beach House [Directions]
30th Anniversary Gala Celebration of the Santa Monica Farmers Market at an outdoor party featuring 30 of L.A.’s best chefs paired with 30 Market farmers.
Photo Credit: John B.
Saturday – September 17th, 2011
Joel Salatin, Ballet in the Pasture
9:00am – 12:00pm | 9/17
TBA, Santa Monica
Joel Salatin, the maverick Polyface Farm rancher of Food, Inc. fame, will give a virtual tour explaining the whys and wherefores of his ecological and profitable farm in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Expect how-to information regarding water and fencing infrastructure, multi-speciation, portable shelters and carbon cycling. This workshop combines the best of heritage wisdom with the latest techno-gadgetry. The presentation culminates with marketing information and the Polyface template for germinating a new generation of young farmers.
Good Food Festival & Street Fair
10:00am – 7:00pm | 9/17
Santa Monica High School [Directions]
Join us for two amazing days at the Good Food Festival and Street Fair. Come experience the Good Food Movement first hand with chef demos from LA’s finest restaurants, nationally significant speakers, workshops for every interest, a Localicious Gala, street fair, book signing and much more!
Good Food Festival Speaker Series
10:00am – 6:00pm | 9/17
Santa Monica College [Directions]
Details TBA
Photo Credit: Ed Y.
Sunday – September 18th, 2011
Good Food Festival & Street Fair
10:00am – 7:00pm | 9/18
Santa Monica High School [Directions]
Join us for two amazing days at the Good Food Festival and Street Fair. Come experience the Good Food Movement first hand with chef demos from LA’s finest restaurants, nationally significant speakers, workshops for every interest, a Localicious Gala, street fair, book signing and much more!
Good Food Festival Speaker Series
10:00am – 6:00pm | 9/18
Santa Monica College [Directions]
Details TBA
Interested in becoming a Vendor or Exhibitor? For more information contact Kim Koury at (323) 330-9559 or kim@spinPRgroup.com
RAW: Santa Monica presents Fusion
RAW: Santa Monica presents Fusion
Thursday, August 25th, 2011
8:00pm
Venue: V Lounge | 2020 Wilshire, Blvd. | Santa Monica, CA 90403
21+ event. Cocktail attire. Tickets are $10 via pre-sale
Visit Site
What is RAW?
RAW: natural born artists is an independent arts organization that hand-selects and spotlights independent creatives in visual art, film, fashion, music, hair & makeup artistry, photography, models and performing art.
RAW’s mission is to provide up-and-coming artists of all creative realms with the tools, resources and exposure needed to inspire and cultivate creativity so that they might be seen, heard and loved. RAW educates, connects and exposes emerging artists in 22 artistic communities nationwide through monthly showcase events. Join us in celebrating the work of these artists.
What can I Expect?
RAW events are multi-faceted artistic showcases. Each event features a film screening, musical performance, fashion show, art gallery, performance art and a featured hairstylist and makeup artist. These artists are all local, hand-picked talent who have been chosen to feature at RAW.
RAW events feature a cash bar for cocktails while you enjoy the night. Dress code is cocktail attire, so dress the occasion and get ready for an artistic circus of creativity!
View Participating Artists, Filmmakers, DJs, Stylists, etc.
Recap of RAW: Los Angeles at the Elevate Lounge in Downtown L.A., March 10, 2011
2020 Wilshire Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Now Open: Stacia
I am always on the lookout for the new and beautiful—you might call me a fashion sleuth—and there’s nothing I love more than a new clothing boutique. Boutiques are so much more personal and welcoming than big department stores. They are like the indie-bookstore to a big Barnes and Noble.
So, surely, you can imagine my delight when I walked into Stacia, which just opened last month, perfectly situated just off Montana Ave. It’s bright, airy, and cheery—a perfect light, white canvas to showcase its vibrantly colored sensuous clothing. With gladiolas on the center table, and turquoise lanterns and green apples as accents, you feel like you’re walking into a well-designed zen beach lounge, that just happens to have silky soft clothing all around you.
Equally as delightful is that all of Stacia’s clothing is made from sustainable fibers, and most is made from 100% bamboo, which is washable—no dry-cleaning!—and can last for at least 3-5 years if cared for properly. (Who’d have thought the food of pandas could make such a soft, luxurious knit? I was in tactile heaven!)
The mastermind behind Stacia is, of course, someone named Stacy. Stacy Johnson, a true islander at heart—she was raised both in Hawaii and Alaska, creates what she describes as a “1970s surf culture, beach aesthetic… retro, but contemporary” line. Stacy’s no stranger to the world of fashion—Stacia has been in business since 1999, as a successful global wholesale business, selling to over 300 stores.
Stacy came to Santa Monica for a better quality of life after the birth of her first child. Now, a mother of three, Stacy and her family love being close to the beach, plus, now she finds herself right smack dab in the middle of her clientele. In Santa Monica, every day her target customer is walking down the street, unlike New York, where she had been living, where easy, breezy beachwear isn’t as commonplace.
Stacia is primarily known for its rich colors and fibers. Each piece has a unique pattern due to the space dye technique used for the line. Depending on how the pattern falls, sometimes a piece comes out with a stripe, chevron, or diamond effect.
The beauty of Stacy’s designs is that they are über-versatile. You can layer, layer, layer… You can pair ‘em with jeans just as well as a bikini. Her dresses are perfect for a lazy, Sunday afternoon at the beach, or dressed up with boots for an evening soirée.
Another major perk of Stacy’s new boutique is that she has pieces that you can’t find anywhere else… samples and/or tops that are discontinued, and there’s even a basket of the softest babies duds I’ve ever seen that you can only find at the store. Meaning you can get a one-of-a-kind piece, and usually at a lower price. Aloha!
I love Santa Monica, and evidently… so does Stacy.
Special Offer: Mention ‘Buy Local’ and get 10% off at Stacia through the end of the week.
Stacia
(310) 393-7100
808 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA
About the Author, Annie
Annie is a recording artist/writer who delights in personal alchemy, whimsy, & quantum physics. She can often be found drinking tea, eating cake, or changing the world. She blogs about the delicacies of daily life in the city of angels at www.cityofannie.com
All pictures taken by Da Xu for Buy Local Market.
Related articles
Have Lunch on Us
Photo Credit: Dave L.
Have lunch on us!
We are searching for one person to treat to lunch at their favorite Mexican restaurant in Santa Monica. Interested? Here’s the catch..
We are only looking for someone with a deep, unbridled love for a Mexican restaurant in town who can’t wait to tell the world why. You eat there often, they know you and you can’t wait to go back.
With your help, we will make a short video documenting your experience and giving you a chance to tell everyone why Lares, Tacos Por Favor, The Border Grill, La Sandia, or (fill in the blank) is your absolute favorite.
Tell us your name, the restaurant and why we should pick you.
The winner eats lunch on us!
The video will be posted on Buy Local Market. We are on a mission to help people discover the best of Santa Monica and to make buying local fun, easy and affordable. Now’s your chance to help!
Apply now! Contest closes 9/30
Not that big on Mexican food? Apply anyway. We’ll keep you in mind for future contests.
SunSets at Santa Monica Place, Presented by KCRW
Jason Bentley at SunSets 2010 Photo Credit: Jeremiah Garcia/KCRW 89.9 FM
SunSets at Santa Monica Place, Presented by KCRW
Sunday August 7th-31st (Check Exact Dates Below)
5:00pm – 7:00pm
Dining Deck of Santa Monica Place
Free and Open to the Public
Visit Site
Relax with a drink and enjoy the view while KCRW’s DJs treat you to an evening of music
The 2011 SunSets series kicks off this Sunday, August 7th with a set from DJ Aaron Byrd to celebrate the 1 year anniversary of Santa Monica Place and continues every Wednesday evening in August!
Spend Wednesday evenings in August on the Santa Monica Place rooftop dining deck with some of your favorite DJs from KCRW 89.9 FM. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views, drinks, food and a happy hour soundtrack provided by KCRW’s own DJs – all as the sun sets over the Pacific.
Find KCRW on your radio dial at 89.9 fm and online all the time at KCRW.com.
KCRW DJ’s performing:
Sunday, August 7 – DJ Aaron Byrd
Wednesday, August 10 – DJ Chuck P
Wednesday, August 17 – DJ Eric J. Lawrence
Wednesday, August 24 – DJ Dan Wilcox
Wednesday, August 31 – DJ Anne Litt
Santa Monica Place
395 Santa Monica Place Santa Monica, CA 90401
Related articles
- The Taste of Santa Monica Place (Buy Local Market)
The Taste of Santa Monica Place
Fresh Sashimi of the Day from Ozumo
Follow @buylocalmarket
The Taste of Santa Monica Place
Celebrate the 1 year Anniversary of Santa Monica Place
Date: August 5th – August 14th
Time: 12:00pm – 10:00pm
Venue: Santa Monica Place
Visit Site
10 Lunch options at $20 or $30 Dinners. Try one or try them all.
Get a taste of all Santa Monica Place has to offer by experiencing special pre-fixe menus at participating restaurants. The pre-fixe menus will offer the restaurants’ finest offerings at affordable prices. Pre-fixe menus include a $20 per person 3-course lunch option and $30 per person 3-course dinner option.
“We are excited to launch the first Taste of Santa Monica Place event so that locals, day trippers and tourists alike can experience the great dining options we have to offer. From pizza and pasta to crispy calamari and beef tenderloin, there really is something for everyone to enjoy,” said Adrienne DeVore the Senior Manager of Marketing at Santa Monica Place.
Restaurants participating are: La Sandia, Zengo, Ozumo, Sonoma Wine Garden, Xino, Pizza Antica, True Food Kitchen, Primi Al Mercato and The Curious Palate.
Tacos from La Sandia
As part of Santa Monica Place’s 1 year anniversary, they will have a weekend full of
- sales promotions
- live entertainment
- children’s entertainment
- fun for the entire family
- and more!
Three hours of free valet parking is available if dining at one of the restaurants, complete with three separate valet locations on Broadway, 4th Street, and 2nd Street.
And Remember – Your Santa Monica Place Gift Card…
Benefits Santa Monica Public Schools via the Education Foundation!
One dollar of the purchase fee from each Santa Monica Place Gift Card and GIVE Green Gift Card purchased at Santa Monica Place will be donated to the Santa Monica – Malibu Education Foundation to support educational excellence for every child in the Santa Monica – Malibu School District.
Santa Monica Place
395 Santa Monica Place Santa Monica, CA 90401
Margarita Dinner at The Border Grill
Top Chef Masters Susan Feniger of The Border Grill
Follow @buylocalmarket
Margarita Dinner at The Border Grill
Date: Thursday, August 4th
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: The Border Grill, Downtown Santa Monica
Visit Site
$45 per person – Border Grill VIP Club Members*
$55 per person – General Admission
*all Santa Monica locals receive the discounted price. Make your reservations today! (310) 451-1655
Join Top Chef Masters Susan Feniger and celebrate the fresh and vibrant flavors of summer with an exclusive 5-course dinner, featuring all of our favorite organic, local, and seasonal ingredients. With a menu created by Border Grill Santa Monica Executive Chef Alex Moreno, the dinner will also showcase specialty cocktails handcrafted with GreenBar Collective’s artisan, organic spirits.
Specialty Cocktails
Cucumber Mint Gin and Tonic
tru organic gin • cucumber mint ice cubes
Grilled Oja Santa Shrimp
farmers market tomato mint tea
Ginger Lemon Drop
tru organic vodka • meyer lemon • ginger syrup
Abalone and California Avocado Ceviche
lime cured • heirloom cherry tomatoes • persian cucumbers
Spiced Grapefruit Fizz
crusoe organic spiced rum • homemade grapefruit soda
Squash Blossom Relleno
preserved lemon • crema • homemade requesón cheese
Curried Margarita
ixa organic silver tequila • hand muddled lime • curry neem leaves • agave
Seeded Lamb Chop
grilled heirloom tomato • grilled romano beans • spiced corn pinwheels
LAMILL Mini Café de Olla
spiced mexican latte • lamill dark roast espresso • cinnamon
orange zest • allspice • clove • piloncillo sugar
Farmers Market Fruit Crisp
homemade seasonal fruit crisp • custom blended ice cream
More fun at The Border Grill…
Cook with Executive Chef Alex Moreno!
On Saturday, August 20th from 7pm-9pm, Chef Alex Moreno of Border Grill Santa Monica will be demonstrating an easy-to-cook, Farmer’s-Market-focused dinner sure to please. The evening will include tastings of the items demonstrated, Border Margaritas and tons of fun! Price per couple is $90 (includes tax) and is limited to 12 couples!
Now Available! Get Yours Here
Border Grill Santa Monica
(310) 451-1655
1445 4th St. Santa Monica, CA 90401
Related articles
- (VIDEO) Susan Feniger Talks About Street Eats (blogher.com)
Now Open: Red Rooster Bakery
Freshly baked bread makes all the difference. And after 25 years of baking all the bread and pastries found at Capo (Santa Monica), Cora’s Coffee Shoppe (Santa Monica), Brentwood Restaurant and House Café, Chef Bruce Mader opened the Red Rooster Bakery to the public.
The majority of the Red Rooster Bakery is devoted to producing the baked goods served at all of Chef Mader’s restaurants, but customers can sit outdoors on the small patio with a cappuccino and a bagel, muffin or scone, all pulled fresh from the oven, just a few feet away.
Please see the website for catering and wholesale information.
Hours:
Mon-Sun 10:00am-5:00pm
Red Rooster Bakery
(310) 399-1033
1013 Pico Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90404
