"One would assume an area that overlooks the ocean would have rooftop pool restaurants on every corner, but downtown Santa Monica proves otherwise. Luckily, there’s still Calabra. Perched atop the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, this splashy Mediterranean restaurant has an indoor lounge, poolside patio, and curved couches that you can rent out for more privacy. The music is loud and people are definitely dressed up, but the atmosphere is fun and breezy, and the Mediterranean-leaning food is really good. Get the steak kebab and any dip that’s calling your name." - brant cox